Beautiful beaches, varied nature and many sights ensure that the island of Föhr, which is one of the North Frisian Islands, is an attractive travel destination. Thanks to regular ferry connections, which are dependent on low and high tide, Föhr can be easily reached all year round and get a first impression of the region on the boat to the island.
For a faster journey, there is also a small airfield available, which is served by flights from various places on the mainland such as Husum and Flensburg. Föhr is characterized above all by the Wadden Sea, which surrounds the island and which can be experienced up close on guided hikes. Also very remarkable is the very lush vegetation for the area, which Föhr owes to the fact that it is protected from violent gusts of wind by its neighboring islands of Sylt and Amrum due to its location, which favors the thriving of diverse plants. Another aspect that makes Föhr a popular destination for those seeking relaxation is the stimulating climate typical of the region, with salty air and steady winds. Föhr is not only interesting in terms of its scenic features, but also offers exciting insights into the eventful history of the North Sea region.
A unique nature makes Föhr a place for explorers
Above all, the long beaches on Föhr invite you to spend a carefree time in the great outdoors. Especially in the south and west of Föhr you will find attractive beaches that invite you to linger at any time of the year. In summer, the beaches of Föhr are very popular with bathers and offer a variety of opportunities to enjoy the salty, but also refreshing water of the North Sea . In autumn and winter, on the other hand, you can take great walks on the beach, where there is a lot to explore and you are guaranteed not to get bored. But also the interior of Föhr, which is primarily dominated by marshland, is an area where you can spend a relaxing time either on foot or by bike. Probably the most formative natural scenery in the Föhr area, however, is the Wadden Sea, which gives visitors to the island very exciting insights into an extraordinary ecosystem. However, since the so-called mudflats are not without danger and are also a protected area and many things have to be considered, you should join one of the guided mudflat hikes on Föhr. On the one hand, by taking part in a mudflat tour, you are safe on the road and receive interesting explanations about the special features of this unique landscape from experienced mudflat guides.
A place of living history
If you spend a few relaxing days on Föhr, you also have the opportunity to deal with the eventful history of the island. The island, which has been shaped by whaling for a long time, has a diverse and interesting culture that is still present in many areas of island life today. For example, the ladies in particular still wear the colourful Frisian costume on festive occasions in some parts of Föhr today.
But other customs, such as the Biikebrennen in February, which is comparable to the Easter bonfires known in other regions, are still very popular and ensure that traditions remain alive on Föhr. A very interesting overview of the cultural history of North Frisia and Föhr is offered, for example, by the Frisian Museum in the island’s capital Wyk, where you can very vividly understand the often arduous life of the islanders in past times. Another museum that is worth visiting if you spend your time on Föhr is the Museum Kunst der Westküste, where works of art from different eras on the themes of sea and coast are presented.
Charm and flair – Föhr is an island that has a lot to offer
Numerous buildings and places on Föhr, which were once very important, are still very popular and worth seeing today. Föhr, for example, is known for its very beautiful churches, of which the three in Wyk, Nieblum and Süderende, which were built in the Middle Ages, are worth a visit. The real attraction of these churches, however, is not the buildings themselves, which are also very imposing, but the associated cemeteries. This is mainly due to the fact that you can find very unusual gravestones on them, some of which contain pictures in addition to very extensive texts dedicated to the deceased. Even older testimonies of Föhr’s past can be seen in the southwest of the island, where several burial mounds from the Bronze Age and the Lembecksburg, a ring wall, are waiting to be explored. A stroll through the main town of Föhr, Wyk, is also very worthwhile, where you will find a beautiful bell tower and can also take a walk on the famous lake promenade Sandwall.
Holiday resorts on Föhr
Wyk auf Föhr
Wyk is the capital of the island and the ideal starting point for your journey of discovery. Here you will find a variety of restaurants, cafes and shops. The picturesque promenade “Sandwall” invites you to stroll and enjoy the fresh sea breeze. Visit the Frisian Museum to learn more about the history and culture of the island, or relax on the main beach with views of the Halligen and the mainland.
