Helgoland

Heligoland

Heligoland is Germany's only high seas island and lies far out in the North Sea

The island is characterized by red sandstone cliffs, steep slopes, and unique wildlife. Due to its isolated location, Heligoland historically developed into a strategic military site and later into a health resort and nature destination. In the 19th century, Heligoland belonged to the United Kingdom and was thus a British colony. It was not until 1890 that the island was ceded to the German Empire in exchange for territories in East Africa under the so-called “Heligoland-Zanzibar Treaty.” Subsequently, the Germans expanded Heligoland into an important naval base, further reinforcing the island’s military significance. Its customs status has also been unique ever since: no value-added tax is levied on many goods. As a result, spirits, tobacco products, and perfume in particular are comparatively inexpensive for visitors. Heligoland is more popular among slightly older tourists. Neither cars nor bicycles are permitted on the island.
After the gray seals on Heligoland had nearly disappeared by the early 20th century due to hunting and displacement, Heligoland is now an important site for seal births (especially in winter) and the rearing of pups.

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Sights in Heligoland

Hummerbuden - Helgoland Hummerbuden 2010
Hein.Mück // CC BY-SA 3.0

  • Hummerbuden

    Hummerbuden - Helgoland Hummerbuden 2010
    Hein.Mück // CC BY-SA 3.0

    The colorful lobster shacks are small, colorful houses along the harbor. They used to serve as workshops for fishermen, but today they house stores and cafés. Visitors can experience a lively piece of island culture here.

      Address: Hafenstraße 1045, 27498 Helgoland Hafenstraße 1045, Helgoland
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    • Trichter Einer 5000 Kg Bombe

      The "funnel of a 5000 kg bomb" is a reminder of the massive destruction of the island after the Second World War. in 1947, the British carried out one of the largest non-nuclear explosions to destroy military installations. Visitors can still see the traces of these events today.

        Address: Klippenrandweg, 27498 Helgoland Klippenrandweg, Helgoland
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      • Helgolander Kegelrobben

        Helgolander Kegelrobben - Halichoerus grypus male
        Andreas Trepte // CC BY-SA 2.5

        Heligoland is one of the few places in Germany where grey seals can be observed in the wild. Especially in winter, the animals come to the beaches to give birth to their young. Visitors can experience an extraordinary animal watching experience here.

          Address: Am Südstrand 8, 27498 Helgoland Am Südstrand 8, Helgoland
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        • Museum Helgoland

          Museum Helgoland - Schleswig-Holstein, Kreis Pinneberg, Helgoland im Juli 2019 NIK 7767
          Nightflyer // CC BY 4.0

          The museum shows the history of the island from its early days through its military use to its current importance as a nature and tourist resort. Visitors are given a comprehensive overview of Heligoland's development.

            Address: Kurpromenade 1430, 27498 Helgoland Kurpromenade 1430, Helgoland
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          • Lange Anna

            Lange Anna - Helgoland June 2009 20090628 038
            Politikaner // CC BY-SA 3.0

            Lange Anna is a free-standing red rock and the landmark of Heligoland. The imposing rock needle juts out of the sea and is part of the steep cliff landscape. Visitors can view it from vantage points.

              Address: Klippenrandweg, 27498 Helgoland Klippenrandweg, Helgoland
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            • Jägerstieg

              The Jägerstieg is a hiking trail along the cliffs and offers impressive views of the sea and rocks. Visitors can experience Heligoland's nature particularly intensively here.

                Address: 27498 Helgoland Helgoland
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              • Festung Helgoland

                Heligoland Fortress is a reminder of the island's military use, especially in the 20th century. Bunkers and defensive structures bear witness to Heligoland's strategic importance. Visitors can explore parts of this history.

                  Address: Lung Wai 214, 27498 Helgoland Lung Wai 214, Helgoland
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                • Biologische Anstalt Helgoland

                  Biologische Anstalt Helgoland - Alfred-Wegner-Institut Helgoland June 2009 (1)
                  Politikaner // CC BY-SA 3.0

                  The Biological Institute is an important research facility for marine biology. Scientists study the North Sea and its ecosystems here. Visitors gain insights into research into the marine environment.

                    Address: Kurpromenade 201, 27498 Helgoland Kurpromenade 201, Helgoland
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