About 100 kilometers north of Bremen, the seaside town of Cuxhaven lures with a myriad of maritime-themed attractions. Excursions to the Wadden Sea National Park and the German North Sea Islands, relaxing spa treatments, historical sites and much more are on our list and with this, we will show you that this area is a great location for the Ferienwohnung Cuxhaven where you can spend a holiday that is both relaxing and adventurous according to your preferences.
Alte Liebe
Alte Liebe (old love) was built as a pier and breakwater in 1733, but converted into a viewing platform in 1982. It has since become Cuxhaven’s most popular walk for a sunny day. The bridge offers a view of the bay and the passing ships, whose names and origins are announced by a loudspeaker.
Boat excursions
True wildlife enthusiasts can also hop aboard a boat trip around the harbor and coastal sandbanks. At low tide, the spit dries up and becomes a welcome resting place for the local seal colony. If you have a day or two to spend, you might consider visiting Helgoland, one of the most popular German islands in the North Sea.
Ritzebüttel Castle
Although Ritzebüttel Castle does not compete with Neuschwanstein, Hohenzollern, or any of the other majestic castles that Germany is known for, it is still worth a visit. Dating back to 1340, the castle-like building combines architectural influences with an interesting history. Cuxhaven was once part of Hamburg and at that time the Ritzebüttel served as the residence of many Hamburg bailiffs and public officials. Today the Ritzebüttel Castle is open to visitors.
Beaches
We could state the obvious here, but a day at the beach should be on your to-do list if time plays together. Cuxhaven boasts several beautiful beaches with swimming and surfing areas, beach volleyball and soccer fields, separate sections for nudists and dogs, seaside promenades with cafes, restaurants and shops, and more.
Kugelbake
Next to the Alte Liebe pier, Kugelbake is the most important sight in Cuxhaven. The wooden structure is almost 30 meters high and marks the northernmost point of Lower Saxony. Once an important nautical sign for guiding ships, the light from the wooden structure now shines only for tourists admiring the views of the North Sea.
Fort Kugelbake
Just around the corner from Cuxhaven’s iconic landmark is a former Prussian fortress from 1869. Strategically located at the mouth of the Elbe, the fort served to defend the city’s maritime trade. Today you can join a guided tour of the outer ditch and cannons, as well as the ammunition bunker and accommodation facilities.
As of 2013, the Windstärke 10 Museum occupies 4,000 square meters of two former fish processing sheds, exploring the city’s past as a fishing center and the challenges of navigation.
Spa and wellness
Now that you’re in the area why not treat yourself to a day at the spa. Cuxhaven is an established seaside resort and Ahoi! The spa offers a wide range of pools, saunas and spa treatments, including the Thalasso, which uses seawater, algae and muds for therapy. Seawater is said to have a positive effect on the skin by strengthening connective tissue and relieving pain in the joints and muscles.
Walks in the muddy plain
Cuxhaven is one of the gateways to the Wadden Sea National Park. The recently opened Sahlenburg Wadden Sea World Heritage Visitor Center is a great way to learn more about the unique ecosystem. If you want to get a closer look at what sandworms look like or where the seal colony lives, you can book a guided tour of the tidal plains and discover the Wadden Sea for yourself.
Eat local seafood
If you like seafood, it would be foolish not to have lunch or dinner at one of the many restaurants along Cuxhaven’s waterfront. You’ll be spoiled for choice, but both Lloyd’s and Hus op’n Diek are safe bets and known for their delicious seafood menu. Two restaurants focus on locally caught fish that comes directly from a nearby harbor, and the items listed on their menus vary by season.
Hapag-Hallen
In the Hapag halls in Cuxhaven, on the first floor, you can see exhibits on the Hapag halls and emigration to the United States. On the second floor, you can go out and enjoy a great view of the North Sea and the port of Cuxhaven. Here you can get to know the history of immigrants in America up close. The building has been beautifully restored and you can see the Hapag halls with great interest. Everything is very well presented and described and the best part is that it’s free. It takes about 90 minutes and you learn a lot about the area and expats in general.
