• Cheese Farms near Amsterdam

Cheese Farms near Amsterdam

Experience the rich tradition of Dutch cheesemaking just outside Amsterdam. The surrounding countryside is dotted with family-run farms where you can witness the art of cheese production, taste a variety of cheeses, and immerse yourself in authentic Dutch culture. These farms offer a delightful escape from the city, providing insights into rural life and the country’s dairy heritage.

What to Expect at a Dutch Cheese Farm

Cheesemaking is one of the oldest and most cherished traditions in the Netherlands. As early as the Middle Ages, Dutch farmers produced cheese both for local consumption and international trade. In fact, Dutch cheese markets like those in Edam, Alkmaar, and Gouda helped build the Netherlands’ reputation as a global cheese powerhouse.

Today, many cheese farms near Amsterdam proudly carry on this legacy. When visiting a Dutch cheese farm, you’re stepping into a world where time-honored craftsmanship meets warm hospitality.

  • Witness Traditional Cheesemaking: See firsthand how cheese is crafted using age-old methods.
  • Participate in (Self)Guided Tours: Learn about the history and process of cheesemaking from knowledgeable guides.
  • Enjoy Cheese Tastings: Sample a variety of cheeses, from classic Goudas to herb-infused specialties.
  • Explore Clog Workshops: Many farms also demonstrate traditional Dutch clog-making.
  • Shop for Local Products: Purchase cheeses and other regional products to take home.

Whether you’re a foodie, a history lover, or just looking for an authentic experience beyond the city, a visit to a cheese farm near Amsterdam is a must-do highlight of your Dutch countryside trip.

Cheese Farms Near Amsterdam

The Dutch countryside surrounding Amsterdam is home to several authentic cheese farms, each offering its own charm, specialties, and traditions. Below you’ll find a curated selection of farms that are easy to reach from the city — whether by public transport, bike, car, or with the Dutch Countryside Card (Amsterdam & Region Travel Ticket).

Each of these farms gives you the chance to discover real Dutch cheese culture: from guided tours and tastings to clog-making demonstrations and farm shops full of local delicacies. Whether you’re heading to the windmills of Zaanse Schans, the lakes near Kaag, or the fishing villages of Volendam and Katwoude — there’s a cheese farm waiting to welcome you.

Jacobs Hoeve (Henri Willig) – Katwoude

Located between Monnickendam and Volendam, Jacobs Hoeve is an organic Jersey farm where visitors can observe cheesemaking demonstrations and explore the farm shop.

  • Opening Hours:
    • March – October: Daily, 09:00 – 18:00
    • November – February: Daily, 09:00 – 17:00
    • Closed on December 25, 26, and January 1
  • Ticket price: free to visit
  • Address: Hoogedijk 8, 1145 PM Katwoude

Public transport: Take bus 316 from Amsterdam Central Station to Katwoude. It’s an 11-minute walk from the stop to the farm. Accessible with the Dutch Countryside Card.

Irene Hoeve – Katwoude

Located in the picturesque village of Katwoude, Irene Hoeve is a family-run cheese farm and clog workshop offering visitors an authentic taste of Dutch tradition. Guests can enjoy free cheese tastings, witness live clog-making demonstrations, and interact with friendly farm animals, including rabbits, peacocks, and a charming pig named Charlotte. The farm provides an engaging and educational experience suitable for all ages.

  • Opening Hours: Daily, 09:00 – 18:00
  • Ticket price: free to visit
  • Address: Hoogedijk 1, 1145 PM Katwoude, Netherlands

Public transport: Take bus 316 from Amsterdam Central Station to Katwoude. It’s an short walk from the stop to the farm. Accessible with the Dutch Countryside Card.

Catharina Hoeve (Henri Willig) – Zaanse Schans

In the historic Zaanse Schans area, Catharina Hoeve offers visitors a chance to explore traditional cheesemaking amidst iconic windmills.

  • Opening Hours:
    • March – September: Daily, 08:00 – 18:00
    • October – February: Daily, 08:30 – 17:00
  • Ticket price: free to visit
  • Address: Zeilenmakerspad 5, 1509 BZ Zaandam
  • The cheese farm Catharina Hoeve is located in the Zaanse Schans. Check out the different ways to travel to Zaanse Schans here.

Simonehoeve – Katwoude

Just outside Volendam, Simonehoeve is a traditional cheese farm and clog factory where visitors can enjoy demonstrations and tastings.

  • Opening Hours:
    • April – October: Daily, 08:30 – 18:00
    • November – March: Monday – Saturday, 09:00 – 17:00; Sunday, 10:00 – 17:00
  • Ticket price: free to visit
  • Address: Wagenweg 2, 1145 PW Katwoude

Public transport: From Amsterdam, Volendam and Hoorn, among other places, you can reach the Simonehoeve by bus. The Hotel Volendam bus stop is only a few dozen metres from our premises. Accessible with the Dutch Countryside Card.

Alida Hoeve (Henri Willig) – Volendam

Located near the charming fishing village of Volendam, Alida Hoeve combines cheese production with traditional wooden shoe crafting.

  • Opening Hours:
    • March – October: Daily, 09:00 – 18:00
    • November – February: Daily, 09:00 – 17:00
  • Ticket price: free to visit
  • Address: Zeddeweg 1, 1131 CW Volendam

Public transport: Take bus 316 from Amsterdam Central Station to Volendam. Stop at Katwoude, Hotel Volendam. It’s a 9-minute walk from the busstop to Alida Hoeve. Accessible with the Dutch Countryside Card.

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