Texel

Texel is the biggest and most accessible of the Wadden islands strung along the top of the Netherlands, reached by a short ferry and small enough to cross by bicycle, which is how nearly everyone gets about. Its west side is one long North Sea beach backed by high dunes, while the sheltered eastern side looks over the tidal flats of the Wadden Sea, where seals haul out on the sandbanks and boat trips go to watch them. Between the two lie dune reserves and heath, notably De Slufter, a valley where the sea breaks through to create a salt marsh that turns purple with sea lavender in late summer, and fields of the island's own sheep, whose lambs appear everywhere in spring. Villages of low houses, a nature centre explaining the tidal ecology, and some of the best birdwatching in the country complete a quietly excellent few days.

What you actually see

• The North Sea beaches and dunes - the long open west coast behind high dunes.
• De Slufter - the breached dune valley and its salt marsh, purple in late summer.
• Seals on the sandbanks - boat trips out over the Wadden flats.
• The island by bicycle - flat lanes between villages, sheep fields and reserves.

When to go

April to September is warmest; spring brings the lambs and migrating birds, and late summer turns De Slufter purple with sea lavender. Ferries run year-round but the island is bracingly windy in winter. Book accommodation early for Dutch school holidays, when it fills.

Honest expectations

It is a Dutch family favourite, so July, August and school holidays are crowded and beds are booked far ahead. The North Sea is cold and the wind on the exposed west side is constant, which suits walkers more than sunbathers. There is little in the way of sights beyond nature and villages, so those wanting museums and nightlife should look elsewhere. Cycling is essentially mandatory to see it properly.

Nearby

The other Wadden islands lie east along the chain; Den Helder and the North Holland coast are across the water.