Frequently asked questions
Yes, swimming with horses is bareback. We do use a bareback pad whilst riding to and from the water, but this comes off before the horse enters the water for swimming. The swimming itself happens completely without saddle or pad.
Yes, that's absolutely possible in our beginners' group, where we walk and trot and adjust the pace to suit whoever has the least experience.
Yes, that's absolutely possible in our beginners' group, where we walk and trot and adapt the pace to suit whoever needs the most support.
Yes, every Duintent has private facilities.
From the moment your child can sit independently well. For smaller children, it's possible to hire a back carrier or cart.
Yes, that's possible. We can accommodate up to 8 people per private group with two instructors - you can request this by email.
During the North Sea horse and cart expedition, a drag net is pulled behind the cart across the seabed to catch shrimp and other sea creatures.
The maximum age for the donkey walk is 8 years old.
The maximum weight for the donkey ride is 40 kg and a maximum age of 8 years.
We don't breed our Shire horses ourselves; they originally come from England. Just like our other horses, they've been trained in a consistent and respectful manner, making them friendly and reliable riding horses. They graze happily together as a herd out in the countryside. Shire horses are among the largest horse breeds in the world, and at Puur Terschelling their height at the withers ranges between 1.70 metres and 1.90 metres. Something for everyone, with animal welfare always being our top priority.
We breed our Friesian horses ourselves, so we can be certain they've been trained in a consistent and respectful manner. This makes them friendly and reliable riding horses. They roam happily together as a herd in our fields. We have Friesian horses of varying heights, from 1.50 metres to 1.80 metres tall. There's something for everyone, and we always put animal welfare first.
Puur Terschelling offers various outdoor rides for both beginner and experienced riders, lasting 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5 hours, including evening rides, full moon rides and swimming with horses. Private rides are available from 1 hour and can be combined with a private horse-drawn carriage. Group rides start from 2 hours. We always ride in small groups of minimum 2 and maximum 6 people, keeping things safe and enjoyable. Upon request, private group rides are possible for up to 8 people with 2 guides. Riders of different levels can ride together, but there's no galloping in the beginner group. The group cannot be split during the ride due to the herd behaviour of our Puur horses.
Nearly all our Puur horses are ridden with Australian Stock saddles with shorter stirrups during our outdoor rides. These saddles offer excellent comfort thanks to their soft foam seats and provide extra safety through their stable riding position and supportive knee blocks. Additionally, they're lightweight, durable and easy to maintain.
At Puur Terschelling, we use safety stirrups. These stirrups are designed to provide extra safety and comfort whilst horse riding. The safety stirrups prevent your foot from slipping through the stirrup. Additionally, they have a wide and large footbed, making them suitable for both children and adults. Thanks to this design, riders experience less fatigue in their muscles, joints and soles of their feet. The stirrups are also easy and quick to find again during outdoor rides, which contributes to extra safety and confidence whilst riding.
At Puur Terschelling, the wellbeing and health of our horses comes first. Because our horses are ridden almost daily by different riders, it's important to do this responsibly without overworking the horses. That's why we always choose a horse that suits the rider's weight and experience. We also use a mounting block when getting on. Using this mounting block relieves pressure on the horse's back during mounting. Both beginner and experienced riders always mount using the mounting block with us. This is more pleasant, safer and more animal-friendly for both horse and rider.
Yes, that's absolutely possible! On Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays from 1st April to 1st November, we organise a wonderful 2.5-hour beach and Boschplaat covered wagon tour starting at 1:00 PM. At the very same time, our outdoor horse riding experience also takes place. Within your group, you can easily combine both activities: some members can join the covered wagon adventure whilst others can enjoy the outdoor horse ride. Please bear in mind that the routes for the covered wagon and horses aren't exactly the same, so you'll be experiencing a Puur Terschelling activity simultaneously, but each in your own special way along different paths. This means everyone in your party can enjoy a perfectly suited and unforgettable experience at the same time.
