🏙️ Webcams Texel (Netherlands) — live streams in real time

Texel Island: the jewel of the Wadden Sea

Texel is not just a dot on the map, but a whole world where dunes meet the sea and sheep pastures stretch to the horizon. The largest of the West Frisian islands is located in the North Sea off the northern coast of the Netherlands, in the province of North Holland. The area of this amazing place exceeds 400 square kilometers, making it a true giant among the Wadden Islands.

Texel is a place where time slows down. There are no noisy metropolises here, but there are endless beaches, blowing winds and a special atmosphere of seclusion. The island's population is about 13,000 people, but in summer this number increases significantly thanks to tourists coming to enjoy nature and sea air.

Natural diversity and national park

The heart of Texel is its nature. Duinen van Texel National Park covers approximately 43 km² and was granted national park status in 2002. It is a true paradise for hiking enthusiasts and wildlife observation. The park includes all dune systems on the western side of the island and large coastal plains at the northern and southern ends.

The dunes of Texel are not just sand hills, but a complex ecosystem with dune valleys, wastelands and forest areas. Rare bird species live here, and in spring and autumn the island becomes a resting place for migratory birds. The Wadden Sea, which washes the island, has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2009 — it is the world's largest continuous system of tidal sand and mud flats.

Historical heritage: from Vikings to World War II

Texel has a long and fascinating history. Due to the All Saints' Flood of 1170, it became an island (formation of the Marsdiep), and in the seventeenth century the more northern island of Eierland joined Texel. In the Middle Ages, the island suffered from Viking raids, and in the Dutch Golden Age it became a key naval base.

But the most tragic page in the island's history was written in 1945. On Texel, the so-called "last battle of Europe" took place — the uprising of the 822nd Georgian battalion of the Wehrmacht on the night of April 6, 1945. 800 Georgians, former Soviet prisoners of war and emigrants, rose up against the German command. This event is forever inscribed in the island's history.

Attractions and tourist routes

Texel is famous not only for its nature but also for its attractions. The Lange Jaap lighthouse (Lange Jaap, "Tall Jake") at the northern tip is 63.5 meters high and is one of the tallest lighthouses in the Netherlands. Unfortunately, it is currently in a state of disrepair with a risk of collapse, but it remains a symbol of the island.

Den Burg is the largest village on the island, offering charming streets with shops, cafes and historic buildings. It is the perfect place to enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of Texel. De Koog, on the other hand, is a lively resort town located by the beach. Popular restaurants such as Paal 17 and surf schools are located here.

Oudeschild is a charming village on the east coast, known as the home port of Texel's fishing fleet. The local maritime museum features exhibits washed ashore over the years and tells the story of the island.

Economy and way of life

About 70% of the island's economy is tourism. The bicycle is the most convenient means of transport here, and for good reason: the island is covered with a network of cycle paths that allow you to explore its corners at a comfortable pace.

Texel is famous for its sheep — thousands of sheep graze on the lush pastures, and the island is known for its meat breed of sheep. Sheep farming is not just a tradition, but an important part of local culture and economy. Texel lamb is considered a delicacy and is in demand throughout the Netherlands.

How to get to Texel

The TESO ferry runs between Den Helder port and Texel. The crossing takes about 20 minutes, and you can take your car or travel as a foot passenger on the ferry. The ferry ticket is always round-trip, no booking is possible — you can just come and board the ferry at any time during operating hours.

Getting from The Hague to Den Burg, the main town of Texel, takes quite a long time: first by train to Amsterdam, then to Den Helder, then by bus to the ferry, and finally by ferry and bus to Den Burg. But this journey is worth it — the island welcomes guests with clean air and stunning views.

Beaches and active recreation

The beaches of Texel are a story in themselves. De Koog beach is one of the most popular on the island, ideal for families with children thanks to its many amenities: beach pavilions, playgrounds and surfing opportunities. The wind here is a constant companion, making the island a popular spot for kitesurfers and windsurfers.

Numerous beach restaurants and cafes are located along the coast, where you can try local seafood and fresh fish. Paal 17 is especially popular — a restaurant right on the beach with sea views.

What the cameras show

Texel webcams allow you to see the island in real time without leaving home. Cameras located at different points on the island show dunes, beaches, port landscapes and historical attractions. You can watch the Lange Jaap lighthouse, follow the movement of ferries in Oudeschild port or enjoy the views of endless beaches.

Online broadcasts from Texel are especially popular among those planning a trip to the island or simply wanting to enjoy the beauty of the Wadden Sea. The cameras work live and allow you to see the island as it is right now — with its winds, waves and unique atmosphere of seclusion.