Stavoren: History, harbour and IJsselmeer

Stavoren is surrounded by the IJsselmeer on three sides and combines a long history with harbour structures, art and nature. If you are planning a stay, you will find a range of points of interest here: medieval history, memorial sites and walking or cycling routes. The individual sights each tell a different part of the town’s history.

Hanseatic history and historic harbour structures

Stavoren was granted town rights in 1061; the municipality describes it as the oldest town in Friesland. Stavoren joined the Hanseatic League in the 13th century. Archaeological excavations reveal a prosperous medieval settlement, with a particular concentration along the waterfront. The 't Ponthús Museum provides a historical overview of Stavoren, including its Hanseatic history. The museum’s Toankamer is also part of this historical context: it is housed in two former staff residences belonging to a shipping company that operated the well-known railway ferry service between Stavoren and Enkhuizen for many years.

A striking harbour structure is the old sea lock in the old harbour. It dates from 1576 and is still operated by hand on special occasions; these occasions may vary. The Peilschaalhuis stands on the south-west side of the harbour. Stavoren’s lighthouse is over 15 metres tall, but is not open to visitors. A red and a green harbour light dating from 1884 also stand at the end of the harbour pier.

Art, stories and memorial sites

The fountain De Vis voor Stavoren is part of the 11Fountains project and is a work by American artist Mark Dion. In the old harbour, the statue Het vrouwtje van Stavoren stands beside the old lock bridge. The figure is also known as Weduwe van Staveren and, in one version of the story, appears as a wealthy merchant’s widow. At the harbour, you will therefore encounter both tangible historic structures and art, as well as a story whose depiction is tied to a particular version.

Another point of interest is the Vliegersmonument at the Stadsfenne, near the J.L. Hooglandgemaal. It commemorates the crash of the Halifax 8 A-P bomber on the evening of 14 October 1944. Its location and commemorative theme make this a distinct chapter in Stavoren’s history, separate from the Hanseatic era and the harbour structures.

Nature and routes around Stavoren

Nearby, the Bocht fan Molkwar nature reserve extends north from Molkwerum almost as far as Hindeloopen. One important distinction to bear in mind when planning your visit: the nature reserve itself is not accessible, whereas the De Swan birdwatching hide is open all year round. If you are interested in birdwatching, you can distinguish between the protected area and the accessible observation site without treating them as one and the same.

The Stadswandeling Stavoren starts at the VVV visitor centre. Its starting point is accessible by train via Stavoren station. The Uitwaaien langs de IJsselmeerkust route offers a different itinerary: it follows the old sea dike for most of the way and partly follows the Zuiderzeepad.

Ferry, cycling and kitesurfing

The Fiets & veer route starts in Stavoren and returns to Stavoren by ferry. Bicycles can be taken on every ferry crossing on this route. As route details and ferry arrangements may change, it is advisable to check the latest information before setting off. This is separate from the Bep Glasius ferry, which operates between Enkhuizen and Stavoren; check its latest timetable details before travelling as well.

Kitesurfing is permitted year-round at the Stavoren kitesurfing spot, which is considered suitable for advanced kitesurfers. Operating permits may change, so check that kitesurfing is allowed locally before taking part. The conditions are therefore clear: the suitability applies to advanced kitesurfers, while the year-round permission refers to the time period.

Discover more destinations: Arum, Lollum, Koudum, Ysbrechtum, Pingjum, Ijlst, Bolsward, Warns.

For the broader travel overview: Súdwest Fryslân.