Laaxum on the IJsselmeer – Fishing History and Nature

Laaxum is situated on the dike and the IJsselmeer and is considered a tourist attraction because of this location. At the same time, the village is regarded as a cultural and historical monument. The port of Laaxum is described as Europe's smallest fishing port.

Holiday apartment in Laaxum amid history and regional cuisine

Laaxum's historic fishing industry began with the catching of flounder and was later supplemented by eel fishing. In 1932, fishing in Laaxum came to an end with the construction of the Afsluitdijk. The former building De Hang was once used for salting and smoking herring; today, it houses a fish restaurant where you can get fish. The history of the surrounding area goes back even further: in 1345, Laaxum played a role in the Battle of Warns, when an army led by Count Willem IV of Holland landed there to attack the Frisians.

The connection between the port and fishing is not merely historical. Two professional fishermen continue to catch Laaksumer Bot from the port of Laaxum using traditional methods. In addition, two brothers still fish together on the IJsselmeer, while their boat is moored in the port of Laaxum. In the surrounding area, Laaksumer Bot is a recognised Frisian regional product that can be sampled in restaurants during the summer.

Nature on the IJsselmeer and Observations by the Water

The Mokkebank nature reserve comprises shallow-water areas, reed beds and shore areas that provide habitats for breeding birds. The nearby De Mok birdwatching hut offers a view over the Mokkebank; the hut is accessible year-round. Since 2024, the Laaxum bathing steps have provided access to a refreshing swim in the IJsselmeer. You can also enjoy the view across the lake from there.

Routes for Cycling, Walking and Exploring the Landscape

The literary cycling route “Tusken Himel en Ierde” passes through Warns to Laaxum. The Vissersroute runs along the coast of the former Zuiderzee and includes Laaxum as one of the fishing villages. The 6.7-kilometre circular route between Warns, Laaxum and Skarl descends from Warns to the hamlet of Laaxum along the first section.

The surrounding area includes the Rode Klif (Red Cliff) on the IJsselmeer. The cliff is 10 metres high and was formed during the penultimate ice age. Another circular route leads from Laaxum via Mirns, Bakhuizen, Hemelum and Warns. It starts at the port of Laaxum and runs along the Wieldijk towards Bakhuizen, with views of the IJsselmeer. A walking connection also runs along a Struinpad past Laaxum's former refuge harbour, which is still visible in the landscape.

The Kuiertocht Warns route runs entirely along paved paths and is considered easily accessible for wheelchairs, walkers and pushchairs.

More Destinations

For further orientation, you can also view Ysbrechtum, Ijlst, Stavoren, Offingawier, Bolsward, Westhem, Woudsend and Cornwerd.

For the higher-level travel overview: Súdwest Fryslân.