Heligoland

Heligoland is a small archipelago in the North Sea, about 70 kilometers from the German mainland, made up of a red sandstone plateau and a flat sandy islet. The main island rises to 56 meters above sea level with steep cliffs, while the smaller neighbor offers wide beaches.

Britain controlled the archipelago until 1890, when a land exchange with Germany brought it under new ownership. The islands saw fortifications, destruction, and rebuilding during the 20th century before returning to civilian life.

Locals speak Halunder, a North Frisian dialect that sounds different from mainland German. You can hear it in conversations along the lanes, see it on signs, and experience it during community gatherings.

No cars run on the main island, so people walk, cycle, or use push scooters to move around. A short ferry connection links the two islands and runs several times throughout the day.

The climate here stays milder than on the mainland, with frost appearing rarely and snow almost never. This oceanic setting creates conditions that feel closer to western Europe than to the German coast.

Location: Pinneberg

Capital city: Helgoland

Elevation above the sea: 40 m

Part of: North Frisian Islands

Website: https://helgoland.de/rathaus

GPS coordinates: 54.18250,7.88528

Latest update: December 15, 2025 10:45