Chalk Cliffs Rügen

The chalk cliffs of Rügen, located near the village of Sassnitz within Jasmund National Park, are among only five sites in Europe where chalk cliffs of this scale can be found. The brilliantly white cliffs rising along the Jasmund peninsula are one of Rügen's most iconic natural features. From sea level, they soar upward to heights of between 20 and 100 metres, creating a truly breathtaking landscape. The contrast is extraordinary: deep blue water, dense green beech forests, and gleaming white cliffs combine to form one of Germany's most striking natural scenes.

The total chalk cliff coastline stretches approximately 15 kilometres and is best admired from the water. It is also possible to explore on foot, walking along the base of the cliffs across the rocky shoreline to take in their sheer scale up close. This trail runs from Sassnitz to the Stubbenkammer area and follows the cliff edge throughout. However, this walk is not recommended in wet weather, as mud, clay, and chalk stone can make the path extremely slippery.

The highlight of the chalk cliff coastline is the Königsstuhl — the highest point along the shore at 118 metres — which is particularly impressive when viewed from the sea. The cliffs are constantly subject to intense erosion: with every heavy rainfall, chunks of rock break away and fall, and every major storm at sea claims another section of the coastline. This erosion appears to have accelerated in recent years, as evidenced by the large number of fossils that can now be found at the base of the cliffs. For more information about the national park, please visit this page.

The chalk cliffs have long been a beloved subject for artists. The Romantic painter Caspar David Friedrich was particularly drawn to them, and copies of his iconic paintings featuring the cliffs can be found throughout the region.