Retreat Gateway in The Netherlands

The Netherlands is a country in Western Europe below sea level and is known for its rich cultural heritage, diversity, windmills, tulips, vibrant cities, cycling culture, and commitment to sustainability.

As you travel to the Netherlands, there is still a lot more to discover than just the canals, historical buildings, and world-class museums in Amsterdam, the modern architecture and impressive harbor in Rotterdam, the Dom Tower of Utrecht, the tulip garden in Keukenhof, or the picturesque Dutch Village Park in Zaanse Schans.

Let us take you north to the Wadden Sea in Friesland, where we hosted our Retreat in The Netherlands.

The Wadden Sea is a UNESCO World Heritage site titled 'most beautiful nature area' in the Netherlands. It is one of the last remaining large tidal areas where the forces of nature are free to do as they please. It differs every time you visit it, as water, sediment, and sand move with the tides.

The Wadden Islands are five islands in the Wadden Sea: Texel, Vlieland, Terschelling, Ameland, and Schiermonnikoog. We will journey specifically to Terschelling, the second-most oversized island in the Wadden Sea.

An Icon of The Island

The island features stunning beaches, lush dunes, and expansive marshland, offering a blend of outdoor adventure. The changing tides on the Wadden Sea create breathtaking views and a dynamic environment that can be explored throughout the years. The island is also famous for its unique flora and fauna, making it a fantastic spot for nature enthusiasts.

Amazing Sunset

Adding to its historical background, Terschelling is the birthplace of Willem Barendzt, the Dutch navigator and Arctic explorer. Every June, Terschelling hosts the Oerol Festival, an annual 10-day festival focused on live, public theatre, music, and visual arts.

Talking about the Netherlands, are you also familiar with the Dutch philosophy of Niksen?

It is the art of doing nothing and embracing idleness. It encourages taking a break from the hustle and bustle of daily life, allowing your mind to wander and recharge. It's about finding joy in stillness and letting your thoughts flow freely, which can lead to enhanced creativity and relaxation. It is a great way to appreciate simple moments without the pressure of productivity. Terschelling could be a perfect place for Niksen. We all need Niksen. It benefits not only our well-being but also our creativity.

Getting to Terschelling is pretty straightforward. From Schipol Airport train station, enjoy the 3-hour panoramic train ride to Harlingen Haven with a 1-time transfer at Station Leeuwarden. Then, cross the Wadden Sea from Harlingen Haven to West Terschelling on a slow, enjoyable 2-hour ferry boat or a quick 50-minute fast boat.

Have a glimpse of Terschelling from Reinier Voorwinde's journey—the Dutchman and founder of Drishti Journeys who has been visiting the island every year individually and with family. When in Terschelling, it is time to bond! With yourself, nature, and the family. People of all levels and ages can find something to do on the island.

Here are some activities you can do:

Lots of Exciting Hiking Trails
If you look at the map, West Terschelling is the most significant part of the island. This is a great place to go hiking. Several trails are available in and around the area. The biggest hike, and only possible during the low tide, is the Groene Strand along the beach of Nordsvaarder to the Paal 8! It is about 14 km long, with the highlight of Groene Strand and Dunes of Terschelling. Some shorter trails are available if you are not in the mood for a big hike that highlights forest, bunker, beach, and dunes! Most hiking trails will be generally quiet, with a few people passing.

Biking
Biking around Terschelling is a fantastic way to explore the island's diverse landscapes and enjoy its natural beauty. With well-maintained cycling paths and scenic routes, Terschelling offers an excellent biking experience for casual riders and enthusiasts.

Reinier's popular route is along the coastline of De Wadden Dijk, where he can enjoy stunning views of the Wadden Sea and watch for wildlife. The changing tides create a dynamic environment that makes every ride unique. The expansive beaches along the way make for picturesque stops. Another route is through the island's charming villages, such as West Terschelling and Midsland, with some local shops and cafés. These towns have a welcoming atmosphere, perfect for a break during your biking adventure.

His most popular route is an adventurous ride to Boschplaat, a nature reserve known for its diverse flora and fauna. Here, we can truly immerse ourselves in the tranquility of nature and spot some rare birds or other wildlife. Whether biking along the beach or through charming villages, Terschelling offers an unforgettable experience on two wheels.

The Starry Night and The History of The Island
Terschelling is one of the best places for stargazing.  De Boschplaat Nature Reserve on Terschelling has been named Dark Sky Terschelling Park. A Dark Sky Park is one of the darkest places on earth and is home to unique animal and plant species that benefit from a natural environment. Other Starry Night tours will take you on the dunes along the Noordzee. It can be such a romantic experience for couples!

De Wadlopen (the Mudwalk), guided by a local over The Wadden Sea.
During the low tide, the sandbanks will show, making walking possible. The tour usually includes education about the sea creatures and seaweeds we can see during low tide. After the tour, the guests are also taken to pick oysters and mussels and have a picnic.

Take a boat trip to the sandbanks to see seals at their natural habitat.
We booked this tour with TS-3 Viking, an authentic fishing vessel. The tour includes trawl fishing and seal watching.

The Cranberry Field. It is a very interesting story with the cranberry in Terschelling. In the past, a barrel of cranberry, while on the journey sailing on the Noordzee, was washed ashore. Since then, the cranberry has begun its establishment on the island.

Culinary Delights in Terschelling
Terschelling offers a delightful culinary experience that reflects the island's unique heritage and connection to the sea. Some Terschellling culinary specialties are:
Oysters from the Wadden Sea: Don't miss the opportunity to try the local oysters harvested from the surrounding waters. Many eateries offer fresh oysters served in various ways, ideal for seafood lovers.
The island’s cozy cafés or bakeries offer homemade cakes, pastries, and traditional Dutch snacks. Don't forget to try the local apple pie, a favorite among locals and visitors.
Indonesian Dishes - shared a long history with Indonesia, Indonesian dishes may be offered in certain places. Our favorite is Restaurant Onder de Pannen and De Brasserie Brandaris. Other International Dishes, like Spanish, are also available on the island.

Terschelling is a home for big outdoor enthusiasts. Even though away from the crowded tourist sites, you can still witness the Dutch heritage and way of life: agriculture, fishing, farming, windmills, and the connection with the sea that is still strongly incorporated into the daily lives of the Islanders.