Texel is one of the Dutch islands located in the open area of the Netherlands.
Texel is one of the Dutch islands located in the open area of the Netherlands. It is known for the bird-rich Dunes of Texel National Park, with its sandy beaches, dunes and forest trails.
1. Dunes of Texel National Park
Dunes of Texel National Park is a national park located on the North-Holland island of Texel in the Netherlands. All dune systems on the western side of the island and the large coastal plains on both the northern and southern points of the island are part of the park. The park covers approximately 43 km² and attained national park status in 2002.
2. Lighthouse Texel
Historic seaside beacon with a spiral steel staircase leading to panoramic vistas at the top. The Texel lighthouse is the only one in the Netherlands where you can see the sea from three directions. Directly next to the Wadden Sea and the North Sea. The sturdy red lighthouse on the island’s northern promontory is the definitive symbol of Texel to many. The lighthouse is open to the public.
3. Fort Kijkduin
This is one of six forts making up the Den Helder defense line. Fully restored, nowadays it houses an exhibition and an aquarium. The guided tour along the underground passageways brings the history of the fort to life. In the blockhouses where the North Sea Aquarium is located, be sure to see the glass tunnel. From the fort, on a clear day, there is a beautiful view of the Razende Bol sandbank, the North Sea and the island of Texel.
4. Ecomare
Ecomare rescues seals that wouldn’t be able to survive by themselves: these are young animals that have lost their mothers and are unable to take care of themselves and animals that are weak as a result of illness. When they have recovered, they are returned to the Texel beach or to a sandbank in the Wadden Sea. Ecomare has a number of permanent residents too. These include seals that cannot be returned to the wild because they are blind. Twice a day, while feeding the seals, a carer talks to visitors about their quirks, how they live and their natural environment. It’s great fun!
5. Museum Kaap Skil
Museum Kaap Skil is a versatile museum about Texel’s maritime history. The name refers to the shipping and the location of the museum. A Kaap is a beacon for ships, an important navigational mark on the land. The impressive museum entrance building can rightly be called a beacon, a Kaap. Skil is the Texel name for the Oudeschild, the fishing village where Kaap Skil is located.