Burgum between water, nature and history

Burgumer Mar, the landscape around Burgum and Kruiskerk each offer something different. You can plan your trip around whether you prefer spending time outdoors or exploring the region’s history.

Practical tips for planning

Parking in the centre of Burgum is free. If you are planning a visit to the fresh market, take the day of the week into account: the market takes place every Friday. Check the date before travelling if it is an essential part of your plans.

The ice rink also has different opening times. On weekdays, it is open from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm and from 6:30 pm to 9:30 pm. At weekends and during school holidays, the opening hours are 10:00 am to 5:00 pm during the day and 6:30 pm to 9:30 pm in the evening. As opening hours may change, check the schedule before travelling.

Water landscapes and birdwatching

Around Burgum and Burgumermeer, rows of trees, reed beds, pastureland and small pools shape the landscape. This area, rich in water, is ideal for walking, cycling and boating. There are several ways to enjoy the outdoors, from a stroll to getting out on the water.

Burgumer Mar is a freshwater lake with extensive reed beds and marshes. You can spot numerous waterbirds and marsh birds there, including bitterns, bearded reedlings and great egrets. Another birdwatching spot nearby is the Soestpolder–Hege Diken birdwatching hut. From there, you can look out over a sand martin nesting wall and the surrounding meadows. You can spot black-tailed godwits and lapwings in the meadows; green clubtails are also found in the area. At Burgumer Mar, the focus is on waterbirds and marsh birds, while the hut offers views of the sand martin nesting wall and meadow birds.

Kruiskerk and archaeological exhibitions

Kruiskerk Burgum was used as an abbey church by regular canons in the 13th century and belonged to the neighbouring Bergklooster. Today, the church is also a landmark for pilgrims: it lies directly on the second stage of the Bonifatius Kloosterpad. If you are interested in religious history, the church’s historic use and its location on a specific section of the pilgrimage route come together here.

The medieval exhibition at the Observeum’s archaeological centre explains life in and around the monastery. It draws on archaeological excavations at the former monastery grounds between Kruiskerk and the Observeum, as well as near Hurdegaryp. An interactive exhibition also introduces visitors to the Mesolithic period, focusing on the hunter-gatherers who lived at Burgumer Mar, also known as Bergumermeer. The two exhibitions cover different periods, from life in the Mesolithic to the history of the medieval monastery.

Exploring on foot

The Wandeling rond Burgum route is easily accessible for wheelchair users and people with pushchairs; all paths are paved and sufficiently wide. If these features are important for your plans, check the condition of the route before your visit. You can also experience the landscape around Burgum by walking, cycling or boating. Which option suits your trip depends on whether you want to walk the paths, explore by bike or discover the water-rich surroundings from a boat.

Discover more destinations: Jistrum, Hardegarijp, Noardburgum, Oostermeer, Aldtsjerk, Ryptsjerk, Wyns, Eernewoude

For the main travel overview: Tytsjerksteradiel.