Schaprode Travel Guide

Schaprode, on the Rügen Island, is located in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Germany. This travel guide gives tourists a comprehensive tour of the area, including places to visit, activities, cultural and natural attractions, where to stay, dining options, the best time to visit, transportation options, safety and health, and more.


Introduction to Schaprode

Located on the northwest coast of the island Rügen, the tiny village of Schaprode in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Germany is a rustic destination with a population of around 200 people. Known best for its harbor, Schaprode is the westernmost point of Rügen and one of the most picturesque villages in northern Germany. The quaint rural town acquires its historical significance as it served as a port for Gotland, Sweden in the 19th century. Schaprode is a preferred location for individuals looking for peaceful and calming destination and also a place for outdoor enthusiasts drawn to the town’s natural beauty and charm.

List of Places to Visit in Schaprode

Schaprode is a gem of natural and cultural attraction sites. Visitors can explore:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Schaprode and its surrounding areas have many museums and historical places to explore:

  • St. Johannes church - A red brick church in the center of the village dating back to the 13th century. A Baroque Organ, built in 1723, and late-Gothic sculpture of the saints can be found inside the church.
  • Marine Galleries - depictions of the largely Swedish-dominated maritime history of the island of Rügen, which is a great place to learn about ancient boat building and fishing practices along the Baltic coast.
  • Fischerkirche - The old fisherman’s church is a small chapel that served the fishermen of Schaprode as a primary gathering place in the past. It is a peaceful space that invites visitors to reflect and ponder.

Natural Attractions of Schaprode: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Schaprode is known for its long beach and naturally preserved landscapes. Natural attractions include:

  • Schaproder Bodden - A shallow, brackish lagoon of the Baltic Sea, where sea eagles and cranes can be spotted in the wild. This lagoon is perfect for fishing enthusiasts and birdwatchers.
  • Beach at Schaprode - A long golden sand beach where visitors can sunbathe, stroll along the shoreline, and watch the sunsets over the Baltic Sea.
  • Ganzer See Natural Reserve - A glacial lake environment with rare plants species and birdlife. The lakes offer birdwatching and wonderfully scenic hiking trails.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Schaprode

For hiking and biking enthusiasts, Schaprode offers multiple trails and paths to explore:

  • Rügen Coastal Trail - One of the longest and most scenic hiking trails in Germany, spanning 570 km along the coast of Rügen. The trail includes diverse landscapes, including beaches, viewpoints, and historically valuable areas.
  • Kreptitzer Heide - A wild heath near Bergen where visitors can take leisurely nature walks and enjoy the natural scenery of heather areas and birch forests.
  • Rügensche Bäderbahn Cycleway - A gentle 45 km trail through small towns and farmland on the island of Rügen. Ideal for both new and experienced cyclist to enjoy the scenic beauty of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania.

Best Things to Do in Schaprode: Activities and Tours

In Schaprode, visitors have the opportunity to engage in various activities and tours, which include:

  • Fishing Tours - Schaprode is perfect for fishing enthusiasts, as many tour companies provide fishing tours in shallow waters surrounding the village.
  • Kayaking - Schaprode offers kayaking tours across the gentle shallow waters surrounding the village which are rich in wildlife.
  • Boat Tour to Hiddensee Island - A private boat tour that runs from Schaprode to the quaint Hiddensee Island, known for its art communities, nature reserves, and lighthouses.

Week-Long Itinerary for Schaprode

Schaprode is an ideal weekend getaway destination. Here is a suggested itinerary for a week-long trip:

Day Activities
1 Arrive and Explore the village
2 Fishing tour in Schaprode Bodden
3 Hiking at Kreptitzer Heide
4 Visit to St. Johannes Church
5 Kayaking tour of the Schaprode Bodden
6 Boat tour of Hiddensee Island
7 Relax on the beach

Food and Drink Scene of Schaprode

Schaprode offers some of the most delicious Nordic cuisine. Here are some popular dishes and beverages to try:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Sausage from Rügen - Locally smoked pork sausages.
  • Saiblingshappen - Fried fillets from trout.
  • Fährmannstrank - A rich beef broth with vegetables that is typical of Rügen Island.

Local Beverages

  • Rügener Insel Brauerei - A brewery of local beer, with exquisite seasonal flavors.
  • Cocktail Im Glas - A modern bar in the village center, it offers an extensive range of cocktails, beer, and wine.
  • Schorle - a West Pomeranian non-alcoholic drink that combines fruit juice with sparkling water.

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

Schaprode offers a variety of accommodation options, including:

  • Gasthof* - A cozy guesthouse with traditional decor.
  • Hotel Hiddensee - A charming old-world boutique hotel situated in Hiddensee Island.
  • Ferienhaus Schaprode - A self-catering house equipped with a fully functional kitchen and a patio.

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

Tourists can take home unique souvenirs and locally made products to remember their visit to Schaprode. Here are some products worth taking home:

  • Amber Jewelry - Crafted from amber stones found along the Baltic Sea coast.
  • Rügen Honey - Local honey derived from bees that feed off Rügen flora.
  • Handloomed Cloth - Traditional fabrics woven in local villages.

Local Culture and Customs of Schaprode

Schaprode retains many customs and traditions. The village celebrates many festivals throughout the year, including the annual fish festival and sailors’ festival.

Best Time to Visit Schaprode

The best time to visit Schaprode is during the summer, mainly between July and August. Those who love outdoor activities should consider visiting from May to September to enjoy the favorable weather and experience nature at its best.

Do’s and Don’ts of Schaprode

Do:

  • Respect the local people, customs, and traditions.
  • Visit the farmer’s markets to experience authentic local produce.
  • Carry enough cash for transactions, as the village has a few ATMs.

Don’t:

  • Smoke in restricted areas or in front of children
  • Touch the wildlife or feed the birds on protected lands
  • Be loud and disruptive at night to respect the tranquil village.

Safety and Health

Safety in Schaprode

Schaprode is a safe destination and the only potential risk may come in the form of mild weather conditions, such as strong winds.

Health in Schaprode

Schaprode has a local doctor’s office, and medical care is widely accessible. Services in English may be limited, so it is advisable to carry a health insurance policy covering overseas travel before arriving in Schaprode.

Getting to Schaprode: Transportation Options and Logistics

Schaprode is comparatively secluded, but still easily accessible by public transport:

Airports Near Schaprode

The nearest airports are Rostock-Laage and Berlin-Tegel, situated around 200 km away.

Bus Stations Near Schaprode

The Fernbushof hotel near Stralsund is the closest bus station, around 50 km away, with buses operating constantly connecting to various locations on the island.

Other Options

A drive to Schaprode from Berlin takes approximately 4 hours. Visitors can also take a train journey or hire a car to arrive in Schaprode.

How to Get Around in Schaprode

Walking and biking are the preferred modes of transport in Schaprode. Adventurers can also rent kayaks and boats to navigate through the lagoon or explore nearby islands.

Where to Go Next from Schaprode: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Schaprode is an ideal base for exploring nearby destinations, the most convenient being the Hiddensee Island, the Cape Arkona, and the Seaside Resort Binz, all offering incredible scenic beauty and cultural experiences.

Conclusion

Schaprode offers the best of rural living, natural beauty, and cultural experiences, making it the perfect destination for those seeking a calm and peaceful retreat amidst stunning surroundings. The village invites visitors to slow down and immerse themselves in its authenticity, ensuring a memorable journey filled with adventure and cultural experiences.

Schaprode Harbour Schaprode Harbour