culture and history

Friesland offers not only water sports, but also a wealth of culture and history. With its own language, various museums and unique traditions, including the famous Elfstedentocht, there is plenty to discover. At Waterland of Friesland (www.waterlandvanfriesland.nl), you’ll find world-class museums to intimate regional museums that are eager to tell you more about Frisian culture and history.

Experience the UNESCO World Heritage Woudagemaal in Lemmer, taste Beerenburg at Weduwe Joustra, admire the Waterpoort or visit the Frisian Maritime Museum in Sneek.

Sloten, one of the gems among the eleven Frisian towns, is picturesquely surrounded by houses along the water of the Diep River. Follow the V2 walking trail through the Rijster forest, past historic sites that recall the Germans’ rocket launches during World War II.

Franeker is home to the Eisinga Planetarium, the oldest working planetarium in the world. Admire the paintings of Jopie Huisman at the museum in Workum, visit old Frisian churches such as the Broerekerk in Bolsward, or explore the historic town of Hindeloopen with its colorful costumes and typical painting. And don’t forget to check out the statue of the lady of Stavoren, found in Stavoren harbor.