Popular with landscape artists over a century ago, Ahrenshoop is a charming coastal community set between the Bodden waters at the Baltic Sea. A beautiful part of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, this picturesque destination now attracts couples, families and friends dreaming of a laid-back beach break or an outdoorsy holiday. Cosy and comfortable, the best places to stay in Ahrenshoop promise excellent regional cuisine and wellness centres, too, for the ultimate restorative escape.

The narrow Fischland-Darß-Zingst peninsula was originally home to fishing and farming communities. In the 1890s, an artists’ colony was established by landscape painters including Paul Müller-Kaempff, who founded the Künstlerhaus Lukas art school. This creative spirit continues to characterise Ahrenshoop, with a burgeoning array of galleries, studios, workshops and cultural events held throughout the year. Tour the impressive Kunstmuseum, admire the pretty thatched Kunstkaten and the unusual Bunte Stube, and meet artists in their workshops during the open house season.

Venture beyond the little town for fantastic hiking and cycling trails. The Vorpommersche Boddenlandschaft National Park, known for its expansive sandy beach, is not to be missed, nor are the clifftop paths to the south of Ahrenshoop. Enjoy refreshing ocean dips, sailing excursions and afternoons of sandcastle-building in the sunshine. Come winter, the town is also charming, with crackling fires and fabulous fare on offer at the best places to stay in Ahrenshoop.

The Best Places to Stay in Ahrenshoop

For Sea Views

• Künstlerquartier Seezeichen is a modern hotel with contemporary interiors and striking sea views. Contemporary rooms and suites have white, cream and deep purple interiors — and the best boast private balconies. Savour innovative dishes using seasonal produce at the restaurant, and unwind at the soothing spa. A lovely spot within sight of the sea.

For Classic Cottage Charm

• Romantik Hotel Namenlos & Fischerwiege offers a small collection of charming guest rooms and thatched cottages set within leafy gardens close to the beach. Cosy, light-filled interiors feature works by regional artists and floral prints, with a relaxed, rustic feel. Expect fabulous food and superb spa facilities including an indoor swimming pool and sauna. A former artists' retreat with red-and-white striped garden chairs and a laid-back sense of style.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY HOUSE

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel Information

• Fly to Rostock–Laage Airport, and travel an hour north to Ahrenshoop by bus or car from there. Most hotels will be happy to arrange an airport pick up in advance.
• Mecklenburg-Vorpommern is wonderful for a coastal road trip! If you would like to hire a car to explore the region, we recommend visiting our online partner Rentalcars.
• Visit Ahrenshoop during the summer months, with temperatures hovering around 22°C in July and August. For fewer crowds, consider travelling during the quieter shoulder seasons of May or September, and outside the school holidays.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Stralsund.
• Alternatively, see our pick of the best places to stay in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.