Schiermonnikoog is the last and second smallest of the Dutch Wadden Islands. Nevertheless, it is great where its natural assets are concerned. This is highlighted by the fact that the island was named the ‘Most beautiful place in the Netherlands’ by the Dutch populace on a large, nationwide television show a while back. Additionally, the entire island enjoys the status of National Park. Moreover, Schiermonnikoog boasts the widest beach in Europe, an immense expanse of sand that is sure to make your heart beat faster if you value serenity and space. Do not expect Schiermonnikoog to provide large-scale entertainment. On the contrary, this island’s uniqueness springs from its untouched feel and its vast natural beauty. The island is one great work of art, signed by Mother Nature.
Lighthouse Noordertoren Schiermonnikoog
The impressive red Noordertoren is the symbol of Schiermonnikoog and an unmissable landmark on this Wadden Island. What makes the Noordertoren so special? - A piece of maritime history: The tower was built in 1853–1854 and has since safeguarded shipping around Schiermonnikoog. Together with the white Zuidertoren, it once formed a light line guiding ships safely past ...
The white South Tower is one of the iconic landmarks of Schiermonnikoog and tells a remarkable story from the island’s maritime history. Why a visit to the South Tower is so special - Unique lighthouse duo: On Schiermonnikoog there are both a white and a red tower, both built in 1854. You won’t find that on any other Wadden island. - Originally a leading light: The ...
The boat ride from Lauwersoog to the island of Schiermonnikoog will take you 45 minutes. The boat is often crowded, but once on the island, peace and quiet will wash over you. This is partly due to the fact that the town and the rest of the island are car-free. Only residents are permitted to use their cars. You have thus come to the right place for peace, space and nature.
Beaches
Schiermonnikoog’s largest attraction is its immense sandy beach. Where most Wadden Islands are known for the length of their beaches, Schiermonnikoog is distinguished because of their width. At its largest point, the beach is almost a kilometre wide, and consequently one of Europe’s widest. And it’s still growing. Sand deposits from the North Sea continuously form new sandbanks, which ‘merge’ with the beach. With such an abundance of space available, undisturbed indulgence is an understatement. Moreover, the beach is invariably one of the cleanest in the Netherlands.
In the west lies a lagoon surrounded by sandbars. It can be reached during low tide, but once the water rises, there is no return. In such a case, you will have to wait for the next period of low tide. The recreational beaches are mostly located on the northern and western coasts of the island. The busiest section is near the Prins Bernhardweg. Swimming is supervised. The beach is gently slope, so children can play safely here.
Village
There is only one town on Schiermonnikoog. The town’s centre has the status of a protected townscape. In the authentic, car-free atmosphere of the town of Schiermonnikoog, you can freely relax, either while sitting outside or inside of the various cafés and restaurants.
The oldest part of the town is from 1720. The town was built to replace the town of Westerburen, which had been swallowed by the sea. The town’s historical character has been well preserved. The old part of the town is characterised by island homes. In some places, you can still old wind walls. Surrounding the old houses in the centre are shops, restaurants and hotels. But time has not stood still here. There is an excellent selection of shops that offer all the supplies you need for your holiday.
Sightseeing
During your trip to Schiermonnikoog, be sure to stop by Hotel van der Werff. This building used to be a courthouse, town hall and postal office. It still has a special, historic atmosphere. In het village you will find the visitor’s centre called 'Het Baken'. Here, you can learn all there is to know about the history of the island, but also about the beauty the island still has to offer today.
The dizzying vastness of Schiermonnikoog attains an extra dimension when you gaze out over the Wadden Sea from atop a dune. Your eyes do not deceive you: on the other side lie the coasts of Friesland and Groningen. You will not be able to get enough of the views. ‘Keep walking’ should therefore be your motto, although cycling is an equally appealing alternative. The island is home to an extensive network of hiking and cycling paths. A visit to De Balg is something you should not miss. One can regularly spot seals lying on this enormous sandbar, which is over two kilometres wide.
Information centre Het Baken
The starting point to get to know [url=]the island well. Be inspired by the unique nature of the National Park and experience the island feeling. The team of Natuurmonumenten and the local VVV ...
Discover a piece of hidden World War II history with a visit to the Wasserman Bunker, strategically located on Schiermonnikoog. This historic fortress is not just a reminder of a tumultuous ...
Hidden within Schiermonnikoog National Park lies one of the most fascinating secrets of the island: Eendenkooi de Kooiplaats. This historic duck decoy is a unique place where nature, culture, ...
Schiermonnikoog is one big, contiguous nature reserve. It has been designated by the Dutch government as a National Park. And rightly so! This island is one big system of forests and dunes. This is also the reason why you cannot take your car with you to the island. Because there are so few cars on Schiermonnikoog due to this measure, the island is extremely suitable for a weekend of cycling or hiking.
Nationaal Park
Schiermonnikoog, a gem in the Wadden Sea, is known for its breathtaking nature and its status as National Park since 1989. This island, rich in flora and fauna, offers a unique blend of diverse landscapes in a relatively small area. On Schiermonnikoog, you'll find an enchanting combination of dense forests and fragrant dune landscapes, interspersed with an expansive, ...
This special beach ride takes you to the most eastern point of the island, where nature is still untouched and wild. What can you expect from the Eilander Balgexpres? - Unique Beach Experience: Brave the elements on the beach of Schiermonnikoog and embark on an adventure like no other. - The Eilander Balg: Journey to the Eilander Balg, a dynamic place where ...
For the most part, Schiermonnikoog is comprised of dunes and marshes. The rest consists of beaches, forests and polders. Hundreds of thousands of birds inhabit this natural paradise. Even orchids bloom here. Indeed, half of all native Dutch plants and flowers grow on Schiermonnikoog. It is a must if you’re a nature lover.
