we hugged Fieke’s parents goodbye and boarded the ferry. it took us across the water for an hour or so, rocking only when we came close to the open ocean. the ferry docked at Vlieland by 10:30, at which point Fieke’s aunt met us at the very quiet harbour - she too was enjoying a weekend away from the city. after visiting her accomodation, we said goodbye and explored the village.
the village is quiet, with one main street of stores and restaurants. the community has existed for over 500 years, though the island itself ‘walks’, largely composed of a dune that keeps moving and changing shape over time. Fieke and her family have spent a great deal of time here together, and it’s really special to see and share in her nostalgia for the place.
after dropping our bags at the hotel, we did some more exploring, walking up one of the hills to the lighthouse, near which we enjoyed some locally made cheeses.
for lunch Fieke took me into the village to try poffertjes - baby pancakes that melt in your mouth. we enjoyed them with cinnamon and stroop (the best and thickest syrup I think I’ve ever tried).
after siesta we walked through the forest to the beach. the wind was fierce and it felt like I was home. I was reminded of the beaches on an island on which I’ve spent a great deal of time with my own family back in Tasmania.
pizza and salad for dinner. we tried local ales from the brewery on the island. on our walk home we stopped and listened to the silence of the trees and distant waves. back at the hotel we watched a terrible movie on Fieke’s laptop and laughed and laughed.
more exploring tomorrow - I think we might rent bikes. feeling very lucky to be here, and so happy to be spending time with my dear friend again. <<
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