Around Lauwersmeer Itinerary
Experience the beauty of the Netherlands on the Around Lauwersmeer Road Trip! Starting in the city of Dokkum, this 128km journey will take you through the towns of Moddergat, Winsum, and Buitenpost. Along the way, you can take in the sights of the stunning landscapes, visit historical sites, and enjoy the local culture. The best time of the year to drive this route is from April to October, when the roads are in excellent condition. Be aware that some of the roads along the way are narrow, so drive safely! This road trip is suitable for all drivers, and can be managed with a moderate budget. With its incredible scenery and rich history, the Around Lauwersmeer Road Trip promises to be an unforgettable experience that will provide lasting memories.
2
number of days
126 km
route length
fair
budget
family
good for
on the right
traffic direction
low
accident level
START
Dokkum
Distance 126 km
Driving time 3.0 h
Pace: slow
29.1 kWh
Airports
GRQ
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DHR
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Dokkum is a small yet charming city located in the province of Friesland in the Netherlands. It is the perfect starting point for the Around Lauwersmeer Road Trip, a trip through the stunning landscape of Friesland.
One of the most popular attractions in Dokkum is the medieval center, which still retains its original character. Here, visitors can discover the history of the city, admire its old architecture and explore its narrow streets. The city also has numerous churches, ranging from the Gothic-style St. Martin's Church to the Protestant Church of Dokkum.
Dokkum also boasts a range of cultural attractions, including the Dokkumer Museum, which showcases the city's rich cultural heritage. Visitors can also explore the city's many monuments, such as the Dokkum Monument, which commemorates the Battle of Dokkum in 1517.
For those traveling by air, the closest international airport is Groningen Airport Eelde (GRQ). Car rentals are available at the airport.
Overall, Dokkum is an ideal starting point for the Around Lauwersmeer Road Trip, with plenty of cultural attractions and monuments to explore, as well as easy access to the airport.
1
Dokkum
- Moddergat
Distance 12 km
Driving time 0.3 h
Pace: modest
3.1 kWh
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Itinerary
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Embark on an exciting road trip from Dokkum to Moddergat! This 14 km journey takes less than an hour, and you'll be surrounded by beautiful scenery and historical sites. As you drive, pay attention to the narrow sections of the road, and take in the sights. You'll be able to spot a variety of ancient buildings, as well as the stunning landscape of the area. Make sure to take some pictures to remember your journey! Once you arrive in Moddergat, you can explore the nearby villages and beaches. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the "Itinerary" of this stage. Get ready to embark on your adventure!
Moddergat - Netherlands - Europe - Scenic Drive - Wikimedia Commons
Moddergat - Netherlands - Europe - Scenic Drive - Wikimedia Commons
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2
Moddergat
- Zoutkamp
Distance 25 km
Driving time 0.4 h
Pace: fast
7.6 kWh
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Itinerary
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Get ready for an amazing road trip starting in Moddergat, Netherlands! This 25 km journey will take you less than an hour to complete, and you'll get to explore some of the most beautiful landscapes in the area. From Moddergat, you'll drive through the stunning Lauwersmeer National Park, where you'll be surrounded by lush greenery, peaceful lakes, and plenty of wildlife. Keep an eye out for the narrow sections of the road, and don't forget to take in the scenic views! As you make your way to Zoutkamp, you'll be able to explore more of the area's natural beauty, so be sure to take some time to enjoy the sights. For more information on attractions, accommodation, restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the "Itinerary" section of this stage. Get ready to have an unforgettable journey!
Zoutkamp - Netherlands - Europe - Scenic Drive - Wikimedia Commons
Zoutkamp - Netherlands - Europe - Scenic Drive - Wikipedia
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3
Zoutkamp
- Winsum
Distance 28 km
Driving time 0.8 h
Pace: slow
6.3 kWh
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Itinerary
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Get ready for an amazing road trip through the Netherlands! Starting in Zoutkamp, you will drive a 27 km route through Eenrum and end in Winsum. The drive will take less than an hour, so you can take your time to enjoy the scenic road. As you drive, take note of the narrow sections of the road. During your journey, make sure to stop in Eenrum and visit the beautiful Eenrumermeer, a lake surrounded by lush green meadows. In Winsum, you can explore the old church, a stunning piece of architecture. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy the ride!
