Oosterend: Discover the Prettiest Village on Texel
Oosterend, on the east coast of Texel, is a picturesque village considered by many to be the prettiest on the island.
Location:Oosterend lies on the east coast of Texel, right by the Wadden Sea.
Second-largest village: with over 900 residents, Oosterend is the island's second-largest village.
A fishing village at heart: although it lies further from the sea than Oudeschild, Oosterend has traditionally been home to most of Texel's fishermen.
Historic core: narrow lanes full of centuries-old cottages make the centre one of the most atmospheric on Texel.
Historic centre
The historic centre of Oosterend is well worth a visit.
Kerkstraat and Peperstraat: these old lanes are lined with beautiful old cottages and monumental buildings.
Maartenskerk: the centre is dominated by the imposing Maartenskerk on the Kerkstraat, which dates from the 11th century, making it the oldest building on Texel.
Museum Loodswezen: on the Peperstraat, this small museum tells the story of Texel's pilots, who for centuries guided ships safely through the Wadden Sea.
A stroll through the village: a walk through the old centre, past the characterful façades around the church, is the loveliest way to get to know Oosterend.
Shops and restaurants
Oosterend has a handful of shops and eateries, most of them on the Kerkstraat and the Peperstraat.
Daily shopping: a local supermarket and a bakery make your daily errands effortless.
Eating and drinking: from cosy cafés to restaurants, with a varied offering for any time of day.
Seasonal markets: in summer there's regularly a lively flea market, and in winter the atmospheric Christmas market draws plenty of visitors.
Nature and outdoor activities
Right to the east of Oosterend lies beautiful nature.
Nature reserve De Bol: this meadow-bird reserve is ideal for birdwatching and walking.
Walking along the Wadden Sea: the village lies close to the Wadden Sea, making it a great spot for a walk along the water.
In short: Oosterend offers a charming mix of historic sights and natural beauty, and is a peaceful place to unwind and experience the authentic side of island life.
Attractions and facilities near Oosterend
Around Oosterend you'll find several attractions and facilities that round off your visit.
Pilotage
The Loodswezen (Pilotage) Jan Duffel museum, housed in a former church, reveals a fascinating piece of the maritime history of Texel. - Texel pilots: Discover how generations of islanders ...
The Maartenskerk (St Martin’s Church) in Oosterend is a centuries-old, atmospheric church located in the heart of the most beautiful village on Texel. A place where history and nature come t ...
Nature reserve Wagejot is located on the east coast of Texel, near Oosterend, and is known as a true haven for birds and birdwatchers. What makes nature reserve Wagejot so special? -
A small but lively nature reserve full of birds, located between two dikes on the southern side of the Wagejot and near the IJzeren Kaap. What to expect at the Minkewaal - Birdwatching: In ...
The IJzeren Kaap near Oosterend is a remarkable national monument and former sea beacon offering a stunning view over the Wadden Sea. What makes the IJzeren Kaap so special? - Historic Sea ...
The viewpoint De Bol is a hidden gem on the edge of the nature reserve Drijvers Vogelweid De Bol. A short climb rewards you with a wide panoramic view over a bird-rich landscape. What to expect ...
Eendenkooi Spang On the eastern side of Texel, hidden in a peaceful duck decoy wood, lies the Eendenkooi Spang. This historic site offers a unique insight into the centuries-old craft of the ...
Zandkes is a remarkable nature reserve on the eastern side of Texel, near Dijkmanshuizen and just north of Oudeschild. What makes Zandkes so unique? - Bird paradise: The three brackish, shallow ...
On the eastern side of Texel, near the hamlet of Oost and the Wadden Sea dike, lies Drijvers Vogelweid De Bol. This special nature reserve is known for its flower-rich meadows, salt-tolerant ...
On the Wadden side of the beautiful Texel landscape, at Stuifweg to the north of Oosterend, stands the impressive windmill Het Noorden. What makes windmill Het Noorden special? -
A quiet public playground – ideal for young children during a stopover on the eastern side of Texel. What to expect at playground Prins Hendrik - Child-friendly Play Equipment: The playground ...
Utopia is a unique inland nature reserve on Texel, specially designed as a bird sanctuary and a true hotspot for nature lovers and birdwatchers. What makes the nature reserve Utopia so ...
Nature reserve De Schorren is an extensive salt marsh area on the eastern side of Texel, where nature is still left to its own devices. What can you expect at De Schorren? -
Along the Wadden Dike near Oosterend stands the Lancaster Monument. It is a tribute to the Allied airmen who lost their lives in or around Texel during the Second World War. What can you expect ...
There's so much more to discover on this beautiful island: every village has its own unique charm, and exploring them all lets you find your personal favourite.
Den Burg: discover the buzzing heart of Texel, where you can enjoy cosy shopping streets, atmospheric terraces and a lively atmosphere.
Den Hoorn: explore the enchanting south of Texel, with its picturesque landscapes and breathtaking views.
De Cocksdorp: experience the peace and beauty of this charming village, situated on the lovely Waddendijk.
De Koog: discover the lively beach life and buzzing atmosphere of this popular seaside resort.
Oudeschild: learn about the rich maritime history of Texel in this village, home port of the Texel fishing fleet.
De Waal: immerse yourself in the serene atmosphere of Texel's smallest village, where tranquillity and rural beauty come together.
