Hattstedtermarsch: Arlau, Marshland and Nature

Hattstedtermarsch is a low-lying area shaped by the Arlau. The Beltringharder Koog borders it directly and is the largest mainland nature reserve in Schleswig-Holstein. The landscape, wildlife watching and trails through the marshland give trip planning a clear focus. If you are looking for a hotel in Hattstedtermarsch, you can first decide whether you would rather explore on foot or by bike, are interested in nature conservation, or want to explore historical and literary connections.

Marshland, Koog and Wildlife Watching

You can experience the landscape by walking along the dyke and exploring nature. The Beltringharder Koog also offers specific points of interest for nature lovers: Two screened observation stands along the Beltringharder Route let you watch birds without disturbing them. Check the current access conditions before visiting.

The former pumping station building on the Arlau is a place to learn about nature and coastal protection. The West Coast Integrated Station has a permanent exhibition about the Beltringharder Koog and offers nature conservation tours as well as public events. As the programme may change, check dates and tours in advance if you are planning a visit.

On Foot, by Bike and on the Water

One specific walking route is the WWF Beltringharder Koog Nature Trail. It runs from the Arlau pumping station through the Beltringharder Koog nature experience area. The nature route associated with Hattstedtermarsch is an easy circular route covering 29.81 kilometres. The length and rating may change, so check the latest route details before planning this walk.

Cyclists can use the North Sea Cycle Route and roads with little traffic in Hattstedtermarsch. This offers opportunities to explore by bike as well as on foot. When planning, it helps to keep track of your chosen route and its latest details.

The Arlau is suitable for short canoe trips. Local conditions can affect whether it is safe to go out, so you should check conditions before setting off. Fishing is possible in the Arlau and its tributary, the Jelstrom; permits and conditions may vary. Check in advance which rules apply to the fishing you have planned.

Guided mudflat walks to the Hallig of Nordstrandischmoor start in Lüttmoorsiel, near Hattstedtermarsch. Check the latest information about departures and tides in advance. This distinguishes the activity from the trails through the marshland and water activities on the Arlau, while keeping the different conditions in mind.

History and Regional Context

The Hattstedtermarsch has been protected by dykes since 1466. Its landscape served as the setting for works and film adaptations by Theodor Storm, including The Rider on the White Horse. Warfts are also part of the area's cultural landscape: in coastal North Frisia around Hattstedtermarsch, these raised mounds of earth are often topped with thatched houses. They were built to protect settlements from storm surges.

The wider travel destination of North Frisia extends beyond this landscape: North Frisia has 441 kilometres of coastline and includes ten Halligen, which lie within the Schleswig-Holstein Wadden Sea National Park. This regional context complements the view of the low-lying area shaped by the Arlau and the directly adjoining Beltringharder Koog.

Hotel and Trip Planning

Trails and wildlife watching, water activities, and historical and literary themes offer different points of focus. For trips with changing access conditions, tides or schedules, it is worth checking the latest information in advance.

Discover more destinations: Norderfriedrichskoog, Mildstedt, Kotzenbüll, Langeneß, Almdorf, Goldelund, Friedrich-Wilhelm-Lübke-Koog, Simonsberg

View the broader travel overview: North Frisia.