Oudeschild is a charming village on the east coast of Texel, on the Wadden Sea. It's best known as the home port of the Texel fishing fleet.
The only village right on the water:Oudeschild is the only village on Texel that sits directly on the water.
Founded in the 17th century: the village, once called ‘t Schilt, grew thanks to the VOC ships anchored at the Reede van Texel, waiting for favourable winds.
Home port of the fishing fleet:Oudeschild is still where the Texel fishing fleet docks, especially lively at weekends.
Harbour, shops and restaurants
The heart of Oudeschild is without doubt the Harbour, a lively spot where the Texel fishing fleet docks.
Fishing harbour: buy fresh fish here, enjoy the view of the many boats, or take a boat trip to spot seals.
Marina: next to the fishing harbour lies this marina, a popular mooring spot for water sports enthusiasts.
Shops and dining: though smaller than some of the other villages on Texel, along the Harbour, Heemskerckstraat and Vlamkast you'll find plenty of shops, local delicacies and fish restaurants serving the catch of the day.
Kaap Skil and maritime heritage
Oudeschild offers a fascinating look at Texel's maritime past.
Georgian cemetery: this small memorial commemorates the Georgian Uprising near the end of the Second World War.
Fort de Schans: once a busy anchorage for VOC ships, later a defensive fortification; this fort tells four centuries of Texel's history.
Nature and outdoor activities
The area around Oudeschild is beautiful and offers plenty of opportunities for walking and cycling.
Hoge Berg: south of the village lies this nature reserve, known for its rolling hills and characteristic earthen banks (tuunwallen).
Nature reserve Zandkes: a polder with three shallow pools, a mix of fresh and salt water, and an important breeding and feeding ground for wading and meadow birds.
In short: Oudeschild is a picturesque village offering a unique insight into maritime life on Texel, with a range of facilities and attractions that give visitors both an educational and an enjoyable experience.
Attractions and facilities near Oudeschild
Around Oudeschild you'll find several attractions and facilities that round off your visit.
Texel Brewery
Do you fancy a pint? Then a visit to the Texel Brewery in Oudeschild is a must. In the tasting room, you will be warmly welcomed by a guide. You'll learn more about the company's history and ...
A simple, small-scale playground close to the Wadden Sea dike, perfect for a short break during your discovery tour of Texel. What can you expect at playground Ruyterstraat? - Fun Play ...
On top of the De Schans pumping station, at the Redoute and Prins Hendrikzanddijk south of Oudeschild, lies a beautiful birdwatching point. Here you can enjoy wide panoramic views and a rich ...
Dijkmanshuizen is a remarkable nature reserve on the eastern side of Texel, between Oudeschild and Oosterend, directly bordering the Wadden Sea. This salt-influenced meadow and marshland is a ...
From the hide you overlook an area of pools and patches of meadow. In summer you can see common tern and little tern here, or the ruff. In winter the peregrine falcon regularly stays here.
Fort De Schans, located on the Wadden Sea coast near the picturesque village of Oudeschild, is one of the oldest military structures in the Netherlands. What to expect at Fort De Schans - ...
Ottersaat is a remarkable bird paradise on the edge of Oudeschild, right next to the Wadden Sea dike on Texel. The area consists of salty seepage ponds with small islands and forms an ideal ...
Discover the beauty of Food Forest Texel and the charm of the Self-Pick Garden, both located in the picturesque Oudeschild on Texel. These locations offer a unique combination of sustainable ...
Along the Waddendijk, just south of Oudeschild, lies Fort De Lunette, a quiet reminder of the time of Napoleon, strategically built to defend Texel. What can you expect at Fort De Lunette? - ...
The Saint Martin’s Church in Oudeschild is a charming village church full of tranquillity, history, and maritime atmosphere, exactly what makes Texel so special. What to expect at the Saint ...
De Ruyterstraat 129, Oudeschild, Texel web. Website
Step aboard the TX44 Wadden Cruise for an unforgettable tour from the harbour of Oudeschild on the beautiful island of Texel. Enjoy a unique experience as the captain tells you about the Wadden ...
De Witte Punt was a beacon, placed in the previous century as a reference point for determining a ship’s actual speed, the so-called “measured mile”. There were two places in the ...
The white church of Oudeschild, located on Trompstraat, is a beautiful historic monument with a rich maritime history. This characteristic church, built in the 17th century, served for centuries ...
The Wadden Sea Harbour of Oudeschild, the gateway to the beautiful Wadden Island of Texel. This cosy transient marina is not just the ideal destination for sea lovers but also offers modern ...
The blue and white viewing tower Waddenhaven in Oudeschild offers a stunning view over the Wadden Sea and the vibrant harbour of Texel. What to expect at the Waddenhaven viewing tower - ...
A trip on the TX20 Walrus is one of the most enjoyable activities on Texel! Hop aboard in the picturesque harbour of Oudeschild and enjoy a fun and educational tour across the Wadden Sea. What ...
The Kaap Skil Museum, located in the heart of the fishing village of Oudeschild on Texel, is a source of stories and adventures about life at sea. This versatile museum brings the rugged ...
Looking for a unique boat trip on the Wadden Sea? The vessel Anna awaits you in the harbour of Oudeschild. The boat sails along the coast of Texel, where you can often spot one of Texel’s ...
Would you like to spot seals on the Wadden Sea? Het Sop Seal Tours departs daily from the harbor of Oudeschild on the beautiful island of Texel and offers you a unique experience at sea. What ...
On the Wadden Sea side of Texel lies the charming public playground of Oudeschild, right next to the marina, a lovely spot for families with children. What can you expect at playground ...
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.
De Waal: immerse yourself in the serene atmosphere of Texel's smallest village, where tranquillity and rural beauty come together.
Oosterend: discover why this village is known as the prettiest on Texel, with its picturesque lanes and breathtaking landscapes.
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