IJlst (Dutch pronunciation: [ɛilst]; West Frisian: Drylts pronounced [drilts]) is a charming small city in the province of Friesland, Netherlands. It is part of the municipality of Súdwest-Fryslân and situated approximately 3 km southwest of the larger town of Sneek. With a population of about 3,140 as of January 2017, IJlst holds historical significance as one of the eleven cities of Friesland, a distinction that highlights its medieval roots and cultural heritage. The city is renowned for its idyllic canals, traditional Dutch architecture, and tranquil waterways, offering a peaceful retreat from busier urban areas. Unlike larger Dutch cities, IJlst maintains a quaint, village-like atmosphere, making it ideal for those seeking authentic Frisian charm. It features a railway station connecting it to Sneek and Stavoren, enhancing its accessibility for visitors.
Historically, IJlst's economy revolved around trade and
ship-building, leveraging its waterways for transportation and industry.
Today, it has transitioned to a tourism-driven model, supplemented by
small-scale agriculture, services, and local businesses. The city's
serene setting attracts visitors seeking relaxation, with accommodations
like bed-and-breakfasts and holiday homes catering to a niche market.
Key attractions include the iconic canals, such as the Geeuw (Ee),
perfect for boating, cycling along the banks, or simply strolling.
Historic windmills, like the Nooitgedagt sawmill (now a museum
showcasing woodworking history), highlight the industrial past. The
former Town Hall, a striking 17th-century building, serves as a
landmark, while the Houtzaagmolen De Rat windmill offers insights into
traditional milling. IJlst is also part of the Elfstedentocht route,
drawing skating enthusiasts in winter. Other draws include art
galleries, cozy cafes serving Frisian specialties like suikerbrood
(sugar bread), and nearby nature reserves for birdwatching. Tripadvisor
reviews praise its uncrowded vibe, with top activities including canal
tours and exploring the well-preserved architecture.
There are several theories about the origin of the
name IJlst. It may come from the Ylostins, the stins that once stood
in the southwestern part of IJlst. The name is also sometimes
associated with the Ee or IJslot, the stins that lay on the water
that flows through IJlst. The original name of IJlst was Ylike,
which was later corrupted to Ylts or Fries Drylts. Y or Ee means
water and leke in Ylike is the Frisian verb like, which means 'to
flow slowly'.
IJlst has had city rights since 1268. This
makes it the fourth city (after Stavoren, Hindeloopen and Harlingen)
in Friesland to receive city rights. The city was known for its
shipbuilding and trading position. It originated on the Oude Ee or
Ye, a river between the Zuiderzee or its predecessor and the
Middelzee. The city owes its name to this river.
Only
fragments of the Ee remain. One of them forms the central axis of
the city and has the character of a canal. The street runs right
past the houses, and the gardens are just across the street on the
side of the Ee. These gardens bordering the water, called "bleaches"
or "overtuinen", belong to the houses situated on the canals and
were used to bleach the laundry in the past. Some of the gardens are
still privately owned.
On November 8, 1885, IJlst got a
station on the Leeuwarden-Stavoren railway line. A beautiful station
building was built and demolished in 1954. In 1938 there were plans
to close the station in IJlst, but until 1941 there was still a
regular train connection with IJlst. From 1941 to 1985 no more
trains stopped in IJlst. The IJlst stop was reopened on 28 September
1985, at the place where the railway crossing used to be. To this
day there is a train connection between Stavoren and Leeuwarden.
Geographically, IJlst is centered around the river Ee (also known as
IJ or Ey), which winds through the city, forming picturesque canals that
define its layout. Located at coordinates 53°01′N 5°37′E, the city spans
a flat, low-lying landscape typical of Friesland, with surrounding
polders, meadows, and agricultural fields. This region is part of the
broader Dutch delta system, where water management through dikes and
canals is essential to prevent flooding. The area's waterways connect to
larger networks, including routes used in the famous Elfstedentocht
ice-skating tour, which passes through IJlst when conditions allow.
The climate in IJlst mirrors the temperate maritime conditions of the
Netherlands: mild and humid, with gentle winters, cool summers, and
rainfall distributed throughout the year. Average temperatures range
from 2-6°C (36-43°F) in winter (December-February), occasionally dipping
below freezing for ice-skating opportunities, to 15-20°C (59-68°F) in
summer (June-August). Annual precipitation is around 800 mm, often in
the form of light drizzle, with westerly winds bringing Atlantic
influences. Spring and autumn are mild but can be foggy or stormy, while
summers are ideal for outdoor activities like boating. This consistent
weather supports the region's lush greenery and makes IJlst appealing
year-round, though visitors should prepare for variable conditions.
IJlst's flag and coat of arms feature water motifs, symbolizing its riverine heritage. The postal code is 8651, and the area code is 0515. As a compact city, it's easily walkable, with most sights within a 1 km radius. Public transport via train or bus from Sneek makes it accessible, and cycling paths connect it to broader Friesland networks. Visitors often combine trips with nearby Sneek for more amenities. In winter, check for Elfstedentocht updates, though rare. The city emphasizes sustainability, with efforts to maintain its canals and green spaces. Overall, IJlst offers a glimpse into authentic Dutch rural life, ideal for history buffs, nature lovers, and those escaping tourist crowds.