During pregnancy, we advise against horse riding at Puur Terschelling. Whilst medical advice can vary from person to person and gynaecologists and midwives don't always give consistent guidance, horse riding remains an activity with risks due to unexpected movements of the horse. At Puur Terschelling, the safety of both rider and horse comes first. Because our horses aren't familiar to riders beforehand and every situation in the saddle can be different, we've chosen not to offer horse riding to expectant mothers. We understand this can sometimes be disappointing, but we make this choice to completely avoid risks and ensure everyone's safety.
The maximum rider weight depends on the horse. A horse can typically carry 12% to 20% of its own body weight. At Puur Terschelling, we work with Friesian and Shire horses that weigh between 450kg and 1000kg. Based on this, the maximum rider weight is approximately between 90kg and 120kg. We kindly ask riders over 100kg to indicate this when booking. Our team will then consider both weight and experience to choose a suitable horse, ensuring both horse and rider can safely and comfortably enjoy the outdoor ride.
Check-in is between 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM. Check-out is possible between 8:00 AM and 10:00 AM.
Check-in is available between 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM. Check-out is possible between 8:00 AM and 10:00 AM.
Prices vary depending on high or low season. On the website, you can select your period under Accommodation and view the price.
Prices vary depending on high or low season. On the website, you can select your period under Sleeping and view the price.
You can book either the "Puur Slapen" apartment or a dune tent directly through our website: boeken.puur-terschelling.nl or if you have any questions, simply send an email to:
You can book a dune tent directly on our website: boeken.puur-terschelling.nl or if you have any questions, simply send an email to:
You can book the "Puur Slapen" apartment directly through the booking page on the website: boeken.puur-terschelling.nl or if you have any questions by sending an email to:
Yes, our dune tents have heating: infrared panel, electric heater, and extra warmth from warm sheepskins and hot water bottles.
Yes, there are four furnished six-person Duintenten with privat facilities and one Puur Slapen apartment with privat hot tub.
The 4x4 Landrover tour is always private, so you can travel with your own group and tailor the Landrover tour to your wishes.
For trips on the North Sea beach, this is possible from 1 October to 1 April. Without the North Sea beach, it's possible all year round.
We ask you to arrive 5 minutes before the start. This allows plenty of time for checking in before the start of a relaxed 4x4 Landrover tour.
No, the 4x4 Landrover isn't suitable for wheelchairs. Only passengers who can take their seats independently can travel with us.
Yes, dogs are warmly welcome during the 4x4 Landrover tour. They must be well under control.
A pram or buggy cannot be brought along during beach trips. A Maxi-Cosi is allowed. Additionally, car seats and booster seats are available to borrow - please let us know in advance.
No, driving yourself is not permitted. All 4x4 journeys are driven by an experienced driver with the proper licence.
Yes, provided it's properly secured and safely positioned.
No, this won't fit. A pushchair or buggy can stay under the shelter in the courtyard at Puur.
The driving coachman sits on the right-hand side, but our carriages have brakes on both sides.
The small carriage (max. 3 people + guide) has no canopy. The large carriage (max. 7 people + guide) is covered against rain and wind.
The minimum age for driving is 12 years.
Yes, children from 12 years old are allowed to drive on the carriage driving vehicles.
There are two horses in front of the carriages.
You can go carriage driving with 1 to a maximum of 7 people. The carriages have dual brakes, so the passenger can always help with braking.
The driving starts and ends at the Puur yard, Oosterend 39.
We ask you to arrive 30 minutes before the start. This allows sufficient time for harnessing the carriage and instructions before beginning a relaxing carriage drive.
Your child may weigh a maximum of 40kg or be 1.30 metres tall to safely sit on the donkey.
Yes, you may! Bread, apples and of course lots of love are very welcome.
No, there is no guidance provided during the donkey walk.
Yes, that's possible, but not on the donkey's back due to the risk of burns. For this purpose, we have a rucksack available free of charge for an adult.
Yes, there's a rucksack donkey basket available, free of charge.
No, you may bring your own picnic or have it provided by a local caterer.
Yes, the donkey can carry a picnic or one child, not both at the same time.
Only one child at a time is allowed on the donkey, for the stability and safety of both the donkey and the child.
Yes, it is possible to hire a child carrier for an additional fee.
Yes, it is possible to hire a cart for an additional charge.
Yes, that's possible - the price remains the same.
The donkey walk lasts a maximum of 2.5 hours.
