Fall in love with Friesland: The ultimate vacation destination in your own country!

Are you looking for the ideal vacation destination in the Netherlands? Look no further! Friesland, located in the north of the country, is a paradise for lovers of vacations on or by the water. Whether you want to sail with a motorboat or a sailboat, Friesland offers endless possibilities for an unforgettable vacation. In this blog post, we share valuable tips and advice to help you plan your vacation in Friesland, including what to bring, tips for vacationing with children, and even how to take your furry friend, your dog, along. Don’t miss out and discover the beauty of Friesland during your vacation in your own country.

Whether you are discovering the province for the first time or have been there before, there is always something to experience. Vacationing in Friesland means beautiful nature, tranquility, space, the Eleven Cities, picturesque villages, and plenty of water.

Vacation in Friesland with a boat

Friesland is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts and offers the perfect environment for a vacation with a boat. Whether you prefer a motorboat or sailboat, you will be enchanted by the vast lakes, canals, and rivers that crisscross the region. Make sure to reserve your boat in advance, especially during busy vacation periods.

Friesland is known for all its lakes and water sports activities. Therefore, it is perfect for a vacation with a boat. From the water, you can easily sail from town to town, and along the way, you can relax in the beautiful Frisian nature. With the motorboats from Varen met Sil, you can reach the most unique spots. The motorboats are no higher than 2.50 meters, allowing them to pass under most bridges! In Friesland, you will find many beautiful places to moor, both in nature and in the cities. Want to explore all of Friesland? Then sail from Lauwersmeer to Dokkum, Grou, Heeg, and Sneek, for example. You start your vacation with a more tranquil route through nature, and once you are accustomed to sailing, you can discover the water sports locations of the province. Along the way, enjoy the charming villages, cozy terraces, and delicious restaurants.

Do you prefer to head out to sea? Then you can easily take the ferry to one of the Wadden Islands, and if you have sailing experience, you can explore the Wadden Sea yourself: with a flat-bottomed boat, you can hop from island to island or run aground on a sandbank in the middle of the sea. So you can rent a sailboat in Friesland and experience the Wadden!

Discover nature in Friesland

Do you love nature, peace, and space? Then Friesland is the place for you. In Friesland, you will find several national parks, including Lauwersoog National Park, where you can spot various birds year-round. Additionally, Lauwersmeer is one of the two dark sky parks in the Netherlands, and on clear nights, you can see many stars. This is definitely something to add to your bucket list. And of course, the UNESCO World Heritage site, the Wadden Sea, is also highly recommended. Climb the dike and enjoy the expansive view over the sea. Can you spot the lighthouses?

Discover Friesland by boat, which one will you choose?

Check out our boats

Immerse yourself in culture and learn more about the history of Friesland

Friesland is a province with a rich history and culture dating back to the Middle Ages. Do you want to learn more about the history and culture of the province during your vacation in Friesland? There are various places you can visit. For example, there are several museums and historical buildings in the cities of Friesland, such as the Fries Museum in Leeuwarden and the Castle of Stavoren. It is also recommended to visit one of the many windmills in Friesland. Windmills have played an important role in the history of the province and are still iconic in the Frisian landscape.

What to bring on vacation in Friesland

For a vacation in Friesland with a boat, there are some essential items you should not forget. Think of navigation charts, life jackets, swimming vests, waterproof bags, sunscreen, and insect repellent. Most of these items are standard on board our boats. Also, don’t forget to bring enough food and drinks on board, as well as bedding and towels. It is handy to bring a waterproof phone case and binoculars to make the most of your adventure.

Tips for vacationing with children

Friesland offers plenty of activities and attractions that are perfect for a vacation with children. Visit the Kameleondorp in Terherne, an adventurous theme park based on the popular book series. Enjoy a day full of fun at Attractiepark Duinen Zathe, where children can enjoy rides and play equipment. Don’t forget to visit Aquazoo Leeuwarden, a zoo focusing on aquatic animals.

On vacation in Friesland with your dog

If you want to take your loyal four-legged friend on vacation, Friesland is a dog-friendly destination. There are various holiday parks and accommodations that welcome pets. Explore the beautiful nature together with your dog and take long walks along the coastline or through the green meadows. Make sure your dog is leashed where required and bring enough food, water, a comfortable dog bed, and toys.

Last Minute Vacation in Friesland

If you are looking for a last-minute vacation in Friesland, you are in luck. There are often still available accommodations and boat rental options, especially outside the peak season. Keep an eye on the Varen met Sil website for last-minute offers. Be flexible with your travel dates, and you might be surprised by the great deals you can find.

Friesland offers the ideal vacation experience for lovers of vacations on or by the water. With an abundance of lakes, canals, and rivers, it is the perfect destination for a vacation with a motorboat or sailboat. Prepare for your vacation by bringing essential items such as navigation charts, life jackets, and sunscreen. Don’t forget to have fun with your children at the many attractions and parks that Friesland has to offer, and if you have a dog, your loyal companion will also enjoy the adventures you experience together. Whether you are planning a last-minute vacation or booking well in advance, Friesland is waiting for you to be discovered during your vacation in your own country.