Borkum

Borkum is the largest and westernmost of the East Frisian Islands — and thanks to the near-constant western drift, the air is so rich in iodine that the island is officially certified as a "climatic health resort". The "Old Lighthouse" is the landmark; the 26 km sandy beach almost doubles in width at low tide. Reach Borkum by fast ferry from Emden in one hour, or by car-ferry and island train from Emden's outer harbour. In the village: the seafront promenade, the "Dykhus" heritage museum with an 1830 sperm-whale skeleton, and the historical bathing fashions on the "Feuerschiff Borkumriff" lightship. Top tip: seal-watching boat to the Lütje-Hörn sandbank.