ESCAPE TO TEXEL FEEL AT HOME ON A WADDEN SEA ISLAND

Where else in the Netherlands do you get the feeling of really being completely away than on the Wadden Islands? As soon as you are on the boat and see the mainland disappear behind you, you feel like you have left everything behind. A fantastic weekend getaway at the Van der Valk Hotel Texel-De Koog allows you to explore the entire island.

Autumn, 2024

EVA VAN MEIJL
PHOTOGRAPHY: NOPOINT STUDIO'S

Three years ago, Hotel De Pelikaan on Texel was taken over by Van der Valk. It was the first hotel for the family on a Wadden Sea island and it turned out to be a very good move. Right from the start, guests have been able to find Hotel Texel-De Koog easily. The well-known hospitality and the feeling of coming home have since also been found on this largest Wadden Sea island in the Netherlands.

MODERN AND COMFORTABLE

Since the opening, the hotel has been gradually modernized for more comfort and to make it completely Van der Valk's own. Last year, an extension was built and 31 rooms were completely renovated. Now all hotel rooms have coffee and tea facilities and air conditioning, the latter is certainly not standard in most hotels on the island. The former brown café has also been replaced by a full-fledged hotel bar where you can enjoy drinks. You can enjoy an extensive breakfast, lunch, and dinner in the restaurant. Here you can relax after a day out. The menu offers something for everyone. A recommended dish is the Texel lamb stew, a true local specialty.

CENTRAL LOCATION

With a total of 61 rooms and apartments, staying at this hotel feels very cozy and welcoming. The pleasant atmosphere is partly due to the beautiful interior. In the restaurant, the colors green and blue are featured, a reference to the sea and the wooded surroundings. In the hotel rooms, we see more sandy colors. The hotel is centrally located on Texel, close to the village of De Koog and the beach, which is two kilometers away. You can easily reach it via the path through the forest and dunes.

PLENTY TO SEE AND DO ON TEXEL

TAILWIND

Hotel Texel-De Koog has five rooms that are used for both business meetings and parties. Of course, in combination with an overnight stay at the hotel, as you wouldn't quickly travel back and forth from the mainland for just a day. Although the ferry crossing from Den Helder takes only twenty minutes. For those who do not come by car, it is very easy to take the Texelhopper bus from the harbor to the hotel. Bicycles are also available for rent at the hotel. Due to the often strong winds, an e-bike is recommended. Depending on the wind direction, you either get a good push or you have to pedal harder. You can charge your own e-bike at the hotel. It's good to know that dogs are also welcome in certain hotel rooms and in the hotel bar of Hotel Texel-De Koog. So feel free to bring your four-legged friend along to enjoy the fresh air together.

TEXEL IS ALSO KNOWN AS 'NETHERLANDS IN MINIATURE'

VARIED NATURE

Texel is also known as 'Netherlands in miniature'. Nowhere in the Netherlands is there as much variation in landscapes per square meter as on this island. From the salt marsh landscape of De Slufter, dune valleys, heathlands, deciduous and pine forests to vast beaches. By bike or on foot, you can follow many routes and discover nature. Combine a cycling or hiking tour with a visit to the villages of De Koog and Den Burg with charming shopping streets. Or cycle to the north to climb the lighthouse (118 steps!).

MUCH TO DO

The hotel offers many packages, as there are plenty of activities on Texel. Think of blokarting, a horse-drawn carriage ride, a Texel beer tasting, going out with an e-chopper, or beachcombing. A visit to the seals at Ecomare is a must. And did you know that there are more sheep than people living on Texel? Have a cozy time cuddling lambs at the Sheep Farm. The Food Forest with the farm shop is also recommended. From April 1st to November 1st, you can pick your own vegetables and fruits here. But during a mini-vacation, of course, nothing is necessary. Just being on this island, feeling the wind in your hair, and looking at the sea is enough for a successful weekend getaway!