Famed for its long sandy beach, Kühlungsborn has been a popular seaside resort town since the 1860s. Set on Germany’s sunny Baltic coastline, the town has long attracted fashionable city dwellers seeking rejuvenating spa treatments and a refreshing sea breeze. A number of lovely guesthouses and small hotels have emerged in recent years, but our Gurus have chosen a classic gem as the best place to stay in Kühlungsborn.

Parallel to the town’s big sandy beach, Kühlungsborn’s promenade is lined with imposing heritage buildings. Many — including our favourite hotel in town — were built in the early 1990s, either as private residences or in response to the town’s growing popularity as a holiday spot. Take a leisurely stroll in the sunshine to admire their unique architectural features, before picking a perch in a charming eatery for a coffee, ice cream or superb seafood lunch.

You’ll find opportunities aplenty to swim, kayak and sail on the water, or to cycle and ramble further inland. The densely forested Kühlung ridge promises dazzling views for keen hikers, whilst more relaxed holidaymakers can hop aboard the steam train for a day at Bad Doberan. Return to the best place to stay in Kühlungsborn for sundowners and cracking cuisine in a wonderfully romantic setting.