Experience

Suppen in Oudega is een heerlijke manier om de omgeving vanaf het water te ontdekken. Peddel door de natuur, over brede meren zoals de Mûntsegroppe en door idyllische smalle slootjes. Onderweg geniet je van rust, ruimte en prachtige uitzichten. Of je nu kiest voor een ontspannen tocht over de omliggende wateren of gewoon lekker wilt spelen op het water bij Goudpoel, een sup zorgt voor urenlang plezier voor jong en oud. Wat ons betreft hoort suppen dan ook helemaal bij een vakantie in Friesland. Goudpoel heeft 2 sups beschikbaar voor algemeen gebruik. In de jachthaven worden extra sups verhuurd.

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Voor een avondje Italiaans ben je bij Porto Casa in Earnewâld aan het juiste adres. Op de kaart staan vers bereide pizza's, pasta's en Italiaanse klassiekers zoals bruschetta, caprese, tiramisu en semifreddo. Neem plaats op het terras en geniet van een goede espresso of cappuccino als afsluiting.

Steek met het pontje over naar De Veenhoop en fiets naar De Pôlle Eten & Drinken. Vanaf het terras geniet je van een prachtig uitzicht over de Wijde Ee en het Grietmansrak, terwijl er op het water altijd iets te zien is. Met een uitgebreide lunch- en dinerkaart, inclusief gerechten voor kinderen, is dit een fijne bestemming voor het hele gezin.

Net voorbij de sluis in De Veenhoop vind je It Polderhûs, gevestigd in de voormalige brugwachterswoning. Vanaf het terras kijk je uit op de brug, terwijl de lindebomen voor aangename verkoeling zorgen. Geniet van een sorbet of een verfrissend drankje en vervolg daarna je fietstocht door het Friese landschap.

Toe aan iets lekkers? IJssalon Adema in het hart van Earnewâld is een geliefde stop voor jong en oud. Neem plaats op het terras en geniet van een van de 24 smaken ambachtelijk schepijs, het bekroonde zelf geklopte softijs of een romige milkshake. De perfecte plek om even af te koelen tijdens een dag vol belevenissen in de omgeving.

Voor een culinaire avond uit is Het Spijshuys in Boornbergum een uitstekende keuze. Dit bekroonde restaurant, met vermeldingen in de Lekker 500 en Gault&Millau, staat bekend om zijn verfijnde keuken. Hier worden klassieke Franse kooktechnieken gecombineerd met lokale ingrediënten en de mooiste producten van het seizoen. Een bijzondere ervaring voor liefhebbers van gastronomie.

Voor wie van goed eten én bijzondere verhalen houdt, is Oan Tafel in Warga een unieke bestemming. Chef Geert-Jan Vaartjes neemt je mee in een culinaire beleving waarin Friese streekproducten centraal staan en worden gecombineerd met smaken van over de hele wereld. Aan de lange keukentafel geniet je van verrassende gerechten in een intieme en persoonlijke setting. Tip: ook op zondag kun je hier terecht voor een uitgebreide lunch.

Tussen Rottevalle en Eastermar vind je Paviljoen De Leyen, prachtig gelegen aan het water. Dankzij het ruime terras, het strandje, de speelweide en de kabelbaan is dit een populaire bestemming voor gezinnen. Strijk neer voor een lunch, borrel of diner en geniet van het uitzicht over De Leyen en het groene landschap van de Noardlike Fryske Wâlden.

Midden in het groene landschap van Eastermar vind je Mearkas, een bijzondere culinaire bestemming waar natuur en gastronomie samenkomen. Omringd door een prachtige moestuin en een voedselbos ligt het restaurant in een sfeervolle tuinkas. Chef Kees Meinderts en zijn team bereiden hier met passie verfijnde gerechten, waarbij de seizoenen, eigen teelt en lokale producten centraal staan. Een unieke culinaire belevenis voor liefhebbers van puur en verrassend eten.

In the heart of Oudega village, on Sânbuorren, you'll find a charming play park called Albert Faber park where children can play to their heart's content. While the children enjoy themselves on the large climbing tower with slides, the swings, and the carousel, you can take a seat on one of the picnic benches. In addition to the play equipment, the park features a petting zoo, a walking path, and a table tennis table. Thanks to its spacious layout and free admission, it's a wonderful place for a relaxing afternoon with the whole family. Find the Google Maps location here.

