5 unique experiences in Schleswig-Holstein, north Germany

In the state of Schleswig-Holstein which is located in the northernmost part of Germany, one is greeted by moin (or mojn). This typical greeting reflects the local way of life that beautifully blends with the sea. The North Sea and the Baltic Sea are omnipresent in this region.

National parks of Schleswig-Holstein, Germany. (Photo: Moritz Ludtke via Unsplash)

Here is a list of five special activities that can be experienced in Schleswig-Holstein:

Taking a mudflat hike at Wadden Sea National Park

Wadden Sea is a Unesco World Heritage site and depending on the tide, a mudflat hike can be experienced. Done barefoot, walking on the seabed is distinctive and one gets a firsthand experience of the habitat of the National Park.

On this marine adventure, as you walk on mudflats and a salt marsh, the guide shows you fascinating flora and fauna. Spot migratory birds and learn about them or taste a freshly plucked sea asparagus that is salty in flavour.

A mudflat hike at Wadden Sea National Park, Schleswig-Holstein, Germany. (Photo: Khursheed Dinshaw)

Visiting the seal centre at Friedrichskoog

From the seal observatory of this coastal sanctuary, view the resident seals in their seal pools and enjoy their antics. There is Lilli who is a 20 year old harbour seal who was born at the centre. She has a well defined marking on her forehead. Curious Snorre can be identified by the numerous white spots on his forehead.

Mareike was an abandoned pup that was brought to the centre. She couldn’t be released back into the water. She is quite the star and enjoys the adulation of the staff and visitors alike. Juris and Nemirseta are the other two resident seals. Visitors also learn about how abandoned harbour and grey seal pups are rescued, cared for and rehabilitated. Don’t miss watching how the resident seals are fed.

Learning about Viking culture at Haithabu Viking Museum

The Haithabu Viking museum is part of Unesco World Heritage sites and gives impressive insights about how the Vikings lived in the Early Middle Ages. The museum which includes an exhibition showcasing archaeological findings is located on the former trade route of the Vikings.

According to original findings, seven houses have been reconstructed to depict the life and times of Vikings. The houses have been built inside a semicircular rampart. This rampart was built in the 10th century to defend and fortify the settlement. It occupies almost 25.5 hectares. The houses are constructed on higher plots to prevent rain water from entering them. Their fences are made of planks that are cut from oak. Some of the fences are created with wickerwork.

Each house has its own unique features and construction. The comb maker’s house has a dwelling space, a clay-dome oven and a storage room. The cloth merchant’s house has a purlin roof and a little room cordoned off to stock wares. The craftman’s house is dominated by wooden objects ranging from chests to plates and cups.

Houses of Schleswig-Holstein, Germany. (Photo: Ibrahim Rifath via Unsplash)

Spending a day at St. Peter-Ording Beach

Combining nature and the beach, this experience is filled with adrenaline or relaxation depending on how you like it. For an adrenaline rush, there is kite surfing and wind surfing. For a laid back chilled out time, rent a comfortable Strandkorb which is a wicker beach chair and gaze at the ebb and flow of the water. Walk along the German white sandy beach to observe the reeds that were formerly used for thatching homes.

Admire the sand dunes which act as a natural dyke or click a European searocket plant in bloom with pink flowers. There is also rosa rugosa which is a rose that thrives on sand dunes. For shell enthusiasts, St. Peter-Ording Beach is rife with shells in multitude sizes, colours and textures. Choose from shells from the Baltic Sea to shells from foreign lands which get ferried by boats.

St. Peter-Ording Beach, Schleswig-Holstein, Germany. (Photo: Khursheed Dinshaw)

Relishing regional German cuisine

The cuisine of Schleswig-Holstein is an appetising blend of wholesome, regional and fresh produce. Relish tender lamb, freshly caught fish, locally grown vegetables specially cabbage, cheese and fruits that can be eaten fresh or as preserves.

Fine-dining restaurants, trending eateries and cozy cafes offer gastronomically delicious food which can be savoured with German lagers, stouts, wheat beer and pale ales. There is smoked trout, salmon, pulled pork, baked potatoes, vegan ice-cream, including in a mango lassi flavour and the ever popular German cake to enjoy.