Cranberries on Terschelling: The Red Gold of the Island
Did you know that Terschelling is renowned for its delicious cranberries? These small, red berries grow wild here and are not only a delicacy but also an important part of the local culture. Whether you are a cranberry enthusiast or simply curious about the unique history of this fruit on the island, Terschelling is the place to discover and taste cranberries.
The Cranberry Harvest Season
The cranberry season on Terschelling runs from September through November. During these months, the dunes turn red with ripe berries which are hand-picked.
When? Cranberries are ripe from September onwards. The harvest takes place in the autumn, peaking in October.
How? Cranberries are hand-picked or gently dislodged using special rakes to avoid damaging the plants.
Where? Most cranberries grow in natural areas such as the Boschplaat and the dunes in the eastern part of the island.
Would you like to pick your own cranberries? You can! There are special picking days when visitors, under guidance, are allowed to harvest their own berries. A unique experience where you not only enjoy nature but also go home with a basket full of fresh cranberries.
Cranberry Products: Taste the Island
On Terschelling, cranberries are processed into a variety of delicious products. From sweet to savoury and from drinks to desserts: the possibilities are endless.
Cranberry Jam – Perfect for spreading on bread or enjoying with a cheese board.
Cranberry Liqueur – A sweet and slightly tangy drink that is delightful as an aperitif.
Cranberry Cake – A local delicacy that you can sample in many cafés across the island.
Cranberry Juice – Refreshing and healthy, with a natural sweet and sour taste.
Cranberry Beer – Specially brewed with Terschelling cranberries for a unique flavour.
You can taste or purchase these products at various locations across the island. Among others at:
Zelfpluktuin Groenhof in Hoorn – Pick your own cranberries and take them home fresh. A perfect activity for the whole family! Additionally, you can also purchase ready-made products such as cranberry juice and dried cranberries here.
In addition, cranberry products are available at numerous other shops, restaurants, and terraces on Terschelling. From fresh cake and artisanal jam to liqueur and sweets: you will always find something featuring the island’s red gold.
Cranberry Walks and Nature Experiences
In addition to the harvest and the products, cranberries are also a reason to explore the stunning nature of Terschelling. The island offers various walking routes that take you through the dunes and past fields of wild cranberries. Along the way, you can enjoy the tranquillity, the fresh sea air, and the unique landscape.
Boschplaat Route – A walk through the nature reserve De Boschplaat, where you can not only find cranberries but also a great diversity of birds and plants.
Oosterend Dune Walk – This route takes you through the dunes at Oosterend, one of the most important growth areas for cranberries.
Formerum Nature Trail – Combine a visit to the Cranberry Shop with a walk through the surrounding nature, where, with a bit of luck, you might also come across wild cranberries.
Would you like to learn more about the nature of Terschelling? Then a guided excursion with a local guide is highly recommended. They will tell you all about the island’s flora and fauna and show you where to find the most beautiful cranberry fields.
The History of Cranberries on Terschelling
The story of cranberries on Terschelling begins in the 19th century with a remarkable accident. Around 1840, a barrel of cranberries washed up on the island’s beach. Curious islanders opened the barrel and threw the berries away into the dunes. To their surprise, the berries began to grow and flourish there, thanks to the acidic, sandy dune landscape in which cranberries thrive perfectly. Since then, cranberries have become an inseparable part of Terschelling.
"What once began as a lucky accident has grown into an important symbol of the island."
Today, cranberries still grow wild in the dunes of Terschelling. The harvest is carefully regulated to protect nature while still allowing enjoyment of the delicious yield.
Tips for Your Visit to Terschelling
If you are visiting Terschelling to discover the cranberries, there are a few things to keep in mind to make the most of your visit:
Best time to visit: The cranberry season runs from September to November. This is the perfect time to enjoy the harvest and the various events.
Pick your own: If you want to pick your own cranberries, do so only in areas where it is permitted and be respectful of nature.
Taste and buy: Don’t forget to visit local shops and farms for fresh cranberries and artisanal products.
Walking and cycling: Explore the cranberry fields on a walk or cycle through the dunes. Don’t forget your camera, as the red berries against the sand and the green dunes make for stunning photos.
Cranberries are not only a delicious treat, but also an important part of the culture and nature of Terschelling. Whether you enjoy a freshly baked cranberry cake, pick berries yourself in the dunes, or learn more about the history at the Cranberry Museum, you will experience a unique side of the island. Plan your visit during the harvest season to taste cranberries at their best, and don’t forget to take a few jars of jam or a bottle of liqueur home as a tasty memento!