Armed with a fishing net or rod, you can easily catch your first fish from the jetty of your water lodge! Along the sloping banks, you can look for frogs, dragonflies, and other aquatic life. Observe your catch with a magnifying jar or in a container and download the handy IVN Aquatic Animal Spotter's Guide to see if you've caught a dragonfly larva, pond snail, or water boatman.

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It Pettebosk is the nature education forest of De Alde Feanen National Park and playfully introduces young and old to nature. It's essentially a miniature version of De Alde Feanen, with plenty to discover. For families, there are various backpack trails available. With a backpack full of research materials and a dip net, you embark on your own adventure and learn all about the animals and plants that live in the nature reserve. For example, choose a trail about frogs, otters, or the swamp. The backpacks are suitable for children aged 4 to 13 and can be rented at the information point of It Fryske Gea.

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Go on a discovery tour together with one of It Fryske Gea's backpack routes. During the Small Frog Path and the Otter Path children aged 4 to 12 playfully learn about nature through fun assignments and challenging scavenger hunt activities. Armed with a backpack full of research materials, children venture into nature with a parent or supervisor. Along the way, they discover all sorts of things about plants and animals in De Alde Feanen. Learn more about the otter, the largest aquatic mammal in the Netherlands, or use a net to catch various aquatic creatures and investigate what lives in and around the water.

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Do your children love puzzles, riddles, and escape rooms? Then the Pettebosk Escape Route is a must-do. During this challenging journey through the nature of National Park De Alde Feanen you'll search for clues together, solve puzzles, and gradually unravel the mystery. Armed with a backpack full of hints, tools, and materials, you'll head into the forest. The route is specially designed for children aged approximately 10 to 12 and is fun for both families and groups of friends. An exciting outdoor adventure where teamwork and clever thinking are key.

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Looking to explore nature adventurously? It Fryske Gea regularly organizes fun and educational excursions especially for children. Go on a hunt for nature's treasures, discover what an owl has eaten, track badger prints, help birds by making fat balls, or investigate which creatures live underwater. Together with a guide, children venture into nature and playfully learn all about the unique plants and animals of Friesland. See which excursions are organized during your stay and join us for an adventure in nature.

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For children who love playing outdoors and going on adventures, It Pettebosk is a fantastic destination. This play and discovery forest is specially designed to experience the nature of De Alde Feanen National Park in a playful way. With islands, bridges, adventurous paths, and natural climbing and play equipment, there's plenty to discover. It Pettebosk is essentially De Alde Feanen in miniature. Amidst the reeds, peat holes, and swamp forest, children can play, explore, and get dirty to their heart's content. Meanwhile, young and old playfully get acquainted with the area's unique nature.

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An active and educational outing for the whole family, that's Ranger Ûle’s QR Adventure Route. During this journey of discovery through It Wikelslân, a sub-area of De Alde Feanen National Park, you'll embark on an adventure together in nature. Along the way, you'll encounter various QR codes. Scan them with your phone to watch short videos where Bauke and Fokje tell you more about the plants, animals, and landscape of the area. You'll also receive fun assignments to experience nature firsthand. Spot birds, discover animal tracks, and even learn how to make a traditional rush candle from soft rush. A surprising route for curious children and their parents.

For children without a fear of heights: who will be the first to reach the top? Climb the observation towers of De Alde Feanen and enjoy a beautiful view over lakes, reed beds, and marshland nature. A new observation tower also stands on the outskirts of Oudega, offering views of the future lake. Bring binoculars and look for special birds. With a bit of luck, you might even spot the white-tailed eagle, the largest bird of prey in the Netherlands.

Discover De Alde Feanen National Park from the water. With no fewer than 21 different routes, there's always a trip that suits you. Paddle through narrow ditches, past reed beds, and across vast waters, and enjoy the peace and nature around you. Every turn brings a new adventure. Don't have your own canoe or SUP? You can easily rent one at De Twirre in Earnewâld.

Is the weather not so good one day? Then Swimming Center De Welle in Drachten is the perfect solution. In this modern swimming paradise, you'll find everything for a day full of water fun. Zoom down the spectacular funnel slide, race each other on the family slide, or enjoy the wave pool and the rapids. For the youngest visitors, there's a special toddler and wading pool. A fun outing for the whole family.

Do you dream of learning to sail yourself? At Zeilschool De Veenhoop you'll experience an unforgettable sailing camp in the heart of Friesland. During the lessons, you'll learn to handle the boat, wind, and water, but also to collaborate, take responsibility, and build self-confidence. Whether you're sailing for the first time or already have experience, there's always a course or boat that suits you.

