Top 7 highlights of Hindeloopen
We're smitten - Hindeloopen, a picturesque and lively fishing village in the Friesland region of the Netherlands, is now the home of Le Boat's newest Dutch base and makes for the perfect start (or end) to your boating holiday among the glistening lakes of the Northern Netherlands from March 2017.
It is with great excitement that we introduce you to the top 7 highlights of Hindeloopen:
1. Sandy beaches and beautiful lakeside walks to explore
Lake Ijsselmeer and the old harbour of Hindeloopen are just lovely and provide a great place for a swim, walk or just to sit back and relax.
2. Hindeloopen village
Shortlisted in the 'most beautiful villages in Europe' awards by the Japan Association of Travel Agents, Hindeloopen village's quirky cobbled streets and wooden bridges are great to explore by foot or bike. Be sure to visit the traditional Chocolaterie Koldewijn for chocolately treats and flavourful teas.
3. Surfing, kitesurfing, windsurfing and sailing
With perfect north-westerly winds, Lake Ijsselmeer is perfect for watersports including surfing, kitesurfing and sailing. For equipment hire or lessons, check out OK Kite and Surf School.
4. Fishing
Hindeloopen offers great fishing in both the harbour and Ijsselmeer - just be sure to get a week tourist fishing permit for €10 from Sportvisserij Friesland before you drop a line.
5. The food
Waterside dining meets traditional Dutch cuisine. For great fresh seafood and historic surroundings, restaurant Sudersee is one not to be missed. If it's traditional food, fine-dining and waterside views, opt for the Hind or the Three Harinkjes. Pancake loves try the Pancake restaurant Frisian Doorloper which offers a menu of over 50 pancake varieties! For something a bit more relaxed, stop by the lakeside van Grab and Joy for a crepe, fries or 'the best ice cream in the Netherlands' while you watch the watersports on Ijsselmeer.
6. Maritime history and traditions
Because of Hindeloopen’s history during the 17th & 18th Century as a port for the international shipping trade, many of the traditions and culture from this time remain. Residents still often don traditional Frisian clothing and you’ll find vibrant hand-painted murals and furniture around the city. Even the language in Hindeloopen is unique with characteristics of Western Frisian, English, Danish and Norwegian. The Hindeloopen museum is a great place to learn more about this colourful city.
7. For the love of ice skating
Believe it or not, but Friesland is an ice-skating hub and the winter activity has a centuries-old history here. Hindeloopen is home to the region's famous Ice-Skating Museum; described as a ‘hidden gem’ and receiving great reviews on Trip Advisor - If you’re interested in skating, it’s definitely worth a visit.
Le Boat offer four suggested itineraries starting (or ending) in Hindeloopen. One-way trips to Vinkeveen include the Holland Cruise and the Best of Holland Long Break. If you’re after a Hindeloopen return trip, the Friesland Short Break and the Lakeland Cruise are also excellent choices.