A red lighthouse sits atop a green hill overlooking colorful houses by the shore. Lighthouse on Vlieland: Two people walk along a path, surrounded by hills and trees, with a red lighthouse in the background.
Netherlands

Vlieland: Simplicity by the Sea

Vlieland welcomes me with a scene so picture-perfect it almost feels staged: as the ferry docks, people wave from the shore. Whether they greet every newcomer or just wait for someone in particular is unclear. Perhaps it’s simply part of the island’s hospitality.

There are hardly any cars on Vlieland. Here, people walk or cycle. The island’s only village, Oost-Vlieland, has kept its old-world charm—not because of any grand historical significance, but simply because there’s no reason to change anything. A single main street lined with small shops, old captain’s houses with ornate gables, cobblestone paths. No traffic, no noise—just the constant whisper of sea air.

Above the village stands Vuurduin, a lighthouse smaller than one might expect. Just 17 meters tall, but perched on a high dune, allowing its light to reach far out to sea. It wasn’t even built here—it originally stood in IJmuiden before being moved to Vlieland in 1909. The locals call it “Rode Kabouter”, the red dwarf.

Next to the lighthouse, there’s a viewing platform. Fifty-one steps lead up, but I decide to skip the climb. I can already picture the view: the sea stretching endlessly on one side, dunes rolling away on the other, maybe a few sailboats in the distance.

Beyond the village, there’s only nature. A vast beach, gentle dunes, a landscape that unfolds in all directions, with no real destination—just space. Vlieland is one of those islands that doesn’t need much to make a lasting impression.

Map of Vlieland
A group of people stands at the harbor, some waving. In the background, there are houses and a boat.
Vlieland harbor: Several people are sitting on grass by the water, surrounded by numerous boats and masts in the background.
Village scene in Vlieland: Lush trees frame narrow paths with charming houses and blooming plants.
Vlieland: A historic square featuring a distinctive church, surrounded by green trees and charming buildings.
Lighthouse on Vlieland: Two people walk along a path, surrounded by hills and trees, with a red lighthouse in the background.
The Vuurduin lighthouse stands on Vlieland’s highest dune, offering a sweeping view over the Wadden Sea. A short climb rewards visitors with a glimpse into the island’s maritime past and its endless horizons.
A picturesque café with outdoor seating and green plants, surrounded by charming houses and trees.
House in Vlieland: Red brick facade with large windows, green hedge, and a bicycle in front of the entrance door.
Cemetery in Vlieland: A tranquil scene with gravestones among green trees and a modern building in the background.
A red lighthouse sits atop a green hill overlooking colorful houses by the shore.
Perched atop the dunes of Vlieland, the red lighthouse known as Vuurduin has guided ships since 1909.
A boat sails over calm waters, with sandy beaches and gentle hills visible in the background.
A sailboat with white sails glides through calm waters, with a sandy beach and blue sky in the background.
Sailing boat off Vlieland: A traditional sailboat with large white sails glides across a calm water surface.
Sailing boat off Vlieland: A white boat with large sails glides over deep blue water, with sand dunes and beaches in the background.
Beach on Vlieland: A vast sandy area with dunes in the background and a small building on the shore, people strolling around.
Pier in Vlieland: A wooden platform extends into the water, surrounded by boats and a green island in the background.