Woudsend Vacation Rentals
Tips on renting in Woudsend
Getting Around
What to Pack
Must-Try Activities
Smart Spending Tips
Welcome to Woudsend, a charming village in Friesland, Netherlands, where your family can slow down and savor life by the water. Picture yourselves strolling along the historic canal, lined with centuries-old houses and the gentle hum of the Molen ‘t Lam windmill in the background. The village’s welcoming cafes invite you to linger over fresh pastries while the kids marvel at boats gliding by on the Ee River. The cobbled streets are perfect for little explorers, and friendly locals are always ready with a story or two about Friesland’s rich history.
Just steps from your door, the sparkling waters of the Heegermeer and Slotermeer lakes await. Here, you and your children can paddle in crystal-clear shallows, build sandcastles on grassy banks, or rent a sailboat for an afternoon adventure. Family-friendly bike paths wind through green meadows and wildflower fields, offering safe, scenic routes for all ages. In summer, the lakes buzz with laughter and activity, while autumn brings peaceful walks and golden sunsets reflected in the water.
Woudsend’s relaxed pace makes it easy to reconnect as a family. Take a guided tour of the village’s historic churches, or visit the local bakery for warm bread and Friesland’s famous suikerbrood. Whether you’re gathering for a lakeside picnic or joining a festive village event, Woudsend welcomes you with open arms and endless opportunities for family fun in the heart of Friesland.
Nearby cities
UItwellingerga
Discover family fun in Uitwellingerga, Friesland—enjoy lake swims, sunny bike rides, and cozy village strolls where every day brings new outdoor adventures.
Stavoren
Discover Stavoren in Ijsselmeer, Netherlands—where your family can bike lakeside, picnic on sandy shores, and explore charming harbors under wide blue skies.
Bant
Discover Bant in Flevoland: splash in sparkling lakes, bike leafy trails, and picnic under wide Dutch skies. Your family’s lakeside adventure starts here!
De Veenhoop
Discover De Veenhoop in Friesland—where your family can bike lakeside trails, picnic by sparkling waters, and explore nature together in every season.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to see what Woudsend has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
-
Families visiting Woudsend, Netherlands, will delight in exploring the scenic waterways by canoe or whisper boat, gliding past historic windmills and charming Frisian farms. Cycling along the lush, flat countryside offers a chance to discover the picturesque Eleven Cities Route, while sailing on the nearby Heegermeer Lake invites both relaxation and excitement. The village’s proximity to the Gaasterland forests means families can also embark on nature walks, spotting wildlife and enjoying tranquil picnic spots under ancient oaks.
-
To plan a balanced itinerary in Woudsend, start your day with a stroll along the charming canals and admire the historic windmills like De Jager and ‘t Lam, which offer insight into the village’s rich heritage. Enjoy a coffee at a waterside café before renting a bicycle to explore the scenic Frisian countryside and nearby lakes. In the afternoon, visit the Houtzaagmolen Museum for a glimpse of local craftsmanship, then unwind with a boat tour on the Ee or Slotermeer.
-
Woudsend offers charming family-friendly accommodations perfect for a relaxing getaway, including traditional Frisian holiday homes and cozy waterfront cottages. Many properties are located right along the Ee and Welle waterways, providing easy access to boating and fishing. Families can enjoy proximity to the historic windmills Het Lam and De Jager, as well as the vibrant village center with its local bakeries and cafes. Spacious gardens and safe, quiet streets make it ideal for children to play and explore.
-
A relaxing 5-day family vacation in Woudsend means mornings spent exploring the charming canals and historic windmills, followed by leisurely bike rides through the Frisian countryside. You can visit the iconic Molen ‘t Lam and discover local craftsmanship at the woodwork museum. Afternoons are perfect for sailing on the Slotermeer or enjoying ice cream at a waterside café. Evenings offer peaceful strolls along cobbled streets and delicious dinners at cozy village restaurants, making every day memorable.
-
Yes, families visiting Woudsend will enjoy a trip to the nearby Heegermeer, a beautiful lake with sandy beaches perfect for children. The waterfront area at Heeg offers safe swimming zones, grassy picnic spots, and a well-maintained playground where kids can climb and play. Parents can relax at shaded rest areas or grab a snack from local kiosks while enjoying views of sailboats gliding across the water, creating a relaxing and fun day for all ages.
-
Yes, near Woudsend in Friesland, you’ll find charming winter lodges and cabins that offer a warm retreat after a day of snowy fun. Many accommodations are close to the Slotermeer and other lakes, where you can enjoy ice skating if the weather allows. The area’s picturesque villages, like Balk and Heeg, are nearby, and local hosts often provide easy access to winter walking trails and scenic countryside perfect for a peaceful, frosty escape.
-
For a memorable 3-day stay in Woudsend for two adults, a reasonable budget is around €400 to €600. This covers a cozy bed and breakfast by the water, dining at local favorites like Restaurant Vis en Meer, and renting bikes or a boat to explore the historic windmills and charming canals. Include extra for visits to the Woudsend Anno 1816 museum and sampling local treats at the Saturday market for a truly authentic experience.