At Children's Farm The Naturij in Drachten, you can easily enjoy a full day of fun. Cuddle and play with the animals, explore the large playground, or follow one of the adventurous routes, such as the barefoot path or the gnome trail. Additionally, you'll find a reptile house, traffic park, and reading garden. It's a versatile outing where children can playfully discover nature and animals.

Enjoy a magical afternoon together in Schouwburg De Lawei in Drachten. From hilarious family shows to thrilling adventures, there's something for every age. The raising of the curtain, the music, the lights, and the costumes create a special experience that children won't soon forget. Check the program in advance and discover which show is playing during your stay.

Discover the world of the skûtsje in the Skûtsjemuseum in Earnewâld. Learn how skippers lived in the past and how the famous skûtsje races unfold today. Children can try their hand at knot-tying, rope-throwing, sack-hoisting, and sail-hoisting. An educational and interactive outing where you playfully discover Frisian history, shipping, and crafts.

Step into the world of Hielke and Sietse and experience the adventures of The Kameleon. On Kameleon Island, you can go ditch jumping, pole vaulting, tackle the raft trail, and try to cross the floating water lily leaves without getting wet. Also visit the Kameleon Farm, go on a scavenger hunt, and discover Frisian country life. An adventurous day out where it's okay to get dirty!

Explore AquaZoo Leeuwarden and come face to face with unique animals from all over the world. Spot tigers, polar bears, crocodiles, and many more of the over 80 animal species. Thanks to the educational presentations by the animal keepers and the many play and climbing structures, AquaZoo is a perfect day out for families. An adventurous experience for young and old.

Are you staying at Goudpoel during the low season? Then put on your skates! With a bit of luck, the lake at Goudpoel will be frozen, and you can skate directly onto the ice from your own jetty. If that's not the case, then Thialf in Heerenveen and the Elfstedenhal in Leeuwarden are a short distance away. Enjoy a wonderful day on the ice and then warm up with a cup of hot chocolate with whipped cream.

What does a cow's coat feel like? And how many products actually contain potatoes? At the Frisian Agricultural Museum you'll discover it through observation, hands-on activities, and immersive experiences. Draw a cow's spots, carry milk pails with a yoke, or go on a scavenger hunt through the museum. An educational and interactive outing where children can playfully discover farm life and Frisian agriculture.

Discover nature up close in Natuurmuseum Fryslân. Spread across four floors, you'll find unique animals, interactive activities, experiments, and games. From insects and whales to long-extinct animals, there's a wealth of discoveries to make. Don't miss the popular Underwater Safari, where you'll embark on a special journey beneath the water's surface.

In the Fries Scheepvaart Museum an entire floor is dedicated to children. Play in a real zeeschouw, learn to build a raft, pull a skûtsje, or hoist the sails of a life-sized Viking ship. Additionally, you can build with Duplo, Lego, and Kapla, or go on a treasure hunt as a pirate or mermaid. An interactive museum where playing, discovering, and learning come together perfectly.

How much does a calf weigh at birth? How much milk does a cow give? And how is cheese actually made? At Cheese Farm De Gelder in Tijnje you'll discover it all. During a tour, you'll visit the cow shed and the cheese dairy, and see how milk is processed into delicious cheese. Of course, you can also take a look at the calves and pick up something tasty from the farm shop.

From June, you can at Simmerfruit in Noardburgum pick your own strawberries and berries. Stroll through the berry garden, fill your basket with fresh summer fruit, and taste the flavor of the season. After picking, you can enjoy a strawberry smoothie, fresh vanilla ice cream with strawberries, or a picnic in the tea garden. A wonderful summer outing for the whole family.

Are you crazy about horses and ponies? At Manege Onder de Linde in the wooded Beetsterzwaag, children can care for ponies, play games, and of course, ride horses. During the summer holidays, special pony mornings and pony camps are organized. Additionally, you can take lessons all year round at various levels. A fun experience for young horse lovers.

Discover how the landscape around Goudpoel was formed in Open-air Museum It Damshûs in Nij Beets. Learn all about peat extraction, the draining of polders, and life in the past. Walk through the miniature village, see historical buildings, and discover how people lived and worked here. A fun and educational outing for curious children and their parents.

Toe aan een dag vol ontspanning? Bij De Wetterdrip in Oudega geniet je in alle rust van een privé wellness met onder andere een Finse sauna, stoomcabine, whirlpool en hydrojet-massagebed. Vanuit de wellness kijk je uit over de Friese landerijen, waardoor je helemaal tot rust komt. Een heerlijke plek om jezelf samen of met familie en vrienden in de watten te laten leggen.

