Fanø

Fanø is a Danish island in the Wadden Sea, located off the southwest coast of the Jutland peninsula. It is part of the Region of Southern Denmark and constitutes the main part of Fanø Municipality. The island covers about 56 square kilometers and has a population of roughly 3,000–4,000 residents. It is connected to the mainland by a regular ferry service from Esbjerg to Nordby, taking around 12–15 minutes. The island also hosts a small regional airport used for general aviation.

Geographically, Fanø runs north-south, with long sandy beaches and dunes along the west coast facing the North Sea, while the eastern side borders the Wadden Sea with tidal flats and marshes that are part of the national park and UNESCO World Heritage area. Two main settlements dominate: Nordby in the north and the historic village of Sønderho in the southwest, while scattered farms and small villages occupy the interior.

Fanø has a maritime heritage and a well-preserved historic townscape, especially in Sønderho, known for its 18th–19th-century houses. The island is a popular tourist destination, with birdlife, beaches, and cultural events during the summer season. Traditional activities linked to the sea and coast are part of its appeal.

Fanø lies within the Wadden Sea National Park and is part of the transnational Wadden Sea UNESCO World Heritage Site. The protected area supports migratory birds, tidal flats, and natural habitats. The economy is driven by tourism, fisheries, and small-scale crafts.