Texel Travel Guide (West Frisian Islands/Northern Netherlands/Netherlands/Benelux/Europe)

Introduction to Texel

Texel is one of the West Frisian Islands located in the northern part of the Netherlands. It is a perfect getaway destination for those who love nature, outdoor activities, and peaceful surroundings. Texel is the largest of the West Frisian Islands and attracts thousands of tourists every year. The island is known for its vast dunes, long sandy beaches, and unique flora and fauna. In this comprehensive travel guide, you will find everything you need to know about Texel, including the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay.

List of Places to Visit in Texel

Texel has a lot to offer to visitors. From museums to historical places and natural attractions, there is something for everyone on the island. Here is a list of places to visit in Texel:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Ecomare - This is a nature museum that showcases the unique flora and fauna of Texel. It houses a rehabilitation center for seals and sea birds, aquariums, and an exhibition on the North Sea.
Museum Kaap Skil - This maritime museum displays the history of Texel’s seafaring, including fishing, sailing, and rescue operations.
Vuurtoren Texel - This lighthouse dates back to the 1860s and provides amazing panoramic views of the island.
Oudheidkamer Texel - This historical museum displays the culture and traditions of Texel from prehistoric times to the present day.

Natural Attractions of Texel: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

De Slufter - This is a unique natural reserve with salt marshes and creeks formed by sand dunes. Visitors can walk along the footpaths and enjoy the scenic views.
National Park Duinen van Texel - A vast area of sand dunes, forests, and grasslands, the National Park offers a variety of walking and cycling routes through the natural landscape of the island.
Texel Beaches - Texel has a long coastline with beautiful sandy beaches. Visitors can swim, sunbathe, and enjoy various water sports.
Schapenboerderij Texel - This is a sheep farm where visitors can witness the traditional way of sheep farming in Texel.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Texel

Texel is a popular destination for hiking and biking due to its vast natural landscapes and scenic views. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes in Texel:

Texel Dunes Route - A 20-kilometer cycling route through the dunes of Texel, starting in Den Hoorn and ending in De Koog.
Texel Beach Route - A 30-kilometer cycling route along the coastline of Texel, passing through the beautiful beaches and dunes.
Muy Route - A 8-kilometer walking route through the National Park Duinen van Texel, suitable for all skill levels.

Best Things to Do in Texel: Activities and Tours

Apart from museums, natural attractions, and hiking/biking trails, Texel offers a range of activities and tours that visitors can enjoy. Here are some of the best things to do in Texel:

Sailing - Visitors can hire a boat or join a sailing tour to explore the island’s coastline.
Seal Watching - Visitors can take a boat trip to watch the seals basking on the sandbanks in the Wadden Sea.
Skydiving - For the adrenaline junkies, Texel also offers skydiving experiences.
Horse Riding - Visitors can explore the island’s natural beauty on horseback with guided tours.

Week-Long Itinerary for Texel

To make the most of your visit to Texel, here is a week-long itinerary to help plan your trip:

Day	Activities
Day 1	Arrival and settling in at your accommodation.
Day 2	Spend the day exploring the National Park Duinen van Texel.
Day 3	Take a boat trip and go seal watching. In the afternoon, visit the Ecomare museum.
Day 4	Rent a bike and cycle through the Texel Dunes Route.
Day 5	Take a horse riding tour of the island.
Day 6	Spend the morning at the Texel Beaches and then visit the Museum Kaap Skil in the afternoon.
Day 7	Enjoy skydiving before leaving Texel.

Food and Drink Scene of Texel

Texel is also famous for its local cuisine and traditional delicacies. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

Texel Lamb - Sourced from the island’s sheep farms, the lamb is often roasted with herbs and served with fresh vegetables.
Oysters - Texel is known for its oysters, which are harvested locally and served raw, fried, or in stews.
Krentenwegge - A sweet bread made with currants that is a traditional snack in Texel.

Local Beverages

Texels Bier - The island’s only brewery produces a range of craft beers, including the popular Skuumkoppe.
Juttertje - A locally produced herb liqueur made with a secret recipe.
Texel Jenever - A traditional Dutch gin that is made with juniper berries and other botanicals.

