Discover Germany | Special Theme | Travel Trends 2019 – The Experts for Your Dream Holiday
Heligoland’s dune. Photo: © Ralf Steinbock
THE ISLAND THAT BREATHES The vastness of the sea has forever captivated people. Now, it is possible to spend your holidays on two islands where you can experience this fascination up close like never before. TEXT: SILKE HENKELE
There is no better place to enjoy the infinite expanse of the sea than on Heligoland’s islands. “Heligoland is exceptional! One look at the vast sea and the width of the horizon reveal that on Heligoland, the deceleration of life’s pace and first-hand experiences of nature come first. The islands sing a different tune; one that picks up on nature’s rhythm and the arrival and departure of ships,” explains Iris Schneider, of Heligoland Tourism Services, on the fascination that the islands hold for many.
ward to white sandy beaches on the dune. Watch the unique sunsets on the west side of the main island, formed of red sandstone. Take in the quiet and the healthy air on inspiring hikes that connect you with the fascinating nature and fauna: by visiting the Lummenfelsen, for example, a birds’ breeding and resting ground that counts amongst one of Germany’s smallest wildlife sanctuaries. Our guests are always taken with a visit to the dune where each year between November and February, grey seals give birth to their pups.”
“At first glance, Heligoland may seem slightly rough. But once guests take a look behind the scenes, they will behold the cornucopia of this island’s varied facets,” enthuses Schneider. “You can look for-
Culturally, Heligoland has plenty to offer: “The traces of Heligoland’s long and eventful past are still visible today and may be explored through guided tours. We are particularly proud that our
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Helgoländer Dampferbörte, along with the Helgoländer Börtebooten, were included in the Nationwide List of Immovable Cultural Assets in December 2018 – a sign that the cultural heritage of Heligoland is still alive today,” continues Schneider. A stay on Heligoland relaxes its guests and puts them in touch with themselves and with nature. Heligoland can also be reached by plane, but the sea passage prepares them best for what to expect. Schneider explains: “Our guests can reach Heligoland quite conveniently by ferry. Once on the boat, as they take a deep breath of the clear sea air or listen to the splashing waves, they start to forget about their everyday lives.”
Photo: © Ottmar Heinze Fotografie