Can you actually swim at Borgsum beach or is it all mudflats?
Borgsum features a 'green beach,' which means you walk over a grassy dike to reach the Wadden Sea. Proper swimming is only possible at high tide in the designated swimming area. At low tide, the water recedes, exposing the vast mudflats, which are perfect for guided mudflat hiking (Wattwanderung), a unique activity in this UNESCO World Heritage site. So, for swimming, timing your visit with the high tide is essential.
Is Borgsum beach good for families with small children?
Yes, Borgsum beach is considered very suitable for families with young children. The atmosphere is quiet and relaxed. During high tide, the water in the designated bathing area is shallow and calm, making it a safe environment for kids. Additionally, there is a playground located near the beach, providing another option for entertainment.
What's the difference between the beach in Borgsum and the ones in Wyk or Utersum?
The main difference lies in the atmosphere and beach type. Borgsum has a quiet, natural 'green beach' on the Wadden Sea, ideal for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility. Wyk, the island's main town, has a long, sandy beach with a bustling promenade, more services, and more crowds. Utersum also offers a sandy beach and is famous for its spectacular sunsets and views of the neighboring island of Amrum, making it more tourist-focused than Borgsum but quieter than Wyk.
Are dogs allowed on the beach in Borgsum?
Yes, dogs are welcome in Borgsum, but only in the specially designated dog beach area (Hundestrand). As is common in Germany, dogs must be kept on a leash in most public areas and are not permitted in the main bathing zones. The designated section allows your dog to enjoy the beach with you.
Are there holiday homes right on the beach in Borgsum?
Due to the nature of the 'green beach' with its protective dike, there are no holiday homes situated directly on the sand in Borgsum. However, the village offers many holiday apartments and traditional thatched-roof houses that are located just behind the dike, only a short walk (often just a few hundred meters) from the water's edge.
Is the beach in Borgsum crowded or is it quiet?
Borgsum beach is known for being one of the quieter beaches on Föhr. It offers a peaceful and natural atmosphere, standing in contrast to the busier main beach in Wyk. Visitors who are looking to relax, enjoy nature, and avoid large crowds will find Borgsum to be an ideal choice.
Can you do a guided mudflat hike (Wattwanderung) from Borgsum?
Yes, the area around Borgsum is an excellent starting point for guided mudflat hikes. Exploring the Wadden Sea with a certified guide is a highly recommended and popular activity on Föhr. These tours offer fascinating insights into the unique ecosystem of the UNESCO World Heritage site. You can find various local guides offering tours for different fitness levels.
Are there beach chairs, toilets, and cafes at Borgsum beach?
Yes, Borgsum beach provides essential amenities for a comfortable visit. You can rent traditional German beach chairs (Strandkörbe) during the main season. Public toilets are also available. While there might not be a wide array of restaurants directly on the beach, you can find a kiosk or a small café nearby for snacks and drinks.
How do you get to Borgsum beach from Wyk?
Borgsum is located about 10 kilometers from Wyk, the main town where the ferry arrives. The best and most popular way to get there is by bicycle. Föhr has an excellent network of bike paths, and the ride through the island's flat landscape is very pleasant. Alternatively, you can drive or take a local bus.
What is there to do near Borgsum beach besides swimming?
Besides mudflat hiking, the area around Borgsum offers several attractions. A must-see is the Lembecksburg, a nearby impressive circular earth wall dating back to the Viking Age, which you can walk on for great views over the island. The village itself is charming with its thatched-roof houses and a historic windmill that now houses a café. The entire area is also perfect for long walks and bike rides through the fields and salt marshes.
