Experience Kreis Ostholstein – The Pearl of the Baltic Sea
Kreis Ostholstein (East Holstein) is a stunning maritime district tucked away in the northeastern corner of Schleswig-Holstein, Germany. It stretches out onto the Baltic Sea and boasts a beautiful lake district and is widely regarded as one of the country’s absolute top holiday destinations. Here’s a complete rundown of what makes Ostholstein such a spectacular place to explore or relax.
Description: Your next coastal holiday
Ostholstein blends traditional maritime charm with exclusive coastal living. The region boasts famous white sandy beaches along the Bay of Lübeck, such as Timmendorfer Strand, Scharbeutz and Grömitz.
If you’re planning an unforgettable holiday here, the accommodation options are incredibly varied. Along the promenades you’ll find magnificent historic villas showcasing classic Bäderarchitektur (resort architecture), many of which have been converted into luxury boutique stays.
Travelers looking for a home away from home can choose from thousands of modern, fully equipped holiday apartments (Ferienwohnungen) with stunning sea views. For larger groups or families, the perfect place is to book a private coastal villa or a cozy thatched cottage further inland for a relaxing, self-catering holiday.
The history of Ostholstein
Slavic roots and medieval history
Ostholstein's roots go deep into Slavic and medieval history. The region was originally inhabited by the Slavic Wagri tribe, which can still be experienced at the Wallmuseum in Oldenburg – an impressive open-air archaeological site.
The cultural heyday of the duchies
The historic town of Eutin became the cultural center and was known as the “Weimar of the North” in the 18th and 19th centuries. The town flourished with artists and writers around the impressive Eutin Castle.
Tourism breakthrough
At the end of the 19th century, the area developed into a popular summer resort, where small fishing villages were transformed into elegant spa towns along the Baltic Sea coast.
Nature: Sea, lakes and rolling landscapes
Coastline and island life
East Holstein is unique due to its dual natural identity. The district offers more than 180 kilometers of dramatic coastline with everything from steep cliffs to wide sandy beaches and dunes. The region also includes the sunny island of Fehmarn, which is connected to the mainland via the impressive Fehmarn Sound Bridge.
Holstein Switzerland – world-class natural idyll
Just a few kilometers from the coast, the landscape changes dramatically to the lush Holsteinische Schweiz area. The nature park was formed during the last ice age and consists of green hills, dense beech forests and around 200 crystal-clear lakes.
Things to do and see in Ostholstein
Water sports on the Baltic Sea
Fehmer is an international hotspot for windsurfing and kitesurfing thanks to the stable coastal winds. Sailing, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding are also popular activities along the entire coast.
Cycling and hiking
The region is full of well-marked paths and cycle routes. Visitors can follow the flat Baltic Coast Cycle Route or explore the more hilly lakeside landscape in inland Ostholstein.
Family-friendly attractions
Ostholstein is also home to Hansa-Park in Sierksdorf – Germany’s only large amusement park directly on the sea.
Typical dishes and local specialities
The local cuisine combines fresh fish and seafood with classic northern German comfort dishes. The region is particularly known for its “broken-sööt” tradition, where sweet and savory flavors are combined in the same dish.
Fischbrötchen – the iconic fish sandwich
A crispy bun filled with matjes herring, smoked sprat or crispy fried fish is the ultimate snack along the coast.
Holsteiner Katenschinken
This slow-smoked premium ham is known for its intense flavor and tender texture.
Sauerfleisch und Bratkartoffeln
A classic summer dish consisting of pickled pork served cold with crispy fried potatoes.
Rote Grütze
The popular dessert is made from boiled red summer berries and is traditionally served with cream or vanilla sauce.
Festivals and cultural events
Eutin Festival (Eutiner Festspiele)
A prestigious opera and music festival held every summer in the historic castle gardens of Eutin Castle.
JazzBaltica
An international jazz festival on the beach in Timmendorfer Strand that attracts music lovers from all over Europe every June.
Surf Festival Fehmarn
A high-energy beach festival in May with water sports fairs, live music and professional competitions.
Weltfischbrötchentag
A colourful and popular seaside festival dedicated to the region's beloved fish sandwich - complete with live music and local flavours.