The Arlau lowlands define Hattstedtermarsch. The Beltringharder Koog, Schleswig-Holstein’s largest mainland nature reserve, lies directly next to the marsh. This gives a stay here a clear connection to nature and coastal protection: it is about both the river lowlands and the neighbouring protected landscape. When planning your visit, you can consider both observing nature and following paths along the dyke, as well as activities related to nature and coastal protection.
The Arlau and Beltringharder Koog
The former Arlau pumping station building is a place where visitors can find information about nature and coastal protection. Another information point is the West Coast Integrated Station. Its permanent exhibition covers the Beltringharder Koog; the station also offers nature conservation tours and public events. As the programme may change, it is worth checking dates before your visit.
The landscape itself also tells of its relationship with water: Hattstedtermarsch has been protected by dykes since 1466. If you are interested in how the coast has developed and been protected, you can consider this historical detail alongside the present-day topics of nature and coastal protection addressed at the information points mentioned above.
On foot, by bike and on the water
In Hattstedtermarsch, you can walk along the dyke and explore nature on foot. One specific route is the WWF “Beltringharder Koog Nature Trail” hiking tour: it leads from the Arlau pumping station through the Beltringharder Koog nature experience area. This gives you a choice of different ways to enjoy the outdoors: a walk along the dyke or a named nature trail.
There are two screened observation hides along the Beltringharder route. From there, visitors can watch birds without disturbing them. So, in addition to hiking, the route offers a clear focus on nature observation. If you would like to include this in your day’s plans, check the current access conditions before your visit.
Cyclists in Hattstedtermarsch can also use the North Sea Cycle Route and low-traffic roads. Another tour option is the Nature Route: the 29.81-kilometre circular route is classified as easy and is associated with Hattstedtermarsch. The route length and difficulty rating may change if the route is updated, so check these details again when planning your ride.
Short canoe trips on the Arlau are possible. Local conditions may affect whether it is safe to go out on the water. Fishing is also possible in the Arlau and its tributary, the Jelstrom; permits and conditions may vary. These activities differ from hiking and cycling because the conditions on the water and the applicable fishing regulations are particularly important.
Another hiking option starts at LĂĽttmoorsiel, near Hattstedtermarsch: mudflat hikes to the Hallig of Nordstrandischmoor set off from there. Check current departure times and tides in advance. This tour therefore has a specific starting point outside the marsh itself and should be planned around the relevant times.
History and regional context
The coastal landscape of Hattstedtermarsch served as the setting for works by Theodor Storm and their screen adaptations, including “The Rider on the White Horse.” This adds a literary connection to the landscape alongside its present-day natural and dyke-related aspects.
In the coastal area of North Frisia around Hattstedtermarsch, raised mounds known as warfts are part of the landscape. These are man-made earth mounds on which settlements were built for protection against storm surges; thatched houses often stand there.
Discover more destinations: Friedrich-Wilhelm-Lübke-Koog, Grothusenkoog, Vollstedt, Rodenäs, Galmsbüll, Ockholm, Uphusum, Pellworm.
For the wider travel overview: North Frisia.
