Ereda’s Adventures

I recently took a trip to Texel, the largest of the Dutch Wadden Islands — and what an experience it was! It’s one of those places that feels remote, peaceful, wild, and touristy all at the same time.

First things first: getting to Texel isn’t complicated, but you do need to plan. From the Dutch mainland, you head to Den Helder, and from there take a ferry that crosses over in about 20 minutes. Even on a gray, drizzly day (which I got plenty of), the view over the water is charming — seagulls, salty breeze, and all.

Once on Texel, the first thing I noticed? Bikes. Bikes everywhere. This is truly the land of two wheels. I actually managed to bike more than half the island — and let me tell you, that’s a workout. But also pure joy. The landscapes shift from sandy dunes to sheep-filled meadows to tiny villages with cozy brick houses.

Weather: Unpredictable, but Honest

I went in June, which, along with July, is supposed to be the best time to visit. Supposed to be. Because Texel weather? Wildly unsteady. One minute you’re freezing in your rain jacket, the next the sun is out and you’re peeling off layers. Then it starts raining again — just for five minutes. A true Dutch experience.

Low-Key Life & Empty Roads

Texel isn’t crowded — at least not in terms of locals. It has a small population, mostly older people or retirees who live there year-round. During the day, though, tourists fill the island, especially the few open restaurants or beach cafés. Which brings me to an important travel tip:

📱 Bring a power bank. And make sure your phone is charged.

There aren’t many coffee shops or public places to sit and recharge — I learned this the hard way when my phone died mid-ride. I ended up in a quiet hotel restaurant, desperate for a power outlet and a hot drink. Thankfully, they were kind and the vibe felt like being in my grandma’s kitchen. Warm, slow, and filled with the smell of old Dutch recipes.

The Texel Lighthouse – A Quiet Giant

One of the most magical parts of my trip was reaching the tip of the island, where the Eierland Lighthouse stands tall and red against the sky. It has six floors, and yes, I climbed them all. At the top, there’s an old observation room where you can listen to historical recordings from when Texel’s coast was heavily monitored.

Once, this tower kept watch for ships and invaders. Today, it’s just a place to breathe, look out at the endless sea, and listen to the past whisper through the wind. Definitely worth the ride there.

The Beaches – Wooden Huts & Soft Light

Texel’s beaches are long, wide, and scattered with adorable blue and white wooden cabins that look like they belong in a postcard. I visited almost all of them. And though the skies were moody and the sunset only peeped through, there was something magical about the muted colors and the sound of the wind brushing over the sand.

Small Facts that Make Texel Special:

🏝 Texel is 25 km long and about 9 km wide. Small enough to explore in 2–3 days.

🚲 You can bike almost anywhere — and I mean everywhere. But if biking isn’t your thing, walking the island takes 8–10 hours (depending on breaks).

👨‍👩‍👧 Most locals are older; the vibe is slow and peaceful.

☔ It can rain 3–4 times in a single day, but also clear up just as fast.

🧭 In the past, the lighthouse served as a military lookout. Now it’s one of the calmest places you can visit.

🔌 Few cafés = few power outlets. Always pack a power bank. Seriously.

Bonus Stop: A Rainy Goodbye in Den Helder

On my way back, I made a quick stop in Den Helder, where the weather decided to throw a full shower at me. I was soaked, but still managed to see a bit of the maritime museum from the outside and dry off in a sweet traditional Dutch restaurant that gave me serious grandma vibes. Cozy wood interiors, old plates, and heartwarming food.

Final Thoughts

Texel is perfect for a 3-day getaway — peaceful, scenic, a little rugged. But for someone active like me, who wants to explore every corner, that’s just enough. After three days, you’ve seen it all, felt the wind in your face, and probably gotten wet a few times. But you leave with stories, a few leg cramps, and some unforgettable moments.

Just don’t forget your power bank. 😉