North Frisian Islands

Introducing North Frisian Islands

Germany’s North Frisian Islands are a strange proposition. Hearing of their grass-covered dunes, shifting sands, birds, seal colonies, jaunty lighthouses and rugged cliffs, you’d imagine them as the domain of hardy nature-lovers. Instead, these North Sea islands are a favourite of the German jet-set and parts of them feel more like Martha’s Vineyard. Traditional reed-thatched cottages now house luxury goods stores such as Cartier and Louis Vuitton, while car parks on Sylt are frequently crammed with Mercedes and Porsches.

Still, bicycle-riding nobodies can still – thankfully – be seen taking in the pure sea air in the more remote corners of glamorous Sylt. Amrum and Föhr, the latter across the tidal Schleswig-Holstein Wadden Sea, are more peaceful still.

Note, however, that while most of Germany is very reasonably priced, on Sylt you will pay a premium for the experience, especially in Kampen.

Last updated: Feb 17, 2009