Neuwerk and Scharhörn
In the shallow coastal waters northwest of Cuxhaven, at a distance of 12km/7.5mi and 17km/10.5mi, respectively, are the islands of Neuwerk (area 3 sq. km/1.25 sq. mi; pop. 36) and Scharhörn (2.8 sq. km/1 sq. mi). Administratively both islands belong to Hamburg, but they are most easily reached from Cuxhaven (by boat, or at low water in a horse-drawn carriage, or on foot over the mud-flats: check the time of the tide!).
Neuwerk
Roughly a third of the island's area is diked arable land; the rest is mostly grazing land.
Neuwerk
Roughly a third of the island's area is diked arable land; the rest is mostly grazing land.
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Must-see attractions nearby:
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The landmark of Neuwerk is the 35 m/115ft high lighthouse, originally a defensive tower of the 13th or 14th C. which was converted to its present function in 1814; from the top there are fine all-round views. Nearby is the "cemetery of the nameless ones" (with the graves of unknown seamen).
Scharhörn
5km/3mi farther out (reached from Neuwerk by walking over the mud-flats: guide essential) is the lonely sandy island of Scharhörn, with a 28 m/92ft high beacon and a seabird sanctuary.
Scharhörn
5km/3mi farther out (reached from Neuwerk by walking over the mud-flats: guide essential) is the lonely sandy island of Scharhörn, with a 28 m/92ft high beacon and a seabird sanctuary.
