The first time
Are you new to Into The Great Wide Open and to Vlieland? Great that you are going to make the crossing. To help you find your way on the island and at the festival, we share handy tips here.
The crossing
Vlieland is only accessible by boat. Rederij Doeksen operates the ferry service between Harlingen and Vlieland. You can book your crossing through their website. Reserve your ticket in time, as the boats fill up quickly around the festival weekend. The regular crossing takes 85 minutes, while the fast service takes about 45 minutes but is slightly more expensive. Make sure to arrive at least 30 minutes before departure.
The journey to Harlingen also requires some planning, and preferably choose a fossil-free option. We call that The Good Journey.
Accommodation
A place to sleep during the festival is arranged independently. Into The Great Wide Open offers a few options through ticket sales:
Camping Stortemelk
Stortemelk is a charming campsite close to the festival grounds and a short distance from the ferry. It is located in the dunes and offers a mix of tranquility and sociability. In addition to camping spots, there are also rental accommodations. On the grounds, you will find De Bolder: a restaurant and hall where it is pleasant to be during Into The Great Wide Open until late at night.
Nature Campsite De Lange Paal
De Lange Paal is a peaceful, green campsite managed by Staatsbosbeheer. It is a ten-minute bike ride from the ferry and fifteen minutes from the festival grounds. The campsite has a natural, simple layout and is ideal for lovers of tranquility and nature.
For those seeking a bit more luxury, there is the BlueCAMP arrangement at De Lange Paal: for three nights, you will sleep in a pre-set tent and wake up to a fresh breakfast. An extra night can be booked in consultation. Don't forget to bring your own sleeping bag!
Other accommodation options
If you do not want to camp, you can also choose a hotel or holiday home via VVV Vlieland, Op Vlieland, or on a ship in the Marina via Rederij Vooruit.
Don’t forget to bring this
Layers! Think of shirts, sweaters, and a windbreaker
Thick sweater and warm sleeping bag (it gets quite chilly at night)
Cap or hat against the sun
Slippers and swimwear for a morning dip
Sturdy footwear for dunes, forest, and longer walks
Sunscreen
Earplugs for a good night’s sleep and against loud music
Kitchen utensils if you want to cook
Power bank and flashlight
Wooden pegs for your tent
Transport on Vlieland
Coming by car is not an option, as Vlieland is car-free. Fortunately, there are plenty of other ways to get around. All festival locations are within walking distance, but exploring the island by bike is also ideal. Bike rental services are located close to the boat terminal, so reserve in time and mark your bike with something recognizable to find it quickly.
Upon arrival in Vlieland, you can have your luggage delivered to your accommodation for a small fee by Luggage Transportation Vlieland. They can also return your bags and suitcases to the boat terminal if desired. Don't forget to label your luggage with your name!
