Paesens: Fishing History and Tidal Flat Landscape

Paesens and Moddergat are twin villages, among the few well-preserved fishing villages, with protected townscapes. Fishing history, the dike and the tidal flats shape the themes you can explore during a stay. There are also paths through the landscape and views across the Wadden Sea region. The following places and activities offer different highlights, from historic village life to nature by the dike.

Fishing History and Townscape

A monument on the sea dike at Paesens-Moddergat commemorates the storm disaster of 5–6 March 1883. At the time, 83 fishermen lost their lives. The memorial site connects the coastal landscape with a specific chapter in the village’s history. Paesens is also home to De Hond, a large grain and husking mill built in 1861. It was used as a grain and husking mill, so its history also reflects the processing of grain.

The museum’s history also includes Klaske’s Húske: the house was the home of Klaske van der Lei (1900–1986), the last female fish auctioneer in the Netherlands. In 1995, the cottage became part of the museum and was restored to its former condition. The over 100-year-old L.A. Buma is also connected to the area’s fishing history. Since 2015, it has once again been rowed in the Paesens-Moddergat area and used in rowing-boat competitions. Its participation in competitions may vary by season.

Opening Hours

In 2026, Museum ’t Fiskershúske is open from 14 February to 31 October: Monday to Saturday, 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. On public holidays and Sundays in June, July and August, the museum is open from 12:00 pm to 5:00 pm. Hours are subject to change; check them before you travel.

The Garnalenfabriek is scheduled to be open to the public free of charge on Sundays from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm. However, it is not open every Sunday because the venue is occasionally hired out to groups. Check the latest Sunday notice before your visit.

Tidal Flats, Dikes and Trails

Peazemerlannen, with its salt marsh and summer polder, lies on the edge of Paesens and Moddergat. The area formed after a severe storm tore a hole in the dike, allowing the Wadden Sea to flow into the polder. A pier at Paesens stretches far out over the tidal flats. From there, you can see Schiermonnikoog and Engelsmanplaat; on a clear day, Ameland is also visible.

A 2.5-kilometre walking route runs through Peazemerlannen and over the Strekdam; it is accessible year-round. The red route has its own access period: it is open from 15 July to 15 March. Check the latest access rules before setting out. The Schone schoenentocht is a walk along the Wadden Sea coast and through the village. As operating dates may vary, it is worth checking the latest information before you travel.

Since 2008, Stichting Oan ’e dyk has organised mudflat walks at Paesens-Moddergat. Excursion dates may change, so check them in advance. Another way to learn about the villages’ history is the Waddentour, which can be followed by bicycle, car or on foot using information boards and/or GPS. Several cycling routes from Paesens-Moddergat also connect to the regional cycle junction network. So, as well as a walk by the sea, you can choose longer routes and different ways to get around.

Discover more destinations: Engwierum, Metslawier, Dokkum, Hantum, Wierum, Ee, Anjum, Waaxens Gem Dongeradeel

For the overview of the wider area: Dongeradeel.