Culture A in Ameland, West Frisian Island
by Anne T. Rogers
Remote destinations are a favorite. If it’s far-flung and reachable within 6 hours, it’s considered a weekend trip worth-making. Might be the American in me - we’re used to long travel distances - but, the term “road-trip” conjures many a memory of car rides and gas stops and picnics and playlists. Nowadays, I try to trade in the car for the train as my transport of choice. Add in a ferry, a couple of buses, and a nice walk; and, if traveling from Amsterdam, you’ll reach the remote and rustic island of Ameland in around 5 hours.
Ameland is one of the 14 West Frisian Islands off the north coast of the Netherlands. It has a population of less than 4,000 and sits between the North Sea and the Wadden Sea. If you like rural tranquility, rolling sand dunes, technicolor sunsets, and quiet beaches, this is a perfect spot to relax and recharge. I managed to read an entire book over the course of the trip (The God of Small Things by Arundhati Roy). No Netflix and chill required.
I stayed in the village of Hollum, one of the livelier hubs on the island with a small, but excellent selection of restaurants. It’s a great base to explore the west side of the island, which I did by bike. Throughout the trip, I collected photos and natural materials as design references for an upcoming art project: textured, graphite sea shells, thin iron-wrought numbering, gradient sunsets, and well-walked brick pathways are just a few examples.
Where to Stay:
The Sunset Beachclub: At the western tip of the island, you’ll find this excellent spot that not only hosts guests in lovely, modern apartments, but also offers a beach-side restaurant with generous seafood platters.
Where to Eat:
Tante A’n: Cozy, delicious, and friendly: Tante A’n is a popular spot for locals and travelers. Fresh seafood is featured throughout the menu with a focus on Friesian specialties. I recommend the cod fillet with the cheese crust (Kabelijasfilet) and the crème brûlée served with macadamia nuts and assorted ice cream.
Bakkerij P.J. de Boer: A pastry and bread paradise. Try the classic gevulde koek, a soft cookie with a rich almond filling.
Bij Hen op Ameland: Modern, farmhouse decor and excellent chicken dishes await at this local spot. I had the Peruvian specialty with no regrets.
What to Do:
Designboutique DAY: This tiny shop is full of impactful products, including light fixtures by London-based firm Tala.
Cycle: There’s no wrong way to cycle along the coast of Ameland. Follow the well-marked routes and you’ll discover sand dunes, forests, and beaches as you careen through the island’s beautiful nature.
