Schleswig Holstein is the geographical bridge connecting Germany to Scandinavia. It offers a unique coastal road trip defined by wind water and a boundless horizon. This narrow state borders two totally different worlds: the rugged tidal North Sea and the calmer fjord filled Baltic Sea. Your drive provides constant dramatic contrast in just a short distance.
The landscape changes rapidly from the North Sea's dramatic tidal flats the Wadden Sea to the gentle bays cliffs and fjords of the Baltic shore. History here is totally maritime. You can explore remnants of Viking trading ports like Haithabu or watch enormous ships pass through the immense Kiel Canal. Every road in this state is full of salt air open skies and nautical heritage.
The feeling in Schleswig Holstein is open relaxed and strongly influenced by its Scandinavian neighbors. The wind and the wide skies give the drive a great sense of freedom. They invite you to stop for fresh fish or explore the dune islands. This is the ultimate destination for anyone seeking maritime history and the simple pleasure of cruising between two powerful seas.
Schleswig-Holstein highlights
- Lübeck Explore the former capital of the Hanseatic League with its iconic Holstentor, red-brick Gothic churches and narrow medieval streets. Try the famous Lübeck marzipan while wandering its beautiful old town.
- Kiel Fjord Visit the maritime heart of Schleswig-Holstein. Watch massive ships arrive from Scandinavia or stroll along the Kiellinie waterfront. Also visit during Kiel Week, the world’s largest sailing festival.
- Sylt Germany’s most famous North Sea island, known for long sandy beaches, shifting dunes, and stylish seaside villages. A great spot for surfing, beach walks and fresh seafood.
- Heligoland A unique offshore island with towering red cliffs, nesting seabirds and a car-free zone. Don’t miss the Lange Anna sea stack, one of Germany’s most impressive natural landmarks.
- Haithabu Viking Museum Step back to the Viking Age at the original trading settlement of Hedeby, now an open-air museum and historical monument on the Schlei Fjord.
- Wadden Sea National Park A nature reserve with mudflats, salt marshes, seals and birdlife. Ideal for guided mudflat walks, boat tours to seal colonies and untouched coastal scenery.
The local Four
History of Schleswig-Holstein
The history of Schleswig Holstein is a story of political transition. The region was a historical boundary for centuries ruled by two different powers. The Duchy of Schleswig was a territory of the Danish crown and the Duchy of Holstein was part of the German empire. This allegiance created a unique identity rooted in strong nautical heritage that dates back to the Viking trading center of Haithabu.
The 19th century ended this dual status through violent conflict. Fueled by rising nationalism the region became the focus of the Schleswig Wars starting in 1848. After Denmark’s defeat by a combined Prussian and Austrian force in 1864 the entire region was annexed by Prussia. This immense political change led to a 1920 referendum where the northern section of Schleswig voted to rejoin Denmark establishing the border you drive across today.
The modern German state of Schleswig Holstein was formally created after World War II by the British military government. Today the state proudly celebrates its identity as a borderland where two great cultures coexist peacefully. This heritage makes it a powerful and fascinating place to drive.