Holidays auf Deutsch: engage your senses in Germany this summer

Come on now, be honest. Do you really associate Germany with beach holidays? It's OK, we already know the answer, but bear with us and prepare to be surprised.

A land of two coastlines

The Baltic Sea and the North Sea, which give Germany its two coastlines, differ not only in name and location. The Baltic has more of a calm and peaceful nature, quite the opposite of the temperamental North Sea. What they do have in common, though, is a fabulous mix of waves, fresh sea breezes and the ebb and flow of the tides. At the Wattenmeer, for example, you can walk along the coastal mudflats when the water recedes, a truly unforgettable experience.

If you want to keep your feet dry, however, you're sure to find a suitable beach on the mainland or on the islands (yes, Germany has islands, too!). Picture it: mile after mile of glistening sand, the beautiful sea and lush summer dykes. There are plenty of leisure activities to choose from, or you can just sit back in your Strandkorb. But what on earth is that I hear you ask?

The Strandkorb is a beach chair that typifies German ingenuity. For more than 125 years, these delightful wicker creations have shielded holidaymakers from sun, rain, wind and sand. There are two different types of Strandkorb in Germany, the Baltic variety, which has a softer, curved look, and the North Sea version, which favours straight lines and right angles. You can even find themed chairs, such as those shaped like hearts in Travemünde on the Baltic coast. With room for two, they're perfect for couples!

Cocktails and coffee just two minutes from the water

For a seaside holiday with a difference, Germany is second to none. Part of this appeal stems from the wide choice of stylish beach and waterfront bars. Whether you're on a rooftop terrace in one of the coastal towns or on the banks of a river with harbour views, the cocktails, sand and palm trees plus the chilled music conjure up a wonderful mediterranean-style atmosphere.
As well as club nights and sets by international DJs, these bars host a variety of themed evenings, dance courses and activities for kids. With full-blown menus, hot and cold snacks and a fantastic range of drinks, they make perfect places to spend those long summer nights. The service, meanwhile, is as warm and friendly as the weather outside.
Sun-worshipers and stargazers will find plenty of spots to chill out or catch some rays, from oversized bamboo furniture to traditional German beach chairs and sun loungers. You can even indulge in some chit chat around the elegant coffee tables.

Open-air festivals

You'll barely get a moment's peace at a summer festival in Germany, but then, that's probably what you want. There's no better place to party, sing along to anthems and let your hair down until the small hours. In summer, festival-goers from all over the world descend on Germany to see their favourite bands perform live. But that's not all. They also come to meet new people, make new friends and renew old acquaintances. And no-one pays heed to race, religion or skin colour.
There are festivals dedicated to heavy metal, dance, jazz, reggae and even classical. What's more, the huge sites cater for your every need, including plenty of catering outlets to satisfy rumbling stomachs. You'll find every type of food under the sun, from freshly baked pretzels, Thai food and curry to ice cream and crêpes.
The major festivals, which take place over several days, also have campsites, perfect for those who want to continue the party long after the bands are off stage.