Discovering Bolsward by Motorhome: Complete Guide
Introduction
Welcome to our ultimate guide to road tripping in Bolsward, Netherlands! Get ready for an unforgettable adventure through rich history, culinary delights, picturesque landscapes, and exciting activities that this charming Dutch town has to offer.
Whether you’re traveling in a camper van, seeking a unique vanlife experience, or prefer to explore the town on foot, we have gathered all the information you need to fully enjoy your stay in Bolsward. So buckle up and join us on a journey to the heart of this fascinating destination!
Don’t feel like reading? A video is available later in the article or by clicking here.
What is Bolsward, Netherlands?
History of Bolsward
In the depths of history, there are cities that shine brightly, captivating with their rich and fascinating past. Bolsward, this small gem of the Netherlands, is a perfect example. Founded in the 8th century, this picturesque city has traversed the centuries, leaving an indelible mark behind.
Over the years, Bolsward has witnessed many significant events. It experienced prosperity and decline but always managed to reinvent itself to continue shining. From the golden age of its commercial activities in the Middle Ages to its role as a cultural and artistic center in the following centuries, the town has preserved its timeless charm.
Today, while strolling through the cobbled streets and picturesque canals of Bolsward, one can still feel this serene and authentically charming atmosphere. Every historic building, every monument, tells a story, bearing witness to the glorious past of this unique town. Bolsward is more than just a city, it is an immersive experience through time, an invitation to discover the multiple facets of its captivating history. So let yourself be enchanted by the charm of Bolsward and delve into its fascinating history.
Geographical location
Located in the charming region of Friesland, Netherlands, Bolsward is a town that captivates visitors with its privileged location. Nestled a few kilometers away from the coast of the Wadden Sea.
How to get to Bolsward?
To get to Bolsward by plane, you have several options. The closest national airports are Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (approximately 135 kilometers from Bolsward) and Groningen-Eelde Airport (approximately 100 kilometers from Bolsward).
If you prefer an international airport, Düsseldorf Airport in Germany (approximately 335 kilometers from Bolsward) is also a possibility.
Once you arrive at one of these airports, you can take a taxi or a train to Bolsward. Taxis and trains are available at each airport.
Note that routes may vary depending on flight schedules, airlines, and availability.
To get to Bolsward by train, you can take a national or international line to one of the nearest major Dutch cities to Bolsward, such as Amsterdam, Rotterdam, or The Hague.
From these major cities, you can take a regional train to Bolsward. Schedules and fares may vary, so be sure to check for the latest information before your journey.
If you are coming from abroad, you can take an international train to Amsterdam and then a national train to Bolsward.
Trains are regular and comfortable, making it a convenient way to reach Bolsward.
To get to Bolsward by car or camper van from the capital of the Netherlands, Amsterdam, you will need to take the A7 highway heading north.
Follow the signs for Leeuwarden and continue on the A7 highway until the Zurich interchange. Take the exit towards Zurich and follow the signs for Bolsward.
Once in Bolsward, you can park on the streets or use the public parking facilities available in the town.
Please note that the A7 highway is a toll road, so make sure to have coins or a valid credit card to pay the toll fees.
A road trip by car or camper van is a great way to experience the Dutch landscapes while making your way to Bolsward.
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To get to Bolsward, we crossed the German-Dutch border from Essen and arrived on the Arnhem side. We then traveled north through the Netherlands to continue westward and finish our road trip in Rotterdam to take the ferry.
Climate: When to visit Bolsward in a Camper Van?
| Month | Avg. Temperature (°C) | Rainfall (mm) | Weather | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 2°/5° | 53mm | ❄️ | Very unfavorable |
| February | 2°/6° | 50mm | ❄️ | Very unfavorable |
| March | 3°/8° | 53mm | 🌧️ | Very unfavorable |
| April | 5°/11° | 39mm | 🌦️ | Very unfavorable |
| May | 8°/14° | 53mm | 🌦️ | Not very favorable |
| June | 11°/16° | 62mm | 🌦️ | Not very favorable |
| July | 13°/18° | 79mm | 🌦️ | Not very favorable |
| August | 11°/17° | 78mm | 🌦️ | Favorable |
| September | 9°/16° | 58mm | 🌦️ | Not very favorable |
| October | 7°/12° | 60mm | 🌧️ | Unfavorable |
| November | 5°/8° | 52mm | 🌧️ | Very unfavorable |
| December | 2°/5° | 52mm | ❄️ | Very unfavorable |
So when to go to Bolsward? The best time seems to be in summer, when the temperatures are mild and pleasant, allowing you to fully enjoy the charms of this beautiful Dutch town. You can stroll through the historic streets, visit museums, bike along picturesque canals, and maybe even attend one of the many cultural events happening during this period. So pack your bags and discover all that Bolsward has to offer!
