«Only 40 minutes from Volkshotel you will find yourself in Durgerdam, this place is located next to Amsterdam-Noord and accessible with the ferry», says Sjoerd when asked for his ultimate tip. «Upon entering Amsterdam-Noord, you take a right, and you will bike past some very nice houseboats, it really feels like you’re further away from Amsterdam then you really are. A few hundred meters later you find yourself in ‘Vliegerbos’, it’s a little detour but you can bike all the way through this beautiful piece of forest.»
Sjoerd continues: «After a wee bit, you will enter Nieuwerdammerdijk. This is such a romantic little street and it’s located right next to the smallest piece of polder in the Netherlands. There are lots of beautiful picturesque houses in the street. Score yourself a coffee at ‘Café ‘t Sluisje’ and make your way to Durgerdammerdijk. Just before house number 22, there is a little secret beach. You can chill here and have a nice picnic between the polder and the open water from the IJ. Sunsets in full glory here, because there are no buildings around. Important advice: make sure you bring a bottle of wine, Volkspils, Dutch cheeses, and warm clothes because it can get quite chilly on your way back.»
Who is Sjoerd?
The 22-year-old just started working in Volkshotel last year, but it already feels like he’s been part of the team for years. Sjoerd is a jack of all trades; he works behind the bar in Werkplaats, does banqueting and production work, and also finds himself serving people in restaurant Canvas. Driven, and always with a big smile on his face.
Want to have more information about Durgerdam? Check it here.