Forming part of the West Frisian Islands, Schiermonnikoog is a small and relatively flat island off the north coast of the Netherlands. Its name translates as “Grey Monk Island” after the Cistercian monks who once owned it. The island’s scenic marshes, polders and beaches are protected within Schiermonnikoog National Park, as it is the only village on the island.
Things to do in Schiermonnikoog
Enjoy a stroll along the old sea dyke, which offers magnificent views across the polder and Westerplas Lake. Along the way, you can relax on the stone-built bench known as “Bank van Banck” before sinking your feet into the wide sands of Westerstrand. Continue north to admire the stilted beach pavilion, which accommodates the island’s dramatically changing tides.
One of the most famous farms on Schiermonnikoog is De Kooiplaats, which is renowned for its traditional duck decoys that were used as early as 1861. Featuring a freshwater pond surrounded by trees, these natural “cages” captured ducks that were then sold on the mainland. Now restored, the duck decoys at De Kooiplaats are preserved for their cultural heritage.
South of Schiermonnikoog is the Zuidertoren, an 1854-built lighthouse that now functions as an antenna tower. In the north is the bright red Noordertoren, which still plays an active role in reporting weather conditions. Also in the island’s north is the Bunkermuseum Schlei, which has been recreated as it would have appeared during World War II when it served as a communications centre.
Getting around Schiermonnikoog
Regular ferries connect from Lauwersoog on the mainland to Schiermonnikoog. The closest airport is Groningen Airport Eelde, which has seasonal flights to destinations across Europe. Buses connect from the ferry terminal to the island’s main village of Schiermonnikoog. Bicycles are the most popular means of getting around the island.