About the province of Friesland
Friesland, or Fryslân, is a beautiful province in the north of the Netherlands. With a rich history and a unique culture. It is also the only province in our country with its own official language in addition to Dutch. The Frisian language is an official administrative language that is still used in daily life. Leeuwarden is the capital and the beating heart of this region. In 2020, the province of Friesland had almost 650,000 inhabitants. Come visit Friesland. We will tell you all about it.
Natural areas
Friesland is known for its beautiful nature reserves. These areas are part of the Netherlands Nature Network (NNN). They are of great (inter)national value and form the backbone of nature development in the province.
Aquatics
Friesland is also famous for water sports. The rich history and influence of the Frisians have contributed greatly to the water sports culture. The province has numerous lakes, canals and ditches that are ideal for sailing and other water sports enthusiasts. And in harsh winters you can even skate the legendary Elfstedentocht in the province of Friesland; a tour of the eleven cities.
Wadden Islands
Friesland does not only consist of the mainland. It also has four of the five inhabited Dutch Wadden Islands: Vlieland, Terschelling, Ameland and Schiermonnikoog. These islands, together with the beautiful nature on the mainland, make Friesland a popular place for nature lovers and those seeking peace and quiet. Fun fact: Terschelling is home to the oldest lighthouse in the Netherlands. Worth a visit!
The Frisian landscape
The landscape of Friesland is one of the most beautiful in the Netherlands. With vast landscapes, beautiful lakes and a beautiful coastline. Friesland has four national parks, each with unique and diverse landscapes. Drents-Friese Wold National Park covers over 61 km². The park has forests, heathland and drifting sands and is rich in flora and fauna. Here you can encounter the pine marten, various woodpecker species and even a wolf.
Waterland
Friesland is a real water country. Perfect for boating, sailing, surfing, SUPing, swimming and mudflat walking. Every summer Friesland is all about skûtsjesilen. These sailing competitions with old Frisian cargo ships are a wonderful spectacle. During the Sneekweek, one of the largest sailing events in Europe, you can admire the skûtsjes in action.
Walking and cycling in Friesland
The landscape is ideal for walkers and cyclists. The Wadden Islands, such as Terschelling and Schiermonnikoog, are perfect for beautiful cycling routes and walking paths. Here you will pass extensive beaches and beautiful dune areas.
Four national parks
Friesland's natural wealth is reflected in the four national parks. These protected areas provide a home to diverse flora and fauna. They are ideal for walkers and cyclists. Lauwersmeer National Park has sweeping views. And De Alde Feanen National Park has unique peat landscapes. Each park tells its own story about the relationship between people and nature in Friesland.
Art in nature
For nature and culture lovers, there are also iconic works of art to admire in nature. Such as 'De Streken' by landscape artist Marc van Vliet. A kinetic wooden platform in the Wadden Sea near Oosterend. It offers a monumental tribute to Oerol guru Joop Mulder. The artwork emphasizes the unique beauty of the landscape. A wonderful experience for every visitor.
Visiting Friesland. The sights
The eleven cities
The eleven Frisian cities each have their own unique character and story. Together they form the vibrant heart of this special region.
Leeuwarden
Leeuwarden, the capital of Friesland, is a dynamic city where the past and the present come together. While walking through the historic city center of Leeuwarden you will discover countless beautiful monuments and hidden courtyards. With a population of 95,890 inhabitants, Leeuwarden is by far the largest of the eleven cities. Cultural life is vibrant here, with numerous museums and theaters. And thanks to its rich literary history, the city of Leeuwarden has been declared a UNESCO City of Literature.
The smaller towns
In contrast to the metropolitan appearance of Leeuwarden, there are smaller places such as Sloten, Hindeloopen and Stavoren. These picturesque towns, each with fewer than 1,000 inhabitants, exude the atmosphere of a bygone era. Franeker is a surprising destination to explore, with a lot of cultural and historical value. With their narrow streets, historic facades and cozy harbours, the smaller towns seem to have stepped straight out of a painting.
