The lush and green pastures with the red roofs of farms and black and white cows alternate with the hilly areas, cliffs and wooded areas of Gaasterland. See the numerous white sails contrast with the high and blue skies above the undulating lakes.


The Frisian countryside is traversed by canals, roads, bicycle tracks and footpaths taking in all those other friendly towns where, as in Stavoren, the interesting history is reflected in the houses, churches, townscapes and village views. There are informative museums in various towns and villages. St. Nicolaasga and Balk have beautifully laid-out golf courses that harmonise with the countryside.

Stavoren has plenty of opportunities for hiring sailing boats, canoes and bicycles. There is a ferry line between Stavoren and Enkhuizen for pedestrians and cyclists. In the high street, visit the winkel van sinkel (a shop selling everything except kitchen sinks), various authentic shops, friendly outdoor cafés and a well-stocked supermarket.

Immediate vicinity
Between the jetty and the Hoogland pumping station is a kilometre long dyke where sheep graze unruffled among the seaside visitors that populate the small pastoral beaches. In summer, enjoy water sports events such as the traditional sail races in special shallow-draft boats. The J.W. Friso lock provides immediate access to the Frisian lakes.