Hiddensee
The silver of land, clinging to the west coast of the island of Rugen on Germany‘s Baltic coast, has preserved all the charm that attracted so many famous early 20th century artists, writers and intellectuals to its shores including Einstein, Freud, Brecht and Thomas Mann. Photo by: me_youwe
Hiddensee is less than 17 km long and just 250 m wide at its narrowest point. The landscape is exceptionally beautiful with incredibly varied scenery – precipitous rocks contrasting with the white sandy beaches, meadows and saltmarshes, huge dunes, sandflats and undulating heartland. Large part of the island are only just above sea level while the highest point is 72 m. The white sands along the western and north coasts are some of the finest anywhere in the world. Just the chilly breeze reminds you that you are not in the Caribbean. Photo by: kid schoko
No cars are allowed here. Transport is provided by horse -drawn carriages or bicycles. The main town, Vitte, is a small port on the east coast, a beautiful area of heathland which in August is a blazing purple carpet of heather. Photo by: Theresa F.
Hiddensee has a faintly bohemian atmosphere – a retreat for individuals seeking peace from the madding crowd. You will stumble across small galleries and roadside exhibitions wherever you go. Photo by: Kathleen Leilani
When to go: The high season runs from May to September, but the island caters for tourists throughout the year and hardy types will enjoy the bleak winter landscapes just as much as, if not more than, the summer ones. Population: About 1,300. How to get there: Ferry from Stralsund on the mainland. You should know: You must book months in advanced to get a hotel room between June and August. Photo by: tkbnet_en2009
