When island hopping comes to mind, it's easy to think of places like Greece or the Caribbean. But this activity is also possible in the Netherlands. Ever heard of Texel, Vlieland, Terschelling, Ameland and Schiermonnikoog? These are the islands located in the Wadden Sea, which also happens to be a World Heritage Site since June 2009.

What can you do there? Texel, the largest of the islands, hosts the nature center Ecomare, which is located within the seventy-acre Dune Park. You can visit one of the tallest lighthouses in the Netherlands (236 steps high, on Ameland) or visit the seal colonies on Terschelling. If you visit in the warmer months you might even spot some baby seals. As with any visit in the Netherlands you can also cycle around the islands and enjoy nature.

In the summer, from Amsterdam you can make use of the Eilandhopper, or Island Hopper. This service provides sailing trips between three and six days long.