Cycling and hiking in the Wadden Islands? Rent a holiday home on Vlieland!

Vlieland has exactly one village where nearly all the island’s residents live. Still, as a holiday destination, this Frisian island receives high praise. Hikers and cyclists love the dune-filled coastline and enjoy true peace and quiet on this largely car-free Wadden Island. Love picking berries in the wild? Rent a holiday home on Vlieland in September and harvest a good supply of cranberries! Fun fact: you won’t just find them in the wild — they also appear on menus in compotes served with both sweet and savoury dishes! Thinking of visiting the Wadden Islands and curious why the least populated one is such a hidden gem? Read on and discover why you should book a holiday home on Vlieland!

The Dorpsstraat of Oost-Vlieland

Although Oost-Vlieland is the island’s only village, it has everything you need: cafés, restaurants, a bakery and several small shops, all housed in charming cottages. Fancy a cosy coffee break with a treat? Visit Koffiebar Leut, a local favourite in Oost-Vlieland — perfect for combining your walk or bike ride with a relaxing coffee or delicious lunch! After paying, stroll down the street and pop into Eb & Vloed Lifestyle. This boutique shop offers all kinds of sustainable products, from home décor to clothing.

Hiking on Vlieland

The diverse natural surroundings may well be Vlieland’s biggest treasure. Even if you arrive with little knowledge of the island, you’ll be pleasantly surprised: the walking trails take you through tall dunes, forests and even heathlands. Birdwatchers are especially in luck on Vlieland! Bring your binoculars and hike the Forest Ranger Path through the Kroon’s Polders, then stop at the birdwatching hut to spot breeding areas. Feeling hungry after your walk? Head to Het Posthuys — they’re ready for hikers like you! Forests aren’t what you’d expect on a Wadden Island, but Vlieland is home to a unique area called Bomenland — a forest originally planted to stop sand from shifting. When the pine trees started hindering the growth of dune plants, deciduous trees were added. The result today is a wonderfully diverse forest.

Cycling along the coast from your holiday home on Vlieland

Cycling is one of the best things to do on Vlieland! The island is small enough to explore fully in a day, with plenty to see along the way. Tip: rent an electric bike if possible, as strong winds are common. You can rent bikes as soon as you arrive by ferry in the harbour of Oost-Vlieland, or reserve one online in advance. Most bike paths are paved, though some consist of shell gravel. Be prepared for steep climbs — many cycling routes wind through the dunes. Start at the lighthouse and follow a 20-kilometre route through dunes, forests, and past Oost-Vlieland. Another good starting and ending point for scenic rides is Het Posthuys.

Visit the Lighthouse

The lighthouse on Vlieland is well worth a visit — not because of its height, but because it stands atop a dune nearly three times as high! Together, the elevation reaches 60 metres, giving you expansive views across Vlieland, the neighbouring islands and the mainland. Had your fill of the view and memorised the island’s shape? Head back down and visit the nearby Cheese Bunker. Once used during World War II, the bunker now serves as a cheese aging facility. Book a tour or tasting — the salty sea air makes that cheese taste even better! Up for another walk? The lighthouse is a perfect starting point for several hiking trails in various directions.

Vliehors Express

On the western side of Vlieland lies a beach so wide it feels like a vast sandy plain. During the week, you can join the Vliehors Express — a bright yellow truck that takes visitors across the "Hors." On weekends, this area is closed to the public as it serves as a military training ground. During the tour, you’ll visit a place of historical significance: the Drenkelingenhuisje ("shipwreck house"). Once used to shelter shipwreck survivors, it now houses a beachcomber museum.

Try Cranberry Cheesecake at Koffiebar Leut

Did you know that Vlieland and Terschelling are the only Wadden Islands in the Netherlands where cranberries grow in the wild? The best time to rent a holiday home on Vlieland for berry picking is in September. Pick some for yourself, and don’t miss the chance to try various local cranberry dishes! Because the berries grow abundantly here, they’re used in many recipes. Don’t leave without trying the cranberry cheesecake at Koffiebar Leut!

Gestrand Vlieland

Gestrand Vlieland is a stylish beach pavilion located on the beach of Oost-Vlieland where you can easily spend a few relaxing hours. On sunny days, the outdoor terrace invites you to unwind after a long walk. Indoors, the refined interior will leave you speechless. Take a seat in the elegant conservatory and enjoy the view! Order a tasty Monchou tart — or, if you’re really hungry and want something special, try the steak with cranberry pâté!

Holiday home on Vlieland

Vlieland is a beautiful island where relaxation comes naturally. The landscape is defined by high dunes, white beaches, heathlands and a mixed forest. Tourists are generally not allowed to bring cars, which creates a serene atmosphere — perfect for hiking or cycling holidays! From your holiday home on Vlieland, you can enjoy multiple days of exploring the island’s rich nature on foot or by bike. Between routes, stop for a treat like cake with cranberry compote at one of the many cosy spots! Want to discover a peaceful Wadden Island? On Vlieland, you’ll enjoy stunning dune landscapes and wide beaches — all from the comfort of your holiday home.