Glowe Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, see, and eat in Glowe, Germany. From natural attractions to cultural landmarks, this comprehensive guide will help you plan your trip and make the most of your visit.


Introduction to Glowe

Nestled on the northeastern coast of Rügen Island, in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Glowe is a charming seaside town and a hidden gem of Germany’s Baltic coast. With miles of sandy beaches, rolling hills, and pristine nature reserves, Glowe offers visitors a perfect blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and cultural experiences. Whether you are traveling with family, friends, or solo, Glowe has something for everyone. In this guide, we will showcase the best places to visit, things to do, and restaurants to eat at in Glowe.

List of Places to Visit in Glowe

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Glowe Church: Built in the 13th century, this charming church boasts a unique architecture with its red brick walls and Gothic windows. It is a must-visit for history and architecture buffs.
  • Russian Cemetery: A few kilometers away from Glowe, this cemetery is a poignant reminder of the town’s history as a former Soviet military base. The site is beautifully maintained and is a great place to pay your respects to fallen soldiers.
  • Cape Arkona Lighthouse: Located on the northern tip of Rügen Island, this iconic lighthouse is a popular tourist spot. Visitors can climb to the top of the tower for panoramic views of the Baltic Sea.

Natural Attractions of Glowe: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Schaabe Beach: Spanning over 10 kilometers, this pristine white sandy beach is considered one of the most beautiful in Germany. The clear turquoise waters of the Baltic Sea are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and beach volleyball.
  • Jasmund National Park: Home to Germany’s largest chalk cliffs, this park boasts dramatic views of the Baltic Sea and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can hike along the well-marked trails, rent a bike, or join a guided tour.
  • Glowe Nature Reserve: This 1000-hectare park is a haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers. It has well-maintained trails that take you through heaths, meadows, and forests, with plenty of opportunities to spot rare species of birds and animals.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Glowe

Whether you’re looking for an easy walk or a challenging trek, Glowe has an array of hiking and biking routes to suit all levels of fitness.

  • Rügen Coastal Trail: This 570-kilometer trail takes you around the island’s coastline, with breathtaking views of the Baltic Sea, sandy beaches, and charming fishing villages. In Glowe, you can access the trail from Schaabe Beach.
  • Jasmund National Park Trails: With over 10 different trails, ranging from easy to challenging, hikers can choose from routes that offer views of the famous Königsstuhl cliffs or explore the picturesque beech forests.
  • Cycle Paths: Glowe has plenty of cycling routes that take you through the stunning countryside and quaint villages. Some of the popular paths include the Rügen Circumnavigation Path and the Glower Toor route.

Best Things to Do in Glowe: Activities and Tours

  • Explore Glowe on Horseback: Experience the beauty of Glowe’s natural landscapes on horseback. Several stables in the area offer guided tours and horseback riding lessons.
  • Fishing Trips: Join a local fisherman and try your luck at catching salmon, trout, and other fish species in the Baltic Sea.
  • Boat Tours: Take a boat tour and explore the shores of Rügen Island and Hiddensee Island. Many tours also include stops at the stunning Königsstuhl cliffs and the famous Cape Arkona lighthouse.

Week-Long Itinerary for Glowe

Day 1: Arrive at Glowe, Beach Day

Day 2: Hike in Jasmund National Park, Visit the Königsstuhl cliffs.

Day 3: Explore the Glowe Nature Reserve, Try Horseback Riding.

Day 4: Visit Schaabe Beach, Try Water Sports Activities.

Day 5: Take a Boat Tour and Visit Cape Arkona Lighthouse.

Day 6: Rent a Bike and Cycle around the Countryside.

Day 7: Visit Local Museums and Historical Places, and Depart.

Food and Drink Scene of Glowe

Must-Try Dishes

  • Rugenfisch: A type of smoked fish that is commonly found in the local markets and eaten with bread.
  • Pannfisch: A traditional fish dish made with pan-fried herring or cod.
  • Rügener Inselkäse: A local cheese made from cow’s milk that is perfect for snacking.