The donkey walk is 6.3 km or 6.8 km, depending on the chosen route.
The donkey walks start and end at the Puur farm, Oosterend 39.
We ask you to arrive 15 minutes before the start. This gives us plenty of time for registration, instruction and possibly trying on caps before beginning a relaxing donkey walk.
Yes, they can! We have a child carrier for up to 18 kg and a cart for hire, in which a Maxi-Cosi can also be placed if needed.
Yes, dogs are welcome. They must walk in front of the donkey, so the donkey can clearly see how the dog behaves. Walking behind the donkey is not allowed.
The mudflat hiking is approximately 2 to 3 km long.
No, that's entirely optional. The costs for the mudflat hiking remain the same, even if you don't participate. The tasting actually consists of more than just oysters, by the way.
No, the oyster tasting takes place afterwards at the Puur farmyard.
Yes, you can. We recommend protecting your camera well against water and sand/clay.
Wear multiple layers due to the changing weather conditions on the island. Choose clothing that fits comfortably and is suitable for mudflat walking, regardless of wind, sun or rain.
Yes, there are mudflat walking shoes available free of charge in sizes 25 to 46.
Yes, boots are available to borrow free of charge in sizes 27 to 50.
The mudflat hiking starts and ends at the Puur farm, Oosterend 39.
We ask you to arrive 15 minutes before the start. This gives us plenty of time for registration and fitting footwear before beginning a relaxed mudflat hiking experience.
No, dogs are not allowed during mudflat walking. This is for safety reasons and to avoid disturbing nature and wading birds.
Yes, toddlers and young children can come along in a back carrier on an adult's back. A back carrier can be hired from Puur, so even the littlest ones can enjoy safely. The mudflat walking is 2 to 3 km.
General terms and conditions apply to booked activities. Once the booking is placed, it is final. In case of cancellation, 100% of the costs apply for the guest.
The covered wagon tour almost always goes ahead, but in extreme weather or unsafe conditions the covered wagon tour may be adapted or postponed. Safety always comes first.
During the covered wagon tour, the coachman always holds the reins. Would you like to drive yourself? That's possible with a privat driving carriage and instructor. You can view available times and costs on the website and book directly. Have a different time in mind? Send an email to
Yes, a Privat covered wagon tour is possible. You can view and book available times and costs via the website. Would you like a different time? Send an email to:
Yes, children from 0 to 12 years old (up to and including 11 years) all pay. Buggies, pushchairs and Maxi-Cosi car seats are allowed. Only babies in a baby carrier with a parent don't need their own ticket.
Yes, that's absolutely fine. We always provide coffee/tea/squash and a piece of pound cake
The large covered wagon can accommodate a maximum of 20/22 people, and the small covered wagon can accommodate a maximum of 7 people.
The ramps are long and gradual, making it safe and comfortable to drive into the covered wagon.
Yes, that's allowed. 2 to 3 children can sit at the front next to the coachman, and during the covered wagon tour they can take turns with other children if needed.
Yes, the covered wagon is suitable for guests with various forms of disability. Wheelchair users can join, and we can provide extra assistance with boarding or with step-ups. Please let us know in advance so we can prepare everything for a safe covered wagon tour.
Yes, sheepskins are available during cold weather conditions.
Yes, there are clean fleece blankets available so you can keep warm during the covered wagon tour.
Yes, there are toilets at the two beach crossings, but you'll only have a short time to use them.
Yes, dogs are most welcome in the covered wagon, provided they are well under control.
The covered wagon tours start and end at the Puur farm, Oosterend 39.
We ask you to arrive 15 minutes before the start. This gives us enough time for you to check in for a relaxed covered wagon tour.
The maximum width for a wheelchair in the covered wagon is 85 cm.
Yes, an electric wheelchair can come along too. Please let us know in advance so we can arrange the loading ramps.
Yes, a wheelchair can come along. Please let us know in advance so that the ramps can be ready.
Yes, dogs are very welcome on the covered wagon tour. They do need to be well under control though, so that it remains safe and enjoyable for everyone.
Yes, a pram, pushchair or Maxi-Cosi is allowed on the covered wagon. A ticket price applies for children aged 0 to 11 years. Only a baby in a baby carrier with an adult does not need their own ticket.
