Avonturenboerderij Molenwaard🎡 recreation
Adventure farm Molenwaard in Schoonhoven.
🌐 avonturenboerderij.nl🕒 PH,Mo-Su 09:30-17:00
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Schoonhoven
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Landmark
Schoonhoven has a fascinating history dating back to the 14th century when the first silversmiths settled here. Today, it is internationally renowned as the center of Dutch silver craft. The Dutch Silver Museum (Zilvermuseum) provides deep insights into the techniques and masterpieces of this art. Throughout the old town, you can find small studios and jewelry shops where you can watch craftsmen at work. Its location right on the Lek river gives the city a special ambiance. The Veerpoort, the only surviving city gate from the 17th century, is a testament to the town's former defenses. A stroll along the old city walls and through green parks gives relaxation and beautiful river views. The St. Bartholomew's Church, with its leaning tower, is another prominent local landmark. Schoonhoven is a convenient starting point for cycling tours through the Krimpenerwaard polders. The town is easily accessible by bus from Utrecht or Gouda, and a ferry connects it to the other side of the Lek. The 'National Silver Day' on Whit Monday is the highlight of the year, when the entire town transforms into a massive silver market.
- Location: South Holland, Netherlands
- Top sights: Avonturenboerderij Molenwaard · Fien & Teun Theatre · Openlucht Theatre
- Nearby: Gouda (12 km)
- Population: ~12.352 (2017)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 3 | 3 | 6 | 9 | 13 | 16 | 18 | 18 | 15 | 11 | 7 | 4 |
| Rain mm | 74 | 64 | 54 | 38 | 59 | 63 | 80 | 83 | 63 | 71 | 72 | 79 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The old town and silver workshops are open to visitors. A museum provides insight into the silver trade.
Typical hours
The town is accessible at all times. Workshops typically open Tuesday to Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PM.
Photography
Photography is generally allowed in the streets and workshops. Ask before photographing inside ateliers.
Time needed
Allow 1.5 to 2 hours for a stroll through the historic center and a visit to a silversmith.
Combine with
Combine with a boat trip on the Lek river or the nearby Kinderdijk windmills.
Getting there
Reachable by train from Rotterdam to Schoonhoven station. By car via the N216 road.
Insider tip
Buy a small silver souvenir directly from a silversmith - they often offer custom engraving.
Geography
Facts
- The Silver City of the Netherlands
- Dutch Silver Museum (Zilvermuseum)
- Located on the Lek river
- Leaning tower of St. Bartholomew's Church
- Veerpoort city gate
- National Silver Day on Whit Monday
- Craft studios in the old town
- Founded in the 13th century
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Schoonhoven (12)
Nederlands Zilvermuseum Schoonhoven🏛 museum
The Nederlands Zilvermuseum in Schoonhoven is a well-known museum dedicated to the art and history of Dutch silver. It showcases exquisite craftsmanship and the town's silversmithing legacy.
🌐 zilvermuseum.com🕒 Mo,PH off; Tu-Su 11:00-17:00
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Why is Schoonhoven called 'Silver City'?
Because of its centuries-old tradition of gold and silversmithing.
Can you visit a silver museum?
Yes, the Nederlands Zilvermuseum displays an impressive collection and craftsmanship.
Are there still active silversmiths?
Yes, throughout the old town there are studios where you can watch craftsmen at work.
What is the best way to reach Schoonhoven?
By car or bus from Utrecht or Gouda; there is also a ferry across the Lek river.
Are there annual silver-related events?
The 'Nationale Zilverdach' (National Silver Day) is traditionally held on Whit Monday.
Schoonhoven: where is it located?
Schoonhoven is located in South Holland, Netherlands.
Schoonhoven: what is there to see?
Highlights include Avonturenboerderij Molenwaard, Fien & Teun Theatre, Openlucht Theatre.
Schoonhoven: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Schoonhoven: why is it worth visiting?
Schoonhoven has a fascinating history dating back to the 14th century when the first silversmiths settled here.
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