Cover picture provided by Superbass; License: CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons.
Hidden away on the northwestern tip of Fehmarn, a real natural gem with a viewing platform awaits you: the Markelsdorfer Huk. This inconspicuous headland is much more than just a stretch of coastline; it is the gateway to one of the island's most valuable nature reserves.
Here, where the Baltic Sea meets unspoiled landscapes, you will find peace and quiet, spectacular nature and panoramic views that are sure to inspire you.
Whether you are planning a relaxing nature trip with your family, going on a discovery tour as a bird lover, or simply want to escape the hustle and bustle of the more popular beaches, Markelsdorfer Huk offers you all this and much more.
Since 2016, an impressive viewing platform has made this natural paradise even more accessible and offers you a unique view over the “Northern Lake District of Fehmarn.”
Find out more about Markelsdorfer Huk now and read on.
The Markelsdorfer Huk is a natural headland that stretches out into the sea like a finger. The term “Huk” comes from Low German and refers to a coastal hook – and that is exactly what this place is: a striking point where land and sea meet in a very special way.
You are here in the heart of the 750-hectare "Fehmarn Northern Lake District nature reserve", which stretches from Bojendorf via Westermarkelsdorf to Puttgarden.
What makes this place so fascinating is its dynamism. Especially in the fall and winter months, storms change the coastline year after year. Nature shows its full power here and constantly reshapes the landscape.
This wildness has created a unique landscape: wet meadows alternate with reed belts, various lagoons glisten in the sun, and a diverse flora and fauna has found its home here.
It is particularly impressive that rare beach-nesting birds, beetles, and plant species live here, perfectly adapted to this dynamic environment. To protect these special inhabitants, an approximately five-hectare beach area is completely off-limits, and the coastline may only be accessed during the winter months—a small price to pay for preserving this natural beauty.
Since the end of 2016, there has been a viewing platform at Markelsdorfer Huk, which should not be confused with the “Utkieker” observation tower. The two-story wooden structure rests on sturdy steel pillars and rises about three meters above the ground. That may not sound like much, but on the flat island of Fehmarn, these few meters are enough to give you a breathtaking panoramic view.
The platform is well designed: steps lead you to the first level, where informative panels provide information about the Baltic Sea and the local flora and fauna. From here, a second staircase takes you to the top viewing level, where you can enjoy a panoramic view.
From above, you can see the entire diversity of the nature reserve at a glance: the shimmering inland lakes, the vast salt marshes, the endless sea and, on a clear day, even the Danish coast in the distance. The platform is positioned so that you have a view of both the calm inland waters and the sometimes wild Baltic Sea. It's a dream come true for nature photographers!
A little tip: There are a few seats available on site, but feel free to bring a folding chair. The viewing platform and the surrounding area are perfect for relaxing, and if you have time, you can unwind and let nature work its magic.
The Markelsdorfer Huk is accessible all year round on foot or by bike. You have two routes to choose from:
| Route | Difficulty | Duration | Special features |
| From Altenteil | Easy | 20-30 Min. | Family-friendly, paved path |
| From Westermarkelsdorf | Middle | 45-60 Min. | Longer route, more sights |
The easiest route takes you via Altenteil, where you will find a parking lot at Camping Altenteil. From there, cross the dike and pass through the Fehmarnbelt campground to reach the viewing platform.
This path is well paved and easy to navigate for families with children or less experienced hikers. Simply walk through the entire campground until you reach the platform.
If you have more time and want to make sure that the trip to the northwest is really worthwhile, you can also park at the parking lot near Westermarkelsdorf. If you walk to the beach from there, Baltic Sea plug you will see it as the first sight.
From there, walk back a short distance to Westermarkelsdorf until you can turn north onto the dike. Then walk along the coast through the “Botanik,” as the locals affectionately call this natural landscape.
