Holiday apartment in Stavoren: Hanseatic history and the IJsselmeer

Harbour town on the IJsselmeer

Stavoren was granted city rights in 1061 and is considered the oldest city in Friesland. In the 13th century, the city joined the Hanseatic League. Archaeological excavations reveal a prosperous medieval settlement focused on the waterfront area. Stavoren also has a special location: it is surrounded by the IJsselmeer on three sides. If you choose a holiday apartment in Stavoren, maritime landscapes and tangible history come together here.

Harbour, structures and stories

The old sea lock in the old harbour dates from 1576; it is still operated by hand on special occasions. Next to the old lock bridge stands the statue Het vrouwtje van Stavoren, also known as Weduwe van Staveren. One version of the story portrays her as a wealthy merchant's widow. The Peilschaalhuis stands on the south-western side of the harbour. At the head of the harbour, a red and a green harbour light dating from 1884 recall the town's maritime character.

The 't Ponthús Museum offers a comprehensive historical overview of Stavoren, including its Hanseatic history. The museum's Toankamer is located in two former service residences of a shipping company that operated the well-known railway ferry connection between Stavoren and Enkhuizen for many years. The fountain De Vis voor Stavoren is part of the 11Fountains project and is the work of US artist Mark Dion.

Memorial sites by the water

The Vliegersmonument is located at the Stadsfenne near the J.L. Hooglandgemaal. It commemorates the crash of the Halifax 8 A-P bomber on the evening of 14 October 1944. In the Spoorhaven, the remains of a ramp restored in 2015 form a permanent memorial. Alongside harbour views, such places give a walk through Stavoren historical depth.

Natural areas and different holiday focuses

The Bocht fan Molkwar nature reserve stretches through Molkwerum to the north, almost as far as Hindeloopen. The De Swan birdwatching hide is accessible year-round for nature observation, while the Bocht fan Molkwar nature reserve is not accessible. This clear distinction helps you plan: a holiday apartment or holiday home in Stavoren can serve as a base for exploring cultural history or taking in the landscape, without equating the natural area with a freely accessible excursion destination.

On foot, by bicycle and on the water

The Stadswandeling Stavoren starts at the VVV visitor centre. The starting point can be reached by train via Stavoren station. The VVV visitor centre offers stories, interactive elements and a large interactive map of the IJsselmeer coast. For a longer hike, the route Uitwaaien langs de IJsselmeerkust runs mostly along the old sea dike and partly along the Zuiderzeepad.

Cycling days can also be planned from Stavoren. The route Fiets & veer starts in Stavoren and returns to Stavoren by ferry; bicycles can be taken on every ferry connection on this route. The Bep Glasius ferry operates between Enkhuizen and Stavoren. Those looking for water sports will find a spot at Kitesurfspot Stavoren that is suitable for advanced kitesurfers; kitesurfing is permitted there year-round. Depending on whether you want your holiday to focus mainly on Hanseatic history, cycling routes, walks or water sports, you can select suitable accommodation specifically according to this focus.

Discover other nearby places via Bolsward, Workum, Laaxum, Pingjum, Ysbrechtum, Heeg, Koudum and Sneek.

Go to the overarching travel overview: Súdwest Fryslân.