The home of Hamburg and Lübeck and located in the northernmost part of Germany, Schleswig-Holstein is a region that offers a delightful blend of natural beauty, history, and cultural experiences.
- Holstentor, Lübeck: Begin your journey in the city of Lübeck, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Holstentor, a medieval city gate, stands as a symbol of the city’s historical significance and is a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
- Kiel Canal: Experience the wonder of the world’s busiest artificial waterway, connecting the North and Baltic Seas. Watch colossal ships pass by, enjoy a leisurely bike ride along the canal, or simply soak in the atmosphere.
- Sylt: This glamorous island is renowned for its beautiful sandy beaches and trendy resorts. Explore the dunes, indulge in water sports, or unwind in comfortable spas for a splendid beach holiday.
- Gottorf Castle, Schleswig: Discover the history of Schleswig-Holstein at the impressive Gottorf Castle. It houses the State Museum of Art and Cultural History and offers insights into the region’s cultural heritage.
- St. Peter-Ording: Nature lovers will fall in love with the vast sandy beach of St. Peter-Ording. Admire the beach houses, enjoy a relaxing walk, and witness sunsets over the North Sea.
- Steinwarder Beach, Heiligenhafen:
- Escape the crowds and find tranquility at Steinwarder Beach. This hidden gem hosts white sands, crystal-clear waters, and views of the Baltic Sea.
- Thyborøn, Denmark: Venture across the border to Thyborøn, a Danish village known for its rich maritime history. Explore the Coastal Centre and get up close with North Sea marine life and experience the thrill of walking in a seabed tunnel.
- Eider Barrage: Immerse yourself in the serene beauty of the Eider Barrage, a massive tidal barrier spanning the Eider River. Take a guided tour to witness the intricate engineering behind this impressive feat.
- Wilhelmshaven: Uncover Germany’s proud naval traditions at Wilhelmshaven. Visit the Naval Museum and experience the thrill of maritime history by touring the “Deutschland” battleship at the harbour.
- Friedrichstadt: Step into a little slice of Holland in the heart of Schleswig-Holstein. Friedrichstadt offers canals, Dutch-style buildings, and a ambiance that will transport you to the Netherlands.
Off-the-Beaten-Track Gems:
- Detlefsen Museum, Husum: Explore the life and works of the renowned local author, Theodor Storm, at this museum dedicated to his literary and historical contributions.
- Noorwanderweg, Kiel: Embark on a scenic hike along the Noorwanderweg trail, which offers views of the fjord-like bays, forests, and landscapes around Kiel.
- Mölln: Indulge in quaint charm and immerse yourself in the world of Till Eulenspiegel, a folk hero from German literature. This historic town showcases medieval architecture and intriguing legends.
- Molfsee Open-Air Museum: Travel back in time at this living museum that showcases historic buildings, traditional crafts, and rural life from centuries past.
- Rugenbergen Moor: Step into a natural wonderland at Rugenbergen Moor, a peaceful peat bog with wooden footbridges and an abundance of flora and fauna.
- Eutin Castle Gardens: Visit the enchanting Eutin Castle Gardens, where beautifully manicured landscapes, blooming flowers, and ponds create a truly magical atmosphere.
- Wadden Sea National Park: Escape to the remote and untouched part of the Wadden Sea, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Discover hidden beaches, observe diverse bird species, and witness the phenomenon of tidal flats.
- Schloss Glücksburg: Uncover the romantic charm of Glücksburg Castle, Located on the shores of the Flensburg Fjord. Explore the majestic halls, learn about its intriguing history, and soak in the views.
- Altenwerder Nature Reserve, Neumünster: Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature at Altenwerder Nature Reserve, a peaceful sanctuary with walking trails, observation towers, and a wide variety of animal and plant species.