Winsum - Netherlands - Europe - Scenic Drive - Wikipédia
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4
Winsum
- Buitenpost
Distance 36 km
Driving time 0.9 h
Pace: slow
8.4 kWh
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Itinerary
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Begin your journey in Winsum, Netherlands, situated at the heart of the province of Groningen. From here, take the scenic road and drive 36km to Niehove, where you can visit the town's windmill and the old church. Continue your trip for another short stretch and you will reach Buitenpost, where you can explore the old canal and the beautiful park. Along the way, you may notice sections of narrow roads, so please pay attention to your surroundings. This is one of the stages of a larger tour, and more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
Buitenpost - Netherlands - Europe - Scenic Drive - Wikimedia Commons
Buitenpost - Netherlands - Europe - Scenic Drive - Wikimedia Commons
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5
Buitenpost
- Dokkum
Distance 25 km
Driving time 0.5 h
Pace: modest
6.6 kWh
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Itinerary
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Start your journey in Buitenpost, Netherlands and take the scenic route to Kollum. The 25 km drive will take you less than an hour and you will be rewarded with stunning views of the countryside. Along the way, you will pass through small villages and historical sites, so be sure to keep your eyes open. The road is narrow in sections, so take care when driving. Once you reach Kollum, you can explore the town and its many attractions. The final leg of your journey takes you to Dokkum, where you can enjoy a range of activities and attractions. Be sure to check out the local markets, restaurants and shops. For more information on attractions, accommodation, restaurants and campsites, check out the itinerary of this stage. So don your seatbelt and set off on an unforgettable road trip!
Dokkum - Netherlands - Europe - Scenic Drive - Wikimedia Commons
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Dokkum
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Dokkum, the beautiful town in the Netherlands, is the perfect ending point for the Around Lauwersmeer Road Trip. Its charming streets and inviting atmosphere make it a great place to relax and enjoy the sights.
The center of Dokkum is a great place to start your exploration of the town. The old city gates, the Oosterpoort and the Westerpoort, are a great way to get a feel for the town's history. The main square, the Grote Markt, is a great place to relax and take in the atmosphere.
The nearby Lauwersmeer National Park is a great place to explore. Here, you can enjoy a range of activities, such as cycling, walking and bird watching. The park is also home to some unique wildlife, such as the rare aquatic plant, the Noordeloos water-lily.
The nearby city of Leeuwarden is also worth a visit. This city is known for its rich culture, with many historic sites and monuments. The Fries Museum is a great place to learn more about the city's history, while the Oldehove tower offers a great view over the city.
If flying, the closest international airport is Groningen Airport Eelde (GRQ), located less than 40 miles from Dokkum. For those wishing to explore the Netherlands further, Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS) is just over an hour away by car.
At the end of the Around Lauwersmeer Road Trip, you can enjoy the charm and beauty of Dokkum. From exploring the historic city center to enjoying the great outdoors, there are plenty of activities to enjoy in this picturesque Dutch town.
Dokkum - Netherlands - Europe - Scenic Drive - commons.wikimedia.org
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Around Lauwersmeer at a glance
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Start:
Dokkum
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End:
Dokkum
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Distance:
126 km
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Stay:
2 days
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Getting there:
Eelde Airport (GRQ),
De Kooy Airport (DHR)
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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
The Around Lauwersmeer Road Trip is an enchanting 128km journey in the northern Netherlands, commencing in the historically rich city of Dokkum and meandering through the idyllic landscapes dotted with cultural gems like Moddergat, Winsum, and Buitenpost. This route showcases the stunning diversity of the Dutch countryside, from lush polders and dykes to expansive farmlands, while providing an array of historical and cultural insights.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Dokkum: Embark on your adventure in this ancient city, which is not only a member of the most beautiful Dutch fortified towns but also the site where the Anglo-Saxon missionary Saint Boniface was killed in 754. Marvel at the well-preserved fortifications, historic buildings, and iconic windmills like the Zeldenrust and De Hoop.
- Moddergat: Step back in time in this picturesque fishing village, which is part of the wider Wadden Sea UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its unique tidal wetlands and the 1883 fishing disaster memorial.
- Winsum: This charming village is often listed among the prettiest in the Netherlands, where you can admire the traditional Dutch architecture and the peaceful Groningen countryside, which has been inhabited since prehistoric times.
- Buitenpost: Immerse yourself in the cultural heritage and unspoiled nature of the area. Visit the botanical garden De Kruidhof and the IJstijdenmuseum, which delves into geological history shaped by the Ice Age.
Best Time to Go:
The optimal period for the Around Lauwersmeer Road Trip is from April to October when the Netherlands bursts into full bloom and the weather is most conducive for exploration. During this time, the region's flora and fauna are at their most vibrant, and local activities and festivals provide additional color to the experience.
Potential Risks:
Travelers should be aware of the narrow and sometimes winding Roads along the route, requiring careful navigation. Cyclists are common, so be vigilant and share the Road respectfully.
Facts for Roadtrippers:
- The journey is affordable, making it perfect for those traveling on a moderate budget.
- The Road Trip caters to drivers of varying experience levels, offering a leisurely experience with straightforward navigation.
- The route is punctuated with opportunities to engage with the local history, sample regional cuisine, and enjoy the Netherlands' renowned nature reserves and conservation areas.
A good choice for:
Embarking on the Around Lauwersmeer Road Trip is an exceptional way to experience the distinct allure of the Dutch landscapes and the depths of its historical roots. With every turn, you are met with a new vista or village that tells a story, ensuring a memorable Trip filled with postcard-worthy moments and educational encounters.