ROTTUMEROOG
The Wadden Sea area, bordered by the island of Rottumeroog in the north, is the most tranquil part of the Netherland part of the Wadden Sea. It`s a piece of untouched Wadden wilderness. Rottumeroog, along with the southern Zuiderduintjes, serves as a resting place for seals and migratory birds, with many birds also nesting here. The island and its surrounding Wadden Sea area are not freely accessible to the public. Fortunately, our association holds a permit allowing us to organize mudflat hikes to the sandbank on the edge of the island several times a year.
This uninhabited island sparks the imagination with its illustrious history. Named after the Rottum monastery, the island has had various owners over the centuries, with the eccentric Irish Count of Clancarty perhaps being the most intriguing. The last inhabitant was beach supervisor Jan Toxopeus, who left the island in 1965. Since then, Rottumeroog has been uninhabited, but during the breeding season, managers and bird watchers keep an eye on things. Rottumeroog is shifting eastward towards the Ems River due to natural forces. Since 1991, government policy has been to let nature take its course, which may result in the island disappearing into the Ems.
For the excursion, we gather at the fishing harbor of Lauwersoog, from where we travel by bus to the Emmapolder. Here, we step onto the dike and onto the Wadden Sea. The first two hours of the hike can be strenuous, as there may be considerable mud in the coastal valley. Good physical condition is required for this walk. After reaching the first tidal channel, the terrain becomes firmer. As you pass several channels, Rottumeroog approaches, and the white sands of the Zuiderduintjes on the east side become visible. Rottumeroog is easily recognizable by the Emder Kaap, once a beacon for ships at sea. At the end of the journey, the boat awaits, and once aboard, you can see how quickly the sandbank around Rottumeroog becomes submerged by the rising tide. We sail back to the Lauwersoog harbor in four hours. From the ship, you have a magnificent view of Rottumerplaat with a guarantee of seeing groups of seals.
Details
• Departure point: Fishing Harbor Lauwersoog, quay next to the fish auction. Address: Haven 16, 9976 VN Lauwersoog (Parking is available here on Saturdays and Sundays between 07:00-22:00. At other times: paid parking at P1, P2, or P3).
• Distance: 14 kilometers
• Duration: 9-10 hours (1-hour bus, 4 hours on the Wadden Sea, 4 hours by boat)
• Difficulty: Strenuous
• Price per person: €50.00. Includes bus to the starting point and boat back to Lauwersoog.
Check out our PROGRAM for dates and times of already scheduled trips to Rottumeroog.
