Discover Hiddensee Island

Hiddensee Island combines a distinctive dune landscape with coastal paths and cultural sites. The dune heath stretches between Vitte and Neuendorf; hiking trails lead through forests and across meadows. There are also beach walks with views of the Baltic Sea and the surrounding islands, as well as places where literary and ecclesiastical history come to life. When planning your trip, it is worth considering these interests alongside travel by water.

Between the Dune Heath and the Baltic Sea

The dune heath on Hiddensee is one of the last large coastal dune heaths on Germany’s Baltic coast. It covers 120 hectares and is part of the European protected area “Westrügensche Boddenlandschaft mit Hiddensee” (EU code DE 1544-302). Numerous small sandy paths criss-cross the heath. Its location between Vitte and Neuendorf gives the landscape a clear spatial framework: the dune heath is not a single viewpoint, but an extensive area to be explored on foot along its paths.

Trails for Different Views of the Island

Hiddensee has well-signposted and marked hiking trails through forests and across meadows. Beach walks offer a different focus: they follow the coast and open up views of the Baltic Sea and the surrounding islands. There are thus various landscapes to choose from for walks, from paths through forests and meadows to the open coastline. Those who want to make nature the main focus of their trip can combine these options with the dune heath; those interested in the island’s history will find further inspiration at cultural sites.

Literature and History on Hiddensee

In Kloster, the Gerhart Hauptmann House presents a permanent exhibition about the poet’s life and work, his relationship with Hiddensee, works created on the island, and current stage productions of Hauptmann’s works. Hiddensee Island Church offers another perspective, rooted in an earlier history: monks from the Cistercian monastery built it in the early 14th century; it was consecrated in 1332. Together, the exhibition and the church building offer two distinct points of interest for culture-minded travellers, from literary works to the history of the medieval building.

Getting There and Planning Your Trip

Hiddensee can only be reached by water. Reederei Hiddensee connects the island with Schaprode on Rügen and directly with Stralsund. As ferry timetables vary by season, check them before travelling. Private cars are not permitted on Hiddensee. Guests in Schaprode have access to two large car parks: one at the entrance to the village, with a shuttle service, and the other directly at the harbour. Parking rules and fees may change; check the details before you arrive.

Vorpommern-Rügen as a Wider Cultural Setting

The wider travel destination of Vorpommern-Rügen also offers a cultural setting: the district is known, among other things, for the Störtebeker Festival. It is also home to an estimated 60 museums. This broader perspective extends beyond the island’s themes without taking the focus away from Hiddensee’s dune landscape, hiking trails and cultural sites when choosing a trip.

Discover More Travel Destinations

Altefähr, Schaprode, Ummanz, Dreschvitz, Samtens, Neuenkirchen, Kluis, Rambin

To the main travel overview: Amt West-Rügen.