Northern Light

In those days, each village maintained at least one Kurhaus (cure house) where visitors received a prescription regimen of full-body massages, mudpacks, saunas and saltwater inhalations using deep seawater collected offshore. This was reputed to ward off every physical ailment imaginable.

The island's healthy atmosphere -- clean, unpolluted air and sea -- and relaxing environment has lured many of the roughly 21,500 year-round residents.

And according to the Marketing Board, roughly 5.9 million overnight stays come each year.

"We just love it here. There's no place like Sylt," says Julia Gluma, a journalist on mainland Germany who, along with her husband, owns an apartment on Sylt and tries to stay there at least two nights each visit. "It relieves the pressure of hard work in the city."

And in the summer months, when darkness falls close to midnight and daylight dawns at a few hours later, the island offers perfect exploration weather through multiple options: bicycling, horse riding, tour buses or foot-traipsing across golden sand.

With clean North Sea air said to be like champagne to the mind -- it's more sharpening than an hour at the therapist -- and better than any expensive beauty product for the skin, Sylt provides a much-needed rejuvenation from congested city living.

Island Novelties

Sylt is also notable for two other unique features: Strandkoerbes -- hooded wicker-seat sand baskets dotting all of its beaches -- and the Frisian architecture of thatched-roof houses.

Despite frigid winters and rainy springs, the baskets withstand year-round weather. They form an ideal sanctuary for sun-worshippers as they enjoy the beautiful beaches without enduring too much light, wind, sand or stares (they also offer total seclusion).

The thatched roof houses were generally built in the direction of the prevailing wind, which is east-west, to confront raging sea storms with minimal exposure.

The roofs not only look attractive, but thatch can withstand the rigors of nature for up to 30 years, keeping houses cool in summer and warm in winter.

Travel Tips

	Your Haus Away From Haus

Sylt really has no one high tourist season, as it boasts different attractions and comforts all year round. Hotels are plentiful throughout the island, and whether it's untouched nature preserves, world-class windsurfing or unbelievably fresh seafood you're after, you'll be able to find it.

One feature adding to Sylt's appeal is that there is no road from mainland Germany. The main way is the seven-mile area of sand flats holding a rail causeway, built in 1927.

Auto shuttles run from various German cities for about $100 round-trip; other options include intercity trains, ferries from Denmark and even flights to the island's small airport.

All in all, everything is special within Sylt's twelve villages, each with their own natural, vibrant charm. No matter where you stand, you'll never be far from the sea.

Don't wait -- dive in and enjoy this secret northern paradise.

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