Ternaard is a small village in the far north of Friesland. From the village, you can walk towards the Wadden Sea, winding your way between the sheep.
On the edge of a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Around Ternaard, you’ll find extensive farmland and characteristic hamlets, such as Fiskbuorren, with former fishermen’s homes. To the north of the village lies It Skoar, where the land meets the Wadden Sea. Beyond the Spaanse paal – a spot where, according to tradition, corporal punishments were handed out during the Spanish period – you can climb the 8-metre-high dyke and enjoy beautiful views across the waters of the Wadden Sea.
The history of the village
Ternaard probably originated where three waterways came together. The first records of the village date from the 9th century. In the Middle Ages, it developed into a relatively large village. Until 1984, Ternaard was the administrative centre of the former municipality of Westdongeradeel.
The village is home to several historic buildings and several churches. The Mennonite church has now been converted into a B&B and rest point. The oldest church is the late-Gothic Grote Kerk from the 16th century, which can still be visited for a Sunday church service. A war memorial can also be found beside the church.
In the past, several noble families had estates in the village, including Aylva State. Today, around the Grote Kerk, you can still find several distinguished homes and a beautiful inn that offer a glimpse into Ternaard’s grand past.
For visitors, there is a campsite in the centre of the village, as well as several accommodation options and a convenient village supermarket.
Ternaard has a lively community life and is part of the municipality of Noardeast-Fryslân.
