Surrounded by sandy beaches and grass-covered dunes, Sylt Island is the jewel of the Frisian archipelago. Relax at sun-drenched beach resorts like Westerland and venture inland to discover rolling green farmland and picturesque villages.
Things to do in Sylt Island
Sylt is dotted with upscale beach resorts where you can slip into island time. Soft sand and crystalline water make Westerland popular with sunseekers. Relax on the beach and enjoy open-air concerts held on the seafront stage. Family-friendly Sylt Aquarium gets you up close with North Sea marine life. Wenningstedt is another popular resort with a more laid-back vibe.
Sylt Island is laced with scenic hiking and cycling trails that hug the coast, skirt clifftops and wind through flower-filled meadows. Guided tours take you onto the mudflats and across to neighbouring Amrum Island. They’re a unique opportunity to trek across the Wadden Sea, an activity known as “Wattwanderungen” by locals.
Erlebniszentrum Naturgewalten introduces you to the fascinating ecology of the North Sea. The museum is powered by renewable energy and is filled with interactive exhibits covering topics like climate and wildlife. Sylter Heimatmuseum occupies an old sea captain’s house and features exhibits on local history and culture. As you approach the museum, you’ll pass under a gate made from a pair of enormous whale rib bones.
It may be small, but Sylt Island doesn’t scrimp on flavour. There are multiple Michelin-starred restaurants to enjoy, as well as plenty of cosy cafes, taverns and bistros. Sylt oysters are a local specialty, often served broiled and topped with a mix of cheese and breadcrumbs.
Getting around Sylt Island
Resorts like Westerland and Wenningstedt are compact and easy to get around on foot. Bicycles are a fun and eco-friendly way to get around Sylt Island. Trains carry cars and passengers between Westerland and Niebull on the German mainland.