Misscityhopper

After a leisurely lunch at De Waegh in Monnickendam, you take a scenic bus ride to Marken. The journey took 15-20 minutes through the picturesque Dutch countryside, featuring green fields, windmills, and quaint farmhouses. The tranquil beauty of the area was reminiscent of Marken, which is no longer an island but keeps a sense of seclusion. As the bus crosses the causeway that connects Marken to the mainland, you will learn about the village’s unique history and culture.

Marken, an isolated island in the Zuiderzee, stands out as a distinctive location with a fascinating history and exceptional traditions. The village has a charming feel reminiscent of a storybook, with its brightly painted wooden cottages raised above the ground to prevent flooding. The Marken Museum, nestled among a collection of traditional wooden structures, provides a close look at the village’s history. The museum shows Marken’s distinctive traditions, fishing heritage, and daily lives of the locals before it was connected to the mainland. The museum’s exhibit on traditional Marken clothing, especially the renowned Marken costumes, stands out as a highlight. The village adorns itself in vibrant, intricately embroidered garments during special festivals, highlighting its rich cultural heritage. The vivid colours and intricate designs of the costumes and other artefacts illuminate how the village’s seclusion nurtured a distinctive lifestyle closely connected to the sea and fishing.

Despite its popularity with tourists, Marken maintains a peaceful atmosphere, especially in its residential areas. The traditional wooden houses, painted in green, blue, and red, give the village an undeniably quaint and charming feel. The houses reflect the village’s architectural heritage and its resilience in the face of natural challenges. The bright colours of the homes contrast with the blue waters of the IJsselmeer.

Marken’s beautiful harbour, which was once the heart of the island’s fishing industry, is definitely a place you won’t want to miss. Maintaining its historic charm and providing a window into the island’s maritime past, the harbour is home to a mix of contemporary leisure boats and vintage fishing vessels. The vibe is calm and reminiscent, with seagulls flying above and the gentle sound of water lapping against the boats. From the harbour, you can enjoy a nice stroll to Het Paard van Marken, the village’s beloved lighthouse. Located at the very end of the peninsula, the lighthouse has been helping ships find their way to shore for more than a hundred years. The walk provides lovely panoramic views of the IJsselmeer and the beautiful countryside around it. The lighthouse’s simple yet elegant design stands proudly at the water’s edge, providing stunning views of the lake and the lush green fields beyond. The lighthouse has turned into a beloved spot for photographers and nature enthusiasts, making it a must-visit destination.

After visiting the lighthouse, you make stop at a charming little café called De Taanketel (previously Taanderij). The café has been transformed from a tannery into a cozy spot for locals and visitors to enjoy traditional Dutch treats. The rustic interior, complete with wooden beams and old-world charm, made it an inviting place to relax after a day of exploration. You can order coffee and a slice of appelgebak (Dutch apple pie), which was rich, flavorful, and perfectly spiced. The warm cup of coffee was the perfect way to unwind and enjoy the rest of your day.

As you enjoy a coffee with appelgebak, feeling as though time had slowed down. The village’s quiet streets, traditional homes, and gentle pace contribute to a sense of timelessness. The village’s history is alive in its daily rhythms, not just in museums or architecture. Enjoy each bite of pie and coffee, knowing you would soon return to the hustle and bustle of Amsterdam.

As the afternoon turned into evening, you head back to the bus stop to catch our ride back to Amsterdam. As the afternoon faded into evening, you made your way to the bus stop for our trip back to Amsterdam. The journey was just as beautiful as the one to Marken, with the golden light creating a warm glow over the countryside. The gentle light set a calm and thoughtful vibe as you head back to the city. The wide range of experiences the Netherlands has to offer was highlighted by the contrast between the country side and the bustling streets of Amsterdam.