For Brits, a beach holiday usually conjures up images of the quintessential European countries they know and love well. But with anger over overtourism so high this year, there are other countries offering similar experiences.
We may not know it yet. A beautiful hidden gem in Europe that is very popular with celebrities is the island of Sylt, the largest of the country’s North Frisian Islands and the fourth largest in Germany.
Known for its stunning scenery, sandy beaches and unique culture, it remains a hidden gem among British holidaymakers. The small German island rose to fame in the 1960s when a string of celebrity visitors transformed it into a party hotspot.
Among the first visitors was the German playboy Gunter Sachs, followed by high-profile guests such as tennis star Boris Becker and US actor Kevin Costner.
The island’s vibrant nightlife and lavish lifestyle continue to attract celebrities past and present, reports Euronews.
While Westerland is the largest city on the island, other towns such as Kampen, Wenningstedt-Braderup and Munkmarsch are scattered across the island.
The island’s permanent population is only 15,000, but in summer, when holidaymakers from Europe arrive, their numbers increase.
To visit the small German island, travelers must fly to Hamburg Airport.
Ryanair and EasyJet offer direct flights from the UK to Hamburg, with prices starting at £19. The island is about a three-hour drive from Hamburg Airport and is connected to the mainland by a railway embankment.
Visitors must load their cars onto the train to reach the island. Despite the celebrity appeal, accommodation on the island is relatively affordable. A night at the three-star Gutenberg Hotel, for example, costs £37 per person.
There are several white sandy beaches on the island, including Ellenbogen Beach, Hoernumer Odde Beach and Uwe Dune.
Other outdoor activities include Morsum Cliff – a popular hiking trail on the island.
The hiking trail is described as “one of the most important geological monuments in Germany”.
Other activities on the island include a seal watching tour and various boat trips to neighboring islands.
Visitors can also explore the island’s lighthouse. Thanks to the strong winds and excellent conditions, the island is a hotspot for windsurfing, kiteboarding and sailing.
As the Sun reports, people can stay in hotels from as little as £37 per person per night.