Why visit the Wadden Islands?
To my surprise, I often hear people in Enschede, but also in the South and West of the Netherlands, say they’ve never been to the Wadden Islands. As someone who has lived close to the islands for a long time, I might be a little biased 😉, but from personal experience, I can tell you that they are absolutely worth a visit. The Wadden Islands are a truly unique part of the Netherlands. You’ll find beautiful (huge!) beaches, dunes, dune forests, seals, beach bars and much more. As soon as you step onto the ferry, it truly feels like a little escape from everyday life.
Travel and accommodation
You can reach all the islands by ferry. The departure location and travel duration vary by island, but more on that later. Pro tip: book your ferry ticket in advance to secure a spot! When it comes to accommodation, there’s something to suit every budget. The most budget-friendly option is, of course, the campsites. Prefer something a bit more luxurious? Then go for a holiday cottage, hotel or B&B. The same applies here: book early! Popular (and affordable) accommodation fills up quickly, especially during the summer holidays.
Activities on the Wadden Islands
As I mentioned earlier, there are several unique activities you can do on the Wadden Islands. These are my personal favourites:
- Cycling. It’s the best way to explore the islands. All of them have many kilometres of beautiful bike paths along which you can discover the entire island, and you can rent bikes in almost every village. Want to get to know your travel companions really well? Then rent a tandem 😉.
- Lighthouses. Every island has at least one lighthouse. You can even climb the ones on Texel, Vlieland, and Ameland! You do have to climb quite a few steps, but the view is more than worth it.
- Boat trip. Many organisations offer boat trips across the Wadden Sea and along the sandbanks. Perfect for spotting seals! My favourites are the fast RIB boats, a great way to cool down on a hot summer day.
- Beach. A day at the beach is, of course, a must. Whether you come to swim, sunbathe or play beach volleyball, there’s something for everyone. Finish the day with drinks at a beach bar, and your day is complete!
- Blokarting. Blokarting – racing across the beach in a kart with a sail – is great if you fancy a bit of action! It’s a hilarious activity, especially with a group. Don’t forget to bring a spare set of clothes in case of bad weather, though.
- Mudflat walking (wadlopen). Accompanied by a guide, you walk across the seabed of the Wadden Sea at low tide. A truly unique activity that you must try!
The islands
Texel
Texel is the largest and most diverse island. It offers a great mix of nature, culture, charming villages and fun activities. Animal lovers should head to Ecomare. Ecomare is known for its seal sanctuary, but you can also admire all sorts of other animals up close. At Museum Kaap Skil, you’ll learn more about Texel’s maritime history. Looking for more action? Then take surfing lessons or even go skydiving! I’d also recommend a tour of the Texel Brewery, the pick-your-own garden and the alpaca farm. And, finally, don’t miss Foodbar 39 if you love vegan food.
Travel: The ferry to Texel departs from Den Helder. Den Helder is easily accessible by public transport, around 4 hours from Enschede. It’s a relatively long journey, but on the other hand, the ferry itself only takes 20 minutes.
Vlieland
Vlieland is the definition of small but charming. There is just one village and barely any cars. That’s why this island perhaps feels the most like a true island. Everything is within walking or cycling distance. Vlieland is especially popular among people who enjoy nature, peace, and quiet, but there are still plenty of things to do. For instance, the Vliehors, Europe’s largest sand plain, is great for a walk. Or take the Vliehors Express, a two-hour tour across the Vliehors, which also stops at the Drenkelingenhuisje (once a refuge for stranded shipwreck survivors, now a beachcombers’ museum).
You can also visit the Bunker Museum, take a yoga class on the beach, climb the highest dune of the Wadden Islands (45 metres!) or go shopping in the cosy village streets.
Travel: The ferry to Vlieland departs from Harlingen. You can reach Harlingen by public transport within three hours. The boat trip itself then takes about 1.5 hours, or 45 minutes with the fast ferry.
Terschelling
Terschelling is another larger island, with 12 charming villages. There is plenty to see and do. For example, visit the Bunker Museum or the Shipwreck Museum, or go surfing or climbing in the climbing forest. Terschelling is one of the darkest places in the world and therefore holds the title of Dark Sky Park. In the De Boschplaat nature reserve, you can admire beautiful stars on clear nights.
Terschelling is also known for its cranberries. According to legend, around 1840, a barrel of cranberries washed ashore on the island. The islanders threw the cranberries into the dunes, after which the berries began to grow there. Today, you can still enjoy all kinds of cranberry products there, from cranberry jam to cranberry beer.
Travel: Terschelling is also reached via Harlingen. The ferry journey takes about 2 hours, or 50 minutes if you take the fast ferry.
Ameland
Ameland is the third-largest island, not too big and not too small. There are fewer activities than on Terschelling and Texel, and the island mainly attracts families. Still, as a student, you can have a great time here too, especially if you’re looking for a combination of relaxation and occasional activities.
Nes, the village where the ferry arrives, has some nice shops, restaurants, and terraces. You’ll also find all sorts of museums on Ameland, such as the Swartwoude Agriculture and Beachcombers Museum, the Sorgdrager Cultural History Museum and, yes, a Bunker Museum. Outdoor enthusiasts can go skydiving or head to Outdoor Ameland for paintball, climbing, or an escape game. Furthermore, the island is known for its horses: you can go horse riding or watch a demonstration of the famous horse-drawn rescue boat.
Travel: The ferry to Ameland departs from Holwerd and takes 45 minutes. You can reach Holwerd by public transport in just over 3 hours.
Schiermonnikoog
Schiermonnikoog is the quietest island of them all. There are very few cars here, and visitors mainly come for the peace, space and nature. You can visit a shell museum, go birdwatching at the Westerplas Bird Hide, and, above all, do plenty of walking and cycling. The Eilander Balgexpres takes you to the east of the island, which you’re not allowed to visit unaccompanied, making this a truly unique experience. With a bit of luck, you might even spot some seals here!
Honestly, if you want to do many activities, Terschelling and Texel are better destinations. But if you fancy a proper rest on the beach after a busy academic year, Schiermonnikoog is also a great choice!
Travel: You can reach Schiermonnikoog by a 45-minute ferry from Lauwersoog. By public transport, it takes just over 3 hours to get to Lauwersoog.
In short, the Wadden Islands are the perfect destination for a holiday within the Netherlands. Looking for activities and lively villages? Then head for Terschelling or Texel. Fancy peace and nature? Then visit Vlieland or Schiermonnikoog. Can’t decide? Then choose Ameland for a combination of both. One thing is certain: you’re guaranteed that holiday feeling, without having to travel far!
