The route starts at the Holwerd aan Zee project office. Plans are being made here to bring the old trading terp back into direct contact with the Wadden Sea. The Wadden Experience Centre Noordhoren is located in the former Reformed Church and is also a starting point for excursions on the mudflats.
You cycle along the Holwerdervaart into the hinterland. Residents here once created small and large terps for when the sea flooded the land. If you look closely, you can still see them in the small terp villages of Lichtaard, Ginnum and Reitsum (where you can get fresh milk, custard and other dairy products at De Molketap).
Holwerd, Blija and Ferwert are still clearly recognizable as terps. Hegebeintum is the undisputed highlight. The visitor center at the base tells the story of the terp countryside.
After …
The route starts at the Holwerd aan Zee project office. Plans are being made here to bring the old trading terp back into direct contact with the Wadden Sea. The Wadden Experience Centre Noordhoren is located in the former Reformed Church and is also a starting point for excursions on the mudflats.
You cycle along the Holwerdervaart into the hinterland. Residents here once created small and large terps for when the sea flooded the land. If you look closely, you can still see them in the small terp villages of Lichtaard, Ginnum and Reitsum (where you can get fresh milk, custard and other dairy products at De Molketap).
Holwerd, Blija and Ferwert are still clearly recognizable as terps. Hegebeintum is the undisputed highlight. The visitor center at the base tells the story of the terp countryside.
After Ferwert, the route travels along the seawall. First along the seaside, past salt marshes and land reclamation. It’s a paradise for birdwatchers. In August and September, the samphire turns red and the sea aster blooms. You get an even better view of it all from the pier heading towards the Amelander ferry. Or take a break from your cycling trip here and walk to the Kees Wevers observation post, a bird-watching hut in the middle of the salt marsh.
You can't miss the two larger-than-life iron ladies on top of the dike: the artwork ‘Wachten op hoog water’ (Waiting for High Tide). Afterwards you cycle further while sheltered behind the seawall. If you’re the curious type, take a peek over the dike and see how the mudflats are different there.
After the beautiful village of Ternaard, the route heads back to Holwerd. In the future Holwerd aan Zee?
Breaks and accommodation
You’ll encounter places for a short or long break. Tea gardens, a B&B Bij de Pastorie, and an environmentally friendly Vegotel for vegan accommodation. It’s also possible to stay in Holwerd, whether it’s in a cozy holiday home, at the campsite or in a real villa. More information can be found here.
