De Rat, Wind powered sawmill in IJlst, Netherlands
De Rat is a wind-powered sawmill in IJlst with a platform mechanism that allows the entire structure to shift and rotate toward stronger winds. The mill cuts logs into usable boards and beams through a series of mechanical saws driven by the wind energy.
The mill was built to harness wind power in the flat landscape, a common practice during the region's industrial era. It has been maintained over time and continues to operate using the same mechanical principles as its original design.
The mill represents local craftsmanship traditions tied to water and wind resources that shaped the region's economy. You can watch how timber becomes usable material through steps that artisans have repeated for generations.
The mill opens several days a week and welcomes visitors for guided tours that explain how the machinery operates. Check opening times ahead of your visit and wear sturdy shoes, as the tour involves climbing stairs and viewing moving mechanical parts.
The structure sits on a rotating base that allows the entire mill building to turn and shift with changing wind direction. This innovative design was uncommon in the region and represents a clever solution to capture wind from any angle.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
