Attractions and Places To See around Tsjûkemar - Top 12
Best attractions and places to see around Tsjûkemar, the largest inland lake in the Dutch province of Friesland, blend natural beauty with cultural and historical sites. The region offers opportunities for outdoor activities, including exploring its extensive water features and surrounding landscapes. Visitors can discover historical landmarks and local legends that define the area.
Best attractions and places to see around Tsjûkemar
- The most popular attractions is It Gemaaltje (Oosterzee Pump House), an old lock house that serves as a nice place to rest with a picnic table. Benches and tables are set up directly on the shore, offering a pleasant resting spot.
- Another must-see spot is Echten Pumping Station, a historic pumping station built in 1913 to drain the Veenpolder near Echten. Designated a protected monument, it now houses an art gallery.
- Visitors also love Lake Tsjûkemar, the largest body of water in the Friese Meren. It offers opportunities for swimming and various water sports, surrounded by nature.
- Tsjûkemar is known for its natural features, historical landmarks, and cultural sites. The area provides a variety of attractions to see and explore, from water activities to cycling paths and monuments.
- The attractions around Tsjûkemar are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 370 upvotes and 45 photos shared.
Last updated: June 23, 2026
It Gemaaltje (Oosterzee Pump House)
Highlight • Structure
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Lake Tsjûkemar
Highlight • Lake
With a fixed bridge in the south (towards Lemmer), the Tsjûkemar ends in the north with one of the few remaining motorway lift bridges (towards Joure). The clearance height of the fixed bridge can block larger sailors. The towns of Echtenerbrug, Delfstrahuizen, Vierhuis and Oosterzee are located on the lake. There are also a few campsites. Echtenerbrug and Delfstrahuizen are separated by the Christaansloot pier. This is part of a small part of an old peat route that leads to the Tsjûkemar and is now equipped with many moorings. This is also where the exit towards the province of Overijssel is located. In the southwest, the exit leads over the Follegasloot to Groote Brekken and to Lemmer.
Very nice cycle paths, swimming opportunities. Great nature.
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Image of the 'suskes' at the shell path
Highlight • Trail
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Tsjûke en March Statue
Highlight • Monument
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Echten Pumping Station
Highlight • Monument
Today, it houses an art gallery. This unique combination of historic pumping station, art, and beautiful scenery makes it a special place to visit.
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Tsjûkemar.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
At this time of year, at the end of May, you absolutely must keep your mouth closed when cycling! Otherwise, there's a risk of inhaling one of the millions of mosquitoes 🦟. 😁🤐
0
0
On the southern shore of Lake Tjeukemeer lies the historic Echten Pumping Station. Built in 1913 to drain the Veenpolder near Echten, the pumping station was designated a protected monument in 2001. After a thorough restoration, it has returned to its former glory. Today, it houses an art gallery. This unique combination of historic pumping station, art, and beautiful scenery makes it a special place to visit.
0
0
Here, along the shore of Lake Tjeukemeer, stands the statue of the Suskes sisters. Where the lake now lies, the sisters had a farm. One hot summer evening, it caught fire. Because the adjacent ditch had dried up, the sisters fought the fire with buckets of fresh milk. But the heat immediately caused the moisture in the milk to evaporate, while the milk fat fanned the flames. Panicking, the sisters called out each other's names, "Tsjûke and Marchje." This, according to legend, is how Lake Tjeukemeer got its name.
1
0
Very nice cycle path by the lake.
0
0
When the weather is nice, everyone can😃
1
0
Tsjûkemar is an inland lake in the Dutch province of Friesland on the edge of the province of Overijssel and the largest body of water in the so-called Friese Meren. It used to be just a shallow lake with no special tourist attractions. With a fixed bridge in the south (towards Lemmer), the Tsjûkemar ends in the north with one of the few remaining motorway lift bridges (towards Joure). The clearance height of the fixed bridge can block larger sailors. The towns of Echtenerbrug, Delfstrahuizen, Vierhuis and Oosterzee are located on the lake. There are also a few campsites. Echtenerbrug and Delfstrahuizen are separated by the Christaansloot pier. This is part of a small part of an old peat route that leads to the Tsjûkemar and is now equipped with many moorings. This is also where the exit towards the province of Overijssel is located. In the southwest, the exit leads over the Follegasloot to Groote Brekken and to Lemmer. Very nice cycle paths, swimming opportunities. Great nature.
