Rügen Island in the Baltic Sea offers an exceptional experience for nature lovers and food enthusiasts, especially with its prized sea buckthorn: Hippophae rhamnoides in Latin and Sanddorn in German.
This vibrant orange berry, rich in vitamins and with a distinct tangy flavor, thrives along Rügen’s coastlines and has become a key part of the island’s culinary, wellness, and cultural traditions.
Here’s why you should visit Rügen — Germany’s largest island — to discover all the wonderful ways to enjoy sea buckthorn.
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The Perfect Environment for Sea Buckthorn
Sea buckthorn has flourished on Rügen for almost 200 years, benefiting from the island’s coastal climate.
The plant thrives in the nutrient-poor soils found in areas like Jasmund National Park, Kap Arkona, and Hiddensee Island.
The island’s unique combination of sand, salt air, and sun provides the perfect habitat for this hardy shrub, which produces striking orange berries.
Health Benefits of Sea Buckthorn
Sea buckthorn is a nutritional powerhouse often referred to as the “Lemon of the North”. It contains up to several times more vitamin C than oranges, along with vitamins A, E, and B12, antioxidants, and essential fatty acids that help support immunity, promote skin health, and aid digestion.
On Rügen, the berry’s health benefits are harnessed in a wide range of wellness products, including oils, teas, and skincare items. Many spas and wellness centers incorporate sea buckthorn into their treatments, offering everything from rejuvenating facials to nourishing body wraps.
Delicious Sea Buckthorn Delights
Rügen is the perfect place to explore sea buckthorn’s flavor in a variety of dishes and drinks:
- Sea Buckthorn Juice (Sanddornsaft): A refreshing, vitamin-packed drink that is slightly tart, often sweetened with a touch of honey.
- Sea Buckthorn Jam (Sanddornmarmelade): A delicious spread, ideal for pairing with bread or cheese.
- Sea Buckthorn Liqueur (Sanddornlikör): A unique and tangy liqueur, perfect for taking home as a souvenir.
- Sea Buckthorn Ice Cream: A creamy, citrusy treat that balances tartness and sweetness.
- Sea Buckthorn Chocolates and Candies: Locally made sweets that capture the berry’s distinctive taste.
You can find these delicacies at local farm stores, markets, and the popular Rügenshop.
Top Places to Experience Sea Buckthorn on Rügen
For the ultimate sea buckthorn experience, visit these iconic spots on the island:
- Rügenhof at Kap Arkona: A place to sample freshly made sea buckthorn products and learn about the cultivation process.
- Jasmund National Park: Home to wild sea buckthorn groves that thrive near the island’s famous chalk cliffs.
- Hiddensee Island: A peaceful destination where sea buckthorn flourishes in its natural habitat.
- Kreidefelsen (Chalk Cliffs) & Königsstuhl: These stunning cliffs offer breathtaking views, with sea buckthorn growing along the edges.
- Local Cafés and Restaurants: Many local eateries feature sea buckthorn on their menus, incorporating it into both savory dishes and sweet treats.
Take a Piece of Rügen Home
Before leaving the island, make sure to pick up authentic sea buckthorn souvenirs such as jams, liqueurs, oils, and skincare products. These items can be found in specialty shops, wellness centers, and farm stores across the island, allowing you to enjoy a taste of Rügen even after you’ve left.
The Best Time to Visit for Sea Buckthorn
The harvest season (August to October) is the most exciting time to visit Rügen, as it is when the berries are at their peak. During this period, many local farms offer guided tours, berry-picking activities, and tasting events, giving you a chance to experience sea buckthorn in its freshest form. Local festivals and food markets also highlight the best of sea buckthorn-based dishes and drinks.
Have you ever tried sea buckthorn or visited Rügen Island? What’s your favorite way to enjoy this tangy superfruit: juice, jam, or a unique local dish? Feel free to share your experience!