Kampen (Sylt): Uwe Dune, Red Cliff and Bird Decoy

If you are looking for a hotel in Kampen (Sylt), you can get a sense of the place through its nature and coastal attractions. Uwe Dune, the Red Cliff and the Bird Decoy each offer something different: a path to an observation platform, a geologically distinctive cliff coast, and a protected area with a museum and information trail. There are also divided beach areas and an art and culture trail through the town. Which of these interests you most can shape your plans for your stay.

Uwe Dune and the Red Cliff

At 52.5 metres, Kampen’s Uwe Dune is Sylt’s highest natural elevation. A dune path leads up on foot; it begins on Zur Uwe-Düne street. The observation platform is reached by 109 wooden steps. Local conditions may change, so it is worth checking local notices before your visit.

The Red Cliff on Kampen’s western side stretches for around four kilometres towards Wenningstedt. Its red colour is caused by oxygen acting on iron-bearing clay. At its highest point, the height difference from the cliff edge to the beach is about 30 metres. These measurements refer to different things: 52.5 metres is the height of Uwe Dune, while around 30 metres is the height difference between the cliff and the beach.

The Red Cliff and the heathland that begins along its upper edge have been protected since 1979. Because of the risk of collapse, stay on designated paths when walking. Check local notices about protected-area boundaries and rules before setting out for a walk.

Bird Decoy: protected area and museum

Kampen Bird Decoy is both a bird sanctuary and a museum; the entire area has been protected since 1935. A circular trail leads through woodland, past the decoy houses, over a dyke and alongside a pond. Along the route, 35 stations provide information about flora, fauna and the history of the site. The walk therefore combines nature with the history of the bird decoy.

Beach and designated areas

Kampen’s beach is divided into four sections. Dog-friendly beaches are designated in northern section A and southern section N. Beach zoning may change seasonally or administratively; check local notices before visiting the beach.

Beach facilities include trained lifeguards at all Kampen beaches and public toilets at several beach locations. Beach gymnastics, beach volleyball and beach soccer add to the activities on offer. Services and programmes may vary by season.

Culture, getting around and other things to do

The free art and culture trail runs throughout the town. Around 40 marked bronze steles with QR codes introduce artists and other people associated with Kampen. This gives the trail a different focus from the route at the Bird Decoy, which explores flora, fauna and local history.

Langer Christian Lighthouse can be viewed from the outside, but visitors cannot enter it. Bus route 1 connects Kampen with Westerland and List; check the timetable before travelling, as routes and services may change.

The range of dining options may also play a part in your plans: in Kampen, the choices range from fresh fish and snacks to multi-course menus, tapas, schnitzel and tea. Offerings at individual establishments may change. Alongside the beach, landscape and culture, you will find a variety of culinary options for your stay.

Discover more destinations: Westerland, Rantum, Morsum, Sylt-Ost, Wenningstedt, List, Munkmarsch, Hörnum

Return to the main travel overview: Sylt.