Start your bike journey in Harlingen and then swap the bustle of this harbour town for the wide expanse and tranquillity of the terp (man-made dwelling mound) region. This area was first inhabited in around 500 AD. These brave pioneers built terps to escape the floodwaters of the Wadden Sea and complete villages eventually arose on these mounds. Despite the fact that many terps are no longer clearly visible in the landscape, they still tell the story of the clever coastal inhabitants versus the ruthless water.
The sea sometimes took a lot, but it also gave back a lot…
Start your bike journey in Harlingen and then swap the bustle of this harbour town for the wide expanse and tranquillity of the terp (man-made dwelling mound) region. This area was first inhabited in around 500 AD. These brave pioneers built terps to escape the floodwaters of the Wadden Sea and complete villages eventually arose on these mounds. Despite the fact that many terps are no longer clearly visible in the landscape, they still tell the story of the clever coastal inhabitants versus the ruthless water.
The sea sometimes took a lot, but it also gave back a lot. The deposits of nutrient-rich silt provided good soil for agriculture. Overseas trade also provided income. The many gold, silver and bronze pieces of jewellery and coins found in the area tell us that the terp dwellers also prospered and wanted to show it. The highlight is the cloak pin that was found at a terp in Wijnaldum. This royal cloak pin is kept in the Frisian Museum, but other archaeological finds can be seen in the Archaeological Support Point in the village.
Wealthy families often lived in a stins: a habitable stone tower with thick walls, although this didn’t take place until a few centuries later. Many stinsen (pl) have been demolished but some have been absorbed into large manor houses or estates. Dotted along the route are the traces of these prosperous families, such as the gatehouse of the Liauckama estate, the motte at Sexbierum and the entrance portal at the Mariakerk (church) in Boer.
In Firdgum, which consists of no fewer than four terps, you can see how the area’s first inhabitants lived in the turf house. In the neighbouring Yeb Hettinga museum you can learn all about how the inhabitants lived and worked in this unpredictable area over the centuries.
You eventually cycle along the seawall back to Harlingen, where you can relax on a terrace or eat delicious regional Wadden dishes at one of the better restaurants. Don't forget to go up the dike and enjoy the beautiful view.
