Schaprode: Natural Harbor, Hiddensee and Local History

Schaprode is best understood through its waters and its connection to Hiddensee. The Schaproder Strom separates the town from the small private island of Öhe and forms a sheltered natural harbor. There is also a ferry connection to the car-free island of Hiddensee, a fine sandy beach near the ferry landing and historic buildings and memorial sites. You can therefore explore the harbor, ferry crossing, beach and local history as distinct aspects of the destination.

Harbor and sheltered natural setting

The Schaproder Strom separates Schaprode from the small private island of Öhe and forms a sheltered natural harbor. Schaprode Marina has 220 berths for permanent berth holders and visiting boats at modern floating docks. The marina also has a slipway and a boat crane. This means the natural harbor setting and the marina’s specific facilities are two distinct aspects. If you plan to use the harbor, check the operator’s current information about berths and facilities.

Ferry connection and route to the landing

Passenger ferries take visitors from Schaprode to the car-free Baltic Sea island of Hiddensee. Schaprode is the only place from which Hiddensee can be reached year-round. However, year-round access does not mean that departures are the same at all times of year: schedules vary by season and time. So check the timetable for your travel date before crossing. It takes about seven minutes to walk from Schaprode’s large car park to the ferry; a shuttle service is also available. The approximate walking time and shuttle service refer to the route from the car park to the ferry.

Beach and water sports

A fine sandy beach lies close to the ferry landing. It is a distinct local attraction alongside the harbor and ferry crossing. Schaprode is also home to Wikingsurf, a surfing and sailing school. If you are interested in these activities, check the provider’s current course information before booking.

St. John’s Church: building history and pilgrimage

St. John’s Church in Schaprode was built as a basilica in the first third of the 13th century and reduced in size in 1450. The surviving parts include the choir and apse. The building history thus offers two distinct points of reference: its early construction as a basilica and the later change to its size. The church’s historical significance also extends beyond its architecture. It played an important role in the Christianization of Rügen. Around 1500, it was also a pilgrimage site where a statue of the Virgin Mary was venerated. The building history, Christianization and pilgrimage belong to different periods and aspects of local history.

Memorial sites and history in the surrounding area

The Schaprode atonement stone is a murder memorial commemorating the slain knight Reynwart von Platen and his sons. Another historical landmark lies nearby: the Schwedenschanze at Stolper Haken, north of Schaprode, was built between 1700 and 1720 to protect the entrance to Stralsund. In contrast to the church and pilgrimage history, it points to a different purpose and a later period. Together, these named sites offer different points of interest if you are interested in architectural history, religious tradition or historic defensive structures.

Discover more destinations: Trent, Altefähr, Samtens, Kluis, Ummanz, Gingst, Neuenkirchen, Dreschvitz

For the overarching travel overview: Amt West-Rügen.