If you have booked a holiday with us soon, a visit to the naval city of Den Helder is definitely worth considering.
The city is surrounded by water in the north, east and west and is home to the Dutch Navy. The ferry to Texel also departs from Den Helder. A visit to Den Helder means a versatile day out. We give you five good reasons to visit the northernmost city of North Holland:
1. Fort Kijkduin
This fort is located just outside the city and was commissioned by Napoleon. You can view the fort and visit the sea aquarium. Here you can walk through a glass tunnel among the fish. From the fort you can take a nice walk on the beach or through the Grafelijkheidsduinen.
2. Willemsoord
Willemsoord used to be the shipyard of the Royal Netherlands Navy. Now this beautiful complex on the edge of the center has been completely restored and there is plenty to do. There is a Marine museum with a real submarine, a cinema, an indoor children's playground and many terraces and restaurants.
3. Helderse Vallei
On the edge of the dune area of Den Helder you will find visitor center and petting zoo De Helderse Duinen. Here you will learn everything about this beautiful piece of nature. You can also rent a canoe or try your technique in the climbing park. Very special is the barefoot path!
4. Nationaal Reddingmuseum
In the National Rescue Museum, the story of the Dutch rescue system of the past and present is told. There is everything to be found that has to do with surviving on the water. In the museum there are a number of lifeboats on display.
5. Zee promenade
From Fort Kijkduin a promenade runs along the coast to the place where the boat to Texel departs. This asphalted dike of about 5 kilometers invites you for a wonderful walking or cycling tour. At the end of the dike is a delicious restaurant overlooking the ferry to Texel. With a bit of luck you will also see Bertus, the house seal of the ferry port, swimming!
