Terschelling

Terschelling is an island in the Wadden Sea off the Dutch coast and belongs to the province of Friesland. It stretches 28 kilometers in length and offers 30 kilometers of sandy beaches along with 70 kilometers of bicycle paths.

The British fleet under Admiral Holmes destroyed West-Terschelling in 1666, burning 150 merchant vessels in the harbor. The attack caused severe damage to local settlements and shaped the later development of the island.

The Oerol Festival transforms the island each June into an outdoor theater venue, with performances taking place across beaches, forests, and dunes. The event draws theater groups and audiences from across the Netherlands and abroad.

Ferry services operate daily from Harlingen harbor to West-Terschelling, providing regular connections for visitors and residents. The crossing takes approximately two hours and allows views of the Wadden Sea during the journey.

The Boschplaat nature reserve ranks among the darkest locations in Europe, enabling visitors to observe stars without interference from artificial light. The absence of light pollution makes this corner of the island a popular destination for astronomers and night walkers.

Location: Friesland

Capital city: West-Terschelling

Elevation above the sea: 6 m

Part of: West Frisian Islands

Shares border with: Ameland, Vlieland, Harlingen, Waadhoeke

Phone: +31562446244

Email: gemeente@terschelling.nl

Website: https://terschelling.nl

GPS coordinates: 53.40110,5.33140

Latest update: December 13, 2025 16:54