't Roode Hert Windmill
Historic Alkmaar windmill grinding organic grains into artisan flours amid scenic polders, blending Dutch heritage, sustainable milling, and inclusive community workshops.
't Roode Hert is a historic 18th-century windmill in Alkmaar, Netherlands, rebuilt in 1925 as a grain mill. It grinds organic grains into flour using traditional stone mills. The on-site shop sells fresh flours, baking mixes, and local products. Managed by Raphaëlstichting, it provides day programs and work training for people with intellectual disabilities. Visitors enjoy authentic milling demonstrations and sustainable crafts in a scenic rural setting.
A brief summary to 't Roode Hert
- Frieseweg 102, Alkmaar, 1823 CG, NL
- Click to display
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 11 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 9:30 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 9:30 am-4 pm
- Thursday 9:30 am-4 pm
- Friday 9:30 am-4 pm
- Saturday 9:30 am-3:30 pm
Know before you go
Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring 't Roode Hert.
- Call ahead for milling demonstrations, as wind-dependent operations require appointment.
- Sample unique mixes like Poldermix for authentic Dutch breads baked at home.
- Visit mid-morning Tuesday-Friday to see active stone grinding and shop fresh.
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Getting There
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Cycling
From Alkmaar station, 10-min bike via quiet paths to Frieseweg; free, scenic 3km route through polders.
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Driving
15-min drive from A9 highway exit Alkmaar; ample free parking at site, 8km from center.
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Bus
Bus 157 from Alkmaar station to Oudorp, 20-min trip €3 one-way; 800m walk to mill.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
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Drink Options
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Food Options
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Seating Areas
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Trash Bins
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Information Boards
Discover more about 't Roode Hert
History and Heritage
The origins of 't Roode Hert trace back to 1748 as the Witte Klok pelmolen in Zaandam. After fires and rebuilds, it was reconstructed in 1925 in Alkmaar's Oudorp district using parts from earlier mills. Converted to a grain mill in 1901, it has endured roede breaks and renovations, including 1989 upgrades and 2012 new sails with Van Bussel system. Today, it stands as a vital piece of Dutch industrial heritage, actively milling on wind power.Milling Operations
This stellingmolen with eight-sided upper body grinds organic grains like wheat, spelt, rye, and maize into premium flours, blooms, and mixes using flat stone milling. Powered by wind when conditions allow, supplemented by motor, it produces for local bakers, shops, and consumers. The mill emphasizes quality stone-ground products, maintaining traditional techniques in a professional setting.The Molenwinkel Experience
The cozy mill shop offers an array of organic flours, bread mixes named like Oudorpermix and Poldermix, pasta flours, polenta, muesli, and regional specialties. Baking supplies for cakes, pancakes, and speculaas invite home bakers. Shop hours: Monday 11:00-16:00, Tuesday-Friday 9:30-16:00, Saturday 9:30-15:30. Visitors witness the milling process and purchase direct from the source.Social and Community Role
Partnered with Raphaëlstichting and maalbedrijf 't Roode Hert, the site provides structured day activities, skill-building, and employment for individuals with mild intellectual disabilities. Participants assist in grinding, shop duties, and deliveries alongside professional millers and volunteers. This inclusive model blends care, craftsmanship, and community engagement.Visiting and Sustainability
Nestled on Frieseweg amid Alkmaar's polders, the mill offers peaceful views ideal for cyclists and walkers. SKAL-certified for organics, it supports local farmers, short supply chains, and biodiversity. Demonstrations occur by appointment; the site promotes low-impact, ethical production in a working heritage environment.Explore the best of what 't Roode Hert has to offer
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