Wadden Sea National Park Celebrates 40 Years of Natural Wonders
A Sea That Comes and Goes
Germany’s northernmost national park, the Schleswig-Holstein Wadden Sea National Park, turns 40 this year. Twice a day, a natural phenomenon unfolds: the sea floods the vast tidal flats during high tide and retreats during low tide, revealing a unique ecosystem shaped by tidal channels (Priele). The time between tides is around six hours and twelve minutes—plenty of time to experience the magic of the mudflats with rubber boots.
Mud, Magic & Rubber Boots
Guided mudflat hikes are the highlight of low tide. And yes, rubber boots are essential gear—unless you’re brave enough to go barefoot. Watt guides Werner Mansen and Jan Krüger, known as “Wattjungs,” lead curious visitors through the muddy terrain. “Rubber boots or bare feet?” Mansen shrugs. “Up to you. Depends on how much you fear cold toes or sharp shells.”
The duo has years of experience and a deep love for the sea. “I’ve been a National Park partner since the beginning,” says Mansen, who also witnessed the park’s addition to the UNESCO World Heritage list in 2009.
Walking on Golden Floor
Krüger, a former restaurateur turned professional Wattführer (wadden guide), beams with joy describing the landscape. “Have you looked around? It’s stunning.” With a dramatic sweep of his arms, he exclaims, “Walking on golden floor!”
He also educates visitors about the national park’s vast range—from Sylt to the Elbe River, covering 4,400 square kilometers, making it the largest national park between North Cape and Sicily. One minute he’s explaining geology, the next he’s playfully digging for lugworms, showing off their quirky survival tactics.
40 Years, 40+ Events
To mark its 40th anniversary, the park has launched a full-year celebration under the theme “40 Years & 40+ Experiences”. More information: www.sylt-wattwanderungen.de
