The province of Friesland is actually always a good idea. You can go cycling, hiking, get lost in picturesque towns and villages, and enjoy the peace and quiet. That's right: we love Friesland. And when you are there, of course you want to sleep well. Herberg Greate Pier in Kimswerd is one of those places where you will want for nothing. Cosy, full of character and perfectly located close to Franeker, Leeuwarden and Harlingen, and therefore also surprisingly close to Vlieland and Terschelling. By the way, don't forget to book breakfast as well: a big 10. Do you already know this affordable place to stay?
Greate Pier, boutique hotel in Friesland
We discovered this place during a road trip through Leeuwarden, Franeker and Harlingen. You can read about that mini-vacation here. Or view the green-in-Leeuwarden tips If you have plans to go that way. Really coming home, that's how it felt. At hostel Greate Pier, everything is taken care of to perfection by owner Jidou. The rooms are Instagrammable, the bar operates on trust - you just grab yourself a nice drink or snack and note what you have taken - and from Thursday to Saturday you slide right in for dinner. And don't forget breakfast: with hot croissants and fresh fruit, it's one you'll want to get up in time for. The great thing is that all this is affordable too. At our stay (June 2025), a room cost around 100 euros a night (check current prices on their site). Because of its fine location, the inn attracts a nice mix of guests: wadden visitors, cyclists and city trippers like us. In short, a lovely place to discover Friesland at your leisure.
A warm welcome at Inn Greate Pier in Kimswerd, a perfect base for a mini holiday in Friesland.
Boutique hotel with a story
The history of this inn goes way back, to 1880 to be precise. Even then, this was the place in Kimswerd where people gathered to eat, drink and dance. The name refers to Pier Gerlofs Donia - better known as ‘Greate Pier’ - a Frisian freedom fighter of over two metres tall who came from this village. The dance hall has since disappeared, but the atmosphere has remained. The inn has been lovingly converted into a small hotel with six characterful rooms, where old and new, art and antiques come together in a fine way.
Address: Pierwei 9, Kimswerd
Photo credits: thegreenlist.nl.
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