Hamburg Wadden Sea National Park, Germany by Vincent van Zeijst

The group of islands is located in northern Germany which is in Elbe estuary and it is the protectant of thousands of coastal mudflats. Tourists and visitors often have a wonderful time exploring this unique destination which has a variety of different attractions. The tern colonies are of a huge variation including Common, sandwich, Artic, and little. There are areas where guides will take visitors on walks throughout the terrain so that people can have a better opportunity to explore the lands. There are several natural features at this destination that are very much appreciated by the tourists. Many of these features have a historical story line to them since they have been around for so long.

Neuwerk’s affiliation with Hamburg is a very interesting one. Their affiliation reaches all the way back to the year 1299. There are paths that are located along the island of Hamburg which lead to the countryside all the way to a tower at the front of Elbe. The tower was used to fight off those that would commit piracy which occurred during the Hanseatic era. Those that visit are able to take walks in between Scharhorn and Neuwerk on the mudflats. The mudflats seem as though they are endless so the tourists are able to walk as far as they desire.

One of the main attractions that people enjoy when they visit Hamburg Wadden Sea National Park is the Seabirds. There are several colonies which were created for the seabirds to reside.

The sandbank is an area that is untouched but people can view it from afar. The bird colony that is there is closed off to those that visit there but they can take a glimpse of the colony when passing by.

Summary of Highlights

• Visitors can take carriage rides across the mudflats starting in Sahlenburg and ending at Neuwerk
• Take boat rides in Cuxhaven; they end in Neuwerk
• Tour guides lead walks across the mudflats
• Tours to view the birds, mudflats, salt marshes; in Neuwerk
• Tour guides to Scharhorn
• Visitors can go on a search for Amber on the island of Kleiner Vogelsand
• View the Amber exhibition on the Neuwerk island

Other Things to Do

Walking along the main dyke is one suggestion that many people enjoy doing while visiting Wadden Sea National Park. While you are on this walk you can see the foreshore; there is a great view of it. The bird colonies are very popular, and many people love exploring them.

There are not vehicles allowed on the island. Tourists can either walk or ride in a horse carriage to the different locations.

If you are looking for some accommodation in or around the national park, then try trivago’s comparison tool and find the best hotels.

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When you chose to visit Italy, if you can manage to free up a single day during your trip, then you have to visit the popular lagoon islands of Murano, Burano and Torcello. It is possible to visit all three of them in a single day if you plan ahead.

Murano, Italy by Alex Proimos

Murano Island is known as Glass Island. It was back in 1291 when glass production began on Murano. There are kilns dedicated to blowing glass all over the island and many different shops dedicated to selling the art. The most famous of the glassworks on Murano is that of Venini whose works are features in modern art museums all over the world. There is also a museum on the island that is dedicated to glassblowing. You will also find the 8th century Basilica dei Santi Maria e Donato.

It is said that the Island of Burano is perhaps the most beautiful of the lagoon islands. Since back in the 16th century, the island of Burano has become known for the lace work done by the island’s artists. There is a museum on the island dedicated to lace and you can even see how it was woven centuries ago.

The island of Torcello is of course the most romantic of the three islands. The island is practically uninhabited which means you will be able to enjoy the peace and quiet of the island. It is also home to many archeological finds that are just waiting for you to explore. There is the Devil’s Bridge which is known as Ponte del Diavolo and comes complete with an amazing local legend. In the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta you will find an awe-inspiring mosaic of the Universal Judgment. The island is also home to the Estuario Museum which houses artifacts that date back to the Medieval, Byzantine and Roman periods.

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Isola dei Pescatori, Borromean Islands, Italy by Ed Webster

The first island acquired was that of Isola Bella which was nothing more than a rock that was named after the countess Isabella Borromeo. Over the years, a number of improvements to the island have been made including the construction of a palace during the 17th century. Vast amounts of sand were filed in around the island to increase its size over the centuries.

The second and largest of the Borromean Islands is that of the Isola Madre. The island is well-known for its many beautiful gardens. There is also a palace on the island which is adorned with many fine masterpieces from the 16th to the 19th centuries.

The Isola dei Pescatori (known also as Isola Superiore) used to be owned by the Borromo family. Today it is known as the only inhabited Borromean Island. With a small fishing village, the island has a population of a little more than 200 residents. The residents of this island are also the one responsible for bringing tourists to the Borromean Islands during the peak seasons of the year.

Both the Isolino di San Giovanni and the rock known as Malghera are uninhabited and no major structures have been built upon them. The rock of Malghera is only 200 square meters in size and is known for its small beach; it is located between the islands of Isola dei Pescatori and Isola Bella.

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