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West Frisian island in the Netherlands
Photo: Mhaesen, CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons
Terschelling is one of the West Frisian Islands in the north of the Netherlands. Like most of the West Frisian Islands, Terschelling thrives on domestic tourism who usually stay several days to enjoy the quiet, rural island atmosphere, spend time on the beaches and take bike trips to see the nature. From left to right, it's the third island in the group and it's one of the five inhabited ones.
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The islands light house is the oldest still operating one in the country, and a landmark that can't be missed. Locals refer to it simply as "the tower", and it's a square-shaped, late 16th century structure. The interior is not open for visitors.
The village harbour is a picturesque place. It's the arrival point for the ferries, but otherwise home base for many smaller boats. There are cosy cafés around, allowing to sit back and take in the atmosphere.
The only remaining mill on the island, it once was used to mill the grains for the local community. Now, it's called the "Koffiemolen" or Coffeemill, for the coffee bar that's housed inside it. The building is a national monument and was constructed in 1838. About 40 years later it was moved from its original location near West-Terschelling to its current place.
Housed in two historic commander's mansions, this small but pleasant museum has an interesting collection on the island's history. There's a yearly changing exposition as well as a permanent exposition space. The museum is named after the shelter on Nova Zembla that Willem Barentz, born on the island, famously built in 1596, to survive the northern winter after his ship became stuck in the ice.
The annual Oerol theatre festival is known throughout the country, and in fact one of the largest events of its kind in all of Europe. It's a cultural happening full of theatre, music and arts, attracting about 50,000 visitors each year. It's praised for its programme, but also for the remarkable settings, with stages in the dunes, in barns, on the dikes and right in the village streets. If you happen to be in the area in early summer, this is an event worth catching a ferry for.
On the eastern side of the island is Natural Reserve De Boschplaat. Some 65 to 70 bird species roam and breed here, making it a popular destination for bird life enthusiasts. The area is closed in summer, March 15 - August 15, for the breeding season of the animals. There's no entrance fee.
Located close to the lighthouse, this places serves bistro style food rather than real steak house meats, but it's a good pick if you're up for some spare-ribs or saté. However, they also serve fried fish and several vegetarian options.
Restaurant, café and pub which often features live music in the weekends.
Bar.
Family-run hotel in the village of West-Terschelling, a 3-minute walk from the harbor.
This simple, but nice hotel is a 5-minute walk from the ferry landing point. It's located in the village centre, in a building that used to be the local school. The rooms are not too large, but they are clean and well-equipped. Service is also friendly.
A hotel with a style of its own. The rooms are clean and well-equipped, and decorated almost as if you're in a family home. The staff is very nice, and breakfast is descent. Rooms are on the small side and internet connections are poor, but otherwise this place gets great reviews.
A 4-star chain hotel offering rooms as well as apartments, and a wide range of facilities. There are good wellness arrangements, and a nice indoor pool. The apartments are quite spacious and well-appointed. Note that there's no proper internet reception at times and that cleaning costs can be added to your bill.
Some 75 spots at the edge of a forest. In July and August you will have to reserve a spot. A Natuurkampeerkaart is obligatory.
Some 24 spaces
58 spaces south of Hoornse Bos (Hoorn forst). No caravans or pets allowed
The longest-standing supermarket on the island. The supermarket has an in-house bakery which 60% of the island relies upon and a liquor shop (Slijterij) next door.
The ferry to Terschelling leaves from Harlingen and is mainly operated by Rederij Doeksen.
Read in the guideThe island is fairly small. Cars are allowed but, also due to the high ferry costs, most people don't bring one. Biking and walking are the main ways around. Most hotels and the tourist office can rent out bikes.
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Groningen · International · GRQ
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