1
0
Beautiful old lock house at the beginning of a lovely shell path!
1
0
A lovely crackling shell path along the Tjeukermeer. As is often the case in Friesland, it pays to take the wind into account. Can be a bit busier on weekends and holidays, so think about your speed.
2
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What natural features can I explore around Tsjûkemar?
The primary natural feature is Lake Tsjûkemar itself, the largest inland lake in Friesland, offering opportunities for swimming and various water sports. The surrounding area features beautiful reed beds, smaller lakes, and diverse birdlife, all accessible via extensive cycling and walking paths.
Are there any historical landmarks to visit near Tsjûkemar?
Yes, you can visit the historic Echten Pumping Station, a protected monument from 1913 that now houses an art gallery. Other historical sites include the Christaansloot Pier, part of an old peat route, and several historic churches like the Laurenskerk in Echten and the Jacobuskerk in Delfstrahuizen, as well as the Follega and Doniaga Bell Towers.
What cultural sites are there to see in the Tsjûkemar region?
The Echten Pumping Station, which now serves as an art gallery, is a notable cultural site. Additionally, the region offers the Cultural Route Tsjûkemar, a 30-kilometer path showcasing artworks and historical sites around the lake. The Laurenskerk in Echten also serves as a starting point for cultural routes.
Are there family-friendly attractions around Tsjûkemar?
Many attractions are family-friendly. It Gemaaltje (Oosterzee Pump House) is a great resting spot with picnic tables. Lake Tsjûkemar offers swimming and water sports. The Tsjûke en March Statue and the Image of the 'suskes' at the shell path commemorate a local legend, which can be an engaging story for children.
What outdoor activities can I do near these attractions?
The region is excellent for outdoor activities. You can enjoy various water sports on Lake Tsjûkemar, including boating, canoeing, and stand-up paddleboarding. There are also numerous cycling and walking paths. For specific routes, explore the Road Cycling Routes around Tsjûkemar, Cycling around Tsjûkemar, and Easy hikes around Tsjûkemar guides.
Are there easy walking trails around Tsjûkemar?
Yes, there are several easy walking trails. For example, the 'Rinne yn Frijheid' walking route starts at the Laurenskerk in Echten. You can find more options in the Easy hikes around Tsjûkemar guide, which includes routes like the Christiaan Bridge – Beach View loop from Delfstrahuizen.
What is the legend behind the name Tsjûkemar?
The name Tsjûkemar is linked to a local legend commemorated by the Tsjûke en March Statue. It tells of two sisters, Tsjûke and Marchje, who tried to extinguish a farm fire with milk because a ditch had dried up. In their panic, they called out each other's names, which is said to have given the lake its name. Two islands in the lake, Tsjûkepolle and Marchjepolle, are also named after them.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Tsjûkemar?
Visitors particularly enjoy the peaceful resting spots, such as It Gemaaltje (Oosterzee Pump House), which offers benches and tables directly on the shore. The scenic cycling paths around Lake Tsjûkemar and the unique blend of history and art at the Echten Pumping Station are also highly appreciated.
Can I find places to rest or picnic near the attractions?
Absolutely. It Gemaaltje (Oosterzee Pump House) is specifically highlighted as a pleasant resting spot with a picnic table and benches directly on the shore. Many of the cycling and walking paths also offer scenic viewpoints perfect for a break.
Are there any accessible attractions for visitors with mobility needs?
Yes, the Tsjûke en March Statue is noted as wheelchair accessible, allowing more visitors to enjoy this cultural landmark and its accompanying legend.
What are Echtenerbrug and Delfstrahuizen known for?
Echtenerbrug and Delfstrahuizen are twin villages located directly on Lake Tsjûkemar. They are worth visiting for their charming lakeside setting and as starting points for exploring the surrounding area. The Christaansloot pier, which separates the two villages, is part of an old peat route and offers moorings.
What is the best time to visit Tsjûkemar for outdoor activities?
The region is generally pleasant for outdoor activities during spring, summer, and early autumn when the weather is mildest for cycling, walking, and water sports on Lake Tsjûkemar. The cycling and walking paths are particularly enjoyable when the weather is favorable.
Most popular routes around Tsjûkemar
Most popular attractions around Tsjûkemar
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:
