Protected by lush beech forests, Bad Doberan lies just inland. However, its Heiligendamm district is right on the coast. The town is known for its Minster, the "Molli" narrow-gauge railway, its bathing and spa facilities, and the oldest German racecourse.

Heiligendamm is Germany's oldest seaside resort. Today, the spa centre consisting of six classical-style buildings is one of the finest hotels in Europe.

To see some of the finest examples of classical villa-style architecture you need go no further than Binz auf Rügen, where the balconies are even more ornately engraved and the gables even more playful than anywhere else.

Situated at one end of the isle of Usedom, Heringsdorf, Ahlbeck and Bansin are seaside health resorts with a great past, and a wealth of hospitality and charm. These smart, cosmopolitan imperial spas are known for their white sandy beaches, some of them up to 70 metres wide, as well as their piers and luxury hotels.