A trip to Mirns can revolve around two very different themes: the landscape along the IJsselmeer and a specific reminder of the Second World War. The Mokkebank represents the changing coastline, while the bell tower commemorates a precisely dated event. Birdwatching and a cycling route round out the experience. When planning your visit, it helps to distinguish between a view of the landscape, an accessible observation point and cultural sites: you can choose which to prioritise rather than treating every place as a must-see.
Nature and water along the IJsselmeer coast
The Mokkebank on the IJsselmeer coast below Mirns was originally a large sandbank. After the Afsluitdijk was built, reeds, shrubs and trees began to grow there. Its present-day appearance is therefore closely linked to a specific change: the sandbank became a vegetated coastal landscape. The Windmotor Mirnserklif drains the summer polder of the De Mokkebank nature area directly into the IJsselmeer. This technical detail adds water management to the story of the landscape. An assessment published on 25 June 2026 describes, based on initial observations following the restoration, how the Mokkebank is developing into an attractive habitat for characteristic marsh birds.
Access is an important consideration for nature watching: the Mokkebank near Mirns is not freely accessible, but you can view the area from the Wieldyk. The De Mok birdwatching hut on the Wieldyk in Mirns is open year-round. Viewing the area from the Wieldyk and visiting the hut are two different ways to experience the nature area.
Cycling route and activities at the klif
The IJsselmeerkust cycling route continues along the sea dike to Mirns. At a junction in Mirns, it turns onto the Wieldyk to visit the De Mok birdwatching hut. The hut can be reached via the old sea dike between Laaxum and Mirns. As route conditions can change, check the current route before setting out.
The Mirnserklif is popular with kitesurfers, kite flyers and beachgoers. At the Mirnser Klif there is a tethering point for horses, where you can take a break during a ride. Near Mirns, Paviljoen ’t Mar is located on the klif and offers views across the IJsselmeer.
Remembrance and art in Mirns
The bell tower in Mirns is a historic wooden monument with a bell and a bronze commemorative plaque. It commemorates the emergency landing of an American bomber on 22 December 1943 and the deaths of seven crew members.
At the starting point of the IJsbaankeunstrûte in Mirns, you can admire a work of art inspired by the landscape and listen to a poem inspired by this place. The artwork and poem offer two different ways to experience the place: one to look at, the other to listen to. The bell tower and the IJsbaankeunstrûte represent different cultural themes in Mirns: the former commemorates an event, while the latter presents art inspired by the landscape.
Discover more destinations: Poppenwier, Langweer.
Return to the main travel overview: De Friese Meren.
