Wiksterstee
Wiksterstee is a retreat on the mudflats near Bierum. ‘Wikster’ is an old Groningen word for ‘witch’. The Wiksterstee retreat is a unique place where you can easily get to know witchcraft or practise it together in complete freedom.
Have a look now
Heks
A witch believes in nature. Witchcraft is a nature-based religion that predates Christianity. It is a religion based on nature and for nature. This means that a witch does their utmost to treat the Earth and all living things with respect. One of the few rules that witchcraft adheres to is ‘Do what you will, but harm none.’ A witch reveres the Earth, the Moon, the Sun and all living things as the Divine. And no, witches don’t have a big wart on their nose; even if we want to fly, we have to buy a ticket. They look just like everyone else. They possess the wisdom of knowledge and, through that, the tools to live a magical life. Witches follow the Wheel of the Year and live in tune with the rhythm of the moon…
Heks
A witch believes in nature. Witchcraft is a nature-based religion that predates Christianity. It is a religion based on nature and for nature. This means that a witch does their utmost to treat the Earth and all living things with respect. One of the few rules that witchcraft adheres to is ‘Do what you will, but harm none.’ A witch reveres the Earth, the Moon, the Sun and all living things as the Divine. And no, witches don’t have a big wart on their nose; even if we want to fly, we have to buy a ticket. They look just like everyone else. They possess the wisdom of knowledge and, through that, the tools to live a magical life. Witches follow the Wheel of the Year and live in tune with the rhythm of the moon.
Since completing her training as a witch, Pia van Dellen, owner of Wiksterstee, has been living more mindfully. She now has the knowledge and skills to support people in their lives. Her love for all living things calls to be shared, and that is what Pia does – everything from a place of love and with respect.
Wikster activities
Wiksterstee offers a range of activities. Pop in for a cup of tea and satisfy your curiosity. Try your hand at something ‘witchy’, such as making an ointment or a runic amulet. Come along with friends, family or colleagues. The possibilities are endless.
Children can celebrate a magical children’s party here. There’s the opportunity to attend a full moon celebration. The garden or the mudflats are a beautiful location for holding a ‘Handvasting’ ceremony (witch’s wedding). You’re welcome to come for an energy cleansing session, but Pia is also happy to visit you for energy cleansing of homes and buildings.
Handfasting
Handfasting is a beautiful and special ritual. A ritual in which you are literally bound together, for one year and one day, for this lifetime.
Handfasting takes place between people who share a special bond – family, friends, whoever you choose. It is primarily about emphasising the special bond, the soulmate connection, that you share with this person (or people).
Handfasting is an ancient custom. Until the eighteenth century, this was the customary way of getting married.
A haven of peace in a unique location
Wiksterstee is situated in Hoogwatum, near the Dubbele Dijk on the Wadden Sea. Here, you can still hear the silence. Here, you can enjoy a magical afternoon on the edge of the Wadden Sea. It is a recognised ‘Rustpunt’ and also offers camping facilities.
Hoogwatum lies slightly north-east of Bierum, directly behind the sea dyke along the River Eems, which is known locally as the ‘Bocht van Watum’. The name refers to a former mound that has since disappeared beneath the sea dyke. The village of Watum once stood on that mound and had its own chapel in the Middle Ages.
- At a rest stop, you can take a breather. A place to make yourself a cup of coffee or tea. Charging your bike, repairing a puncture or using the toilet are all among the options.
- Wiksterstee is situated near cycle junction 19 on the ‘Kiek over de Diek’ cycle route. The cycle route is no less than 90 kilometres long and runs right through the Wadden Sea region.
- In 2021, an oost route was added to the Pronkjewailpad. Wiksterstee is a Pronkjewail stamp point.
Wiksterstee, endlessly magical – do come and visit us soon.
In *Dagblad van het Noorden*, 20 July 2021:
A real witch lives in Bierum. The ‘Witch of the Wadden’ even has a black cat, Hocus. ‘And we use brooms too. To sweep away negative energies, not to fly.’
Pia van Dellen (51) is the ‘wikster’ of the mudflats. ‘Wikster’ is the Groningen dialect word for ‘witch’. Her Wiksterstee is a popular spot to relax near the Bocht van Watum.