THE ISLAND OF SYLT

Sylt sits out in the North Sea, roughly six miles off the coast of Schleswig-Holstein, Germany. The island stretches about 24 miles from top to bottom and is a little over 8 miles across at its widest point. Up north, sand dunes and beaches take over the landscape, while the southern end is packed with towns and villages. The island’s highest spot is the Uwe Dune, which tops out at about 172 feet above sea level.

The weather on Sylt comes with a typical maritime vibe—mild temps, plenty of humidity, and winds that can really kick up. During winter storms, gusts can whip up to 75 mph. Summers hover around 64°F, while winters usually hang in the upper 30s.

Nature lovers will find plenty to get into on Sylt. The island boasts a wide range of plants and wildlife, much of it protected in nature reserves. The Wadden Sea National Park, which covers the island’s western shoreline, is a hot spot for birdwatching, with species like sandpipers, dunlins, and curlews flocking in. Inland, the heathlands play host to rare plants such as heather and sea buckthorn.

The island also carries a rich cultural backstory that goes way back to early Viking settlements. The Altfriesisches Haus Museum in Keitum shines a light on local heritage, with displays of traditional crafts, clothing, and customs. These days, the island has also carved out a name for itself in the contemporary art scene, with galleries and exhibits popping up all over.

When it comes to tourism, Sylt really pulls in the crowds. It’s one of Germany’s top vacation spots, drawing millions of visitors year after year. People come here to kick back in luxury resorts and spas, shop high-end boutiques, or hit the town for its buzzing nightlife. Summer is prime time, when the island fills up with beachgoers, water sports fans, and culture seekers. On top of that, Sylt has made a name for itself as a wellness getaway, with spa resorts offering all kinds of treatments and therapies to recharge your batteries.

Getting to Sylt is pretty straightforward. The island links up to the mainland by a causeway that you can drive, ride, or bus across. There’s also Sylt Airport, with regular flights to major cities in Germany and across Europe. Once you’re there, getting around is a breeze—whether you hop on a bike, bus, or rental car, the island’s easy to explore.