Wadden Sea UNESCO World Heritage Site

Unique ecosystem

Have you ever taken a walk on the seabed? That's quite possible in the world's largest continuous mudflat area, which stretches from the Netherlands across Germany to Denmark. Low tide causes the water to recede every day, revealing the dry coastline - this natural spectacle can be experienced twice a day. There is no other place on earth with as many creatures as we see in the mudflats. The unmistakable landscape, sculpted by wind, storms and tides, makes it indispensable for the preservation of global biodiversity. This wild nature can be enjoyed in a variety of ways along the German North Sea coast and consequently also along the North Sea Cycle Route. Curious? Then set off on a journey through a unique ecosystem.

is what the area of the Wadden Sea World Heritage Site covers

migratory birds come to the Wadden Sea every year in search of food

animal and plant species are harboured by the Wadden Sea

"There's a place where heaven and earth share a stage."

by Wadden Sea World Heritage

On an adventure tour with all your senses

National park houses and visitor centres

Mudflat hiking tours

Austernfischer mit ihrem schwarz-weißen Gefieder und dem orangenen Schnabel

Bunte Badebuden und Wattenmeer im Hintergrund

Zugvögel im Wattenmeer auf der Suche nach Futter

Paar spaziert durchs Watt, im Hintergrund stehen die Pfahlbauten.

Experience the mudflats safely

Despite the fact that the mudflats are a wonderful place to wander, it is still the sea. And this can quickly turn dangerous. That is why it is essential that the following rules are observed:

Please never enter the mudflats alone or notify someone before entering the mudflats.
We recommend accompanying an experienced mudflat guide. Doing so will also teach you something about this special habitat.
Check the tides and mudflat hiking times on the internet or on notice boards in advance so that the tides don't take you by surprise.
Remember a fixed point on the mainland as a marker.
Please only venture onto the mudflats during the day in summer, when the weather is calm and visibility is good. It is dangerous to venture out in darkness, thunderstorms, twilight, storms and fog.
Plan sufficient time for your return journey.
Tideways should not be entered on account of the prevailing current. A strong current is particularly dominant when the water is rising. Even experienced swimmers should not attempt to swim through a tideway.
Mussel beds can pose a risk of injury due to their sharp edges, meaning you should only venture out in old shoes or mudflat socks.

Beware of silt fields. These can be life-threatening because of the risk of sinking in.
Please be mindful of the animal inhabitants of the Wadden Sea. It is their home and we are only guests here.

Thalassotherapy

Experience the healing effects of the sea.

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