The nicest places on Texel that you want to know

They also call it ‘the Ibiza of the North’. I don't quite see that comparison yet (but it does sound nice), but I am sure that Texel is fun. And it's nice and close, which is also pleasant sometimes. Because you do have the feeling of getting away for a bit, but you're there in just a few hours. And now that the sun is starting to show more, this might just be the last push you need to book a weekend in Texel. Check out the best spots that you definitely don't want to miss. Wow, we're going to Texel. Already a hit, I can tell you.

At Jef

Herenstraat 34, Den Hoorn – bijjef.nl

It might be a bit tricky to immediately drop my favorite tip. But at least I have your attention. At this spot in Den Hoorn, you can stay overnight, which is highly recommended, but what you MUST do is eat here. Really, I dare say they serve the best food on the island here, and they have many local products like Texel lamb. À la carte is an option, but the best thing is to just go all out here. Including a wine arrangement, of course, because I fell in love with the wine list here. A downside? Alright then, this is no longer undiscovered. So, reservations are recommended and fingers crossed if you want a table last minute.

Vibes Streetfood Bar

Weverstraat 39, Den Burg – vibesfoodbar.com

They also have trendy spots here. Not many, but this is definitely one of them. Ideal during happy hour, with one of the large sharing platters and a Texels Skuumkoppe. Or a G&T, whatever you prefer. They are known for the (generous) burgers here, so if you're in the mood for a quick bite that might not be the healthiest but is definitely tasty: this is the place to be.

Paal 17 Aan Zee

Ruijslaan 94, De Koog – paal17.com

Visiting Texel without seeing the beach is a no-go, of course – and also quite difficult to do, because our Ibiza is rather small. And if you're at the beach, definitely visit this beach bar. A big plus: the beach bars here are much more affordable than those on Spanish Ibiza. Better for the financial situation, and the food here is also very tasty. But I enjoy the view, the sea, and the beach with a good glass of wine the most. Yes, they have that here too. Convenient: they are open all year round.

Camp Silver

Eendenkooiweg 2, Oosterend – campsilver.nl

Just a disclaimer upfront: this is not for the luxury lovers among us. It is very nice if you are more of an outdoor type. At Camp Silver, you camp in nature, in an American Airstream. So take it easy, you don't have to set up your own tent. Because honestly: no matter how many times I've been camping (a weekend at Lowlands counts as camping, right?), it remains a hell of a job. And these Airstreams are quite luxuriously furnished, so you do feel a bit like you're in a hotel room. The best recommendation for a romantic getaway. And preferably book the Airstream that has a private sauna. You deserve it.

Lokaal 16

Gravenstraat 16, Den Burg – lokaal16.nl

I'm not really into breakfast at home (yes, yes, that's bad for you, I know), but when I'm away for a weekend, I often make it a special outing. And places like Lokaal 16 are always where I want to end up. Nice homey atmosphere, fresh shakes, and sandwiches as luxurious and extensive as you want. Also open for lunch, by the way. In a hurry? No worries, you can take everything to go here.

Restaurant ’t Pakhuus

Haven 8, Oudeschild – pakhuus.com

Fish lovers gather. This is your clubhouse on Texel. In the old harbor in Oudeschild, you will find this restaurant, and you can hardly get fresher fish. The oysters and other shellfish are even waiting for you in the large aquarium in the middle of the restaurant. ’t Pakhuus is also open for lunch, but the best thing is to have an extensive dinner here. You can go for up to nine courses, after which you will probably roll out, but believe me: it's all worth it. If you're in Oudeschild during the day, definitely check out the Old Fish Market.

Strandpaviljoen Vijftien

Westerslag 5, Den Burg – paal15texel.nl

Just a heads up: this spot is open from March until the end of October. Now, to be honest, I wouldn't know why you would want to go to Texel outside of those months (yes sorry, but it's so much more fun here with some sunshine), but you never know. There is always a very relaxed atmosphere here, and especially if you're with kids, this is a very nice place. Also nice: the entire menu can be ordered from 11:00 AM all day long. Look, as a late luncher, I'm happy about that. And if it turns out not to be so sunny: you can sit inside here too.

Freya de Texelse Bodega

Gravenstraat 4, Den Burg – 0222 321 214

A very cozy, charming little restaurant where they serve a different three-course menu every week. Nice old-fashioned (no website), but due to the small space, it's advisable to make a reservation. It's mainly French cuisine that you encounter here, but made with Texel products. So a small menu every time, but each dish is a culinary feast on your plate and each glass of wine (and they have a lot of good ones here) is a celebration in your glass. This is my go-to when I'm on Texel.

If you have more nice spots that aren't listed here: help ya sister out. I'm always looking for new insider tips (that's why I love sharing them with you). One tip I still need to mention and that I haven't tried myself yet: skydiving. Yes, you're in the right place for that on Texel, but... I. Don't. Dare. So if you've done that and found it so much fun (and survived without injuries, that's a plus), I would love to hear your report.

Written by: Wieke Veenboer