Best Hotels in the Frisian Islands

By Unukorno - Own work, CC BY

For centuries, the Frisian Islands' historic blend of windswept beauty and wellness have made them a popular destination. Scattered along the coasts of the Netherlands, Germany and Denmark, the Islands offer enchanting natural beauty, with windswept dunes, long sandy beaches and pretty seaside villages — all of this you can see on guided nature walks or bike rides through the countryside. But people don't merely come for their natural beauty; many come for a spa break (you'll find thalassotherapy on offer — a blend of rejuvenating seawater and seaweed treatments — and of course a wide array of saunas, steam baths, outdoor pools and hot tub) or a traditional family friendly beach holiday. Our pick of the best hotels in the Frisian Islands are all pampering spa hotels, but we've also discovered properties which have great amenities for guests of all ages and others which are set right on the beach.

For relaxation

• Set in an Art Noveau villa next to the historic spa square, Hotel Haus Norderney is primed for relaxation. The contemporary rooms ooze elegance, with white furniture and balconies, and it's just a short walk from the beach. But this property works equally well for a winter spa break; on cold days, there's nothing better than enjoying afternoon tea by the fireplace after a session in the sauna.
• Hotel Achterdiek is a charming choice. Set on the car-free island of Juist, it has saunas, an indoor pool and a spa, and a traditional wellness-focused restaurant. With the sea views from the elegant, nautical-inspired rooms, and the excellent wine menu, you will feel rejuvenated and totally relaxed after a stay here.

For families

• Stylish and spacious, Inselloft Norderney is a great choice for families. This designer beachfront hotel offers spacious family-friendly apartments, all bright and airy, spilling out to private terraces. It also has a warm, homely feel with a comfy sitting room/library, on-site bakery, and a restaurant serving organic, seasonal food. The cherry on top is the sleek and luxurious spa, where a glorious range of pampering treatments are on offer.

For couples

• Hotel Norderriff is a stylish four-star stay, perfect for couples on a spa break. Its bar champions German beer and fine wines, and spills out to a terrace. The rooms are airy and contemporary, with splashes of modern art and sink-into beds, and it has a small, pampering on-site spa. Even better, it's only a 3-minute walk from the beach.
• The Seestegg is effortlessly romantic. The location helps, with views over the UNESCO-listed Wadden Sea National Park. But the elegant suites, studios and lofts, leading out to patios with gorgeous sea views, make it an intimate stay perfect for couples. You can explore the coastline on horseback, return to the hotel for a swim in the infinity pool; later, indulge in the in-house restaurant. Divine.

Still not sure?

• Expand your search to include the best hotels in Sylt
• All of our recommendations in Lower Saxony
• Or contact one of our Gurus for advice.

 

Written by Edmund Wise

posted Wednesday, 7th August 2024