Friesland IJsselmeer Coast Itinerary
The Friesland IJsselmeer Coast Road Trip is an unforgettable journey through the Dutch countryside. Starting in the city of Harlingen and ending in Lemmer, the route takes you through the towns of Makkum, Hindeloopen and Oudemirdum, covering a distance of approximately 74 km. This route is best enjoyed over two days, with plenty of time to explore the attractions and take in the stunning landscapes. The roads are generally in excellent condition, although some sections may be narrow. The best time of year to take this trip is spring and summer, when the countryside is in full bloom.
This road trip is perfect for all types of drivers, offering an unforgettable experience and memories that will last a lifetime. It is suitable for all budgets, although a larger budget will allow you to take advantage of all the attractions that you come across. So, if you’re looking for an unforgettable journey, the Friesland IJsselmeer Coast Road Trip is a great choice.
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number of days
73 km
route length
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budget
family
good for
on the right
traffic direction
low
accident level
START
Harlingen
Distance 73 km
Driving time 1.7 h
Pace: slow
16.9 kWh
Airports
DHR
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GRQ
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Harlingen is a small port town located in the Dutch province of Friesland, along the IJsselmeer coast. It is the perfect starting point for the Friesland IJsselmeer Coast Road Trip, offering stunning views of the Dutch countryside and an array of exciting activities.
The harbor is the heart of Harlingen and the ideal place to start the road trip. Here, you can admire the colorful boats, take a stroll along the quay and enjoy the fresh air. You can also visit the iconic lighthouse, the old city hall and the beautiful churches.
If you're looking to explore the surrounding area, there are plenty of activities to choose from. You can take a boat trip to the nearby islands, go bird watching in the Wadden Sea National Park and explore the many cycling routes.
For those traveling by air, the closest international airport is Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (IATA: AMS). Car rentals are available at the airport, making it easy to get around.
Harlingen is the perfect starting point for the Friesland IJsselmeer Coast Road Trip. With its harbor, stunning views and variety of activities, it is a great place to begin your adventure.
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Harlingen
- Makkum
Distance 15 km
Driving time 0.3 h
Pace: modest
3.8 kWh
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Itinerary
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Embark on a 15 km journey from Harlingen to Makkum and discover the stunning scenery of the Netherlands! This road trip will take less than an hour, so you can enjoy the sights and sounds of the countryside. As you travel through the area, keep an eye out for historical sites and picturesque roads. In some sections, the road will be narrow, so be sure to drive carefully. Along the way, you can take in the beauty of the Netherlands and make some unforgettable memories. Once you arrive in Makkum, you’ll find plenty of attractions to explore. Be sure to check out the Itinerary for this stage of the tour for more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. So, buckle up and enjoy the ride!
Makkum - Netherlands - Europe - Scenic Drive - commons.wikimedia.org
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2
Makkum
- Hindeloopen
Distance 16 km
Driving time 0.4 h
Pace: modest
4.0 kWh
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Itinerary
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Embark on a 16-kilometer road trip from Makkum to Hindeloopen, one of the most picturesque towns in the Netherlands! This journey will take you less than an hour to complete, and along the way you will be able to take in some of the most stunning views the country has to offer. Make sure to keep an eye out for historical sites and scenic roads, as well as some sections that may be a bit narrow. As you make your way to Hindeloopen, you'll be able to experience the beauty of the Dutch countryside and enjoy the vibrant culture of this small town. Don't forget to check out the local shops and restaurants for a truly unique experience. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the Itinerary of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Get ready to explore the beauty of Makkum and Hindeloopen!
Hindeloopen - Netherlands - Europe - Scenic Drive - Wikimedia Commons
Hindeloopen - Netherlands - Europe - Scenic Drive - Wikimedia Commons
Hindeloopen - Netherlands - Europe - Scenic Drive - Wallpaper Flare
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3
Hindeloopen
- Oudemirdum
Distance 26 km
Driving time 0.8 h
Pace: slow
5.9 kWh
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Itinerary
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Embark on a 26 km journey through the beautiful countryside of the Netherlands, starting in Hindeloopen, and ending in Oudemirdum. This road trip will take you less than an hour to complete and you can expect to be mesmerized by the scenic views and historical sites along the way.
The first stop on your journey is Stavoren, a charming village with a rich history. Here, you can explore the old harbor, visit the Stavoren Museum, and admire the stunning views of the IJsselmeer.
As you drive through this part of the Netherlands, be sure to keep an eye out for narrow sections of the road. As you approach Oudemirdum, you'll find a number of interesting attractions, such as the Oudemirdum Windmill, the Oudemirdum Museum, and the Oudemirdum Church.