Elfstedentocht
The eleven Frisian cities are not only connected by their history, but also by water. The famous Elfstedentocht, a skating marathon of almost 200 kilometers, connects these cities during harsh winters. Even in the summer, the water is an important lifeline between the eleven cities. With countless opportunities for water sports and recreation.
Sneek week
Outside the cities lies the vast Frisian landscape, with its famous lakes. The Sneekermeer, near the city of Sneek, is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts. The Sneek Week takes place here every year, the largest sailing event on European inland waterways.
Discover Friesland
Routes and tours
Friesland is a beautiful province that you can explore with various routes and tours. While walking, cycling, sailing or a combination of these. To discover the nature, culture or history of Friesland.
The routes invite you to discover Fryslân at your own pace. Enjoy the sweeping views, the fresh air and the historic cities. Walk along pilgrim routes that wind through picturesque villages and past old churches. Step by step you walk through the history of Friesland.
Elfstedentocht cycle route
One of the most iconic routes is the Elfstedentocht cycle route. 255 km along eleven historic Frisian cities. From the bustling capital Leeuwarden to picturesque Sloten with 900 inhabitants. Discover the diversity of Friesland through this unique tour.
LF Frisian Zuiderzee weekend route
For a shorter trip you can choose the LF Friese Zuiderzee weekend route. This route is 150 km long. You then cycle along the former Zuiderzee coast. Enjoy beautiful views over the IJsselmeer and the Frisian lakes.
Jan Durkspolder walking route
In De Alde Feanen National Park there are many routes for nature lovers. The Jan Durkspolder walking route is 8 km long. This leads you through reed fields and swamps. You might even spot a sea eagle.
Ferry route
For a unique experience there is the Ferry Route. A bicycle tour in the shape of a figure 8. You take a ferry five times. This route combines beautiful landscape with a touch of adventure.
On the water
Fryslân is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts. The Wadden Sea, the IJsselmeer and the Frisian lakes make the province ideal for both experienced sailors and beginners.
Water sports on the Frisian lakes
The Frisian lakes are perfect for surfing, kite surfing and sailing. Bring your own boat or rent one from one of the many boat rental companies. Would you rather not sail yourself? Then take a boat tour and enjoy the landscape from the water. SUPing is also very popular on the Frisian waters. Paddle quietly through the serene surroundings and completely relax.
Skûtsjesilen
Water sports are inextricably linked to the landscape and culture of Friesland. Events such as skûtsjesilen are a good example of this. Traditional Frisian freighters then race against each other. Every year in August, the Sneek Week takes place in Sneek; the largest inland water event in Europe. The Sneekweek and skûtsjesilen attract many water sports enthusiasts and spectators. To enjoy the spectacle on the water and the festive atmosphere in the villages and towns.
Fishing
In addition to adrenaline, Fryslân also offers peace and relaxation. Fishing is therefore very popular in the region. Lakes such as the Sneekermeer are known for their rich fish populations. For a unique experience you can join eel fisherman Freerk. His whisper sloop, the 'Electric eel', lets you experience fishing life up close.
Stay overnight and eat
Special overnight stays in Friesland
For those looking for a special experience, Friesland has many unique accommodation options. Ideal for exploring this beautiful region. Ranging from charming hotels to attractive holiday homes. Whether you want to sleep in a tree house, a luxurious B&B on the water, or stay in a monumental farm or even a church, Friesland has it all. These accommodations are not only a special experience, but also give you the opportunity to completely relax and enjoy the beautiful nature.
Worker's house from 1843
One of the most striking accommodations can be found at https://en.huns16.nl/. A holiday home that is the ideal base for an unforgettable stay in Friesland. This holiday home, an authentic workers' home from 1842, not only offers modern comfort and luxury, but also an authentic Frisian experience. Located in the quiet village of Huns, surrounded by vast meadows and picturesque waterways, it is the perfect place to relax after a day of adventures.
