
Sailing a Polyvalk from De Koevoet: the most beautiful day trips in Friesland
Do you love sailing in Friesland? Then De Koevoet is the place to be. From our harbour in Teroele, you’re out on the Frisian lakes in no time. No bridges or locks on your first stretch, just a beautiful, quiet lake as your starting point: the Koevorde. And the best part? With a polyvalk you can really go in any direction.
The Koevorde is a relatively shallow lake, but easy to sail with a valk. The western side in particular is open and spacious. Only in the north-east corner do you need to pay attention: that’s where the famous – or infamous – sandbank lies. Tip: never cut across diagonally towards the Janessloot, but stay in the channel until you are directly in front of the sloot. Then you’ll always be fine.
Have a day to spare? Then these are all fantastic trips you can make from De Koevoet:
1. Round trip Langweer – Scharsterbrug – Tjeukemeer – Follega – Grote Brekken
A sporty round trip with lots of variety: from picturesque villages to open water. Via the Janessloot and Langweerder Wielen you sail towards Scharsterbrug, and then on to the vast Tjeukemeer. There are plenty of places for a stop along the way. You return via Follega and the Grote Brekken. A substantial trip, but beautiful for a full day of sailing.
2. Round trip to Heeg via the Jeltesloot and Woudsend
A classic. Via the Jeltesloot towards Heeg. In Heeg you can moor in the centre for a drink on a terrace, or enjoy a picnic on a small island. The route offers beautiful views over the Fluessen and the Heegermeer. Return via idyllic Woudsend. Along the way you pass the Wellebrug, where you have to lower the mast – it’s part of the fun!
3. Day trip to Lemmer via the Brandemeer and the Grote Brekken
A real recommendation with an easterly wind. You sail via the Brandemeer – a beautiful and often quiet stretch of water – towards Lemmer. There, the IJsselmeer awaits just a stone’s throw away, as well as the historic centre with cosy cafés and restaurants. On the way back you sail across the Grote Brekken, where you often have plenty of room to really pick up speed.
4. Sloten via Woudsend and the Grote Brekken
A route full of atmosphere. Via Woudsend and across the Slotermeer towards Sloten – the smallest of the eleven Frisian cities. Sloten is perfect for an ice cream on the quay, a museum visit and a stroll through the beautiful historic town. Return via the Brandemeer and the Grote Brekken.
5. Day trip to Sneek via the Goïngarijpster Poelen and the Sneekermeer
The sailing town of Friesland, and easily done in a day from De Koevoet. Via the Langweerder Wielen, the Noorder Oudeweg and the Goïngarijpster Poelen you reach the Sneekermeer. There you can tack endlessly, or cross in one long reach. Sneek has plenty of mooring spots – for a short break or a longer stop.
Sailing from De Koevoet means enjoying peace, space and endless possibilities.
The polyvalks are ready for you at our jetty, and with a bit of wind you can head straight out. From a short trip to a long day out – everything is within reach.
Need help planning your route or want to know where you can moor along the way? Just ask us – we’re happy to help.
See you on the water!