Exploring the Northern Tip of Noord-Holland with Your Dog: Camping, Hiking, and Coastal Adventures
The North of Noord-Holland doesn’t always make the top of the list for weekend trips in the Netherlands with dogs, but it should. It’s a region full of wide-open landscapes, quiet nature, and plenty of space for dogs to roam. Here’s how we spent our weekend there with our dog, plus tips and things to do.
Stay: Dog-Friendly Camping & Tiny Houses at Het Bos Roept
We stayed at Het Bos Roept, a small-scale nature campsite that feels far removed from the busier, commercial sites. What makes it special is the freedom to choose your spot and the beautiful woods surrounding the site. If your dog prefers quiet, you can set up along the forest edge, while more social dogs might enjoy being near the central area with the playground and amenities.
The campsite also offers beautiful tiny houses, each designed in unique shapes and sizes but carefully crafted to blend in with the natural surroundings. These cabins are a great option if you want the back-to-nature experience without pitching a tent. They’re cosy, stylish, and perfect for a dog-friendly getaway in every season.
The facilities are simple but thoughtful: fresh bread in the mornings, a small shop with local goodies, and themed food nights where campers gather together. There are also yoga sessions, and if you’re looking to really unwind, you can rent their wood-fired hot tub. Unlike many campsites, the vibe here is relaxed and unhurried, which makes it easier when traveling with a dog.
Tip: If your dog is reactive, find a pitch on the edge of the forest or book one of the secluded tiny houses for more privacy.
Hike: Best Hikes in Noord-Holland with Dogs – Robbenoordbos Trails
This region is perfect for walking with your dog, and one of the highlights of our trip was a hike starting from Wandelstartpunt Robbenoordbos. This forested area is full of winding trails that feel far more remote than their location suggests. It’s a great place to let your dog sniff and explore, and because the paths vary in length, you can choose anything from a quick wander to a longer trek.
Local’s Tip: Always check local signage for leash rules. In some forest sections, dogs are welcome off-leash, but in others, they must stay on lead to protect wildlife.
Explore: Den Oever, The Afsluitdijk & Dog-Friendly Places to Eat
A short drive brings you to Den Oever, where you can admire sweeping views of the Afsluitdijk—the famous dam that separates the IJsselmeer from the Wadden Sea. Dogs will love the fresh sea breeze, and it’s a great place for photos with a dramatic backdrop.
While in Den Oever, don’t miss Vis van Havenzicht, a casual spot right by the water serving some of the freshest fish and chips you’ll ever try. The best part? It’s dog-friendly, with plenty of other four-legged visitors relaxing beside their owners.
For supplies, the Dekamarkt in Den Oever has all the basics, including dog food, making it a useful stop if you’re camping or staying in a tiny house and need groceries.
More Dog-Friendly Things to Do in North of Noord-Holland
- Coastal Walks: Head toward the Wadden Sea coast for breezy dike walks with panoramic views. Dogs will love the open space and salty air.
- Beach Time: Depending on the season, parts of the North Sea beaches near Callantsoog or Julianadorp are dog-friendly and perfect for a run in the sand.
- Villages to Visit: Explore Medemblik or Enkhuizen, charming harbor towns with relaxed cafés where dogs are welcome on outdoor terraces.
Why the Northern Tip of Noord-Holland Works So Well for Dogs
What makes this corner of the Netherlands special is its mix of peace, variety, and accessibility. Its location is a real advantage. From here you can be on Texel within half an hour, enjoying wide sandy beaches where dogs are welcome year-round. Head the other way across the Afsluitdijk and Friesland’s open landscapes are at your feet. Few places offer such an easy base to explore three very different dog-friendly destinations in one weekend. And all of it a short trip out of Amsterdam.
For dog owners looking for somewhere that feels spacious, authentic, and full of hidden gems, the northern tip of Noord-Holland is a destination that delivers far more than you might expect.
FAQ: Visiting the Northern Tip of Noord-Holland with Your Dog
Is this area dog-friendly?
Yes, the northern tip of Noord-Holland around Den Oever is ideal for dogs. With quiet forests like Robbenoordbos, breezy dike walks, and uncrowded coastal spots, it’s far more relaxed than the busier beaches further south.
Can dogs swim here?
Dogs can splash around along the Wadden Sea coast and in small lakes and waterways nearby. For proper beach time, it’s just a short drive to the North Sea beaches at Callantsoog or Julianadorp, where dogs are welcome (seasonal rules apply).
What makes this area special for dog owners?
Its location. From Het Bos Roept, you’re right on the edge of the Wadden Sea, with easy access to Texel (a short ferry hop from Den Helder) and even Friesland via the Afsluitdijk. That makes it a perfect base for exploring multiple regions with your dog in one weekend.
Where can I eat out with my dog nearby?
Den Oever is your best bet — casual spots like Vis van Havenzicht welcome dogs, and there are plenty of outdoor terraces where four-legged friends can relax while you enjoy fresh fish.
What are the best walks in the area?
Robbenoordbos is the highlight for forest trails, but the dike paths along the Wadden Sea are equally rewarding. For longer adventures, take the ferry to Texel, which is one of the most dog-friendly islands in the Netherlands.
What should I pack for a dog-friendly trip here?
Bring a long lead for forest and dike walks, an LED collar for evenings at the campsite, and a lightweight towel if your dog enjoys a swim or beach run. If you’re planning to hop over to Texel or walk the Afsluitdijk, sturdy shoes and plenty of water are also essential.