Sneek and the IJsselmeer

The IJsselmeer is a former sea. Until 1932, it was the Zuiderzee, open North Sea. Then the Dutch built the Afsluitdijk and turned it into a freshwater lake. But: it is still 1,100 km² in size, and when the wind blows, there are real waves. Respect! This tour leads from the cozy Frisian lakes onto the IJsselmeer. Start in Sneek, then to Lemmer (famous pumping station, UNESCO-nominated), further across open water to Stavoren or Enkhuizen. The historic port towns have charm for days. Important note: The IJsselmeer is an inland lake, BUT it feels like the sea. If the wind force is above 4 Beaufort, beginners should stay on land. A weather report is mandatory! Hard Facts: No license required • IJsselmeer = waves possible! • Weather report mandatory • Best time: May-September • Lemmer has a UNESCO pumping station