Spots to sleep and camper van service areas in Bolsward
- 📍🥇 De Appelhof Camping & Strand – A private beach, modern facilities, and a green environment provide everything you need for a relaxing camping experience. Located just a stone’s throw away from the center of Bolsward, this spot allows you to enjoy the tranquility of nature while being close to amenities.
- 📍🥈 Camping de Weyert – Surrounded by meadows and picturesque canals, this campsite offers a peaceful atmosphere and close contact with nature. With spacious pitches and all necessary amenities, you can relax and enjoy a comfortable stay near Bolsward.
- 📍🥉 Camping ‘t Anker – Located on the shores of the IJsselmeer, this campsite offers breathtaking water views and an idyllic setting for relaxation. With shaded pitches and clean facilities, it’s the perfect place for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
- 📍 Camping Mounewetter – This family-friendly campsite offers an outdoor swimming pool, playgrounds for children, and a variety of activities to entertain the whole family. With spacious pitches and a friendly atmosphere, you can enjoy unforgettable moments in a beautiful setting.
- 📍 Camping Hindeloopen – Located near Bolsward, this campsite offers easy access to the charming town of Hindeloopen and its beautiful beaches. With modern facilities and a picturesque setting, you can enjoy a relaxing stay while exploring the surroundings.
Among these spots, we stayed at De Appelhof Camping & Strand in Bolsward. We were able to experience this magnificent destination, and our experience was simply incredible! The campsite offers a private beach where we could relax, sunbathe, and enjoy the sun.
The modern facilities were perfect for our stay, and the green environment added a touch of tranquility to our experience. Plus, its proximity to the center of Bolsward allowed us to enjoy the amenities while staying close to nature. We highly recommend this place to anyone looking for a relaxing camping experience in Bolsward.
Where and what to eat in Bolsward?
Restaurants in Bolsward
- 🍽️ Restaurant ‘t Bolwerck: A charming family restaurant offering delicious traditional Dutch cuisine with a modern twist. Their dishes are prepared with fresh and local produce, for an authentic culinary experience.
- 🍽️ Restaurant t Wapen van Bolsward: With a warm and welcoming atmosphere, this restaurant offers international cuisine with tasty and well-presented dishes. Their wine list is also impressive, with options to suit all palates.
- 🍽️ De Gekroonde Leeuw: This traditional restaurant serves classic Dutch dishes, prepared with top-quality ingredients. Their menu highlights local flavors, offering a refined and exquisite culinary experience.
- 🍽️ Restaurant ‘t Smelnehûs: Known for its innovative and creative Dutch cuisine, this restaurant offers unique and original dishes that will delight every palate. Their talented team of chefs creates unique flavor combinations for memorable dishes.
- 🍽️ Café Oosterdijk: This cozy café-restaurant is known for its traditional Dutch cuisine and hearty dishes. Its laid-back and comfortable atmosphere makes it an ideal place to relax and enjoy a tasty meal after a day of exploring Bolsward.
Specialties of Bolsward
Food lovers, let me introduce you to the culinary delights of Bolsward (Netherlands). Their specialty is the unfear de Fryslân, which is a deliciously authentic dish made with potatoes, vegetables, and meat. Of course, the toppings and spices may vary according to local preferences, but one thing is certain: this dish will awaken your taste buds. So don’t hesitate to immerse yourself in this unique culinary experience during your visit to Bolsward (or nearby). Bon appétit!
Among these restaurants, we dined at Restaurant ‘t Bolwerck, and we had a great time. This charming family restaurant offers delicious traditional Dutch cuisine with a modern twist. The dishes are prepared with fresh and local produce, bringing true authenticity to the culinary experience. We were impressed by the quality and elegant presentation of the dishes. The staff was warm and attentive, adding a friendly ambiance to our meal. We highly recommend Restaurant ‘t Bolwerck for a memorable culinary experience in Bolsward.
Travel Budget for a Road Trip to Bolsward
The currency used in the Netherlands is the Euro (€). The cost of living in the Netherlands is 3% higher than in France. When traveling, plan for an on-site budget of at least €120 per day per person.
