Hogeland Travel Guide

Discover the beauty of Hogeland, Netherlands with our comprehensive travel guide featuring top attractions, food, accommodation, and more.


A Comprehensive Travel Guide to Hogeland, Netherlands

Located in the northern province of Groningen in the Netherlands, Hogeland is a picturesque region filled with historical sites, natural beauty, and cultural attractions. Travelers looking for a break from the bustling cities will find solace in Hogeland, with its tranquil towns, scenic vistas, and diverse outdoor activities. Whether you want to indulge in local cuisine, explore ancient ruins, or simply enjoy the great outdoors, there’s something for everyone in Hogeland. Here’s a comprehensive travel guide to help you plan your perfect vacation.

List of Places to Visit in Hogeland

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Menkemaborg Museum: A 17th-century mansion that showcases the lifestyle of the wealthy elite in the Netherlands during that era.
  • The Maritime Museum: A fascinating museum that depicts the history of Dutch seafaring, from its golden age to the present day.
  • The Groninger Museum: An art museum that houses paintings, sculptures, and artifacts, both modern and old, from all over the world.

Natural Attractions of Hogeland: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Borg Verhildersum: A stunning 13th-century castle surrounded by beautiful gardens, including a traditional herb garden and an orchard.
  • National Park Lauwersmeer: A vast nature reserve that encompasses wetlands, grasslands, and forests, home to several species of birds and other wildlife. It’s a great spot for hiking, cycling, and birdwatching.
  • Wadden Sea: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Wadden Sea is Europe’s largest tidal wetland and home to many unique plants and animals. It’s a great place to explore by boat or on foot.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Hogeland

  • The Pieterpad: The most popular hiking route in the Netherlands, this long-distance trail stretches over 500 kilometers from the northern city of Groningen to the southern city of Maastricht.
  • The Marnepad: A scenic 45-kilometer cycling trail that takes you through the picturesque villages of Western Hogeland, the beautiful beaches of the Wadden Sea, and the historic city of Dokkum in Friesland.

Best Things to Do in Hogeland: Activities and Tours

  • Mudflat Hiking: A unique experience offered by many tour operators in the area, allowing you to explore the Wadden Sea during low tide and experience the rich natural diversity found here.
  • Fishing in the Lauwersmeer: A popular pastime in the region, visitors can hire boats or join a guided tour to catch various fish species found in this freshwater lake.
  • Visit Local Festivals: Hogeland has many festive events throughout the year, including the Lauwersmeer Food Festival, STORM, and the Open Air Museum Festival.

Week-Long Itinerary for Hogeland

Day Itinerary
Day 1 Explore the city of Groningen, visit the Groninger Museum, and enjoy a walking tour of the old town.
Day 2 Visit the Menkemaborg Museum and enjoy a stroll through the picturesque village of Uithuizen.
Day 3 Take a day trip to the Wadden Sea and enjoy a mudflat hiking tour with a local guide.
Day 4 Rent a bike and take the beautiful Marnepad cycling trail, stopping at the different villages and towns along the way.
Day 5 Visit the Lauwersmeer National Park and take a boat trip to explore the wildlife and scenery of the area.
Day 6 Spend the day in the historic city of Dokkum, exploring its museums and enjoying its picturesque city center.
Day 7 Visit the Borg Verhildersum castle and gardens and enjoy a traditional Dutch lunch at the onsite restaurant.

Food and Drink Scene of Hogeland

Must-Try Dishes

  • Stamppot: A hearty traditional Dutch dish made of mashed potatoes mixed with vegetables and sausage or meat.
  • Hollandse Nieuwe: A locally caught herring, often served with onions and pickles. Best enjoyed fresh during the months of May and June.
  • Poffertjes: Miniature sweet pancakes often served with butter and powdered sugar.

Local Beverages

  • Bokbier: A seasonal beer brewed in the autumn and usually served in the winter months.
  • Jenever: A traditional Dutch gin made from juniper berries and often served cold with a slice of lemon.
  • Frisdrank: Locally-produced soda flavored with fruit, herbs, and spices, ranging from sweet to tart.

