Discover the Best Stargazing Spots in the Netherlands: Where the Stars Shine Bright

With its relatively small size and urban light pollution, the Netherlands can make stargazing challenging at times. However, there are still several excellent spots where you can enjoy a clear night sky and witness the beauty of the universe. Let's explore some of the best places in the Netherlands to see the sky full of stars while lying on the ground.

Friesland: The Northern Province with Dark Skies

Friesland, the northern province of the Netherlands, offers many dark areas away from city lights. One of the best places to experience a clear night sky is the Lauwersmeer National Park. This park is particularly noted for its clear skies due to its remote location and lack of artificial lighting.

Drenthe: Ideal for Stargazers with Natural Landscapes

Known for its natural landscapes, Drenthe has several dark spots that are ideal for stargazing. The Dwingelderveld National Park is a great place to lie on the ground and enjoy the stars. The park's unlit paths and natural scenery provide an excellent environment for observing the night sky.

Texel: The Wadden Sea Island with Dark Skies

Texel, a beautiful island in the Wadden Sea, offers dark skies, especially on the beach, where you can enjoy the Milky Way on clear nights. The island is an ideal getaway for celestial enthusiasts. The sky is often so clear that the Milky Way can be seen as a bright, serene arch over the landscape.

Zeeland: Coastal Areas with Reduced Light Pollution

For those interested in coastal views and less light pollution, the coastal areas around the Oosterschelde National Park in Zeeland are perfect. These areas provide excellent views of the night sky. The park's nature reserve ensures a dark and peaceful environment for observing the stars.

Veluwe: A Region with Dark Areas for Stargazing

The Veluwe region, known for its forests and heathlands, such as the esteemed Hoge Veluwe National Park, also offers dark areas ideal for stargazing. These regions are free from artificial light pollution, making it easier to observe the stars and other celestial bodies.

Experience the Optimal Stargazing at Vlieland

For an unparalleled stargazing experience, consider visiting the island of Vlieland, located north of the mainland. This hidden gem can be reached by ferry, providing a 90-minute journey from the town of Harlingen in Friesland. Harlingen is also just a 1.3-hour drive from Amsterdam and has good train and bus connections.

About Vlieland

Vlieland is an idyllic island with wide, open landscapes of dunes and beaches, offering a fantastic panoramic view of the sky. It's one of the darkest places in the country, as it is furthest from the mainland compared to other nearby islands. The Wadden-Islands and only has one village, ‘Oost-Vlieland’, in the northeastern corner. The main road leading to the west is largely unlit, and all bicycle and foot paths crisscrossing the dunes are also unlit. Therefore, it is advised to bring a flashlight.

Getting to Vlieland

Carriers will need to leave their cars in Harlingen and find parking near the ferry terminal. The island offers an ample supply of bicycles for rent, as vehicle entry is not allowed. Those coming by train or bus can find a station just next to the ferry terminal.

For the best experience, visit these locations on a clear night away from any artificial light and ideally during a new moon for optimal visibility of stars. Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to gaze at the stars in the Netherlands' best stargazing spots.