Carriage rides on Ameland

When winter spreads its white blanket over Ameland, an age-old tradition comes to life: the sleigh ride.

As soon as conditions are right, islanders harness their horses, pull out the sleighëns and the gentle sound of sleigh bells fills the air. What was once a practical means of transport is now a much-loved ritual that unites the community. The crunch of snow under the gliders and the rhythmic tinkling of the bells bring the island's history to life.

The sleigh on Ameland

Historical background

In earlier times, Amelander farmers depended on horse and cart for their daily work. During harsh winters, when roads became impassable due to snow and ice, they switched to horse-drawn sleighsën. On Ameland, horse-drawn sleighsën came into use around the year 1700.

Although the number of farmers has decreased over the years, the horses have remained. They now serve as riding horses, lifeboat horses and breeding horses. The sleighëns, both antique and newer models, have been preserved and are still proudly used.

Please note that the sleighëns, both antique and newer models, have been preserved and are still used with pride.

Photo: ClaudiaPhotography

The unique design

On Ameland, some 70 sleighs are still privately owned. The Amelander sleigh is distinguished by its specific design. The gliders are wide apart, making it easier to manoeuvre through snow dunes. There is often a carving on the front in the shape of a seahorse or lion, sometimes with the owner's initials.

The colour scheme varies by village: sleighs from Nes and Buren are predominantly green (Roman Catholic), while those from Hollum and Ballum are light blue on the outside and red on the inside (Protestant).

Sleigh races

If there is enough snow, the sleigh committee organises a competition where all the island's sleighën gather. These competitions traditionally take place at the airfield near Ballum. The competition consists of a rubbish race over a 200-metre track, with the winner advancing to the next round. The battle revolves around honour and a silver champion's challenge trophy, a valuable trophy sponsored by the municipality of Ameland.

Award ceremony

The prize-giving ceremony traditionally takes place on the evening after the race in café Nobel in Ballum. There, a nip and a bite to eat and a bell rig is raffled off among the participants present. In 2010, 38 sledën participated in the horse-drawn sleigh competition. The oldest sledge is that of Douwe Bakker from Hollum, with a grinning lion as a sledge figurine in front. For Amelander sleigh lovers, it has been waiting for the right conditions ever since.

Challenges

A good layer of snow is essential for sleigh riding. The horses' hooves and the sledge's irons must be able to cut through the snow without damaging the grass underneath. In years with insufficient snow, creative solutions are sometimes devised. For example, in 2005, snow was moved to the competition ground to allow the sleigh race to go ahead anyway.

Photo: ClaudiaPhotography

Did you know.

The Amelander liqueur Nobeltje and horse-drawn sleigh rides are connected? During the harsh winter of 1901 or 1902, islanders from Ameland took part in a sleigh race in Holwerd. After the race and a gruelling sleigh journey back from Holwerd to Ameland – across a frozen Wadden Sea – some islanders ended up in Willem Barend Nobel’s café in Ballum. Unfortunately, the supply of drinks had run out. Nobel quickly mixed a new brew using the ingredients he still had. This secret recipe became a great success and evolved into Nobeltje, the well-known Amelander liqueur. To this day, it remains the drink of choice to warm up after a cold winter’s day on the island.

Authentic winter experience on Ameland

Sledding on Ameland is more than a mode of transport; it is a vibrant tradition that brings the community together and celebrates the island's rich history. Whether you are an islander or a visitor, experiencing this winter activity offers a unique and authentic experience you won't soon forget.

Carriage rides on Ameland

The sleigh on Ameland

Historical background

The unique design

Sleigh races

Award ceremony

Challenges

Did you know.

Authentic winter experience on Ameland

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