Freshen up? Read here which things you absolutely must not miss!
The Frisians have long known that Friesland is not only beautiful in summer, but also in autumn and winter. They are not for nothing the happiest inhabitants of the Netherlands, even a winter dip does not get them down. They know better than anyone how to Opfriesen: recharge and get fresh energy in the cold months as only Friesland can.
Nose in the wind
Brave the autumn weather like a true Frisian and go abseiling from the Bosberg tower, go night sailing in a National Park or take a brisk winter walk on the enchanting mud flats, for example.
The Wadden Sea has much to offer. For example, the Wadden Sea is a Unesco World Heritage Site, and the Wadden area has been declared the most beautiful nature reserve in the Netherlands. In autumn, the wind blows harder and the weather is more turbulent. For Frisians no reason to stay indoors, but rather a reason to get a good breath of fresh air. Take a brisk walk along the dike and look out over all the beauty that the wadden region brings. Or, for the real go-getters, go winter mudflat hiking. Led by an experienced tidal flat walking guide, you will discover the beauty of this unique nature reserve and experience the relaxing effect of slogging through the mud.
Sailing through the autumn
Whoever says Friesland, says water. About half of the province consists of water. All the more reason to discover the province by boat. The water takes you along varied landscapes and brings you to the most idyllic places. Who thinks this is only possible in the summer is wrong. More and more bridges are also operated in the fall. The same goes for some of the ferries that sail longer this fall. This means an extra-long sailing season. Delightfully brave the Frisian waters with a blanket and a warm cup of coffee, tea or chocolate milk. Discover the Frisian eleven cities, the many lakes or one of the National Parks.
Cultural blockbusters
In need of a different kind of activity? Then visit one of the many museums in Friesland. With a variety of offerings, there is something for everyone. For example, imagine yourself in the Middle Ages and discover what society in Friesland looked like in the period 1067-1567. Were the Frisians as headstrong then as they are now? You will find the answer at the exhibition Freedom, Feuds and Purgatory in the Fries Museum. Want even more excitement? Then marvel at the razor-sharp teeth and gigantic size of a Tyrannosaurus rex. Bite into their history and learn all about the life of this impressive animal in the exhibition T.rex in Town at Natuurmuseum Fryslân.
Sustainable touring
The Frisians are careful with their landscape, which is why more and more sustainable initiatives are emerging. For example, there is the E-chopper that allows you to responsibly explore the Drents-Friese Wold
discovered. You can also rent these electrically powered mopeds in more and more places in the province. A unique and sustainable vehicle with which you can ride carefree through the Frisian countryside. If you like high altitudes, visit the 33-meter high Bosbergtoren in Appelscha. Enjoy the beautiful view at the top and then abseil down from the highest point in Friesland.
Gleams in the darkness
Friesland has no less than two Dark Sky Parks. In fact, these are the only two parks in the Netherlands! At Boschplaat on Terschelling and Dark Sky Park Lauwersmeer, the nights are still truly dark. These two locations have been declared official Dark Sky Parks by the International Dark Sky Association. A place where the stars shine because there is little air pollution and thus darkness is preserved. Visitors can enjoy sparkling starry skies and on clear days you can see the Milky Way. Who knows, you might get lucky and even spot the Northern Lights – well worth the hour less sleep!
Refresh
To beat the winter dip, Visit Friesland has introduced a new term, Refreshing. A new word for an experience everyone is familiar with: recharging and regaining fresh energy in winter. Walking, flapping or bathing, anyone can do it. All you need is the need to clear your head and really put your nose to the wind. Friesland is the province where this is eminently possible.
Want to know more about how best to refresh in Friesland? Then visit the website; www.opfriesen.nl.
Camperelfstedentocht
Grab your RV and come to Friesland to ride the RVelfstedentocht! More info on the tour see the website or view the route here.
