The ‘Achterwasser‘ and the ship ‘Weiße Düne’. Photo: © UTG/Dirk Bleyer
D E S T I N AT I O N O F T H E M O N T H
Diversity at its best 42 kilometres of fine sandy beaches, over 2,000 hours of sunshine each year, great spa offerings and beautiful nature: the Baltic island of Usedom is Germany’s second biggest island and one of the country’s most favoured holiday destinations throughout the year. Let us find out more about the island’s offerings in 2018. TEXT: NANE STEINHOFF | PHOTOS: USEDOM TOURISMUS GMBH
Around 200 years ago, the first summer visitors came to Usedom and transformed the farming and fishing villages into a relaxation destination for city dwellers. Today, picturesque landscapes, endless beaches, a lively atmosphere in the town centres and a special mix of beach, nature, wellness and maritime charm make Usedom - one of Germany’s sunniest places - a popular tourist destination. The island’s seaside resorts exude elegance and tradition with their magnificent spa architecture which is coined by long piers and a diversity of styles from renaissance palaces to classicist merchant mansions. 54 | Issue 59 | February 2018
Far away from the architecture and promenades, Usedom shows off its natural side. In the so-called ‘Achterland’, tortuous paths lead through forests, moors and meadows to dreamy fishing villages. On Usedom, guests of all ages can find what their hearts desire – whether summer or winter, whether a five-star hotel or a cosy holiday apartment, holidays are always extraordinary on Usedom. Experience imperial wellness The popular summer resort of Usedom was frequently visited by the likes of emperor Friedrich III and Wilhelm II. Since then, visitors have flocked to the island to dis-
The bath village of Bansin. Photo: © UTG/Roy von Elbberg
cover the imperial bath villages of Bansin, Heringsdorf and Ahlbeck which are centres of attraction due to palatial villas, impressive summer residences and exceptional medical and wellness spas. After all, the sunny island is a paradise for relaxation seekers and health-conscious holidaymakers. While the climatic conditions alone are pure wellness, the mild bracing climate and the Baltic Sea breeze are a blessing for body and soul. Many wellness hotels can be found in Ahlbeck, Heringsdorf, Bansin and all over the island. In the extensive spa areas, visitors can look forward to the ‘Thalasso therapy’ or treatments with one of the oldest regional remedies, Heringsdorf’s iodine brine. Or why not try a sea buckthorn massage or an algae-mousse mask? The outdoors also foster one’s own well-being: Nordic Walking, jogging, yoga or pilates, Qi Gong or climate hikes