So, make sure to take your time and enjoy the sights and sounds of this unique part of the Netherlands. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the Itinerary of this stage.
Oudemirdum - Netherlands - Europe - Scenic Drive - Wikimedia Commons
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4
Oudemirdum
- Lemmer
Distance 18 km
Driving time 0.3 h
Pace: modest
4.6 kWh
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Itinerary
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Embark on a road trip from Oudemirdum to Lemmer and explore the beautiful province of Friesland! The 17 km drive will take you less than an hour, so you can make the most of your time and explore the scenic roads. During your journey you'll pass through the charming town of Balk, where you can find a variety of attractions such as the Balksterzand Nature Reserve and the Balksterzand Beach. Be sure to pay attention to the narrow sections of the road as you drive. Once you arrive in Lemmer, you can visit the Lemster Kerk, the Lemster Beach, and the Lemsterbos Nature Reserve. With so much to explore, you'll be sure to make the most of your trip! For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the "Itinerary" of this stage.
Lemmer - Netherlands - Europe - Scenic Drive - commons.wikimedia.org
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Lemmer
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Lemmer is a picturesque town located in the north of the Netherlands. It is the perfect place to end the Friesland IJsselmeer Coast Road Trip, a journey that takes you through the most beautiful landscapes of the Friesland region and the breathtaking IJsselmeer coast.
Lemmer is known for its beautiful harbor, situated in the middle of the city. Here visitors can take a relaxing stroll or enjoy a boat ride. There is also the Lemster Beach, the ideal place to relax in the sun and take a dip in the cool waters.
For those looking to explore the city, there are many interesting attractions, such as the Lemster Museum, the Lemster Windmill, and the Lemsterkerk Church. The nearby nature reserve, De Lemmer, is also a great place to explore the local flora and fauna.
For travelers coming from abroad, the closest international airport is Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS). From there, visitors can take a train or rent a car to reach Lemmer.
Ending the Friesland IJsselmeer Coast Road Trip in Lemmer is sure to be an unforgettable experience. With its stunning harbor and many attractions, it is the ideal place to relax and take in the beauty of the Dutch countryside.
Friesland IJsselmeer Coast at a glance
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Start:
Harlingen
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End:
Lemmer
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Distance:
73 km
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Stay:
2 days
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Getting there:
De Kooy Airport (DHR),
Eelde Airport (GRQ)
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When to drive:
May, June, July, August, September
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
Embark on the enchanting Friesland IJsselmeer Coast Road Trip, a captivating 74 km journey through the idyllic Dutch countryside, stretching from the historical port city of Harlingen to the charming town of Lemmer. This route is a treasure trove of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and peaceful ambiance, ideal for a two-day adventure filled with discovery and relaxation.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Harlingen: This vibrant port city welcomes travelers with its rich maritime history, beautifully preserved 17th-century architecture, and a bustling waterfront that offers a glimpse into the Netherlands' seafaring traditions.
- Makkum: Often referred to as the 'Gateway to the IJsselmeer,' Makkum boasts pristine beaches, perfect for a leisurely stroll, and is renowned for its Makkumer pottery, a unique Dutch ceramic style.
- Hindeloopen: Step back in time in this small, yet historically significant town, featuring narrow lanes, ornate wooden bridges, and the exquisite Hindeloopen art—a colorful and distinctive folk painting style that adorns everything from furniture to traditional costumes.
- Oudemirdum: Nestled near the IJsselmeer's shores, this village is a haven for nature lovers, offering scenic trails and panoramic views of the lake, which is the largest in the Netherlands and a vital habitat for a variety of bird species.
Best Time to Go:
Experience the Friesland IJsselmeer Coast Road Trip in its full splendor during the spring and summer months, when the countryside blooms with vibrant colors and the weather is most conducive for leisurely drives and outdoor exploration.
Potential Risks:
- While Roads are typically well-maintained, be mindful of narrower stretches that could require skillful navigation.
- The region's weather can be unpredictable, so pack appropriate attire and check forecasts to ensure a comfortable journey.
Facts for Roadtrippers:
The area offers a wide range of accommodations, from cozy bed and breakfasts to high-end resorts, ensuring a comfortable stay for every budget and preference.
Adhering to local driving regulations and etiquette is vital for a stress-free Trip.
To fully appreciate the area's charm, plan ahead by researching local attractions, festivals, and dining options.
A good choice for:
The Friesland IJsselmeer Coast Road Trip is a delightful escapade that perfectly combines the serenity of nature with the allure of Dutch culture and history. It's a splendid option for those seeking to immerse themselves in the tranquil and picturesque landscapes of the Netherlands.
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