The best places for sunset

Vlieland has two sides for it

In most places along the Dutch coast, the sun sinks straight into the sea. On Vlieland, things can be different: the island lies east to west, so you can see the sun set over the North Sea, over the mudflats, and along the length of the beach. Which one works depends on the season.

1. The North Sea beach

The classic. A wide beach, a low horizon, and nothing between you and the sun. In spring and autumn, the sun sinks further towards the south-west and shines diagonally across the beach — resulting in long shadows and a gleaming tide line.

The evening light over the North Sea beach can be seen from several beach entrances.

2. Het Vuurboetsduin

An elevation of over forty metres does something to a sunset: you look out across the dunes and see both the sea and the mudflats light up at the same time. It is also the place where you can best see how narrow the island actually is.

The steps from the village lead up to the dune; at the top, the weather is noticeably different from down among the houses.

3. The mudflat side by the harbour

The mudflats are not to be underestimated. At low tide, a mirror-like expanse of channels and silt flats lies there, catching the last light more beautifully than the open sea. In windless weather, the entire scene is reflected upside down in the water.

An added advantage: it is close by, so you can stay seated until the very last moment.

4. The edge of the Vliehors

Those who want to watch the sun set without a single building in sight head west. The Vliehors in the evening light is empty in a way that is difficult to photograph.

The Vliehors lies far from the village and is partly a military training area. Access depends on exercises and local closures.

The light after sunset

Even after sunset, the light continues to change. In the half hour that follows, the entire sky holds an afterglow, the water turns dark blue, and the colours shift above the sea. On an island without street lighting outside the village, this transitions seamlessly into stars.