Discover the waters of Fryslân and Groningen: The Lauwers

You might not even know it; the Lauwers River. It marks the border between two provinces, perhaps a bit like the edge of their world. And right there at the end, you often find the most beautiful treasures.

The Lauwers has been around for quite some time, about 1,500 years to be exact. It was originally the border between two Frisian regions; in 1473, it became part of the Great Alliance when the city of Groningen expanded its power. Thus, the Lauwers became the boundary between what would later become the provinces, and Frisian in the east gradually gave way to Low Saxon.

Once, the Wadden Sea reached deep inland through what later became the Lauwersmeer, all the way to Surhuisterveen. Over time, it has become somewhat of a forgotten waterway. So, if you love discoveries, now is the time to cross borders on an expedition! Besides a relaxing boat trip through beautiful nature, you’ll regularly dive into history and pass by remarkable sights.

And of course, plenty of nature, maybe you’ll even spot a kingfisher near Pieterzijl! If you don’t have your own boat, there are several ways to explore the Lauwers: rent a boat or a SUP, or hop on the recreated shrimp sloop ZK31.