eFoil Les - Fly Surf

Boek vandaag jouw vlucht boven het water

EFOIL LESSONS & RENTAL

Imagine this: you’re gliding silently across the water, hovering above the surface, powered by an electric motor.

This isn’t science fiction — this is eFoiling! At GEARfreak Surfschool, located by the beautiful Valkenburgse Meer, we offer you the chance to experience this revolutionary watersport. Whether you’re a seasoned water sports enthusiast or have never set foot on a board, eFoiling is accessible to everyone and promises an unforgettable experience.

What is eFoiling?

eFoiling combines the thrill of surfing with the sensation of flying.

Using an electrically powered surfboard equipped with a hydrofoil (a wing beneath the board), you lift off the water at sufficient speed and begin to hover above the surface.

Thanks to the electric motor and the special underwater wing, you can float up to 70 cm above the water — no wind or waves needed. The combination of speed and the feeling of flying just above the water gives you a true adrenaline rush! It’s an amazing experience for both beginners and seasoned water sports enthusiasts.

Why Choose GEARfreak Surfschool?

GEARfreak Surfschool is the perfect place to learn how to eFoil the right way! Fun lessons with passionate instructors, top-quality gear, and a stunning location!

Our eFoil Lessons

At GEARfreak Surfschool, we offer various lesson options tailored to your needs and experience level.

Intro Lesson: Want to feel the adrenaline of foiling? Curious what it’s like to hover above the water? Then our eFoil Intro Lesson is the one for you! Equipped with a top-of-the-line Lift eFoil, a wetsuit, and of course a helmet and impact vest, you’ll head out on the water for 45 minutes or 1.5 hours of action!
Starter Course: For those who want to dive deeper into the world of eFoiling, we offer a Starter Course. This course consists of three lessons of either 45 minutes or 1.5 hours each, where you’ll further develop your basic skills and build confidence on the board. Whether you choose private lessons or join with friends, our instructors will make sure you learn to eFoil quickly and safely.

Lesson Structure & What to Expect

Each lesson starts with a short theoretical introduction on land. Here, you’ll learn how the eFoil works, go over safety instructions, and cover the basic techniques. Then it’s time to hit the water, where—under the guidance of our instructors—you’ll take your first steps:

Lying on the board: You’ll begin by lying down to get familiar with the controls and the feel of the board.
On your knees: Once you’re comfortable, you’ll move to a kneeling position, which offers more stability and prepares you to stand.
Standing eFoil ride: When you’ve built up confidence and balance, you’ll make the transition to standing — and experience the real thrill of hovering above the water.

Our instructors guide you step by step, so you can master the art of eFoiling at your own pace.

Who is eFoiling For?

eFoiling is surprisingly accessible.
You don’t need any prior surfing experience to get started. From our experience, almost everyone is able to stand up and start hovering over the water within just 30 minutes.

Whether you’re young or old, athletic or less active, eFoiling offers a unique and enjoyable experience for everyone.

Safety & Equipment

Safety is our top priority.
During the lessons, we provide you with a wetsuit, helmet, and impact vest for maximum protection.

Under the wetsuit, you should wear swimwear (swim trunks or a bikini).
We recommend wearing surf shoes or old sneakers for extra grip and foot protection.
If you don’t have suitable footwear, you can also purchase surf shoes in our surf shop.

eFoil Rental

Caught the eFoil bug after your first lesson?

At GEARfreak Surfschool, you can also rent an eFoil and head out on your own.

All you need to do is sign up and get changed — we’ll prepare your gear while you get ready to ride.
Once you’re set, it’s time to hit the water and go full throttle!

Super chill and hassle-free!

Free parking
Cozy lakeside brasserie "Buitenhuis" nearby
No motorboats allowed — safe and peaceful waters
Experienced instructors
Top-of-the-line Lift Foils boards
Wetsuit, life vest, and helmet included

an amazing experience

Valkenburg Lake

The Valkenburg Lake is located along the A44, exit Leiden South. There is plenty of free parking available by the lake. It features a lovely sandy beach, grassy areas to relax on, and a large section of shallow water marked off with posts and buoys. In 2021, the area was significantly upgraded with a new boulevard, new benches, a beautiful playground, a new bike parking area, and expanded grassy areas.

Narrow-Gauge Railway Museum

By the lake, you’ll also find the Narrow-Gauge Railway Museum. Here, you can enjoy the nostalgic atmosphere of the past, when steam trains in the Netherlands were still used to transport people and goods. The steam train runs along Lake Valkenburg.

GearFreak Surf School

If you want to truly learn how to surf, GearFreak Surf School at Lake Valkenburg is the place to be. Originally started as a windsurfing school, it has since expanded its offerings to include wing surfing, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), foiling, and eFoiling. You can also join a super cool surf camp, or book group outings and corporate events here.

Buitenhuis Brasserie

In 2016, after a major renovation, it opened in an old greenhouse. Since then, it has grown into the hotspot of Leiden and the surrounding area. At Brasserie Buitenhuis, you'll feel right at home.

Everyone a Buitenhuis

That’s the idea. Various cozy and charming corners and areas, such as the Living Room, Sitting Room, and The Train. A perfect location for your event or wedding. The sunsets here are truly magical.

Trunk Sale at Brasserie Buitenhuis

Once a month, a trunk sale is organized in the parking lot at Brasserie Buitenhuis. You can rent a parking space to sell your items, or visit the market for free.

Hotel Leiden

Just a 5-minute walk from Lake Valkenburg lies Hotel Leiden. This Van der Valk hotel offers every comfort you could need. Be sure to visit the charming à la carte restaurant, where you can enjoy a beautiful view of the Old Rhine River.

Find us on the map

Wat is een eFoil?

An eFoil is a surfboard powered by an electric motor with a built-in hydrofoil (a lifting wing). The hydrofoil generates lift or upward pressure while riding.

As you gain speed, the foil lifts the board above the water’s surface, making it feel like the surfboard is flying.

Can everyone eFoil?

While eFoiling is accessible to most people, the learning curve can vary.
It may take some time to become fully comfortable with controlling an eFoil, but with the right training and practice, you’ll be able to master the technique and enjoy this exciting watersport.

Most people manage to take their first flights during their very first lesson.

Is experience in board sports necessary?

People with prior experience in board sports like surfing, skateboarding, or snowboarding may have an advantage — but it’s not required.
In some cases, it can even be a disadvantage due to previously learned techniques that don’t translate well to eFoiling.

Is a lesson necessary to eFoil?

Although the learning curve is fairly steep, it is highly recommended for beginners to take eFoil lessons with experienced instructors.
This will help you understand the fundamentals of eFoiling, such as taking off, maintaining balance, and maneuvering safely and effectively.

Is eFoiling dangerous?

eFoiling, like many other watersports, does carry some risks, but it is generally considered safe.
Always wear the proper safety gear, including a life vest and helmet. A wetsuit is also recommended for comfort and protection.