9 fun activities on Terschelling
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What to do on the Terschelling island?
There is plenty to see, do, and experience on the Wadden Island of Terschelling. Discover the stunning nature with a walk or bike ride, admire the island’s authentic villages, or visit a museum and explore the history of Terschelling.
Are you planning a visit to Terschelling soon? These are the very best sights and activities to experience!
1. Cycling on Terschelling
Terschelling is known as the ‘cycling island’—and for good reason! The island boasts an impressive 70 km of bike paths.
On the western side, you’ll find the Noordsvaarder nature reserve, home to valleys, dunes, and vast sandy plains. In these valleys, rare plant species such as the green-winged orchid and the early marsh orchid thrive. Along the way, you may also encounter horses, cows, goats, and various bird species.
On the eastern side of the island lies the Boschplaat, a stunning nature reserve where around 65 different bird species can be spotted, including the great black-backed gull, the herring gull, and the spoonbill.
Looking forward to a beautiful bike ride around the island? Be sure to book your bike rental in advance! 🚲
2. Visiting Midsland
Midsland is within walking distance of Résidence Terschelling and is the second-largest village on the island. If you're looking for a charming atmosphere and a touch of history, this is the place to be! Stroll along the many shops and restaurants, or visit the library and the Reformed Church. During the summer, Midsland hosts lively markets and fairs, making the village a vibrant and bustling destination. Want to know more? Find more information about Midsland here.
3. Water sports and hiking in West Terschelling
When you arrive by boat, you’ll dock directly in the largest village of Terschelling: West Terschelling. Here, you'll find a great selection of cosy restaurants and cafés. Be sure to try a delicious cranberry pastry with a hot cup of coffee! For stunning sea views, visit beach pavilion De Walvis, just a short walk from the harbor.
West Terschelling is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts. Thanks to the strong winds, it’s a great spot for surfing, water skiing, kite surfing, and sailing.
To complete your visit, don’t miss Brandaris Lighthouse, the most famous landmark on Terschelling. You can’t miss it—it is located right in the middle of the village!
4. Visiting the bunkers of Terschelling
Are you interested in history? Then a visit to the bunkers of Terschelling is a must! Step back in time to World War II and explore these historic remnants. You can book a guided tour in advance or visit the Bunker Museum to learn more about Terschelling’s role during the war. A fascinating experience for history enthusiasts!
5. Step back in time at the Wrakkenmuseum
Since 1975, the owner of the Wrakkenmuseum has been collecting and exhibiting shipwrecks in a converted farmhouse. The wrecks date from 1650 to the present day, offering a fascinating glimpse into maritime history.
In addition to shipwrecks, the museum showcases anchors, cannons, and even the tower of a British submarine, making for an impressive experience.
For younger visitors, the museum features a pirate playground, complete with a real pirate ship, treehouse, and castle. The Wreck Museum is a fun and educational outing for all ages and a must-visit during your stay on Terschelling!
6. Seal watching
On Terschelling, you have the chance to spot the grey seal in its natural habitat! There are several boat excursions available, or for the more adventurous, you can even set out by canoe. Prefer a guided tour? Book a trip with De Riepel, where you can enjoy a warm and dry journey to the seals. Along the way, the skipper will provide fascinating insights into the seals’ habitat and behavior. An unforgettable experience you won’t want to miss!
7. Visit Museum Het Behouden Huys
Museum Het Behouden Huys is also known as the treasure chamber of Terschelling. Here, you’ll discover a wealth of heritage and history about the island. The museum is housed in two 17th-century buildings, constructed in 1668. With over 6,000 artifacts, it offers a fascinating glimpse into Terschelling’s history and culture, featuring paintings, photographs, books, and ship models. During your visit, you can explore an exhibition or take an audio tour, where captivating stories bring Terschelling’s past to life. A must-visit for history lovers!
8. Mudflat hiking (Wadlopen)
The Wadden Sea, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a unique natural area you simply cannot miss during your stay on Terschelling. Twice a day, you have the opportunity to walk across the seabed when the tide is low.
During this mudflat hike, you’ll encounter a fascinating variety of plants and animals. You can explore the Wadden on your own or join a guided tour, where an expert will share interesting insights about the wildlife and ecosystem of the area.
For an extra special experience, you can even forage for your own lunch on the mudflats! Think delicious oysters, seaweed, mussels, and cockles—a true culinary adventure!
9. Explore the island with the Eco Safari
The Eco Safari is a fun and sustainable way to explore Terschelling. The electric off-road vehicles take you to some of the island’s most stunning and remote locations, where regular vehicles cannot go. The safari includes a guide and a warm drink, making it a perfect experience for nature lovers. During the tour, the guide will share fascinating stories about Terschelling’s culture and history. You'll also be on the lookout for wildlife, so a pair of binoculars is a must—but don’t worry, you’ll receive one at the start of the tour!
Experience the best activities on Terschelling
That’s it! These are, in our opinion, the must-see sights and must-do activities on Terschelling. In addition to exciting activities, Terschelling is of course also home to stunning beaches.
Thinking about booking a stay on Terschelling and enjoying a wonderful weekend or getaway by the sea? Book your stay easily and quickly in one of the apartments at Résidence Terschelling!
