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Netherlands
Photo: Globe-trotter, CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons
Obscure among foreigners, the Northern Netherlands can be a pleasant surprise. This sparsely inhabited region is home to some stunning historic fortifications, lovely cities, great museums and excellent watersports opportunities. Its nature varies from vast heathlands to beautiful lake areas.
Lying on the Drents Plateau, this area is a favorite among Dutch travelers for its heathland, sand grounds and the dolmen from the early Neolithic period.
Known for its lakes and ice skating culture, Friesland has a distinct culture and its own language and traditions. The Sneekweek is an annual boating event in the summer, while winter revolves around the Elfstedentocht, one of the most legendary ice skating tournaments in the world that can only be held in extremely cold winters (last held in 1997).
The city of Groningen is one of the most happening cities of the country, and a highlight of the northern region. The Ommelanden (surrounding lands) are very flat and very green, and historically belong to the greater Frisian region.
There are several highways heading north, and forming a backbone for the road system in the region. The A7 motorway takes you over the Afsluitdijk, and entering the Northern Netherlands from the North Holland Peninsula.
Read in the guideFlat and wide, the Northern Netherlands are highly suited for biking and hiking, and many visitors explore at least a bit of the area that way.
Read in the guideChoose an airport to see hotels, stations, taxi ranks and car rental desks around it.
Groningen · International · GRQ
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Famously home to the Dutch TT Circuit, and therefore a prime destination for any MotoGP enthusiasts
Stunningly restored historic fortified town and an excellent day trip in the region
Friendly harbour town and once every five years the scene for the bustling Delfsail boating event
Home to one of the most well-known zoos in the country
By far the biggest city of Northern Netherlands. Lively student city full of historic heritage and home to a top-notch museum
A charming harbour town with a light house among its many historic monuments
The sports capital of the Northern Netherlands and home to the famous indoor ice-skating arena Thialf
Scheduled to be European Capital of Culture in 2018, this provincial capital is full of modern and historic culture
At the heart of the Frisian Lake region and a centre for sailing and other water sports
chain of islands along the Netherlands' Northern coast
Second World War transit camp, now a museum and several monuments
24 interconnected lakes in Friesland, ideal for sailing
rural area at the heart of the Northern Netherlands
Articles and travel topics about Northern Netherlands and Netherlands.
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