Hidden among the modern buildings of Amsterdam-West lies a living piece of history: De Otter Windmill. This impressive sawmill is not only the oldest working wind-powered sawmill in the Netherlands, but also the last remaining survivor from the era when Amsterdam was the timber-sawing capital of Europe. Here, you can feel the power of the wind, smell freshly sawn wood, and watch volunteers lovingly practise their craft. A visit to De Otter is a unique experience for anyone wanting to discover Amsterdam from a different perspective.
The Unique Status of De Otter Windmill
De Otter Windmill was built in 1631 and stands on the Kostverlorenvaart, in the heart of the Westerpark district. It is the only remaining paltrok sawmill in Amsterdam and even the oldest still-operating timber sawmill in the Netherlands. In the seventeenth century, dozens of such mills lined the city’s canals, sawing the timber required for the construction of ships, houses and warehouses during the Golden Age.
What makes De Otter so remarkable is that it still runs entirely on wind power. The sails turn whenever the wind is right, and inside you can hear the rhythmic creaking of the sawing mechanism. It immediately becomes clear why these mills were vital to Amsterdam’s rise as a trading city.
De Otter has been a national heritage site (Rijksmonument) since 2017. In 2023, the mill received the Europa Nostra Award, a prestigious prize for heritage conservation. This makes De Otter not just a local icon, but also internationally recognised as a unique cultural landmark.
Location and Accessibility
De Otter is located at Gillis van Ledenberchstraat 78, on the border of the Jordaan and Westerpark districts. The mill stands right on the water, making it a fantastic spot for photography from the quay. It is easily accessible by bike from the city centre: you can get there in under ten minutes from Leidseplein or Central Station.
Arriving by public transport? Take bus 18 or 21 from Central Station and get off at Van Hallstraat. From there, it’s a five-minute walk. Parking is available nearby, but be aware it is paid parking with limited spaces.
The area around the mill is surprisingly peaceful. You can walk straight into the green expanse of Westerpark or explore the charming streets of the Jordaan. It’s ideal to combine your visit to De Otter with other great spots in Amsterdam-West.
How Does the Mill Work and What Can You See?
As soon as you enter De Otter, you’re struck by the impressive wooden interior. The paltrok mill was specially designed for efficient sawing of tree trunks. The wind drives the sails, which, via an ingenious gear mechanism, set the saw frames in motion. This allows large logs to be slowly and precisely cut into planks.
On open days, you can see volunteers in action. They demonstrate how the sawing works and share their enthusiasm for the mill’s history. Visitors are often allowed up to the loft, where you can look out over the turning sails and the city. The sound of sawing and the scent of fresh timber make the experience extra special.
Children are sometimes allowed to help with small tasks, such as stacking wood. The millers are happy to explain how vital wind power was for Amsterdam’s economy. Here, you will learn more about technology, history and the craft of timber sawing than from any book.
Restoration and Future Plans
Between 1994 and 1996, De Otter was extensively restored. The mill had fallen into disrepair in the preceding years, but thanks to a group of enthusiastic volunteers and support from the local council, it was saved. Since then, the mill has run regularly again and is maintained by the De Otter Sawmill Foundation.
In 2023, De Otter received the Europa Nostra Award, a European prize for heritage projects. The jury particularly praised the commitment of the volunteers and the way the mill has regained an active role in the neighbourhood. This success has led to new plans: the foundation aims to create a small museum at De Otter, with an exhibition space and a café where you can enjoy coffee with a view of the mill.
These plans are in full development. The museum and café are expected to open their doors in 2025. This will make De Otter not only a place to learn, but also to enjoy and meet others.
Concerns About New Developments
Not everything surrounding De Otter is plain sailing. There are concerns about new building plans in the area. Tall buildings could block the wind, making it harder for the mill to turn. This would damage the unique character of De Otter.
The foundation and local residents are campaigning to preserve enough open space for the wind. They are taking action and discussing with the council to ensure the mill can continue to operate in the future. This is crucial, because without wind, De Otter is nothing more than a static monument.
Want to support the mill? During your visit, you can make a donation or buy a piece of timber sawn in the mill. In this way, you contribute to preserving this special piece of Amsterdam.
Practical Visiting Tips
De Otter Windmill is open to the public on Saturdays, usually between 10:00 and 16:00. Entry is free, but voluntary donations are appreciated. Groups can book guided tours outside of regular opening hours by appointment.
It’s a good idea to check the official website beforehand to see if the mill is open. Sometimes there are special events or extra open days, such as during National Mill Day or Open Monument Day. On these occasions, there are often additional activities, such as demonstrations and children’s workshops.
The mill is not fully wheelchair accessible, but the yard and ground floor are easy to reach. Dogs are welcome in the yard, as long as they are on a lead. Don’t forget your camera: the mill is stunning in photos, especially at sunrise or when the sails are turning.
Great Combination Ideas Nearby
Turn your visit to De Otter into a full day out in Amsterdam-West. Within walking distance are the Foodhallen, a trendy indoor food market with cuisines from around the world—perfect for lunch after your visit.
The Ten Katemarkt is also just around the corner, a lively market ideal for fresh flowers, vegetables or a quick snack. Then stroll on to Westerpark, where you can picnic, visit a gallery, or relax on a terrace.
For those interested in culture: the Van Eesteren Museum and the Westergasfabriek are easy to combine with a visit to De Otter. This way, you can discover the best of both old and new Amsterdam in a single day.
Quick Overview: Tips, Photo Opportunities and Routes
- Address: Gillis van Ledenberchstraat 78, Amsterdam
- Open: Saturday 10:00–16:00 (check current opening hours on the website)
- Entry: Free, donations welcome
- Best photo moments: Morning light by the water, turning sails, or during a sawing demonstration
- How to get there: Cycle from the centre via Rozengracht and Marnixstraat, or take bus 18/21 to Van Hallstraat
- Combine with: Foodhallen, Ten Katemarkt, Westerpark, Van Eesteren Museum, Westergasfabriek
Whether you are a tourist or a local: De Otter Windmill is a surprising piece of history in the city. Come and see, smell and listen, and discover how wind and timber together have shaped today’s Amsterdam.