Schiermonnikoog closes the series of five Dutch Wadden islands in the north-east. With its 18 km long and 3 km large it is also the smallest one. Local population is about 1000 inhabitants, quite few compared to the 300.000 guests yearly visiting the island. Most visitors only stay for one day, which is very attractive because it takes only 50 minutes on a modern ferry to cross the Waddensea from the mainland in Lauwersoog, see sub-section [Getting there]. There is only one village on the island, that is also (bit confusing) called Schiermonnikoog. The island is still naturally expanding eastwards.... the further you wander from the ferry terminal at Schiermonnikoog village, the more you will become a relaxed part of this wonderful, unspoiled nature that impressively opens before your eyes. Schiermonnikoog has National Park status, the quality of which is also guaranteed by municipal policy not to accept visitors cars on the island.... you must leave it at the Lauwersoog parking lot. If you love lonely walking or biking in a variety of ever changing seasonal landscapes, if you're interested in flora and fauna or would like to see more bird species than you've ever seen in your whole life, then you are the kind of visitor who will be cordially welcomed on this beautiful island.