The effect of the ebb and flow has created a quite unique coastal landscape, which extends from the Netherlands along the coasts of Niedersachsen (Lower Saxony) and Schleswig-Holstein as far as Denmark: the Wadden Sea! Between the tides, a 10,000 square kilometre wetland appears twice every day: a unique habitat for some 10,000 different animal and plant species.
The Wadden Sea is therefore a unique place to visit. Observe the thrilling ebb and flow of the tides and the visit by millions of migratory birds to nest and rest. Hunt lugworms, cockles and beach crabs on a lively walk along the beach with a local guide. Where else can you walk on the bottom of the sea? Savour magnificent views of the sea on a cycle tour along the coast. Visit the seal sanctuary and research station in Norden-Norddeich National Park and the Visitor Centres in Wilhelmshaven and Cuxhaven are simply not to be missed.
The Niedersachsen Wadden Sea National Park was set up in 1986 to protect the unique tidal flats habitat. Seven years later, the area together with a development zone behind the dike was included by UNESCO in the “World Network of Biosphere Reserves”. The German-Dutch-Danish Wadden Sea was then declared a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site in 2009. In Niedersachsen, the Wadden Sea also includes the East Frisian coast with all its islands, the Jade Bight and the North Sea coast of the Cuxland region.
More information can be found on the Wadden Sea World Natural Heritage Site website.