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Op loopafstand van Goudpoel vind je, midden in het dorp, Cafetaria de Smidterij. Ideaal voor een avond waarop je geen zin hebt om te koken. Haal een portie verse friet en een snack af, of trakteer jezelf op een verkoelend ijsje. Maak daarna een ontspannen wandeling door de karakteristieke straatjes van het historische Oudega.

Wellness ervaren vanuit je eigen lodge? Dat kan, want drie van onze oeverlodges beschikken over een privé hottub. Deze prachtige houtgestookte hottub van Weltevree brengt het buitenleven en ontspanning op een unieke manier samen. Geniet van de geur van knisperend houtvuur, de warmte van het water en het uitzicht over de natuur. Overdag kijk je uit over het landschap, terwijl je ’s avonds onder een schitterende sterrenhemel volledig tot rust komt.

Even tijd voor jezelf nemen? Maak dan een afspraak bij schoonheidssalon By Jisca in Oudega. In deze kleinschalige salon draait alles om rust en ontspanning. De salon ligt achter in de tuin en biedt een kalmerend uitzicht over de Friese weilanden. Kies voor een van de belevingsmassages of een gezichtsbehandeling en keer volledig ontspannen terug naar je lodge.

On Goudpoel beach, you'll find a volleyball net for a sporty moment during your holiday. Play an enthusiastic game with family or friends, or just casually hit a ball around. A fun activity for all ages, with the water always close by.

Water is always close by at Goudpoel. From the beach, you can easily take a refreshing dip in the clear natural water. Start your day with a refreshing splash, cool off on a warm summer day, or enjoy hours of fun by the water with the kids. Here you'll experience Frisian outdoor life at its finest. And if the weather isn't ideal one day? You can always visit the subtropical swimming pool De Welle in Drachten!

Oudega is the perfect base for a day of cycling. Rent a bicycle or e-bike and choose from a wide range of routes through nature, along water, and through charming Frisian villages. Explore De Alde Feanen (but also take a look here and here for great routes) cycle through the wooded Beetsterzwaag or discover one of the many ferry routes. Wherever you go, a new view awaits you everywhere, and a beautiful spot to dismount for a moment.

Oudega is located in the heart of the Frisian Lake District and is the perfect base for exploring Friesland from the water. Sail to watersports villages like Earnewâld, De Veenhoop, Grou, and Terherne, or enjoy the peace and nature along the many canals and lakes on your way. Rent an electric sloop at Goudpoel or explore the area with a sailboat. The marina of Oudega is also nearby.

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From your lodge, you can step right into nature for a beautiful walk through the area. The possibilities are endless. Walk the historic route through Oudega and discover its monumental buildings, follow the Beleefroute along the development of the Oudega aan het Water recreation area, or walk to the bird hide in the Jan Durkspolder. Even those who enjoy longer walks will find plenty to enjoy, with beautiful routes through Nationaal Park De Alde Feanen, the Noardlike Fryske Wâlden and the forests around Beetsterzwaag.

For children, De Kikkertspôlle is often the park's absolute favorite spot. A boardwalk leads you directly to this play island next to Goudpoel. Here, a water play structure, zip line, waterslide into the water, beach volleyball net, and a large play meadow await hours of fun. While the children enjoy themselves, parents can take in the views over the water. Thanks to the designated swimming area, even the youngest guests can safely discover the water.

Directly opposite the Goudpoel car park, two fun walking routes especially for children: It Aldegeaster Kabouterpaad and the Fleurige Fûgelrûte. Along the gnome trail, various gnomes have found a spot for their hobbies and daily activities. There's plenty to discover along the way. This route is approximately 2.5 kilometers long (round trip), making it perfect for young children. You'll recognize the endpoint by the gnome with the finish flag, after which you walk back along the same route. For children who want to walk a bit further, there's the 5.3-kilometer Fleurige Fûgelrûte. Colorful birds are hidden along this route!

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Every sheltered lodge has its own sauna, included in your stay. Just what you want on an autumn day: first a walk through the wet polder or a trip in the boat, then switch on the sauna, close the door and let the cold seep out of your bones. Afterwards, out onto the terrace in a bathrobe, with the scent of wet leaves and the stillness of the water. No booking, no time slot; the sauna is yours alone.

