Discover the Four Charming Villages of Ameland

This beautiful Wadden Island not only boasts endless beaches and unique natural areas but also four distinctive villages, each with its own charm and character. From vibrant and lively to peaceful and authentic.

Nes: The Lively Heart of Ameland

Nes is the largest and most vibrant village on Ameland. As soon as you step off the boat, you will immediately feel the lively atmosphere of this village. Here, you can enjoy shopping, dining out, and experiencing a buzzing nightlife.

Historic Captain's Houses

Nes is known for its stunning historic captain's houses, a reminder of Ameland's rich maritime history. These characteristic homes from the 17th and 18th centuries can mainly be found in the following streets:

• Rixt van Doniastraat: A picturesque street with several beautifully renovated commander houses.
• Van Heeckerenstraat: This lively street is home to historic buildings as well as numerous shops and restaurants, making it a central hub in Nes.
• Kerkstraat: This street also features several monumental buildings that reflect the rich history of Nes.

A stroll through these streets offers a unique insight into the architecture and history of Nes, letting you experience the atmosphere of bygone days.

Attractions & Activities in and Around Nes

Nes is also the island's entertainment hub, particularly in the well-known Van Heeckerenstraat. Here, you will find numerous cosy cafés, restaurants, and terraces. Besides its lively centre, Nes offers a range of attractions and beautiful spots you shouldn’t miss during your visit to Ameland.

• Ameland Nature Centre – On the village outskirts, you’ll find the Nature Centre. This educational and interactive museum features a stunning aquarium, exhibitions about the Wadden region’s nature, and an impressive observation tower offering panoramic views over the island and the Wadden Sea.
• De Vleijen Recreation Area – This beautiful recreation area near Nes offers plenty of fun for all ages. It features playgrounds, walking trails, water features, and picnic spots, making it perfect for a relaxing break after a day at the beach or shopping.
• De Phenix Mill – This authentic corn mill from 1880 sits just outside Nes. Visitors can watch traditional flour milling in action and purchase delicious local products and souvenirs from the mill’s shop.
• Swinging Mill Nightclub – The place to dance until the early hours.
• Markets and Events – During the high season, a bustling market takes place almost every week.

Accommodation in Nes

Want to be within walking distance of shops, restaurants, and cafés? Staying in Nes, the lively heart of Ameland, is a great choice.

• Van Heeckeren Hotel – A trendy hotel in the heart of Nes with luxurious rooms and a delightful breakfast buffet. Perfect for a weekend getaway with friends.
• Hotel Noordsee – A spacious family-friendly hotel near the village, within walking distance of the beach.
• Hotel Nes – A peacefully located hotel with views of the dunes, perfect for those who want to stay close to both the village and nature.

With its combination of vibrancy, culture, and nature, Nes is not only an ideal base for a holiday on Ameland but also a village where you will keep discovering new spots.

Hollum: Charming & Full of History

Hollum is located in the west of Ameland and exudes history and atmosphere. This charming village has a protected village status thanks to its historic houses and picturesque streets.

Attractions in Hollum

• Most Beautiful Streets of Hollum – Stroll through the atmospheric Oosterlaan and Burenlaan, known for their historic 17th and 18th-century commander’s houses, lined with ancient trees. Here, you can truly experience the authentic atmosphere of the island.
• Bornrif Lighthouse – Climb this famous red-and-white lighthouse for an unforgettable view of the island, the North Sea, and the Wadden Sea. This lighthouse is considered one of the most beautiful on the Wadden Islands.
• Sorgdrager Museum – Discover everything about Ameland’s fascinating history, from whaling to island life past and present.
• Abraham Fock Rescue Museum – In this museum, you can learn all about the history of rescue operations on Ameland. A highlight is the horse demonstration, where the old lifeboat is pulled across the beach into the sea – a unique experience for all ages!
• Playground Under the Lighthouse – A fantastic place for families with children. While parents enjoy a cup of coffee on the terrace, children can safely play in the large playground with slides, a bouncy castle, and climbing frames.
• Ameland Golf Course – Love golf? The challenging and beautifully located 9-hole golf course sits on the edge of Hollum. Surrounded by dunes and with sea views, this course offers a unique playing experience.
• De Verwachting Corn and Mustard Mill – Here, you can see how authentic Ameland mustard is made and take home a jar as a souvenir.

