Pier at the Grand Hotel Heiligendamm

The pier at Grand Hotel Heiligendamm stretches into the Baltic Sea during my rainy September visit. In good weather, the luxury resort in northern Germany provides seaside activities for families, couples and those looking to rejeuvenate in a world renowned spa. The resort’s classical white buildings are the backdrop for the natural beauty of the sea and surrounding forest of beech trees. Horseback riding on the beach, nordic walking, speedboat rides and cycling are just a sampling of the activities on offer. Access to the award winning spa facilities with fully equipped fitness center, numerous saunas, steam baths, pools and whirlpool are included in the accommodations rate, as well as many of the yoga glasses. Guests can even practice yoga on the beach (in the summer) overseen by an Indian yoga master.

In 2013, Grand Hotel Heiligendamm celebrates 220 years by the Baltic. In 1793, Frederick Francis I, Grand Duke of Mecklenburg, began construction of the resort on the advice of his personal physician who believed in the healing effects of seawater. It became the place to be for high society. After World War II, the area became part of the German Democratic Republic (East Germany) and the Communists turned the buildings into a sanatorium and convalescence facililties. Eventually, the resort fell into disrepair until it’s purchase and renovation beginning in 1996. Today, Grand Hotel Heiligendamm is a member of Leading Hotels of the World and offers rest and relaxation in the most elegant of settings.

If the surroundings feel regal, it’s because dignitaries, royalty and society types from around the world relax here. You never know whom you might find on the pier at Grand Hotel Heiligendamm. 

I think the resort would make a great trip either before or after a Baltic Cruise. It’s only 30 minutes from the Baltic ports of Rostock and Wismar. What’s your opinion?

Disclosure: VisitBerlin and AirBerlin provided this travel experience. As always, the opinions are my own.