Friesland on the map

Fryslân has 11 historic towns which have been associated with the water for centuries. In the days of the towing barges large quantities of goods were transported from one place to another by boot.

These days, the watercourses are enjoyed primarily by people on pleasure cruises. What could be more fun than to alternate between sailing through magnificent scenery and then shopping or having a bite to eat in one of the many (waterside) restaurants.

The Eleven City Skating Race

An interesting thing to know is that the largest skating event in the world, which takes in the eleven Frisian cities, is organised whenever there is a particular harsh winter. The event is known as the Elfstedentocht [Eleven City Race]. No fewer than 16,000 enthusiasts don skates and try to cover the 200 kilometres in 1 day. The last skaters reach the finish in Leeuwarden in the middle of the night. The icicles on their noses do nothing to detract from the great feeling of fulfilment they get from finishing the race. Everyone who completes the race within a certain time is awarded the famous Eleven City Cross.

If you want to experience the cold of winter, sail to the Skating Museum in Hindeloopen. There you will find details of the history of this endurance event, along with authentic workshops like a smithy and carpenter's shop and other beautiful displays.