Sometimes it’s easy to get caught up in Germany’s history with its castles and scenic routes, often forgetting that it has seaside resorts, too.
Beaches in Germany? Yes, and they’re beautiful — which you’ll find out when you arrive in Ostseebad Heringsdorf, situated on the eastern side of the island of Usedom in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania.
Not many people can resist the pull of the Baltic Sea, sandy beaches, and charming seaside villas. For some the Baltic Sea is as exotic and foreign as places like Fiji or Tahiti — in this case only a wee bit colder and without the pricetag. ;-)
Visitors from all tax brackets are able to enjoy spending a few days because there are hotels, Bed & Breakfasts, and campsites for overnight accommodation. Sounds good, doesn’t it?
While you’re here, you can walk out over the Baltic on Heringdorf’s pier — which people have been doing for a few centuries now, like the Pier Ahlbeck which was built in 1899, stretching 280 meters out over the water. The Heringsdorf Pier might not be as old (the original was destroyed in a fire) but it is the longest, going 508 meters out over the blue Baltic Sea. Can you smell the sea air? I can and it’s refreshing!
I like the fact that there’s more to Heringsdorf than just putting on sunscreen & walking beachside (or walking in the nature reserve areas on this part of the island). Because this is an island resort I can’t think of a better place for a Shell Museum.
Culture doesn’t get lost at sea, either. Over at the Villa Irmgard concerts and book readings are the norm; and the Kirche im Walde is a superb example of 19th century architecture.
Another example of 19th century building is the Villa Oechsler. Built in 1883, it was once someone’s beach house. Then used as a library during the days when this area belonged to East Germany. Now everyone can see the beautiful mosaic on the villa’s beach side.
I think there are a few more hundreds of villas around here, at least it seems as though they’re scattered all over the place.
If you like what you read about Heringsdorf, don’t worry — getting here is easy enough. The town has its own Heringsdorf Airport, frequent train service, and a border crossing from Poland.
One thing’s for sure… no matter how you’ll get here, you’ll certainly see Germany as a premier beach destination that you might have never thought is possible. You now know it is. :-)
