Antoinette Rijpma-De Jong, Olympic 1500m speed skating champion, shares insights into her hometown of Heerenveen and local spots she recommends as the city prepares to host the ISU Speed Skating Allround & Sprint World Championships.
ISU Skating, the official International Skating Union website, provides detailed information on the athlete’s connection to Heerenveen and the upcoming championships.
Born and raised in Rottum, a village near the Thialf Stadium in Heerenveen, Rijpma-De Jong describes the town as small yet rich in offerings. She and her husband, Coen Rijpma, shared some of their favorite places in the city. For coffee, they recommend Bij Kees, noted for its quality brews made by experienced baristas and a selection of natural snacks, smoothies, and teas. This café is situated in the city center close to other restaurants and cafés.
When it comes to dining, Rijpma-De Jong mentions several options. ‘t Gerecht is praised for its enjoyable terrace seating during summer months. For Italian cuisine, Ferron and Frisone Pazzo are highlighted, with Ferron also noted for healthy shared dining options. De Buurman is recommended for those seeking burgers.
The skater also suggests trying a local specialty known as Fryske sûkerbôle, or sugar bread, a traditional Frisian treat made with sugar, cinnamon, and sometimes ginger syrup. It can be warmed and eaten with various toppings, offering an energy boost before competitions despite its high sugar content.
For outdoor activities, the couple enjoys walking their dog in Oranjewoud, a nearby forest, often concluding with a visit to Hotel Tjaarda for coffee or lunch. Culture enthusiasts can visit Museum Belvédère in Oranjewoud, which features modern and contemporary art, as well as an octagonal lookout tower overlooking Heerenveen.
Sports fans have multiple options to explore, including attending football matches at Abe Lenstra Stadium or visiting the covered Inline Skate Center Heerenveen to practice skills regardless of weather. Other available sports include padel, beach volleyball, basketball, and the traditional Frisian sport of Fierljeppen, a water pole vault-like event.
For those interested in excursions beyond the city, Rijpma-De Jong recommends cycling the scenic route of the Eleven Cities Bicycle Tour, a 200km circuit that traverses multiple Frisian towns and villages. Although the original skating event has not occurred since 1997 due to milder winters, the bike tour remains a popular way to enjoy the area’s landscapes.
