Altefähr on the Strelasund: Beach and Water

Altefähr is on Rügen, on the Strelasund. If you are looking for a hotel for a stay here, you can first decide what you would like to focus on during your trip: the beach and swimming, water activities, a cycling tour or a look at the history of the town. These different starting points can help you plan your days around your own interests. Depending on whether you want to spend time by the shore, on the water or cycling, different aspects of the destination will come to the fore.

Beach and bathing shore on the Strelasund

The beach is right on the Strelasund. The natural beach section is 35 metres wide; the bathing shore slopes gently and has shallow water that is also suitable for toddlers. A bathing ramp enables wheelchair users to swim, too. The beach is supervised by the DLRG, although operations may vary seasonally. If swimming is a key part of your stay, the shoreline and ramp are useful points of reference. Lifeguard supervision is also worth factoring into your plans, but bear in mind that operations vary by season.

Ferry and water activities

The passenger ferry connects the Hanseatic city of Stralsund with Altefähr on Rügen; the crossing takes 15 minutes. Check the timetable for your specific departure, as ferry services follow seasonal schedules and may be subject to changes by the operator. From Altefähr, you can go sailing, surfing or motorboating, or explore the island from the water by kayak. The Altefähr surf spot is right next to the Hanseatic city of Stralsund. The short crossing and range of water sports therefore offer different starting points for planning your time on the Strelasund.

Cycling routes with different starting points

Altefähr is connected to the Baltic Sea Coast Cycle Route; the Rügen Circular Route also starts and ends here. The two details are different for planning purposes: Altefähr is connected to the coastal cycle route, while the Rügen Circular Route uses the town as its starting and finishing point. If you plan your cycling tour in advance, this can help you decide whether you are looking for a connection to the Baltic Sea Coast Cycle Route or the circular route that starts and ends here.

Ship, church and traditional festivals

The traditional ship ERNA was built in Holland in 1904. It is based in the seaside resort of Altefähr, where it has a permanent berth. St. Nikolai Church also bears witness to the town’s older history: parts of the building date from the 15th century. The church is open to visitors free of charge from Pentecost until the Harvest Festival; check the specific dates before visiting. The annual festival calendar includes traditional events such as the Herring Festival on 1 May. Check the event dates for the relevant year if attending a festival is part of your plans.

Finding your way around

The Altefähr Tourist Information Office is located right in the harbour. It offers brochures, town maps and maps for hiking, water and cycling routes. If you need maps for a particular tour, check in advance whether the right materials are available; the selection of visitor information materials may change.

Discover more destinations: Dreschvitz, Gingst, Ummanz, Neuenkirchen, Rambin, Hiddensee Island, Kluis, Samtens

Go to the main travel overview: Amt West-Rügen.