– Lunch: €15 (0% compared to 🇫🇷)
– 3-course dinner: €35 (+17% compared to 🇫🇷)
– McDonald’s menu: €9 (-10% compared to 🇫🇷)
– Local beer: €5 (-16% compared to 🇫🇷)
– Bus ticket: €3.4 (+100% compared to 🇫🇷)
– Taxi (per km): €2.4 (+32% compared to 🇫🇷)
– Gasoline: €2 (+8% compared to 🇫🇷)
– 1-star hotel: €114 (+71% compared to 🇫🇷)
– 2-star hotel: €106 (+20% compared to 🇫🇷)
– 3-star hotel: €120 (+10% compared to 🇫🇷)
– Cigarettes: €8.2 (-21% compared to 🇫🇷)
– Levis jeans: €73 (-13% compared to 🇫🇷)
– Summer dress: €32 (-13% compared to 🇫🇷)
Here’s our budget advice for traveling to the Netherlands compared to France. Restaurant prices are higher, so plan for a higher food budget if you want to eat out every day. However, take advantage of lower prices at fast-food restaurants and local beers to save money. In terms of transportation, budget for higher expenses for public transport tickets and gasoline. For accommodations, prices are higher in the budget and mid-range categories, but you can find high-end hotels at more advantageous prices. Finally, for shopping, take advantage of lower prices for jeans, summer dresses, and sports shoes. Have a great trip and happy saving!
Video of our city trip in this city
What activities to do in Bolsward?
Here is a list of activities we invite you to do in Bolsward according to your tastes and preferences:
– Take a romantic stroll along the picturesque canals of the town.
– Discover De Eendracht windmill, a romantic spot to admire the surrounding landscape.
– Go for a bike ride through the colorful tulip fields in the region.
– Enjoy a romantic dinner at one of Bolsward’s original restaurants.
– Visit the gardens of Stadswerf Castle and have a picnic for two there.
– Explore St. Martin’s Church, a stunning Gothic church built in the 13th century.
– Visit the Museum of Bolsward, which traces the history of the town through a collection of objects and artifacts.
– Attend a concert or theater performance at Burgemeester Praamsmaschool theater.
– Discover Bolsward’s traditional architecture by visiting the historic houses in the town.
– Take a guided tour of the Us Heit Brewery and learn all about the production of local beer.
– Go kayaking or canoeing on the canals of Bolsward.
– Rent a bike and explore the surrounding rural landscapes.
– Play golf at Royal BurgGolf Lauswolt, one of the best golf courses in the region.
– Go hiking in the Sneekermeer Nature Reserve, which offers beautiful landscapes and marked trails.
– Take part in a yoga or pilates session at one of the town’s studios.
– Attend the festivities of the Bolsward Carnival, where the whole town dresses up in vibrant colors and eccentric costumes.
– Take part in the famous Elfstedentocht cycling race, which passes through Bolsward every 11 years.
– Enjoy outdoor concerts at the Bolswarder Bolle overijsselse Bil music festival, which takes place annually in summer.
– Discover local craftsmanship at the annual Bolsward Artisan Market.
– Attend the annual religious procession in Bolsward, which attracts thousands of pilgrims from the region.
Conclusion: Why visit or revisit Bolsward?
In conclusion, Bolsward is more than just a town, it is an immersive experience through time. Its captivating history and timeless charm make it a destination not to be missed. Nestled in the region of Friesland, Netherlands, Bolsward offers a unique blend of picturesque landscapes and a tranquil atmosphere.
Summer is the best time to visit this beautiful town, where you can discover local culinary delights such as unfear de Fryslân. Additionally, Bolsward is full of romantic, cultural, and sports activities, as well as lively annual events. So pack your bags and dive into the captivating history of Bolsward!
FAQ
The best time to visit Bolsward seems to be in summer, when the temperatures are mild and pleasant, allowing you to fully enjoy the charms of this beautiful Dutch town. You can stroll through the historic streets, visit museums, bike along picturesque canals, and maybe even attend one of the many cultural events happening during this period. So pack your bags and discover all that Bolsward has to offer!
Here are some cultural activities to do in Bolsward:
– Explore St. Martin’s Church, a stunning Gothic church built in the 13th century.
– Visit the Museum of Bolsward, which traces the history of the town through a collection of objects and artifacts.
– Attend a concert or theater performance at Burgemeester Praamsmaschool theater.
– Discover Bolsward’s traditional architecture by visiting the historic houses in the town.
– Take a guided tour of the Us Heit Brewery and learn all about the production of local beer.
The annual event not to be missed in Bolsward is the Bolsward Carnival, where the whole town dresses up in vibrant colors and eccentric costumes. It’s a joyful and lively celebration that encourages everyone’s participation.
Other events not to be missed are the famous Elfstedentocht cycling race, which passes through Bolsward every 11 years, the Bolswarder Bolle overijsselse Bil music festival held annually in summer, and the annual Bolsward Artisan Market, where you can discover local craftsmanship.
Also, don’t forget to attend the annual religious procession in Bolsward, which attracts thousands of pilgrims from the region.
These events will give you a glimpse into the culture and traditions of Bolsward and make your stay even more memorable.
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