Located on the south-east coast of Rügen, Sellin is a popular resort town boasting the longest pier on the island. It’s believed to have been settled in the 13th century and rose to prominence as a 19th-century spa town, with its central Wilhelmstrasse lined with grand villas dating from that period.
Things to do in Sellin
Kick back on the golden sands of Sellin Beach and enjoy a refreshing dip in the waters of the Baltic Sea. In the middle of the beach is the historic Sellin Pier, which is dominated by an ornate 1920s-style pavilion. Stretching to 394 metres, the pier features a gourmet restaurant that specialises in schnitzel, goulash and seafood dishes.
One of the most popular ways to explore Rügen is onboard its narrow-gauge railway, which links Sellin with Binz, Baabe and Göhren. Pulled by steam locomotives, it offers a touch of nostalgia while taking in the island’s scenic landscapes. The railway stretches for 24 kilometres along tracks that are more than 100 years old and has been nicknamed the “Raging Roland”.
Sellin forms part of the Southeast Rügen Biosphere Reserve, which is dominated by coastal headlands, rocky peninsulas and bird-filled lagoons. Stretch your legs on a hike through its beech forests, spot grey seals from the high cliffs or explore the megalithic tombs that date from the Stone Age. The reserve also provides a breeding ground for migratory birds, including greylag, bean and greater white-fronted geese.
Getting around Sellin
Sellin is a 20-minute drive from Bergen auf Rügen and 45 minutes from Stralsund. Rostock–Laage Airport is just under two hours away and has flights to destinations across Europe and North Africa. Regular trains connect to the Sellin Ost railway station and the town is compact enough to explore on foot.