Moorings. If you've ever been homesick or felt exiled from all the things and people that once defined you, you'll know how important welcoming words and friendly smiles can be.
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"Under the Windmill" in Dokkum.
Dokkum is one of our favourite cities. It seems to have everything in the way of shops and restaurants as well as an interesting history of over 1250 years After Stavoren, Dokkum is the oldest of the eleven towns of Friesland. It takes us about 4 hours to motor to Dokkum going through just one bridge which needs to be opened for us, at Eastermar. 2
Donkerbroek
Donkerbroek lies on the Turf Route which also passes through our own village of Wijnewoude. Back in the 16th century, a network of canals was dug, over which peat (turf) shippers could transport their freight to provide heating fuel for the major cities of the south. The Turf Route was almost closed but has thankfully been kept in operation by an organisation known as " Friends of the turf route" and it's future is now relatively secure in the Watersport sector of the economy. 3
Felder's Boskje
Also located on the Turf Route about 8 kms from our home. The small patch of woods is named after the man who planted it.... Mr Felder. Literal translation is "Felder's Little Woods". In any case it provides a pleasant backdrop to the relatively new mooring.
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Olderberkoop 2013
Also located on the Turf Route, Olderberkoop is the "jewel" in an otherwise rather plain section known as the Tjonger.
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Gorredijk 2012
Site of the first lock as we enter the Turf Route. coming from Drachten. This is actually the lowest point in the system; the rise is approximately 12 metres as we head towards Donkerbroek and Appelscha. All the bridge opening costs are included in the entry fee, although there are still a few "selfservice" bridges along the way. Crew member Janny usually jumps off to do this but sometimes in school holidays there are kids waiting to open them - for a small fee. 6
Terwispel 2013
On the way from Drachten to Gorredijk. Horrie & Cheryl having a well-earned rest! Janny's Mum was born not far from here.
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Blokzijl 2013
A very touristy village. We were lucky to find a spot only 150 metres from the haven facilities and only 100 metres further to the home of the Dennis Burger. At the pub next to the lock in the centre of Blokzijl.
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Home berth Drachten 2014
Located about 20 minutes drive from home at a privately run haven called De Drait.
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De Rot 2014
Located on a body of water called De Leien. This mooring is on an island called De Rot (The Rat). Only about an hour from Drachten.
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