Surrounded by the IJsselmeer and the Frisian Lakes, Lemmer is a medieval town and summer resort in the Dutch province of Friesland. It was once one of the most important fishing harbours in the Netherlands and is particularly famed for its UNESCO World Heritage-listed steam pumping station.
Things to do in Lemmer
For a day on the sand, head to Lemmer Beach, which provides the perfect base for swimming and sunbathing in the summer months. A variety of watersports are available on the IJsselmeer and there are sand volleyball courts available. Magnificent views across the beach can be enjoyed from the Baai van Lemmer or the spacious terrace of the Beachclub Lemmer.
A walking trail connects west to the Wouda Steam Pumping Station, which is the largest station of its kind still operating in the world. Now designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it first opened in 1920 with coal as the main source of fuel and played an important role in managing flooding in Friesland. Admire its Rationalist-style architecture before stepping inside to marvel at its four steam engines and immense boilers.
The town’s social and cultural history is showcased at the Museum Lemmer, where you’ll find everyday objects from days gone by. In addition to its collection of locally crafted, kerf-cut pottery, it houses an exhibit of antique tools used by the Gieterse peat diggers. After wandering through the period-furnished living room, you can get up close to intricate models of lemsteraken yachts.
Getting around Lemmer
Lemmer is around a one-hour drive from Groningen and Amsterdam. Amsterdam Schiphol Airport is 1.5 hours away and has flights to destinations across the globe. Regular buses connect to Lemmer while the town centre is compact enough to explore on foot.