Part of the North Frisian archipelago, Amrum will charm you with its sandy beaches, wildlife-rich mudflats and adorable thatch-roof cottages. As the smallest island in the group, Amrum can be easily explored on foot or by bicycle.
Things to do in Amrum
Kniepsand Beach stretches for 10 kilometres along the west coast of the island and is fringed by sugar-white sand. Gently rolling waves make the beach great for swimming, surfing and kiteboarding. Built in 1875, Amrumer Leuchtturm lighthouse towers over the northern end of the beach and features a charming red-and-white-striped façade. Climb up to the lookout platform for sweeping views over the Wadden Sea.
Amrum is an important wildlife refuge and is home to many species of endangered birds and marine mammals. Mudflats tours are a great way to spot oystercatchers and Arctic terns. Look for grey seals and porpoises splashing offshore and basking on the rocks.
Nebel is the largest settlement on the island and offers an excellent selection of cosy cafes and restaurants. Learn about the island’s colourful past at the local history museum and visit the Church of St. Clement where you can view the famous “Talking Gravestones of Amrum” carved from local sandstone. There are more than 150 gravestones, all inscribed with details about the lives and legacies of the deceased.
Scenic hiking and cycling trails wind across the island. Some lead to deserted beaches and others take you to postcard-perfect fishing villages and thatch-roof farmhouses. After a day exploring the island, settle in for dinner at a tavern serving traditional Frisian food.
Getting around Amrum
Amrum is part of the North Frisian Islands in Schleswig-Holstein Wadden Sea National Park. Regular ferries run between Amrum and Dagebull on the German mainland in around 1.5 hours. Walking is one of the best ways to explore the pedestrian-friendly island, and you can also take advantage of the local bus network or rent a car.