Camping in the Eckernförde Bay

Camping in the Eckernförde Bay means relaxing, peaceful days in the midst of the idyllic nature of Schleswig-Holstein. But camping with children also promises very special experiences: Many families find their holiday paradise among the numerous campsites right on the beach of the fjord. There are also various water sports options available for young and old - as well as recreational fun exploring the wooded and meadowy surroundings. And of course, a little campfire romance with the family is also a must.

Special features of camping in the Bay of Eckernförde

Eckernförde Bay - which extends 17 kilometres deep into the country - is located between the two scenic peninsulas of Dänischer Wohld and Schwansen. Fields, meadows and small villages with thatched houses, as well as manor houses and large aristocratic estates characterise this region.

Numerous campsites have settled on the idyllic shores on both sides of the bay. Mostly located directly on the fine sandy Baltic Sea beach, they are surrounded by the flair of cliffs, neighbouring lakes or dense forests in the hinterland. Sun worshippers, water sports enthusiasts and active holidaymakers can enjoy cycling, hiking or jogging at the campsites in Eckernförde Bay. The fish-rich waters also offer passionate anglers relaxation and the best fishing results.

How to get there

The campsites on the Bay of Eckernförde are easy to reach from anywhere. However, the A7, Germany's longest federal motorway, is the main route for holiday traffic to Eckernförde Bay. When travelling on the A24 from the north-eastern cities of Germany, such as Berlin or Leipzig, or on the A1 from the north-west, for example from Bremen, the Ruhr area or Düsseldorf, the motorways join the A7 near Hamburg. Cologne is 540 km, Frankfurt a.M. 611 km and Berlin 380 km away from the wide beaches of Eckernförde Bay.

Campers who are not dependent on the summer holiday season appreciate the speedy journey to the north of Schleswig-Holstein outside the main arrival and return times during the holidays. Among the numerous rest stops along the A7 motorway, the rest area near Holmmoor or Hanover Wülferode-Ost, for example, offer tasty meals and friendly service.

The best way to get to the campsites on the northern shore of Eckernförde Bay is from Eckernförde harbour via the road to Waabs. The campsites in the south of the bay are best reached from Kiel on the B503 and then on the Bäderstraße.

Destinations on the Bay of Eckernförde

Numerous places around the Bay of Eckernförde entice visitors with various sights and entertainment for the whole family. A trip to Eckernförde, the Baltic seaside resort of Damp and the state capital of Kiel are always worthwhile.

Eckernförde

Narrow alleyways and lovingly restored fishermen's houses characterise the historic old town of Eckernförde, which invites you to take a leisurely stroll. The candy factory shows how delicious sweets are made by hand. In the smokehouse museum, the show smoking whets the appetite for fish. The eel regatta, the sprat days and the pirate spectacle attract many visitors.

Damp

Nestled in the picturesque landscape of the Schwansen peninsula, Damp boasts a kilometre-long sandy beach, an idyllic marina and the maritime flair of a Baltic seaside resort. An imposing manor house on Gut Damp invites you to visit. The Mara Mara wellness and fitness oasis with its unique sauna landscape is also popular.

Kiel

Impressive cruise ships frequent the Germania harbour in the middle of the lively state capital of Kiel. The Kiel-Holtenau lock facilities on the Kiel Canal are also impressive. Kiel has many interesting museums such as the Maritime Museum, the Ethnological Museum and the Zoological Museum. Cultural events in the theatre or at the Niederdeutsche Bühne Kiel provide brilliant evening entertainment.

Activities and excursions

The charming landscape around Eckernförde Bay and its romantic coastline are ideal for cycling and hiking. Golfing and climbing as well as water sports and fishing are just as popular here as a sociable trip on one of the excursion boats.

Hiking and cycling tours

One of the many hiking routes in the Hütten mountains, which border Eckernförde to the west, leads to the 98 metre high Aschberg with the Bismarck monument and a wide view over land and sea. Exploratory tours in the regions of Dänischer Wohld and Schwansen are also worthwhile - long walks in the aerosol-rich air along the floodplain are balm for body and soul. The Baltic Sea coastal cycle path, which runs close to the Eckernförde Bay campsites, leads through picturesque landscapes to the surrounding villages and towns.

Water activities

In addition to pure bathing pleasure, the Baltic Sea is an Eldorado for water sports enthusiasts. Favourable weather conditions create the right swell for professionals. Regions with sandbanks create ideal beginner conditions for surfers, kiters, stand-up paddlers and sailors. Attractive passenger ships set sail from Eckernförde for cruises and tours into the setting sun. Many holidaymakers like to take the cutters out fishing, while fishing enthusiasts are more interested in deep-sea fishing.

Gastronomy

The cuisine of Schleswig-Holstein around the Bay of Eckernförde is primarily characterised by its delicious Baltic Sea fish. Above all matjes, but Kiel sprats and eel soup are also part of it - just as cod in mustard sauce and Labskaus are among the specialities from the sea. Fish has to swim and likes a cool local beer.

But also a little coward, which is at home in Eckernförde. A grog or a Köm punch made from the yellow caraway schnapps warms body and soul if the sea shows its rough side. Lovers of fine cuisine appreciate the tender and finely marbled meat of the dyke lamb and, of course, the hearty Holsteiner Katenschinken. Little foodies will love the fruity red fruit jelly and lilac berry soup with semolina dumplings.

Best time to visit

Summery days can be expected in Eckernförde Bay from June to September at around 19 to 22 degrees Celsius. During this time, water temperatures between 18 and 20 degrees are ideal for swimming. However, several rainy days per month are possible throughout the year.

Even if the water in the Baltic Sea is quite cool in the months of May and October, campers appreciate the mild and sunny weather for cycling and hiking. The winters are characterised by moderate cold, as temperatures rarely or only slightly fall into the minus range. The summer months of July and August are among the warmest of the camping season, but camping in Eckernförde Bay is generally worthwhile all year round.