Dunes and dikes, forests and beaches, lakes and swamps—Friesland boasts an unmatched diversity of landscapes per square kilometer. These features reflect the distinctive Frisian character, evident in ancient mounds, lush meadows, royal gardens, pristine forests, and National Parks. In 2021, Friesland celebrated this heritage through five key landscape themes. Here's what you shouldn't miss, drawn from our deep knowledge of the region's natural and cultural treasures.
Water Landscape
Comprising half water, Friesland keeps its residents—the happiest in the Netherlands—sailing, cycling, and skating year-round. The '11 Fountains' art project, a highlight from 2018 when Leeuwarden-Fryslân was European Capital of Culture, draws inspiration from the landscape, climate change, and history. Explore the stories behind these fountains in the eleven Frisian cities and craft a scenic route blending city and countryside.
All fountains light up again from March 20 through late October or early November 2021.
Wadden Landscape
Photo: Mijke Bos
Delve into the dynamic world between land and sea on the mainland or Wadden Islands with an expert mudflat guide. Join Terschelling chef Flang for a culinary mudflat hike, foraging ingredients for a fresh feast.
A 2021 standout: the Wadopera Peter Grimes, performed beyond the dikes at Paesens-Moddergat. Over 150 singers, musicians, and actors bring Benjamin Britten's poignant tale of fisherman Peter Grimes to life against the UNESCO Wadden Sea backdrop, under conductor Arnaud Oosterbaan and director Paul Carr.
Performance dates: September 10, 17, 18, 21, 22, and 24, 2021.
Nightscape
Photo: Tobias Hoiten
Friesland hosts the Netherlands' only two Dark Sky Parks: Boschplaat on Terschelling and Lauwersmeer, certified by the International Dark Sky Association. These preserves offer stunning starry skies, including the Milky Way on clear nights. For deeper immersion, try overnighting on the mudflats—sail out with a skipper into the Wadden Sea UNESCO site, where your vessel gently settles at low tide amid breathtaking nocturnal beauty.
Cultural-Historical Landscape
Photo: Marcel van Kammen
Once hand-dug by peat workers, the Peat Route in Southeast Friesland transported fuel westward. Today, boating here reveals wooded reserves, meadows, and charming villages. Pack a picnic for idyllic stops, and add thrill by operating select bridges yourself.
Sustainable Landscape
Photo: Simone Wittgen
Frisians steward their landscapes with innovative sustainability. Rent a sturdy E-Chopper for emission-free exploration of Drents-Friese Wold National Park—wide tires ensure comfort without noise. The Wadden Islands shine too: electric TukTuk safaris on Vlieland or eco-car tours on Terschelling and Ameland reveal hidden gems with knowledgeable guides.
Learn more about Friesland's 2021 landscape tribute at www.friesland.nl/ode.
Header photo: Marcel van Kammen
