Germany's overtourism alternative
In this difficult summer of overtourism in Europe, tourism offices are putting a lot of energy into luring tourists to less-crowded destinations.
A case in point is the German National Tourist Board, which is touting the off-the-beaten-track beauty of its islands.
Islands in Germany, you may ask?
The destination has dozens of them, located in the North and Baltic seas. And while no one is comparing them to the Caribbean as a draw in winter, in these days of blistering heat in parts of the U.S., their appeal is coming into new focus.
Here are a few to consider:
At about 350 square miles, Rugen is Germany's largest island and is known for its chalk cliffs overlooking the Baltic Sea and for Jasmund National Park, a Unesco World Heritage Site. Visitors can explore nearly 40 miles of sandy beaches, take a ride on a historic narrow-gauge train or relax with medicinal spa treatments at Sellin seaside resort.
Usedom, Germany's second largest island, straddles the German-Polish border in the Baltic Sea. The destination has a 19th century imperial flair, thanks to its Old World spa resorts. See and be seen on the long seaside promenade, relax on wide sandy beaches or ride the historic pier train.
Visitors can also hop on a bike and cross the border to Swinoujscie (Swinemunde in German), one of Poland's most popular seaside towns.
Sylt, Germany's northernmost island, is located in the North Sea and is accessible via causeway from the mainland by car or train. There are 25 miles of beaches, as well as golf courses and a whole menu of watersports.
Wine lovers can raise a glass at the Villa Waalem on the island of Fohr. Situated among the North Frisian Islands in the North Sea, the island offers cycling routes, local villages and plenty of sheep.
Finally, Norderney, an East Frisian island, offers thalasso spa therapy, as well as watersports, hiking and cycling.
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