Indian Summer on Texel

Runnershigh with sea air

You’re torn, in a way. Of course you go for that run for yourself, keeping your joints flexible, staying healthy, clearing your mind. But sometimes that familiar ritual, or well worn loop isn’t exactly your great love. On Texel, the sense of obligation fades into the background. Here, you want to lace up your running shoes. Because let’s be honest: if you can combine forest, dunes, and beach, why wouldn’t you take that chance? De Slufter or a route past frolicking lambs should definitely be in your running app. With the fresh sea breeze at your side, it feels like you're flying. And if you hit a wall, just pause and recharge with the stunning views. That’s what we call the Texel factor.

Tip

It gets crowded at the starting line and trust us, it’s absolutely worth it, because what an experience! The Texelse Halve Marathon in September kicks off on the ferry. From there, you run a stunning route through nature including, of course, along the North Sea. Race entries go on sale online at the start of the year. Be quick this run is incredibly popular.

Culinary delights, Texel-style

Texelaars are known for their independent spirit, a trait we've inherited from our ancestors. Surrounded by the sea and reliant on each other, resourcefulness was a must. These days, a sustainable TESO ferry is our hourly lifeline to the mainland. But in daily life, that down to earth mentality and creative drive are still deeply rooted in everything we do.

The island’s chefs embody this perfectly. They value local ingredients and incorporate them into their dishes with playful flair. Take Bij Jef, the only Michelin-starred restaurant in the Wadden Islands, as an example. But many other chefs follow in its wake, working with genuine passion and you can taste it! For an island of just 170 km², the culinary choices are vast: from beach pavilions to cozy bistros and stylish wine bars, prepare to be surprised.  

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Texel Culinair is a three day food festival held in September. Along the Dorpsstraat in De Koog, you can sample delicious bites as local restaurants showcase their best creations. They compete for bragging rights and, of course, for your approval. Our top pick: Wijnbar Oudeland, a frequent award winner. Be sure to visit their stand at Texel Culinair. Great food, live music, and toasting to life, you don’t want to miss it!

The great bird migration

As the crowds of tourists say goodbye to the island, Texel welcomes thousands of other visitors. Our island is a strategic stopover for migratory birds. They leave the cold northern regions behind for the warmth of the south and pause in the Wadden to rest and refuel. The salty mudflats attract countless species: wheatears, sanderlings, marsh harriers, red knots, and even the rare osprey. A dream come true for seasoned birdwatchers, and a breathtaking sight for the uninitiated.

The lookout tower near the De Geul nature reserve and the gathering point at De Schorren are the key hotspots. A guide can tell you all about the species, their behaviors, and fun facts. Or you can simply sit on the dike with a thermos of coffee and let it all wash over you. The silence, the light, the sea breeze... It’s almost a meditative experience.

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If you're a bird enthusiast (or have become one by now), don’t miss the annual Dutch Birding Weekend in October. The Bird Information Centre in De Cocksdorp is the main hub. There, you’ll find lectures, guided excursions, and an impressive array of telescopes and binoculars to drool over.

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Late-summer activities

The summer may be fading, but on Texel it lingers just a little longer. A pastel-pink sunset, a spontaneous afternoon on a sun-warmed terrace. In this laid-back setting, it’s easy to take a step back and slow down. Or do you feel like diving headfirst into island life? In September, most doors are still open almost daily from artist studios to museums.

Check out the Texel agenda and head out to explore.