Favorite Spot in Germany: Rügen Island
One of my favorite spots in Germany is its largest island, Rügen, which I’ve been to twice. It was named a world natural heritage in 2011 due to its chalk cliffs and large number of beech trees. It is also part of the region that is currently represented by Dr. Angela Merkel, chancellor of Germany and member of the German Parliament.
There is so much to do on the island, I really don’t know where to start.
Located on the Baltic Sea, it can be reached by train or car, with a bridge connecting it to the mainland at Stralsund in the state of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern. This state is well known for its beautiful nature, so you can combine a visit to the island and the mainland.
Times to Visit
The busiest times tend to be in the summer and at New Year’s. I was there once in mid-September and once in mid-May and the weather was pleasant but the island wasn’t as crowded.
Places to Stay
There are several towns on the island of varying size, such as Binz, Bergen or Sassnitz. The island offers many hotels, including some in old villas, and vacation apartments to be rented (usually for at least a week). I stayed in Binz my first time at a hotel. The second trip was to a vacation apartment in the southern part of the island.