Oevenum
Oevenum is a charming village known for its thatched Frisian houses and manicured gardens. The village has a historic village centre where you can visit the 13th-century St. John’s Church. In Oevenum there is also a traditional weekly market where you can buy regional products and handicrafts.
Süderende
Süderende, the southernmost village on Föhr, impresses with its peace and seclusion. Here you can explore the island’s unspoiled nature on scenic hiking trails and stop off at the cozy cafes and restaurants. The historic town centre with its charming Frisian houses is a real feast for the eyes. Particularly worth seeing is the St. Laurentii Church, the oldest church on Föhr, whose origins date back to the 12th century
Alkersum
The charming village of Alkersum is best known for the “Museum Kunst der Westküste”. In this modern museum, you can admire an impressive collection of works of art that address life and the landscape on the west coast of Scandinavia and North Frisia. Alkersum also offers a variety of events and workshops that promote art and culture on the island.
Witsum
Witsum, a small village in the west of the island, is the ideal place to find peace and relaxation. With less than 100 inhabitants, Witsum is the smallest village on Föhr and is picturesquely situated between green meadows and the Wadden Sea. Visitors can admire the unique Frisian architecture that characterises the island. The village is particularly known for its terp, an artificial elevation built to protect against storm surges. During a walk along the terp, you can enjoy the view over the Wadden Sea and the neighbouring island of Amrum.
Wrixum
Wrixum, another charming village on Föhr, is located north of the island’s capital Wyk and is visible from afar through its windmill. The historic mill “Johann Wilhelm Andresen” was built in 1741 and is now a lovingly restored museum. Wrixum impresses with its Frisian building culture, and on a stroll through the village you will discover many thatched houses and cottage gardens. As one of the oldest villages on Föhr, Wrixum also offers a variety of holiday apartments and accommodation for holidaymakers.
Nieblum
Nieblum, located in the southwest of the island, is often referred to as the most beautiful village in Föhr. The town centre is characterised by narrow streets and magnificent captains’ houses, which bear witness to the island’s past as a seafaring and whaling stronghold. The kilometre-long, white sandy beach and the picturesque promenade invite you to sunbathe and walk. St. John’s Church, one of the oldest churches in North Frisia, is also worth a visit.
Dunsum
Dunsum is a small village in the northwest of the island, known for its idyllic location on the Wadden Sea. From here, visitors can hike to the neighboring island of Amrum at low tide or enjoy a walk on the beach at high tide. The village itself is characterized by traditional thatched houses and offers its guests a quiet and relaxed atmosphere.
Utersum
Utersum, on the other hand, is a slightly larger village on the west coast of Föhr and offers a wide sandy beach as well as a seawater outdoor pool, which is particularly popular with families. Here, visitors can also visit the Utersum Museum of Local History and learn more about the history of the island. In the summer months, there are also numerous events and concerts that create a lively atmosphere.
Hedehusum
Hedehusum is another charming village on Föhr and is located in the southeast of the island. It is best known for its historic buildings, including the 13th-century St. Lawrence Church and the old captain’s house, which is now used as a cultural center. In the area around Hedehusum, visitors will also find numerous cycling and hiking trails that lead through the picturesque landscape of the island.
Oldsum
Oldsum is a small village in the southwest of the island of Föhr. It is known for its quaint thatched-roof houses that create an idyllic atmosphere. Oldsum also has a harbour that is used for sailboats and small fishing boats. The town also has a 13th-century church, which is one of the oldest churches on the island.
Goting
Goting is another small town on Föhr that is known for its beautiful scenery and idyllic gardens. Goting also has a church from the 12th century, which is one of the oldest churches on Föhr. The place is also an important location for bird watching, as it is close to the Wadden Sea, which is an important habitat for many bird species.
Midlum
Midlum is one of the larger villages on Föhr and is known for its historic buildings and rural atmosphere. Midlum has a 14th-century church known for its Gothic architecture. The village also has a windmill that is still in operation and produces flour. Midlum is also an important location for agriculture on the island.
Borgsum
Borgsum is another small village on Föhr, known for its beautiful beaches and rich history. Borgsum has a church from the 13th century, which is known for its Romanesque architecture. The place also has a lighthouse known for its picturesque views of the sea. Borgsum is also an important location for tourism on Föhr.