Local Beverages

  • Rügener Bier: A refreshing local beer made in Rügen Island.
  • Rügener Wodkakümmel: A sweet and spicy liqueur made from caraway and vodka.
  • Rügener Heilkreide: A type of chalk mineral water that is believed to have healing properties.

Where to Stay in Glowe: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are several accommodation options in Glowe that cater to different budgets and preferences, from cozy guesthouses to luxury beachfront resorts.

  • Strandhotel Glowe: Located just a few meters from the beach, this beachfront hotel offers modern rooms, an outdoor terrace, and a restaurant.
  • Hotel am Wasser: This cozy hotel is situated near the Glowe Marina and offers beautiful views of the harbor. The rooms are individually decorated and feature free Wi-Fi.
  • Landhaus Glowe: This charming guesthouse is located in the heart of Glowe and is known for its warm hospitality. The rooms have a rustic decor and offer garden views.

What to Buy in Glowe: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Amber Jewelry: Rügen Island is famous for its amber, and there are several stores in Glowe that sell jewelry made from the fossilized resin.
  • Rügener Heilkreide: This mineral powder is used in cosmetics and skincare products and is believed to have healing properties.
  • Local Artwork: You can find several galleries and shops in Glowe that sell artwork and crafts made by local artists.

Local Culture and Customs of Glowe

Glowe is a small town with a rich cultural history that is reflected in its architecture, cuisine, and festivals.

  • Local Festivals: Glowe hosts several cultural events and festivals throughout the year, including the Glower Hafenfest and the Beach Polo Cup.
  • **Fishing: **Glücksburg is a small fishing village, and fishing is an important part of the local economy and culture. Visitors can watch the fishermen at work and even join them on their boats.

Best Time to Visit Glowe

The best time to visit Glowe depends on your preferences and the type of activities you want to do. The peak tourist season is from June to August, when the weather is warmest, and the beaches are crowded. If you prefer a quieter time, you can visit in May or September when the weather is still good, and the crowds are thinner.

Do’s and Don’ts of Glowe

Do:

  • Do try some local cuisine, including the fresh seafood and local specialties.
  • Do be respectful of local customs and traditions.
  • Do pack sunscreen and protective clothing if you plan to spend time outdoors.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage the natural landscapes.
  • Don’t ignore safety warnings and advice, especially when visiting the beaches or hiking trails.
  • Don’t forget to tip at restaurants and cafes.

Safety and Health

Safety in Glowe

Glowe is a relatively safe town, and crime rates are low. However, visitors should take simple precautions like locking their valuables in a safe and being vigilant when using ATMs.

Health in Glowe

Glowe has several medical facilities, including clinics and pharmacies. Visitors should have comprehensive travel insurance that covers emergency medical care, as the cost of treatment can be expensive.

Getting to Glowe: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Glowe

The nearest airports to Glowe are:

  1. Rostock-Laage Airport: 120km (75 miles)
  2. Heringsdorf Airport: 140km (87 miles)
  3. Hamburg Airport: 290km (180 miles)

Bus Stations Near Glowe

Glowe is well-connected to nearby towns and cities by bus. The nearest bus stations are located in Bergen and Sassnitz.

Other Options

Visitors can also reach Glowe by car or train. The nearest train station is located in Bergen.

How to Get Around in Glowe

Visitors can explore Glowe on foot, by bike, or by car. The town is relatively small, and most attractions are within walking distance. Taxis and rental cars are also available.

Where to Go Next from Glowe: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Hiddensee Island: Take a ferry from Cape Arkona and explore this idyllic island, famous for its unspoiled nature, charming villages, and sandy beaches.
  • Sassnitz: This picturesque town is located 15 kilometers from Glowe and boasts a stunning cliff coastline, a charming harbor, and several museums and galleries.
  • Binz: This seaside resort town is a popular tourist spot on Rügen Island, known for its beautiful Art Nouveau architecture, fine dining, and sandy beach.

Conclusion

Glowe is an idyllic destination that offers visitors a wonderful mix of natural beauty, culture, and adventure. From the stunning beaches to the picturesque countryside, there is something for everyone in this charming town. We hope this guide helps you plan your visit to Glowe and that you enjoy your time exploring this hidden gem of Germany’s Baltic coast.