Ameland is one of the Wadden islands and has three main villages; Nes, Buren and Hollum. The Ameland beach is some 27 kilometers long. It is separated from the hinterland by a row of dunes.

Nes

The ferry arrives in Nes. Nes is a pleasant village with lots of nice shops. During the summer season a market is organized most weeks. The booths are spread throughout the village. Recreation Park De Vleijen is located near Nes.

Buren

The village of Buren lies in the eastern part of the island. The buildings are proof that it is a very old village indeed. A large number of farms lie in the village center. You can also visit the ‘Agricultural Beachcomber’s Museum’. Via this village you can enter nature reserve ‘Het Oerd’. In the breeding season excursions to the sea-gull colony in this nature reserve are organized.

Ballum

Ballum is known for its local liqueur, called ‘Nobeltje’. It is named after Hotel Noble on the village green. North of Ballum lies Ameland Airport, a great place for amateur pilots. When you drive south through Ballum you come to the Ballumerbocht. The island’s rescue boat is moored here.

Lighthouse Hollum

In Hollum stands the 59-meter-high lighthouse that you can climb. Be warned, it is 236 steps up and back! Once you have reached the top you are rewarded with great views over the Wadden Sea, the North Sea, the village and most of the island. The tower is made of cast iron. It was built in 1880. The light flashes three times per 15 seconds. Hollum lies on West Ameland. It has some 1,200 inhabitants.