All year round
Twelve months, twelve islands
From the light in spring to a winter walk along the sea: every season has its own island days. We live here all year and like to share Vlieland.
March, April, May
Spring: walking between dunes and woods
In spring the light on the beach changes and fresh green appears in the woods. We welcome guests all year round; a spring visit does not have to coincide with the school holidays.
During the breeding season, parts of the nature areas may be closed. Signs at the entrances show the access rules. Guided excursions are available through De Lepelaar and the VVV.
For groups, the early season offers room to put together a programme with accommodation, activities and meals. Bureau Vlieland helps with the organisation.
June, July, August
Summer: long days on the island
The summer holidays bring many visitors to Vlieland. There is time for beach days, bike rides and activities. Availability of ferry tickets, accommodation and hire bikes is shown by the providers.
The beach lies along the North Sea; on the other side of the island the Wadden Sea changes with the tide. In between run footpaths and cycle paths through woods and dunes.
In the village and by the beach there are cafés, restaurants and terraces. The food and drink guide links to their own websites for opening hours and reservations.
September, October, November
Autumn: birds, walks and events
In September and October there are walks, bike rides and events alongside everyday island life. The calendar gives an overview; confirmed event dates are on the events page.
November is all about Stappen door November, with walks, excursions and accommodation packages. The current programme is published by VVV Vlieland.
Migrating birds use the Wadden Sea as a stopover. There is a bird hide at Dodeman’s Bol. In the quieter season, too, Bureau Vlieland offers options for groups.
Photo: alenka1973 via Flickr, CC BY 2.0
December, January, February
Winter: welcome, even on the short days
Vlieland is open in winter too. Shops, restaurants and accommodation welcome guests; opening hours vary per business. We like to share the island, outside the holiday periods as well.
The ferry to Harlingen runs all year. Depending on the weather, sailings may change or be cancelled; Rederij Doeksen publishes the current timetable and changes.
A walk, a visit to the Tromp’s Huys museum or dinner in the village: even a short winter day can be an island day. Providers list their current opening hours.
The year in the calendarPractical island information
What you can do in each season is listed under things to do on Vlieland. Source: VVV Vlieland. Stappen door November programme.
For groups: Bureau Vlieland.