Following in the footsteps of the Vikings – hiking around Schleswig

Even the Vikings recognised the uniqueness of the Baltic Sea fjord Schlei, a narrow inlet off the German coast. Back then, the estuary was known for its strategic location at the centre of former trade networks between Northern and Western Europe. Today, the Schlei is defined by its beautiful landscapes, history and abundance of water. That’s why this area in the hilly region of Schleswig-Holstein is a great place for adventures. In this Collection, we present six particularly beautiful hikes that showcase Baltic Sea charm a little inland. The Tours are located around Schleswig, a town which lies at the end of the 42-kilometre (26 mi) long waterway.

Schleswig is also known as the ‘town of the Vikings’, who strongly influenced the region around the Baltic Sea fjord. The best place to start your hiking holiday is therefore the Viking Museum Haithabu, one of the most important archaeological museums in Germany. On your hikes, you will learn a lot about the region’s history and immerse yourself in its rich nature. All of the hikes in this Collection are circular trips through flat landscapes, as is typical in the north, but they are still very varied. This makes them ideal for family day trips. If you plan to spend several days in the region, you can find accommodation in Schleswig. With a city harbour, old town and the wonderfully green Königswiesen meadows on the north shore of the Schlei, the town is the perfect starting point for your hikes.

Experience the Baltic Sea breeze, explore the Schlei's diverse landscapes and get to know Schleswig on your hikes. Top tips: Don’t forget to pack your swimsuit in your rucksack. There’s so much water here that taking a dip is almost obligatory. The Vikings certainly did the same in the past.