Yes, provided this is arranged in advance with the Puur team.
The swimming with horses starts and finishes at the Puur farm, Oosterend 39.
We ask you to arrive 30 minutes before the start. This allows plenty of time for registration, instructions and possibly fitting a riding hat for a relaxed outdoor ride.
We ask you to arrive 30 minutes before the start. This gives us plenty of time for registration, receiving instructions and putting on the wetsuit for swimming with horses.
No, that's not necessary. Our horses listen excellently without spurs.
Yes, a personal body protector may be used. Please pay close attention to size and fit for optimal safety, as body protectors are not available at Puur Terschelling.
Wear swimwear with a wetsuit (all sizes available) and jogging clothes over the top.
No, we ride with comfortable stock saddles.
Yes, only with a flexible elastic band on your cap.
No, for your safety it's not allowed. Please wear long trousers and closed sturdy shoes.
Wear multiple layers adapted to wind, sun and rain. Choose clothing that doesn't flap about, so you can ride safely and comfortably, regardless of the weather.
No, during the outdoor ride it's not permitted to use a mobile phone. Taking photos is only allowed during the special photo moment, under supervision. You have the reins in your hands and safety comes first.
Taking photos is only allowed during the special photo moment of the outdoor ride, under the supervision of Puur. During the actual riding, cameras and phones are not permitted, as you need to hold the reins and safety comes first.
The prices for the outdoor rides are listed on the Puur Terschelling website.
No, there is no lift available.
Yes, that's possible, depending on the nature of the disability. Please get in touch beforehand to see what's possible. There is no hoist lift available. A covered wagon ride is a good accessible alternative.
No, chaps are not required, but are available to borrow free of charge if needed.
Yes, a riding hat is compulsory and available to borrow free of charge.
No, a dog may not come along during the outdoor ride.
Only outdoor rides of at least 2 hours go to the North Sea beach.
No, during the advanced outdoor rides there is only controlled galloping. Do all outdoor rides go to the beach?
During the advanced outdoor rides of at least 2 hours, there is only controlled galloping on the North Sea beach.
Yes, you can make a privat ride: 1 hour through the dunes and cranberry fields (without beach) or 2 hours through dunes, forest, cranberry fields and the beach.
Yes, all outdoor rides are supervised by a Puur guide.
Yes, it is possible to take part in a Puur buitenrit without parents.
The maximum age is 65 years.
The minimum age is 8 years or a height of 1.30 metres.
No, that's not possible. Horses are herd animals, so we always ride together at the lowest level in the group.
If there's a difference in ability within your group, we always adapt to the person with the lowest level. Horses are herd animals, so we can't split up during the outdoor ride.
We deliberately offer lessons for beginners and advanced riders only. Not sure which level suits you? Have a chat with your instructor about which level would be best for you. Puur Terschelling also offers beginners+ a 3-hour outdoor ride for beginners.
For a beginner's hack, no experience is needed up to 3 years of weekly lessons. You do need to be in normal health.
For the advanced trail ride, you need at least 3 years of weekly riding lessons.
It doesn't have to be recent, but you must feel comfortable in the saddle.
The start and finish location is Oosterend 39, at the yard of Puur Terschelling, where the trail ride returns to as well.
We ask all riders to arrive 30 minutes before the start. This allows sufficient time for registration, instruction and possibly fitting a riding hat for a relaxed outdoor ride.
You can park the car in the parking spaces at the Puur site in Oosterend.
No, Puur Terschelling is a smoke-free company and affiliated with the Smoke-Free Generation.
Yes, in extremely cold weather conditions you can borrow thermal suits, so you stay warm and comfortable during activities.
Yes, you can borrow thermal jumpsuits and thermal suits for cold weather.
Yes, you can borrow rain jackets and rain trousers, so you can take part in all activities whilst staying dry and comfortable.
Yes, when temperatures exceed 30 degrees, a heat protocol applies. Between 12:00 and 16:00, we observe a rest period for guests, horses, donkeys and all Puur activities.
Yes, closed shoes are allowed because we ride with closed safety stirrups for extra safety.
