Yerseke in the Netherlands - Aunt Anna in mussel paradise

Guest writer: Anna Nilsson Spets

Yerseke is a typical place that no one notices, even knows where it is or has even thought of going there. We go there once a year for one thing only: to eat! 

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Approximately 45 minutes drive from AntwerpJust over the Dutch border, you reach Yerseke on the banks of the River Scheldt. The Schelde then flows into the North Sea. The village has around 7000 inhabitants and many work in the fishing industry.  

It is precisely the fishing industry that the village is known for, with large farms of mussels and oysters in particular. These are cultivated some distance out in the Scheldt, bottom farming or hanging cultures, transported to more neighbouring basins and then sorted, packaged and distributed. 

They also grow other types of mussels and snails such as whelk, clams and scallops. 

Of course you fish; lobster and crab in season and a variety of fish. 

Yerseke is a very old village, dating back to the end of the 10th century. 

Mussels have been cultivated since the 16th century. At the end of the 19th century, oysters began to be cultivated, which turned out to be a real goldmine with an almost Klondike atmosphere. Unfortunately, diseases and cold winters affected the cultivation, and many oyster farmers emigrated, while others were encouraged to grow mushrooms, which were then new and modern. 

Today, Yerseke is a vibrant village visited in spring and autumn by thousands of tourists who come just to eat. At the Oesterij there is an information centre where you can learn more about the village and its role in the history of fishing. 

In the street along the river, the restaurants are cheek by jowl, some overlooking the oyster ponds.  

A nice shop sells designer marine-related homeware and freshly caught fish.  

A bit from the village it is possible to swim in the river, although the difference between ebb and flow is large, but until the afternoon the water is high. Near the bathing area there are several cafés (read pub) where you can cool off with a beer.  

There are a few places to camp as well as caravan parks, some bed and breakfasts. 

Annual events in Yerseke

• mussel festivals third Saturday in August.
• The mussel regatta second Saturday in August.
• Oyster festival third or fourth weekend in September.

Getting there

Absolutely easiest by car, but traffic is tough around Antwerp. By train is possible, but several changes and long travelling time. 

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Anna Nilsson Spets

60+ year old lady with a lifelong love for Africa. Emigrated to Flanders in Belgium and works with plants on a daily basis. Writes, takes photos and tries to inspire others to budget travel on their own. Blogs on "Anna's mix" about travelling, work, plants, writing and much more.

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