Usedom

In the Baltic, Usedom has long been shared between Germany and Poland, it is one of the most beautiful islands in Germany. The majority of the island is part of the German district of Vorpommern-Greifswald, while the eastern quarter (including the biggest city of Winoujcie) is part of the Polish West Pomeranian Voivodeship.

Despite its northern position, it is one of the sunniest places in Germany and calls itself the Sonneninsel (Sunny Island). Visitors may park their strandkorbs (German beach chairs) along the 45-kilometer shoreline and enjoy the facilities at resorts such as Drei Kaiserbäder, Bernsteinbäder, Ostseebäder, and Zempin. Scenic piers allow you to stroll directly out onto the water.

When you're done with the beach, take advantage of the many bicycle pathways, horseback riding trails, and thermal baths. With 50,000 plants neatly grouped in 14 regional zones such as Latin, German, and Polish, Usedoms Botanischer Garten Mellenthin is worth leaving the beach.

There is no need to leave the sea when you retire at night. The ancient lighthouse on the island is approximately 100 years old and has been converted into a three-level private mini-hotel. It has 24-foot ceilings, a wooden Jacuzzi, and a wrap-around balcony with a one-of-a-kind vista.

Location: Chausseeberg 1, 17429 Mellenthin, Germany