Aan de rand van Nationaal Park De Alde Feanen, tussen de watersportdorpen Aldegea en Earnewâld, ligt Tuinkaffee BuitenGewoon. In de sfeervolle hooikap van een voormalig boerenerf geniet je van verse bonenkoffie met iets lekkers, een uitgebreide lunch, high tea of een gezellige borrel. Neem plaats op het terras en laat je verrassen door het prachtige uitzicht over het Friese landschap.

Slow down, relax, and take some time just for yourself. At Yoga Gives More in Oudega, you can take yoga and Pilates classes in a personal and accessible environment. With attention to your body and your limits, you work on relaxation, balance, and new energy. Thanks to the varied offerings, there's a suitable class for both beginners and experienced participants.

When you say Friesland, you say sailing. During your stay in our water-rich area, a sailing trip is an absolute must. Propelled by the wind, you'll glide silently across the Frisian lakes, experiencing the landscape from a completely different perspective. Enjoy the tranquility, the fresh air, and the surrounding nature as you set course for charming watersports villages like Grou, Earnewâld, and Terherne. Check out Alde feanen or Veenhoop for rental options.

Every sheltered lodge has its own wood-fired Weltevree hot tub, and winter is when it really comes into its own. Light the fire, wait for the water to heat up, then sink into the warm water with a hat on while your breath rises in little clouds. Stars above, the still, frozen landscape all around. Afterwards, in a bathrobe, back inside where the lodge is warm. When booking, simply choose a lodge with a hot tub.

Our sheltered lodges have their own wood-fired Weltevree hot tub, and autumn is its best season. As the leaves fall you light the fire, and once the water is warm you slip in, with plenty of privacy and a view of nature. Mist in the morning, stars in the evening, the scent of woodsmoke. Afterwards, in a bathrobe, back inside where the lodge is already warm.

Op 15 minuten fietsen van Goudpoel vind je Restaurant Ie-Sicht. Vanaf het terras aan het water heb je een prachtig uitzicht over de Wijde Ee. Een heerlijke plek voor koffie, lunch of diner, terwijl je geniet van het uitzicht op voorbijvarende boten en het pontje richting De Veenhoop.

Voor een snelle en smaakvolle lunch ben je bij SPAR FoodClub in Oudega aan het juiste adres. Kies uit vers belegde broodjes, maaltijdsalades en wraps, haal je bestelling af of laat deze bezorgen bij je lodge. Vergeet ook niet een van de populaire tosti’s van The Tosti Club te proberen, bereid met heerlijke Beemsterkaas.

Nationaal Park De Alde Feanen leent zich uitstekend voor een tocht per kano of sup. Met maar liefst 21 verschillende kanoroutes is er altijd een route die bij je past. Peddel door smalle slootjes, langs rietkragen en over uitgestrekte wateren en ontdek de natuur vanuit een uniek perspectief.

Elke afslag biedt nieuwe mogelijkheden en maakt iedere tocht weer anders. Zo bepaal je zelf hoe jouw avontuur eruitziet. Heb je geen eigen kano of sup? Dan kun je eenvoudig materiaal huren bij De Twirre in Earnewâld.

In October the beech avenues of the Seven Woods of Beetsterzwaag turn gold and russet. Walk the boardwalk through the marsh, look for mushrooms along the winding paths and let the kids climb the Bosheuvel in the Wallebos. Afterwards, warm up in the Tropische Kas, the tropical greenhouse in the middle of the village, among lemon trees more than seventy years old. Half an hour's drive from your lodge; bring boots, as the paths are soft after rain.

When it freezes hard for a few nights, the water around Goudpoel turns into an ice rink. You step onto the ice from your own jetty and skate along the waterways to Oudega and the polders beyond, as the Frisians have done for centuries. Natural ice can never be planned and is never a given: only go onto the ice once the local ice club declares it safe, and follow local updates. If the frost stays away, Thialf and the Elfstedenhal are just around the corner.

Aan de rand van Nationaal Park De Alde Feanen ligt Restaurant Princenhof. Al ruim 80 jaar is dit een geliefde plek voor gasten die willen genieten van lekker eten aan het water. Met een à-la-carterestaurant, brasserie, bar en een terras met uitzicht over het water is het de ideale locatie voor koffie, lunch, een borrel of een uitgebreid diner.

From October, tens of thousands of geese settle in the polders around Oudega: white-fronted geese, barnacle geese and greylag geese that spend the winter here. In the early morning you hear them before you see them. From the bird hide in the Jan Durkspolder and from the Wynwachter, the lookout tower near Oudega, you look out over the open water without disturbing them. Both are within walking distance of your lodge. Bring binoculars and a flask.