Yes, you can borrow wellington boots in sizes 27 to 50.
No, there is no dog sitting service available.
No, there is no childcare service available.
Yes, there is a children's potty available in the accessible toilet.
This is expected shortly.
This is expected soon.
Yes, there are ample parking facilities and 40 charging points for electric bikes available.
You can reach Puur Terschelling by your own car, public transport (Qbuzz bus), taxi or by (electric) bicycle.
From the boat at West-Terschelling it's approximately 12 km to Puur Terschelling in Oosterend.
No, there are no dining facilities at Puur Terschelling itself. However, there are various options in the village of Oosterend. Tip: check opening times via Google in advance.
Yes, lockers are available for hand luggage. Large suitcases can be placed in the reception area.
For office enquiries, we're available Monday to Friday between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM. For emergencies or urgent questions about the animals, we're available by phone 24/7.
You can view the prices for all activities on the website.
There are two public showers available.
Yes, there is a disabled toilet with wall rails and a wide sliding door of 1.10 metres.
Yes, a map of the car parks is available on the website under contact.
Yes, you can find the map of the dune tents on the website under contact.
Yes, you can find the site map on the website under contact.
For the current opening hours, it's best to check the website under contact.
Yes, the sheep and lambs on the Waddendijk between Oosterend and Formerum belong to Puur Terschelling. They live in a flock for grazing and nature management.
This is expected soon.
Yes, at Puur Terschelling there are ample parking facilities for bikes and 40 charging points for electric bikes are available.
Activities generally always go ahead, but in extreme weather or unsafe conditions, an activity may be adjusted or rescheduled.
For horse riding, the minimum age is 8 years or a height of 1.30cm. For other activities, there is no minimum age.
Rain = "there's no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing" - we have rain gear available to borrow (after all, it's an outdoor activity!)
Heat = above 30 degrees, we take a rest break between 12:00 and 16:00 for guests, horses, donkeys and all Pure activities.
Thunderstorms = we'll relocate the Pure activity based on what the storm radar and Brandaris weather service indicate.
No, we don't offer discounts. We believe in a fair price-quality ratio.
Yes, both small and large groups are welcome, provided you book in advance.
Yes, you can buy gift vouchers for all activities and accommodations through our website. They don't have an expiry date.
For current (last minute) availability, please visit our website: boeken.puur-terschelling.nl.
Yes, to avoid disappointment we always recommend booking well in advance.
No, a booking is final once it has been placed. Changes or cancellations are not possible and upon cancellation you pay 100% of the costs.
General terms and conditions apply to activities. Once you've placed your booking, it's final. In case of cancellation, the full costs are for the guest.
You can book online via boeken.puur-terschelling.nl or at the Puur site by card or cash. A Puur activity is only confirmed once payment has been received in advance.
Yes, trainees can gain practical experience with us in animal care, fieldwork and tourism.
Yes, most Puur activities are supervised by a Puur guide or instructor, such as the covered wagon tours, horse rides, mudflat hiking, the 4x4 Land Rover tours and carriage driving. The donkey walks are done exclusively with your own group, with a route map and marked trail.
There's plenty to do throughout the year. May holidays and summer holidays are the busiest, followed by spring and autumn. In spring there are little lambs, and year-round you can enjoy outdoor rides, donkey walks, and beach trips by covered wagon or 4x4 Land Rover (1st October to 1st April for the beach).
On the farm you'll find horses (Friesian and Shire), sheep, donkeys, dogs, rabbits, guinea pigs and lambs and foals in springtime.
Yes, Puur Terschelling is suitable for families and groups, small or large.
Yes, most Puur activities are suitable for children, depending on their age and height.
The company is run by the Bierema family: Anne, Danielle, Jochem and Bentum together with a small, energetic Puur team of employees, interns and volunteers.
Puur Terschelling is located in Oosterend, address Oosterend 39, 8897 HX. It's the last village on Terschelling, close to dunes, cranberry fields, polders, the Wadden Sea World Heritage site, the European nature reserve Boschplaat nature reserve and the Dark Sky park.
Puur Terschelling is a small-scale family farm in Oosterend with horses, sheep, nature conservation and various activities. Guests can experience farm life and the island here.