Frisian Islands, Netherlands
Whether seeking active exploration or peaceful contemplation, the island offers memorable experiences for every traveler.
Texel extends a heartfelt welcome to all its visitors. The island's gentle pace and friendly atmosphere make it a perfect retreat.
Here, island life unfolds amidst stunning natural backdrops and a welcoming community spirit.
Texel, the southernmost and largest of the West Frisian Islands, is nestled within the UNESCO World Heritage Wadden Sea. This dynamic intertidal zone separates the islands from the Dutch mainland, a mere 2.5 kilometers north of Den Helder, making access easy by ferry.
The island, spanning 162 square kilometers, boasts a 30-kilometer western coastline with wide, sandy beaches and a continuous belt of protective dunes. These dunes, part of the National Park Duinen van Texel, present a dynamic and visually appealing landscape.
Eastern Texel flatter, with fertile polders.
Land mainly for sheep farming.
Salt marshes and mudflats for migratory birds and seals.
Significant impact on eastern shores.
Operates as a single municipality, uniting villages and landscapes.
The varied landscapes, from the wild North Sea coast to the tranquil Wadden Sea, create distinct experiences for visitors.
Active adventure on wide sandy beaches and dynamic dune systems.
Quiet contemplation amidst rich feeding grounds for birds and seals.
Texel offers unique insights into nature and island life.
Texel's past is shaped by its strategic maritime position and the resilience of its island community. For centuries, the island's fortunes aligned with the sea.
It is a place of quiet agricultural life and dramatic historical events.
Texel grew as an agricultural and fishing community, establishing a self-sufficient rural identity.
A critical anchorage for Dutch East India Company (VOC) fleet; site of the 1673 Battle of Texel.
French occupation brought fortifications; site of the 1945 Georgian Uprising, "Europe's Last Battlefield."
These layers of history contribute to Texel's distinct character.
Texel is a destination celebrated for its natural beauty. Expansive beaches, diverse nature reserves, and pastoral landscapes with sheep define its appeal.
It attracts nature lovers, birdwatchers, cyclists, hikers, and families seeking a peaceful yet active getaway.
Extensive routes across varied landscapes.
Each with unique charm and local character.
Duinen van Texel, a protected dune landscape.
Panoramic views from the northern tip.
Nature center and seal sanctuary near De Koog.
Island's main town with charming streets and shops.