Be sure to pack sturdy shoes or rubber boots, as the path can get quite muddy depending on the weather and tide. You will be rewarded with a genuine nature experience: you will hike through unspoiled landscapes that stretch out to the left and right of the dike. With a bit of luck, you may even encounter some of the shy inhabitants of this area along the way.
After a short walk (about ⅓ of the way), you will pass the Westermarkelsdorf lighthouse and can view it from the outside. The final stop is the viewing platform.
The Markelsdorfer Huk is an absolute paradise for anyone who loves watching animals. The Fehmarn Northern Lake District nature reserve is home to an astonishing variety of bird species, which you can observe wonderfully from the viewing platform.
The cormorants are particularly impressive, as they like to settle down in large groups by the water and spread their wings to dry. With a little luck, you may also see avocets with their characteristic upward-curving beaks or elegant lapwings. Wading birds and water birds use the shallow shores of the inland lakes as a resting place, especially during the migration periods in spring and fall.
Binoculars are very useful here! The animals are naturally very shy and keep their distance from humans. But that's exactly what makes watching them so exciting: you are truly a guest in their habitat and can study their natural behavior.
In addition to birds, you will also find rare beetle and plant species that are perfectly adapted to life between fresh and salt water. The salt marshes display different flowers depending on the season, and the reed beds hide many a small natural wonder.
Incidentally, the nature reserve is managed by the voluntary association "Haff und Huk Nordfehmarn e.V." These dedicated conservationists ensure that this unique habitat is preserved while remaining accessible to visitors like you.
Markelsdorf Huk has its own charm in every season, but depending on your interests, there are optimal times to visit.
| Season | Ideal for | Special features |
| Fall/Winter | Birdwatchers, photographers | Best view of migratory birds, coastal areas accessible |
| Spring/Summer | Families, hikers | Longest days, blooming flowers, more visitors |
Fall and winter are the absolute best times for birdwatchers. Many migratory birds use the area as a resting place, and the reduced vegetation makes the animals easier to spot. You can also access coastal areas that are otherwise closed off during this time. Be sure to dress warmly and bring rain gear, as the wind can get quite chilly up here!
Spring and summer offer the longest days and the most beautiful blooms. The salt marshes glow in different colors, and when the weather is nice, the lighting conditions are ideal for photographers. However, it is busier during this time, and some areas are closed to protect nesting birds.
The Markelsdorfer Huk is a wonderful destination for the whole family. Children love discovering birds from the viewing platform and learning about nature in a playful way. The information boards are also designed to be easily understood by younger visitors.
For active vacationers, Markelsdorfer Huk is a perfect stop for cycling or hiking tours. You can combine your visit with a bike ride along the north coast or plan it as the destination of a longer hike from the Westermarkelsdorf lighthouse.
It is particularly beautiful in combination with other sights in the area: the historic Westermarkelsdorf lighthouse is definitely worth a visit, and the picturesque village itself is ideal for a stroll. The famous Wallnau Waterfowl Reserve is not far away and offers similar, yet completely different nature experiences.
As a music lover, you will also find the Jimi Hendrix memorial in the southwest.
At a time when many vacation destinations are overcrowded, Markelsdorfer Huk is a little-known gem. Here you will usually find a little more peace and authenticity, which are the ingredients for a truly relaxing vacation. Stand on the viewing platform, listen to the sound of the sea and the birds singing – suddenly, stress and everyday life are far away.
At the same time, this place is a wonderful example of how nature conservation and gentle tourism can go hand in hand. You can experience unspoiled nature without disturbing it, while learning about the fascinating interrelationships in this unique ecosystem.
The Markelsdorfer Huk shows you Fehmarn at its wildest and most unspoilt – a perfect contrast to the popular beaches and an experience that will add a very special touch to your island vacation.
Would you like to explore Markelsdorfer Huk and all the other natural beauties of Fehmarn at your leisure?
Then one of our high-quality vacation homes in Burg on Fehmarn or on the south beach is the perfect starting point for your discovery tours. From here, you can easily reach all of the island's sights and return to your cozy vacation home to relax after an eventful day.
