Föhr Travel Guide

Discover Föhr, Germany's North Frisian Islands through this comprehensive travel guide that showcases the best places, outdoor adventures, food and drink, local culture, and logistics.


Introduction to Föhr

Föhr is one of Germany’s North Frisian Islands, which lies off the western coast of Schleswig-Holstein along the North Sea. It is also the second-largest of these islands, measuring over 30 square kilometers. With its stunning natural beauty, charming villages, and vibrant local culture, Föhr has become a popular destination for tourists from all around the world.

The island has plenty to offer to visitors, including miles of beautiful beaches, bicycle and hiking trails, interesting museums, and a vibrant food and drink scene. This comprehensive travel guide will enable you to discover the very best that this stunning destination has to offer.

List of Places to Visit in Föhr

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Friesen Museum: This museum showcases the culture and history of Föhr and neighbouring islands.

  2. Wyk Local Museum: This museum features exhibits on various topics, including maritime history, seafaring, and seal hunting.

  3. Museum Kunst der Westküste: Located in Alkersum, this art museum displays works by artists who have been inspired by the island’s unique landscape.

  4. Oevenum Frisian House: A traditional Frisian house showcasing Island architecture and the traditional way of life.

Natural Attractions of Föhr: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Wyk Beach: This is the main beach on the island, and it is a great place to sunbathe, swim, and enjoy watersports.

  2. Utersum Beach: This is a stunning beach where you can enjoy the tranquillity away from the bustling crowds of Wyk.

  3. Goting Cliff: This cliff offers stunning views and is an excellent place for a photo stop.

  4. Ferring Lighthouse: Located in Wyk, this lighthouse offers visitors stunning panoramic views of the North Sea.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Föhr

With a well-developed network of bike paths covering the island, Föhr is best explored by bike, with many cycling routes such as:

  1. Marschweg Route: This route leads visitors through the lush green landscape of Föhr and offers the chance to explore the picturesque villages scattered throughout the island.

  2. Dünenweg Route: This route takes visitors through the rugged coastal dunes along the island’s west coast.

  3. Wattenmeer: This route takes visitors along the tidal flats that are a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Best Things to Do in Föhr: Activities and Tours

  1. Surfing and Kitesurfing: The North Sea’s winds and waves make Föhr a fantastic spot for surfing and kitesurfing.

  2. Horse Riding: Föhr has a long history of horse breeding and is a perfect place to take a leisurely horse-riding trip.

  3. Föhr Island Railway: The island’s railway line is a fun way to explore the towns and villages of Föhr.

Week-Long Itinerary for Föhr

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore Wyk and Wyk Beach
Day 2 Visit Friesen Museum and stroll around Oevenum
Day 3 Take a bike tour of the Wattenmeer
Day 4 Surfing or kitesurfing lessons
Day 5 Walk along the cliff of Goting
Day 6 Spend morning on Utersum Beach then head to Kunst der Westküste Museum
Day 7 Visit the lighthouse of Ferring

Food and Drink Scene of Föhr

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Grütantert: A traditional dish made with oat groats, smoked bacon, and onions.

  2. Rullerkes: A delicious pastry stuffed with hazelnuts and almonds.

  3. Frisian Tea: A local variety of tea, often served with cream and sugar.

  4. Föhrer Fanger: A hearty stew made with a combination of fish and potatoes.

Local Beverages

  1. Friesengeist: A traditional spirit available in a variety of flavours, such as cherry, apple, and plum.

  2. Föhrer Beer: A locally brewed beer brand that is popular among visitors and locals alike.

  3. Frisian Tea: A traditional tea that is enjoyed with a splash of rum.

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

  1. Strandhotel: Located in Wyk, this hotel is just a short walk from the beach and offers stunning views of the North Sea.

  2. Hotel Zur Post: Located in Oevenum, this charming hotel is housed in a traditional Frisian building and offers a relaxing environment.

  3. Hoftel Föhr: This unique hostel is built in the style of a traditional Frisian farmhouse and offers budget-friendly accommodation.

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

  1. North Sea Fish: Föhr’s fishing industry is an essential part of its economy, and visitors can purchase fresh seafood to take home.

  2. Frisian Pottery: The traditional blue and white pottery of the North Frisian Islands can make beautiful souvenirs.

  3. Rum and Spirits: Föhr has a long tradition of distilling, and its rum and other spirits can make unique gifts.

Local Culture and Customs of Föhr

Föhr’s culture is a unique blend of German, Danish, and Frisian influences. For instance, the local dialect of Fering is distinct from other German dialects and reflects the island’s linguistic heritage. Visitors may also observe the ongoing tug of war between modernity and tradition as islanders balance tourism with preserving their unique way of life.

Best Time to Visit Föhr

The best time to visit Föhr is between May and September when the weather is mild, and outdoor activities are at their best. July and August are the peak tourist season, so visitors who prefer to avoid large crowds may prefer to plan their trip outside these months.

Do’s and Don’ts of Föhr

Do:

  1. Take your time to explore the island’s many picturesque villages and beaches.

  2. Rent a bike to experience the island’s breathtaking scenery at your own pace.

  3. Sample the local cuisine and drinks, including Föhrer beer and Frisian tea.

Don’t:

  1. Don’t forget to carry a jacket and a sweater; weather can be unpredictable even in summer.

  2. Don’t miss the opportunity to learn about local culture by attending local events and festivals.

Safety and Health

Safety in Föhr

Föhr is generally considered a safe place for visitors, with low crime rates. However, visitors are advised to take standard safety precautions, such as safeguarding valuable items and paying attention to traffic when cycling or driving.

Health in Föhr

Health facilities on Föhr are of a high standard, and most doctors speak English. There are several pharmacies around the island, but visitors are advised to carry any necessary medications with them.

Getting to Föhr: Transportation Options and Logistics

Föhr is accessible by air and sea. The nearest airport is in Westerland on Sylt Island, from where visitors can take a train or a bus to Dagebüll Ferry Terminal. From there, ferries run regularly to Föhr.

Airports Near Föhr

  1. Westerland Sylt Airport (GWT) - 35 kilometers from the island.

  2. Hamburg Airport (HAM) - 160 kilometers from Dagebüll Terminal.

Bus Stations Near Föhr

  1. Dagebüll Ferry Terminal.

  2. Niebüll Train Station.

Other Options

Driving or taking a train to Dagebüll and taking the ferry is an option if you prefer not to fly.

How to Get Around in Föhr

The best way to get around Föhr is by bicycle. Bike rentals are widely available on the island, with a network of bike paths covering the different villages of the island. Taxis and buses are also available, but biking and walking in the fresh North Sea air is a unique experience.

Where to Go Next from Föhr: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Sylt Island: The Northernmost Island of Germany is adderont accessible by ferry, and it is known for its stunning beaches and surfing.

  2. Amrum Island: Another gem of the North Frisian Island, this peaceful island is accessible by ferry from Dagebüll and is known for its hiking trails and wildlife.

Conclusion

Föhr provides a unique insight into German and Frisian culture that cannot be found elsewhere. With its beautiful beaches, delicious cuisine, outdoor activities, and friendly locals, the island is a top destination for tourists looking for a different type of German holiday. This guide should be your perfect companion if you are planning to explore this gem of an island off the coast of Schleswig-Holstein.