Staying in Hollum

Hollum combines historic charm with lively hospitality. The village offers both luxury and authentic accommodations.

• Hotel Amelander Kaap – A comfortable hotel with an indoor swimming pool, located by the golf course on the edge of Hollum.
• Boomhiemke Holiday Park – A popular bungalow park at the foot of the dunes, perfect for families, with extensive facilities such as a swimming pool, bowling, and playgrounds.
• Hotel Dolores – Comfortable rooms and apartments within walking distance of the lively village centre.
• Bij Hen op Ameland – A cosy 3-star hotel with an authentic atmosphere, close to the lighthouse and the beach.

Come and enjoy the beautiful village of Hollum: rich in history, full of activities, and always welcoming!

Ballum: Tranquillity, Authentic Charm, and Historical Appeal

Ballum is the smallest village on Ameland, but it is full of surprises and charm. This quiet village, with its atmospheric cobbled streets, historic houses, and centuries-old trees, exudes authenticity and cosiness. Ballum was once the most important village on the island, partly due to the influential Van Cammingha family, who resided here for centuries.

What Makes Ballum Unique?

• Nobeltje – This famous Ameland liqueur originates from Ballum. You can taste it at Hotel Nobel, the most renowned café and hotel in the village.
• Nobel Nostalgic Museum – At the Nobel Nostalgic Museum, you can explore old traditions, antique objects, and historical photographs that bring the past of Ameland and the hotel to life.
• Swimming Pool De Schalken – Fancy a refreshing dip? Swimming Pool De Schalken is the perfect place in Ballum to relax. This charming outdoor pool is particularly popular with families and offers cooling and fun during the summer months.
• Cosy Atmosphere and Historic Captain’s Houses – Stroll along the tree-lined Van Camminghastraat and admire the authentic captain’s houses from past centuries. Many of these houses are now listed monuments.
• Ameland Airfield – From Ballum, you can also enjoy scenic flights from the local airfield, offering a unique view of the island and the Wadden Sea.

Staying in Ballum

Ballum is small, peaceful, and authentic—ideal for those seeking tranquillity and a welcoming atmosphere.

• Hotel Nobel – This charming hotel is famous for its own liqueur, Nobeltje. Stay here and enjoy delicious meals in the restaurant.
• Ameland State – A modern apartment complex within walking distance of the tranquil beach, perfect for total relaxation.
• Boetiekhotel Faan – Luxury rooms and suites with stylish interiors in the historic heart of Ballum.
• Holiday Park Roosdunen – A welcoming holiday park featuring comfortable bungalows, a swimming pool, playgrounds, and extensive sports facilities. Ideal for families and nature lovers, within close reach of the beach and dunes.

Ballum offers a wonderful mix of tranquillity, history, and small-scale cosiness, making it a favourite spot for many on Ameland.

Buren: Tranquillity & Nature on the Eastern Side

Buren, located in the east of Ameland, is a quiet village once mainly known for its beachcombers and farmers. Although Buren is smaller and less crowded, there is still plenty to see and do.

Things to Do in Buren

• Swartwoude Agricultural and Beachcombers Museum – Discover what islanders used to find washed ashore.
• Het Oerd – From Buren, you can quickly reach this stunning nature reserve. Take a walk and admire the unique birds and plants.
• Beach Pavilion ’t Strandhuys – Enjoy a delicious lunch right by the beach.

Staying in Buren

Buren is peaceful and relaxing, with nature as its biggest attraction. Here, you stay close to the stunning nature reserve 'Het Oerd'.

• Strandhotel Buren aan Zee – A charming and comfortable hotel just minutes from the wide sandy beach.
• Holiday Park Klein Vaarwater – A popular holiday park with its own supermarket, swimming pool, and plenty of activities for children.
• Hotel de Klok – A welcoming family-run hotel with a great restaurant and a typical Ameland atmosphere, located in the heart of the quiet village.
• Amelander Paradijs – An apartment complex with spacious apartments, ideal for families or longer stays.

Whether you enjoy bustling crowds and cosiness, culture and history, or peace and nature, you’ll find it all on Ameland. Each village has its own unique character, making you feel at home in no time.

Come and experience the unique atmosphere of Nes, Hollum, Ballum, and Buren!