The largest of the Dutch Wadden Islands. A place where endless beaches meet rolling dunes, where time moves to the rhythm of the tides, and where nature remains wonderfully untamed.
The Jewel of the Wadden
Texel (pronounced "Tessel") sits at the edge of the Wadden Sea, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most important wetland ecosystems in the world. Just 20 minutes by ferry from the mainland, yet a world apart.
The island has been shaped by wind and water for millennia. Its western shore faces the open North Sea with 30 kilometres of pristine sandy beaches. The eastern side borders the shallow Wadden Sea, where the tide reveals vast mudflats teeming with life. Between them lie the dunes — a protected national park covering 43 square kilometres.
Things to See & Do
Dunes National Park
43 km² of protected dunes and salt marshes. Home to migratory birds and rare flora. Free entry.
Texel Lighthouse
Climb 118 steps for panoramic views from 45m above sea level. The iconic red lighthouse marks the island's northern tip.
Ecomare
Seal sanctuary and nature museum. Watch rescued seals recover before returning to the sea. Learn about the island's Ice Age origins.
Birdwatching
One of Europe's premier birding destinations. Spot spoonbills, avocets, terns and gannets in diverse ecosystems.
Cycling Tours
63 km of scenic routes through dunes, villages, and along the coast. Bikes available for rent at the hotel.
Mudflat Walking
Experience wadlopen - walking on the seabed at low tide. Guided tours reveal the Wadden Sea's unique biodiversity.
De Slufter
Where the sea broke through the dunes and created something extraordinary — a tidal wetland unlike anywhere else.
During high tide, De Slufter disappears beneath the salty sea water. As it retreats, it reveals a special ecosystem of sea lavender, glasswort, and countless migratory birds. The ever-changing landscape offers some of the most spectacular walks on the island.
Just 15 minutes by bike from Grand Hotel Opduin.
Seven Villages
Den Burg
5 min
The island's capital. Charming shops, restaurants, and a weekly market.
De Koog
2 min
Beach village with cafés and direct access to the North Sea coast.
Oudeschild
10 min
Historic fishing port. Fresh seafood and maritime heritage.
Den Hoorn
8 min
Artists' village. Galleries, studios, and the island's oldest church.
Oosterend
15 min
The prettiest village. Traditional architecture and local crafts.
Local Flavours
Texel's isolation has bred self-sufficiency and a proud culinary tradition. The island's famous sheep — outnumbering residents — graze on salt marshes, giving the lamb its distinctive flavour.
Texel Lamb — Salt marsh-fed, celebrated by chefs across the Netherlands
Texelse Bierbrouwerij — Craft beers brewed with island character since 1999
Fresh Seafood — Direct from Oudeschild harbour to your plate
Island Cheese — Artisanal varieties from local sheep and cow's milk
TESO ferries depart regularly from Den Helder. Direct trains from Amsterdam Central take just over an hour.
Ferry
20 min from Den Helder
Departures every 30 min
From Amsterdam
1h 17min by train
Direct to Den Helder
Best Time
April to October
Mild maritime climate