Heiligendamm combines a long history as a seaside resort with the Baltic coast and nature experiences. Neoclassical buildings, the beach and the pier offer a different focus from a coastal hike or bike ride. You can tailor your stay to your interests in architecture, sea views or outdoor activities.
The resort’s architecture and history
Heiligendamm has been a seaside resort since 1793. The present-day Kurhaus was inaugurated in 1817 and became a landmark of the town. By 1870, an impressive neoclassical ensemble of white lodging, bathing and social buildings had been created. Its architectural history is therefore a key part of the town’s character.
After many years of reconstruction, the historic ensemble of buildings opened in 2003 as the Grand Hotel Heiligendamm. The history of the Heiligendamm Lutheran Church is distinct from this: the listed church building was solemnly consecrated on July 31, 1904. Those interested in the resort’s development will find several clearly dated milestones here—from its founding as a seaside resort to the Kurhaus and later reconstruction.
Beach and pier
The beach is wide and fine-sanded, with a gentle slope towards the Baltic Sea. It has been awarded the Blue Flag for its good water quality. Check the current status of this award before your visit.
Heiligendamm Pier is a good spot for watching sunsets and enjoying views of the sea and coast. It offers a different perspective on the town from the neoclassical buildings: here, the focus is on the views and the evening atmosphere by the water.
On foot, by bike and on the Molli
The Molli runs daily from Bad Doberan to Heiligendamm station. If you are planning to travel by train or take a day trip, check the timetable for your intended date.
A moderately challenging 14.7-kilometre coastal hike runs from KĂĽhlungsborn via Heiligendamm to Bad Doberan. It connects the three named places along one continuous route and is a specific option for anyone planning an active day trip. When choosing between the train and the hike, you can therefore consider different ways of getting around and a clearly defined hiking route.
A bike tour from Heiligendamm around Lake Conventer takes you through the 216-hectare Conventer See Nature Reserve. The area is of great importance to birds as a breeding and resting site. Unlike the coastal hike, this tour puts the reserve’s birdlife in the foreground. Heiligendamm spa forest covers 74,000 square metres and adds to the town’s nature experiences.
Practical information for your visit
A zone-based no-stopping rule applies throughout the town. You may park on public land only in designated and signposted parking areas. If you arrive by car, look for parking in these marked areas.
The annual torchlight swim at the pier includes rescue drills and an atmospheric swim in the Baltic Sea with torches. If you would like to include this event in your stay, check the exact dates before travelling.
Discover more destinations: Bartenshagen-Parkentin, Wittenbeck, Steffenshagen, Börgerende-Rethwisch, Nienhagen, Hohenfelde, Retschow, Reddelich.
Back to the main travel overview: Amt Bad Doberan-Land.
