Book your overnight stay in Southwest Friesland
5 reasons to book with us!
Areas in Southwest Friesland - for an overnight stay
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Gaasterland
In Gaasterland, you will find both forests and coast. Cycle over gently rolling hills, walk along the cliffs and enjoy the peace and quiet. Discover this green gem in Southwest Friesland for yourself and book an overnight stay in Gaasterland.
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Friesian lakes
In Southwest Friesland, all the Frisian lakes are connected to each other. The Frisian Lakes area is perfect for water sports enthusiasts. Come and enjoy the water for yourself and book an overnight stay at the Frisian Lakes.
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IJsselmeer
At the IJsselmeer, you will find peace, space and wide-open views across the water. Walk along the dikes, visit the harbour and enjoy sunsets that stay with you. Discover this special area for yourself and book an overnight stay at the IJsselmeer.
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Sneekermeer
Around the Snitser Mar (Sneekermeer in Frisian), everything revolves around water sports. Sail past villages such as Terherne and Goingarijp, enjoy a drink on a terrace by the harbour or take a refreshing dip. Discover it for yourself and book an overnight stay at the Sneekermeer.
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Tjeukemeer
The Tsjûkemar (Frisian for Tjeukemeer) is the largest lake in Friesland. It is the perfect place for your holiday in Southwest Friesland if you are a water sports fan! Stay overnight in a holiday home, B&B or at a campsite at the Tjeukemeer.
Stay overnight in 7 of the Eleven Cities - in Southwest Friesland
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1/ Sneek
During your holiday in Southwest Friesland, stay overnight Sneek (Snits in Frisian), one of the Eleven Cities in Friesland and the water sports capital of the Netherlands. Celebrate Sneekweek or visit the Sneekermeer and the surrounding villages.
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2/ IJlst
Small but big on charm, that is the city of IJlst (Drylts in Frisian)! With Museum en Werkplaats Houtstad IJlst and the special gardens that form part of the streetscape, IJlst is a wonderfully fun little town to visit during your holiday in Southwest Friesland. Come and stay overnight in IJlst and discover it for yourself!
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3/ Sloten
Sloten (Sleat in Frisian) is the smallest of the Frisian Eleven Cities, but it is rich in history. A visit to this fortified town is definitely worthwhile. So come and stay overnight in Sloten or at an accommodation nearby.
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4/ Stavoren
Starum (Frisian for Stavoren) is steeped in maritime history. Located on the IJsselmeer, this city was originally a thriving trading metropolis. With an atmospheric harbour area, beautiful façades and, of course, the famous statue of the Vrouwtje van Stavoren, it is still well worth a visit. Come and stay overnight in Stavoren and discover it for yourself!
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5/ Hindeloopen
Hindeloopen (Hylpen in Frisian) is a former trading town full of character on the IJsselmeer. You will find beautiful façades, cosy streets and plenty of history. Discover the harbour area, visit Museum Hindeloopen and stay overnight in this small but charming Eleven Cities town.
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6/ Workum
Warkum (Frisian for Workum) has held city rights since 1399 and played an important role as a trading town. The historic centre, with its beautiful façades and the Sint-Gertrudis church, has been a protected townscape since 1988. Also enjoy the shallow beach of Workum, perfect for children and (kite) surfers. Come and stay overnight in Workum and discover it for yourself!
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7/ Bolsward
The canals, stately merchant houses and the 17th-century town hall make the centre of Bolsward (Boalsert in Frisian) the perfect place for a city walk. An overnight stay in Bolsward can also be combined with plenty of tastings: beer, grain gin and, of course, the famous Sonnema Berenburg all originated here.
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Discover all Eleven Cities
In addition to the 7 Eleven Cities in Southwest Friesland, there are of course 4 more. Discover Harlingen, Franeker, Dokkum and Leeuwarden as well. Combine two or three cities during a weekend or holiday in Southwest Friesland. Which Frisian gem(s) will you visit?
Tips and inspiration - for your holiday in Southwest Friesland
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Events
Southwest Friesland is buzzing with events! From the well-known Sneekweek to a local farmers' market with regional products. And from exhibitions at the museums in Southwest Friesland to lively festivals. In the Events Calendar of Waterland van Friesland, you will find all events conveniently listed.
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Enjoying the water
In Southwest Friesland, almost everything is connected by water. Go on an adventure and discover charming villages, marinas, Eleven Cities and beautiful nature along the way.
Choose a relaxed trip in a sloop, get active on a sailing boat or work your arm muscles with a day of SUPing or canoeing. More than 100 boat rental companies are ready for you!
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Frisian souvenir
Are you a true Friesland fan? At VVV Waterland van Friesland, you can shop for Frisian souvenirs such as pompeblêd socks, Frisian sweaters and 'slokjes' from your favourite city or village. Great to take home or give as a gift! You can get these Frisian products at one of our VVV locations or order them now in our webshop.
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Tips for kids
Sometimes children do not need much at all: a beach, a spade and a bucket... Did you know there are more than 25 beaches here where they can build sandcastles? But that is not all! How about a play park, escape rooms, windsurfing, children's museums or a sailing camp? It is hard to get bored with our tips for kids.
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Unique cities and villages
Southwest Friesland is home to no fewer than 133 villages and 7 of the Eleven Cities. Each city has its own charm, but the many picturesque villages are also well worth a visit.
For example, visit charming water sports villages such as Grou, Lemmer and Heeg, and stay overnight in the Eleven Cities of Bolsward, Workum or Sneek. Each one is a gem waiting to be discovered and a great place to stay during your holiday in Southwest Friesland!
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Routes
VVV Waterland van Friesland is the starting point for choosing a cycling, walking or boating route in Southwest Friesland. In this varied landscape, you can cycle through the forests of Gaasterland, through the meadows of the Greidhoek or cycle alongside the rustling reeds of the Frisian lakes.
Choose a route, download the GPX file or print the numbered junctions and head out!
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Art and culture
Southwest Friesland has surprisingly much to offer when it comes to art and culture. Did you know there are no fewer than 25 museums here? From UNESCO world-class heritage to small village museums.
The 11fountains, designed by international artists, are also more than worth a visit. Or step inside a gallery or local studio!
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City hopping
Combine two or more of the 7 Eleven Cities into a city trip. Go city hopping between these characteristic Eleven Cities, each with their own treasures. To travel from one city to another, you do not take the metro, but the Arriva train, the Qbuzz bus, a bicycle or even a boat.
Which cities will you discover: Stavoren, Sloten, Hindeloopen or all 7?
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Find & book your stay in Southwest Friesland
There is plenty to see and do! Book your stay in Southwest Friesland directly via the button below. Whether you are looking for a B&B, hotel, campsite or holiday home: complete your holiday and come and stay overnight in Southwest Friesland!
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About VVV Waterland van Friesland
Wolkom, meaning: welcome to VVV Waterland van Friesland, the tourist organisation of Southwest Friesland! With us, you can book a stay safely and securely with affiliated businesses in the region.
Every day, we work together with local partners to put our region on the map. We are happy to share that local knowledge with you. Take a look here for more inspiration.
Do you have questions or would you like personal advice? Visit one of our VVV locations or contact us. We are happy to help!