Historic with great comfort
With two bedrooms with double beds, a bedroom with two single beds, two modern bathrooms, a spacious kitchen-diner, and all necessary amenities such as TV, WiFi, and bicycles, this cottage has everything you need for a comfortable stay. You can also enjoy a sunny backyard with a view of Frisian horses and a front garden with a view of the historic handball field and the Nicholas Church from the 13th century.
Good food in Friesland
Friesland serves up an abundance of culinary experiences. From traditional Frisian dishes to international cuisines. The province is known for its hospitality. There are many places to enjoy delicious food in an attractive environment.
Culinary experiences
The restaurants and cafes in Friesland are perfect for anyone who wants to explore the province. At "Herman Serveert" in Grou you can enjoy surprising tapas dishes. These are prepared on the charcoal grill, which provides a unique taste experience.
Gedempte Haven 13 in Grou
Prefer Italian? Then Pizzeria Pingjum is a must-visit. Here you can taste traditional Italian dishes with local ingredients such as seafood from the mudflats and meat from the area.
Grote Buren 9 in Pingjum
Cultural experiences
In addition to the delicious food, the eateries in Friesland also offer a rich cultural and historical experience. In Harlingen, for example, you can dine at 't Havenmantsje. This restaurant is located in a historic building and offers beautiful views over the harbor.
Havenplein 1 in Harlingen
For a Burgundian experience you can go to Omke Jan in Woudsend. Here the dishes are prepared with products from local farmers, fishermen and gardeners.
Iewal 44 in Woudsend
Culinary in the open air
There is also a lot to experience in the outdoors. At Outdoor Cooking you can prepare homemade meals on a large campfire on Vlieland. A perfect end to an adventurous day.
Havenweg 10 on Vlieland
For a special culinary experience, go out on Terschelling with Flang Cupido. Together you collect ingredients from nature for a delicious dinner.
Dorpsstraat 25 in Hoorn, Terschelling
Everyone is welcome in Friesland
The culture lover
Friesland is a true treasure chest for culture lovers. History and tradition go hand in hand with modern art and innovation. The province offers a range of cultural experiences. Experiences that stimulate both the mind and the senses.
Friesland embraces its heritage, but also gives room for innovation. This way it remains a dynamic and inspiring destination for everyone who loves culture.
The Frisian Museum
The Fries Museum is located in the heart of Leeuwarden. A beacon of the culture and history of Friesland. Here, visitors can immerse themselves in exhibitions that highlight the unique identity of the region. From old mound finds to contemporary works of art, you will find it all there.
The Nature Museum
The Fryslân Nature Museum is highly recommended for nature lovers. The museum has interactive exhibits that show the wonders of Frisian flora and fauna.
Cultural agenda
Friesland has a rich cultural agenda . There is always something to do. From the CityProms music festival to traditional sports such as fierljeppen and skûtsjesilen. These events reflect Frisian culture. They connect the past with the present. Always fascinating and surprising.
Taste Frisian culture
For those who really want to taste the Frisian culture, there are plenty of options for your taste buds. Enjoy the famous Frisian orange cake. Or try Douwe Egberts' coffee. Which originally comes from the Frisian Joure.
The outdoorsman
Friesland is also a paradise for outdoor people. The beautiful landscape is breathtaking. And there are countless options for outdoor activities. Walking, cycling, sailing and much, much more.
In and on the water
There is also plenty to do in Friesland for adventurers. Explore the Frisian waters on a sailing boat. Or rent a canoe and discover the hidden places of the province. The Frisian lakes are also perfect for water sports enthusiasts who want to paddle board, surf and swim.
Would you rather be on dry land? Then there are extensive walking and cycling routes through national parks such as De Alde Feanen and the Drents-Friese Wold. Enjoy the peace and beauty of nature.
Outdoor activities
Outdoor activities are part of the Frisian landscape. At Copini Buitensport you can climb and mountain bike. And at Woodssteps in Rijs you can enjoy adventure and relaxation. By packrafting, SUPing or by combining a paddling trip with a picnic.
Conclusion
Friesland is ideal for lovers of the outdoors. The province offers varied activities and beautiful natural surroundings. Are you looking for adventure, relaxation or both? Friesland has it all.
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