Holiday apartment in Bolsward: history, canals and Frisian experiences

Bolsward combines impressive churches, historic canals and Frisian craftsmanship and culinary culture. Those looking for a holiday apartment in Bolsward will find a place where cultural discoveries, walks and experiences on the water can be combined across a variety of holiday days.

Holiday apartment in Bolsward between history and water

The historic character of the city is particularly evident in its churches. The Gothic Martinikerk was built between 1446 and 1466, is 68 metres long and is protected as a Rijksmonument. The Broerekerk is considered Bolsward’s oldest monument. It was built around 1300 as the monastery church of the Friars Minor, also known as the Franciscans. Its glass roof allows safe access to the medieval ruin while preserving its character as a ruin.

The Sint Franciscusbasiliek also provides a distinctive architectural accent: the Roman Catholic church is designed in the Expressionist Art Deco style. Museum De Tiid is housed in the monumental town hall. It presents the history of the old trading city and the Zuidwest-Fryslân region. Guided tours of the historic town hall are also available; the tower plateau can only be accessed with an escort.

Explore Bolsward on foot or by its city canals

The stadswandeling Bolsward passes canals, monumental buildings and lesser-known places, conveying the city’s history. It focuses on the so-called seven treasures of Bolsward and is available at the VVV-Punt in Museum De Tiid.

A guided 45-minute canal cruise takes you through Bolsward’s historic city canals and conveys the historical setting of the buildings along the water. Its duration provides a clear time frame for spending time on the water.

Visitors can walk among old trees, past ponds and through a rose garden in Julianapark, as well as use the lawns. An old aviary serves as a stage for small events. The park is also a green Rijksmonument, created in 1913 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of liberation from the French occupation.

Frisian flavours and living traditions

At the Us Heit Bier- & Whiskydistilleerderij, naturally pure beer and handcrafted spirits with a distinctly Frisian flavour are produced. Visitors can taste the drinks in the Proeflokaal. Guided tours explain how beer and whisky are made, which ingredients are used and how the flavours develop.

Another local speciality is Van Buren Bolsward. The family tannery is the only sheepskin tannery in the Netherlands and has a history dating back to 1861. Visitors are welcome in the shop and exhibition room to see the handcrafted sheepskin products.

Bolletongersdei is an annual tradition in Bolsward. What began as a trading day for cows and livestock developed into a lively fair.

Discover more places via Arum, Ijlst, Westhem, Lollum, Gaast, Ysbrechtum, Offingawier and Hindeloopen.

For the overarching travel overview: Súdwest Fryslân.