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

Texel offers a variety of accommodation options, ranging from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses. Here are some popular choices:

Grand Hotel Opduin - A luxury hotel located close to the beach, the Grand Hotel Opduin provides an ideal retreat for couples and families.
Stayokay Texel - A hostel located in the National Park Duinen van Texel that offers a budget-friendly accommodation option for backpackers and families.
De Pelikaan Texel - A boutique hotel located in a tranquil setting that offers a relaxing experience to its guests.

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

Texel has a range of souvenirs and local products that visitors can buy to take home. Some popular choices include:

Texel Wool Products - The sheep farms in Texel produce high-quality wool that is used to make a variety of products, including blankets, scarves, and jumpers.
Texels Bier Products - Visitors can buy a range of Texels Bier products, including glasses, coasters, and t-shirts.
Oysters - Texel’s oysters are a popular souvenir among food lovers.

Local Culture and Customs of Texel

Texel has a unique culture and customs that visitors should be aware of during their stay. The island is known for its fishing and sheep farming traditions, and visitors can witness these practices at the local farms and markets. It is also common for locals to greet each other with a ‘hallo’ or ‘hoi’ instead of a handshake.

Best Time to Visit Texel

The best time to visit Texel is during the summer months of June, July, and August. The weather is pleasant, and the island is bustling with tourists and events. However, do keep in mind that the peak season means higher prices and more crowded beaches. If you prefer a quieter experience, consider visiting in spring or fall when the weather is mild, and there are fewer crowds.

Do’s and Don’ts of Texel

Do:

Do explore the natural landscapes and national park on foot, bike, or horseback.
Do try the local cuisine, including oysters, lamb, and Texels Bier.
Do bring back souvenirs, including Texel wool products and local liqueurs.

Don’t:

Don’t litter or leave trash on the beaches or hiking trails.
Don’t disturb the natural habitat or wildlife.
Don’t enter prohibited areas or protected dunes.

Safety and Health

Safety in Texel

Texel is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, visitors should take basic safety precautions such as locking their bikes and keeping an eye on their belongings in crowded areas. It is also important to be aware of the dangers of the sea, especially during high tides.

Health in Texel

Texel has high-quality medical facilities and hospitals, and visitors can access emergency medical care if needed. Visitors should take necessary precautions to protect themselves from tick bites, as the island has a high prevalence of Lyme disease.

Getting to Texel: Transportation Options and Logistics

Texel is easily accessible by various means of transportation. Here are some options:

Airports Near Texel

The nearest airport to Texel is Schiphol Airport in Amsterdam. From there, visitors can take a train to Den Helder and then a ferry to Texel.

Bus Stations Near Texel

There are bus services available from Amsterdam and other Dutch cities to Den Helder, from where visitors can take a ferry to Texel.

Other Options

Visitors can also drive to Den Helder and park their cars at the ferry terminal parking lot. The ferry ride to Texel takes only 20 minutes.

How to Get Around in Texel

Texel is a small island that can be easily explored on foot, bike, or car. Visitors can rent bikes or cars from various rental services available on the island. There is also a bus service that connects the major towns and villages of Texel.

Where to Go Next from Texel: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you plan to extend your trip, there are several nearby destinations and excursions that you can consider:

Amsterdam - One of the most popular destinations in the Netherlands, Amsterdam is only a two-hour drive from Texel.
Alkmaar - A historic city famous for its cheese market, Alkmaar is located just a short drive from Texel.
Giethoorn - A picturesque village known as the “Dutch Venice,” Giethoorn is a two-hour drive from Texel.

Conclusion

Texel is a hidden gem of the Netherlands that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and local culture. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful getaway or an adventure-filled vacation, Texel has something for everyone. With this comprehensive guide, you can plan a perfect trip to Texel and make the most of your visit.

Texel Image Gallery

The Lighthouse at De Cocksdorp, one of the famous landmarks on the Island

Teso ferries meeting halfway between Texel and Den Helder