No frost? There's always ice: at Thialf in Heerenveen, where the world's best skaters train, and at the Elfstedenhal in Leeuwarden. Both have a 400-metre track and a smaller rink for a quieter skate, and you can hire skates there. Go during public sessions, put on an extra jumper and finish with something warm from the koek-en-zopie stall. Half an hour's drive from your lodge, and then back to the sauna.

Zin in een pannenkoek? Dan ben je bij Grand Café Yn 'e Haven in Earnewâld aan het juiste adres. Hier geniet je van een uitgebreid assortiment pannenkoeken, maar ook van diverse vis- en vleesgerechten. Het restaurant ligt aan de gezellige passantenhaven en beschikt daarnaast over een prachtige speeltuin voor de kinderen.

In winter you have the water to yourself. Goudpoel's electric boat glides silently through empty waterways, past frosted reed beds and meadows full of geese. Bring blankets, a flask of coffee, a hat. Through De Alde Feanen you can cruise to Earnewâld or De Veenhoop and be back before dark. The light is never as low and as beautiful as in December on the water, and you won't meet a soul.

Three quarters of an hour's drive north lies the Wadden Sea. At low tide you walk with a guide across the exposed seabed: mud up to your knees, wind in your face, seals on the sandbanks. In autumn the mudflats are quiet and the light is low. Avontuurlijk Wadlopen in Holwerd runs salt marsh and seal walks in small groups; dressed well, you can go well into winter. Wear old trainers and bring dry clothes for back at the lodge.

Lauwersmeer National Park has been a Dark Sky Park since 2016, one of the darkest places in the Netherlands. On a clear, frosty night you can see the Milky Way with the naked eye. On the sky platforms Vlinderbalg and Achter de Zwarten you lie on your back and look up at the stars; pick up a night map at the Lauwersnest activity centre. Roads and paths are open at night as usual. It's just over three quarters of an hour's drive, so leave early, eat on the way and dress warmly.

In Friesland the skating season starts in autumn. At the Elfstedenhal in Leeuwarden and at Thialf in Heerenveen, the most famous ice rink in the country, the ice is already down; you can hire skates on site. A few laps of the 400-metre track, hot chocolate on the side, while the kids practise on the small rink. Both are half an hour's drive from your lodge, a good plan for a grey autumn day.

Within walking distance of your lodge stands the Wynwachter, the eight-metre lookout tower on the edge of Oudega. Its design is inspired by a skûtsje, a traditional Frisian sailing barge; inside it's sheltered, with viewing openings and window sills that tell the story of the landscape. You look out over the spot where the new lake at Oudega, Het Meer, is being dug, over the Wide Ie and the tree lines of De Alde Feanen. In autumn you'll see the geese arrive. Bring binoculars, and let the kids look for herons and the white-tailed eagle.

In It Wikelslân near Earnewâld there's a five-kilometre walking route that you walk slowly, on purpose. You can borrow the accompanying booklet for free from the information point or the tourist office in Earnewâld; it helps you pause at what you hear, smell and see: rustling reeds, wet earth, a heron taking off. Along the way you pass peat ponds, bird hides and, halfway, a lookout tower. In autumn the paths are wet, so wear boots. Dogs are welcome on a lead.

Rain all day? In Drachten, a quarter of an hour's drive away, is De Welle swimming centre: a funnel slide, a family slide to race each other on, a wave pool and a rapids channel. The little ones have their own toddler pool, and if you'd rather swim lengths there's the 50-metre pool. Then back to the lodge, hair dried, warm inside, and by evening autumn outside is beautiful again.

Dokkum is the northernmost of Friesland's eleven cities, just over half an hour's drive away. Walk along the ramparts around the old town, past the De Hoop and Zeldenrust windmills, and down to the canals with their little bridges and old façades. In autumn, when the trees on the ramparts turn, the town is at its most beautiful. The Admiralty House and the 1754 weigh house are on the way, and De Zijl is where the Elfstedentocht turns back. Finish with hot chocolate on the market square.

Op korte afstand van Goudpoel wacht een culinaire ervaring van het hoogste niveau. Restaurant De Heeren van Harinxma, bekroond met één Michelinster en gelegen op het sfeervolle landgoed Lauswolt, behoort tot de top van Noord-Nederland. Chef Seb Smit creëert verfijnde gerechten waarin smaak, balans en vakmanschap samenkomen. In combinatie met de uitstekende wijnselectie en de stijlvolle ambiance staat hier alles in het teken van een bijzondere avond uit.