5 of Germany’s most beautiful beaches

While Germany is full of ancient forests and misty wooded enclaves, it’s also home to beautiful beaches that could rival any of its southern European counterparts. We’ve picked five of the best.

Rotes Kliff on Sylt, Schleswig-Holstein

One of the country’s premier islands, Sylt’s appeal lies in its many stunning stretches of sand, Rotes Kliff (Red Cliff) being just one of them. Its signature ochre cliffs line the shoreline from Wenningstedt to Kampen – great russet beacons that are unlike anywhere else along the North Sea. Above the cliffs, wooden walkways wind lazily along the dunes, while below, pale sands create a striking view. Most of the Sylt’s natural beauty is protected by law so you can expect to stumble across equally enthralling surroundings as you set out on a beach walk. Stay until sunset, when the light transforms the cliffs into a fiery, volcanic red, before meandering back to Hotel Reethüüs.

Weststrand in Fischland-Darß-Zingst, Mecklenburg-Vorpommer

One of Germany’s more remote outposts, the wild, willfully untamed Weststrand is a beautiful, but lesser-known beach. Here, the gentle simmer of the waves is one of the only sounds you’ll hear, while ragged, gnarled trees creak in the background, tilted in such a way, they look like they’re almost reaching out for the sea. Westrands sparseness only adds to its beauty, and at 13km, a walk here will unite you with some of Germany’s natural spectacles. When you’ve taken in all you can, Hotel Zum Strandläufer and its hot tub are close by.

Kniepsand on Amrum, Schleswig-Holstein

For sheer space, silence and serenity, Kniepsand on the island of Amrum is an excellent choice. At a width of around 1300 metres and about 14km in length, its appeal lies very much in the room you have to yourself. A near-galactic terrain, mounds of green shrubbery pop-up along the beach, as if to remind you that you’re still very much on earth. Walk far enough here though, and you’ll stumble upon one of Amrum’s quintessential sights – the lighthouse. Standing tall in its candy-coloured red and white stripes, it’s a lonely figure and an example of beauty found in isolation. Though the quiet is welcome, you’ll find company and impeccable hospitality at Hotel Anka.

Nordstrand Wittow on Rügen, Mecklenburg-Vorpommer

Families have traditionally flocked to Rügen, but the island’s northern peninsula, home to Wittow, is a hushed escape from the strandkorb-saturated beaches further south. Take a looping, sandy trail winds down to the windswept beach and you’ll be gifted with unblemished views of the North Sea and what feels like a stretch of sand all to yourself. Other than the lush wooden perimeter that overlooks the beach, its beauty lies in the quiet. As a result, all kinds of travellers visit here – including families, dog-owners and naturists. When you’ve had a day retreating from the world, Zum Kap Arkona is a restful stay, that will gently bring you back.

Chiemsee in Rosenheim, Bavaria

Deep within the state of Bavaria, is the cobalt-blue lake of Chiemsee and its surrounding beaches. Known as “the Bavarian Sea”, the lake is framed by towering mountains, while on it, you’ll spot two little islands. There’s no one specific beach that reigns supreme here, and the best way to find your favourite is by exploring. Take a languid walk around the lake’s perimeter at sunrise and you’ll have sun-dappled water views and hypnotic mists at one stop, and by the time you reach the next beach, it’s just you, the setting sun and the ghostly silhouettes of the distant mountains. If you’re keen to keep the views, Ferienresidenz Chiemseestern is right by the shore.