Texel: The Netherlands in Miniature

Texel (pronounced “Tessel”) is the largest and most populated of the Dutch Wadden Islands. Located just a 20-minute ferry ride from the mainland, it is a world of its own. It is an island of dunes, wide sandy beaches, pine forests, and sheep—lots of sheep. In fact, there are as many sheep as people on Texel.

In 2026, Texel remains the favorite weekend escape for the Dutch. It offers “uitwaaien” (the act of walking in the wind to clear one’s head) at its finest. It is unpretentious, flat (perfect for cycling), and surprisingly gourmet, with a strong focus on local produce.

Why Visit Texel in 2026?

Texel is accessible wilderness. The Dunes of Texel National Park covers the entire western side of the island. In 2026, the island continues its push towards sustainability, with electric vehicle infrastructure everywhere and a ban on plastic bags. It is a place where you can watch seals in the morning and drink a world-class craft beer in the afternoon.

Best Time to Visit

Spring (April - May): Lambing season! The fields are full of cute lambs. The bulb fields are also in bloom.
Summer (July - August): Great for beach days. The “Round Texel” catamaran race (June) is a massive event.
Autumn: Beautiful colors and storms. Great for cozying up in a beach pavilion (strandpaviljoen).

How to Get There

Ferry: The TESO ferry runs from Den Helder to Texel every hour (or every 30 mins). It is huge, efficient, and you don’t need to book a specific time. You pay per vehicle.
Train: Take a train to Den Helder and then a bus to the ferry terminal.

Iconic Experiences & Sights

1. The Lighthouse (Vuurtoren Eierland)

Located at the northern tip. This bright red lighthouse is the symbol of Texel. You can climb the spiral staircase for a view over the Wadden Sea to the next island, Vlieland. The beach here is vast.

2. Ecomare

A seal sanctuary and nature center. They rescue sick or abandoned seals and porpoises. Watching the feeding time is a highlight for kids and adults. It also educates on the Wadden Sea ecosystem.

3. The Slufter

A unique nature reserve where the dunes have been breached, allowing the sea to flow in at high tide. It is a salt marsh landscape filled with purple sea lavender in summer and thousands of birds.

4. De Koog

The main seaside resort. It feels like a classic beach town with surf shops, cafes, and direct access to the dunes.

5. Den Burg

The “capital” village. A charming maze of streets with great shopping, historic buildings, and the best restaurants. Monday morning is market day.

6. Sheep Farming

Texel sheep are a distinct breed. Visit a sheep farm (Schapenboerderij) to cuddle lambs and see sheepdog demonstrations.

Where to Stay

De Koog: If you want to be near the beach and nightlife.
Den Burg: If you want a village vibe and shopping.
De Cocksdorp: In the north, near the lighthouse. quieter.
Camping: Camping in the dunes is the classic Texel experience.

Gastronomy: Beer and Lamb

Texel is a foodie island.

Texels Skuumkoppe: The famous local amber wheat beer. Visit the Texelse Bierbrouwerij for a tasting.
Texel Lamb (Texels Lam): The salty grass gives the meat a unique flavor (“Pre-salted”).
Texel Cheese: Visit Wezenspyk cheese farm.
Wool: Buy a sheepskin or wool duvet—it’s the ultimate souvenir.

Sustainability & Wadden Sea

The Wadden Sea is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Mudflat Walking (Wadlopen): At low tide, you can walk on the seabed. Guided tours are essential as the tide comes in fast.
Dark Sky: The island is working on reducing light pollution to protect nocturnal wildlife.

Safety and Tips

Wind: It is always windy. Cycling against the wind (tegenwind) is a national sport. Rent an E-bike if you want a relaxing holiday.
Swimming: Only swim between the flags. The currents between the islands can be deadly.
Ferry Cost: The ferry is cheaper on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays.

Digital Nomad Life

Texel is a fantastic option for nomads who want to be close to Amsterdam (2.5 hours away) but in nature. The island has fiber-optic internet in almost every village. “Texel Office” offers flexible workspaces. The work-life balance here involves finishing your tasks and immediately jumping on a kiteboard or going for a forest run. The winter months are cozy, with many holiday parks offering long-stay discounts.

Shopping and Local Crafts

Texel is a hive of creativity.

Texel Wool: The “Texelana” shops sell everything made from local wool, from slippers to healing creams (lanolin).
Local Produce: The “Texel Product” label is a mark of quality. Look for it on mustard, chocolate, and herbal tea.
Oudeschild: The fishing port is the best place to buy nautical souvenirs and fresh fish to cook at home.

Texel is wholesome. It is fresh air, good food, and simple pleasures. It is the perfect place to reset your rhythm to the tides.