Verschneite Windmühle in Schleswig-Holstein, umgeben von schneebedeckten Büschen – winterliche Idylle in Schleswig-Holstein.

Winter in Schleswig-Holstein

The true north is multifaceted and a place for vacation and relaxation all year round. Especially in winter, you will find quiet places and tranquil spots on the coasts and in the heart of the country where the clocks seem to stand still.

An icy wind blows across the country. On the beaches of the North Sea and Baltic Sea, some travelers brave the cold and enjoy a long walk. There is no sign of the summer hustle and bustle that prevails on the beaches in the warmer months. It's best not to forget your bobble hat and scarf when stormy gusts of wind really blow you through. Nature is also in deep hibernation in the heart of Schleswig-Holstein. Hoarfrost envelops the landscape in the true north in countless tiny ice crystals and offers a glittering natural spectacle.

Winter on Schleswig-Holstein's coasts

The vast land lies in diffuse light. Fog. Infinity. Solitude. Wonderful peace. The wind tosses the waves wildly onto the beach. Rough, honest nature. The icy cold is a real soul warmer. The snow mixes with the sand of the dunes. The beach is lonely and deserted, not a soul in sight. Relaxation to breathe in. But now quickly: hat on, boots on, experience the slippery weather. Later: open the café door, light the fireplace and experience the cozy atmosphere. This unique fascination with contrasts is pure bliss on Schleswig-Holstein's coasts. The colder the north, the warmer it is inside us afterwards.

Wellness

Museums

Christmas and New Year's Eve

Cities

Shopping

Events in winter

Schleswig-Holstein Gourmet Festival

September to April

Trend-setting guest chefs from all over Europe cook varied gourmet cuisine at various events in Schleswig-Holstein. A visit to the SHGF is definitely worthwhile!

Torchlight hikes on the Baltic Sea

November to February

When the sun has set in the winter months in various places on the Baltic Sea coast, the cozy torchlight walks on the beach begin. Experience this offer in Travemünde, for example.

Christmas markets

November to December

Visit the numerous Christmas markets here in the true north. Right by the sea and with Scandinavian flair, you can relax and get in the mood for the holidays in Schleswig-Holstein in the run-up to Christmas.

Mehrere Menschen gehen beim Anbaden ins Wasser. Neujahrstradition im Nordseeurlaub in Schleswig-Holstein.

New Year's bathing

New Year

In Schleswig-Holstein, the New Year is started with a dip in the ice-cold water. Daring swimmers are sought out every year for the traditional "Anbaden". You can experience this spectacle in many places on the North Sea and Baltic Sea.

Biike burning

February 21

This custom from North Frisia was recently recognized as a German cultural heritage. Countless fires are lit along the North Sea coast of Schleswig-Holstein to drive away the winter spirits.

on the North Sea

The North Sea breeze blows blusterily over the snow-covered dyke. You hide your nose in your scarf and enjoy the breathtaking view of the UNESCO World Heritage Wadden Sea. The healthy, clear air and the powerful tides make a stay on the west coast at this time of year so special. Take a deep breath, pause for a moment and enjoy the wonderful tranquillity of the North Sea. A storm surge is also not uncommon in winter and is an impressive spectacle when the sea rages and overflows its banks. Frozen through from the soothing walk, the numerous wellness offers are particularly suitable for warming up and relaxing.

Verschneite Seebrücke in Grömitz an der Ostsee

on the Baltic Sea

A thick woollen blanket warms your legs and a hot punch steams in front of you as you take a break on the terrace of a small café on the promenade. There is a pleasant silence. A long walk on the beach lies behind you and the cold air whets your appetite - regional specialties such as kale with smoked pork, boiled sausage and fried potatoes make your mouth water. The piers, adorned with giant icicles, rise up to 435 meters into the water and light your way atmospherically towards the horizon in winter. With flushed cheeks, you stroll to your accommodation and are already looking forward to a warming sauna session.

between the coasts

The icy leaves crackle under your shoes as you walk along the quiet hiking trail in the middle of an idyllic lake landscape in Holstein Switzerland. The winter sun makes its way through the treetops and makes the frost-covered trees in the Duchy of Lauenburg sparkle. If the odd snowflake makes its way to the true north, you can whizz down the Bungsberg - Schleswig-Holstein's highest elevation - on your sledge. Then warm up in your accommodation in front of the cozy fireplace. Put on your thick cozy socks and enjoy a winter break in the heart of Schleswig-Holstein.