THE LARGEST TIDAL SYSTEM IN THE WORLD

By the Wadden Sea, we mean the UNESCO World Heritage Area of the Wadden Sea. This area lies above the city of Dokkum, on the north side of the province. The Wadden Sea has the largest tidal system in the world. Due to ebb and flow, there is a great variety of landscapes. The Wadden is more than just the coast of the Wadden Sea. The villages above the city of Dokkum are also part of the area. We see many mound villages. A terp is an artificial hill that was built for protection from high water. Along the coast are former fishing villages where you can still feel the rich history.

WHAT IS THERE TO DISCOVER?

Don’t expect white beaches along the coast. No, on the salt marshes you will see rugged and untouched nature. You can walk on the bottom of the sea and really ‘land’ for a while. Wadlopen is often organized; together with a guide, you will walk over the sea. You walk to a sandbank or island. There are different distances. The short distances are also suitable for children. It is possible to start from Paesens-Moddergat. This village is known for ‘t Fiskerhuske, an open-air museum about lost coastal fishing and fishing culture. If you want to completely unwind, you can visit Kweldercentrum Noarderleech, near Hallum of the Fryske Gea. On the way along the sea dike, you have a nice photo opportunity at Holwerd. Here is the famous artwork by Jan Ketelaar, “Waiting for High Tide.” Holwerd and Hallum are mound villages. This is very characteristic of the area. The most famous and highest terp is in Hegebeintum, at no less than 8.80 meters above sea level. The visitor center is happy to tell you more about it! The Terp villages have characteristic village views. With the Waddentour, you can drive or cycle past different villages or do a cultural-historical walking tour along special buildings or points. The village of Hantum is characterized by the presence of a Tibetan-Buddhist temple, a stupa. There are opportunities to visit the center.

On the last Saturday of the month, there is a shopping route along special stores and studios with a nice and cozy atmosphere. In the local restaurants and bars, you are warmly welcomed. Special is the “Pannekoektrein” in Marrum, a ‘railroad’ experience for young and old.

ACCESSIBILITY

The area is located north of the city of Dokkum. There are two provincial roads that pass through the area. This makes the villages easily accessible. In Holwerd is the pier with the ferry to Ameland. The larger villages have bus service to the towns.