Where to Stay in Hogeland: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • The Eemshotel: A stylish hotel situated on a pier in the Wadden Sea, offering stunning views and modern amenities.
  • The Hotel Termunterzijl: A family-friendly hotel located in the picturesque village of Termunterzijl, offering easy access to the nearby nature reserve and sea.
  • The Bed & Breakfast de Vlinderij: A charming guesthouse located in Ulrum, an idyllic village in the heart of Hogeland, offering comfortable rooms and a friendly atmosphere.

What to Buy in Hogeland: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Porseleinfabriek Royal Goedewaagen: A pottery factory that produces distinctive porcelain products, including beautiful Delft Blue designs.
  • Honey from the Bees in the Wadden Sea: A locally produced honey that comes from bees that pollinate the unique flora in the Wadden Sea region.
  • Stroopwafels: Delicious Dutch biscuits made from syrup and caramel, often sold in charming local shops and markets.

Local Culture and Customs of Hogeland

Hogeland is an area steeped in tradition and heritage, and locals are proud of their unique customs and way of life. Visitors are encouraged to participate in local festivals and activities and interact with the friendly locals. Visitors should also be respectful of the local customs, such as taking off their shoes before entering some buildings or greeting locals in a polite manner.

Best Time to Visit Hogeland

The best time to visit Hogeland is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warm and sunny. However, the region has its appeal throughout the year, with springtime bringing colorful flowers, autumn offering pleasant temperatures, and winter offering a beautiful white landscape and unique seasonal activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Hogeland

Do:

  • Do try traditional dishes and drinks, such as Stamppot, Bokbier, and Poffertjes.
  • Do respect the local customs and traditions.
  • Do take advantage of the many outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling, and boating.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage the natural environment.
  • Don’t forget to remove your shoes when entering certain buildings.
  • Don’t be overly loud or disruptive in public spaces.

Safety and Health

Safety in Hogeland

Hogeland is a safe and welcoming region, with very low crime rates. However, visitors should still exercise caution when traveling alone at night and keep an eye on their belongings.

Health in Hogeland

The health care system in the Netherlands is top-notch, and visitors should have no issues accessing medical care in case of an emergency. Mosquito repellent is recommended during the summer months to avoid mosquito-borne illnesses.

Getting to Hogeland: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Hogeland

The nearest airport to Hogeland is Groningen Airport Eelde, which offers flights to various domestic and international destinations.

Bus Stations Near Hogeland

There are several regional bus stations that provide connections to Hogeland, such as the Groningen or Leeuwarden bus stations.

Other Options

Hogeland is easily accessible by car, and there are several rental car companies operating in the region. Train travel is also possible, with connections available from major cities such as Amsterdam or Rotterdam.

How to Get Around in Hogeland

The best way to get around Hogeland is by bike or car, as both offer a great way to explore the region’s countryside and towns. Alternatively, there are several regional bus services that connect the different villages and towns in the area.

Where to Go Next from Hogeland: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • The Frisian Islands: An archipelago of islands situated in the Wadden Sea, just off the coast of the region. These islands are great for hiking, cycling, and beach vacations.
  • The City of Leeuwarden: The vibrant capital of the province of Friesland, home to many cultural landmarks, museums, and events.
  • The City of Groningen: A bustling university city, offering a vibrant nightlife, numerous museums, and charming historic buildings.

Conclusion

Hogeland is a gem of a destination in the Netherlands, offering travelers a unique mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you want to explore the region’s picturesque towns, hike along the Wadden Sea, or simply enjoy delicious local food, this comprehensive guide will help you plan an unforgettable vacation to Hogeland.

Typical landscape of the Hogeland region: Schilligeham hamlet. Typical landscape of the Hogeland region: Schilligeham hamlet. The ferry from Hogeland (port of Lauwersoog) to Schiermonnikoog The ferry from Hogeland (port of Lauwersoog) to Schiermonnikoog Menkemaborg Menkemaborg Fishing museum Fishing museum Mudflat hiking near Pieterburen Mudflat hiking near Pieterburen