Kreidefelsen

Kreidefelsen, meaning chalk cliffs in German, refer to a sequence of white limestone cliffs along the Baltic Sea coast on the island of Rügen in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, Germany. The most famous stretch runs along the northern shore of the Jasmund peninsula, where the chalk faces rise above beaches and beech forests to form a distinctive and widely recognized landscape of the region.

Geology and formation

The cliffs are composed mainly of Late Cretaceous chalk and marl, with flint nodules. They were deposited roughly 100 to 66 million years ago when the area lay beneath a shallow sea. Erosion by waves, rain, and wind continually shapes the face of the cliffs, creating undercuts, overhangs, and occasional rockfalls that contribute to their dynamic appearance.

Location and protection

The Kreidefelsen are situated along the north coast of Rügen within the Jasmund National Park. The park, established in 1990, protects the coastal cliffs, the adjacent beech forests, and associated habitats, balancing conservation with public access. The Königsstuhl, a prominent chalk bluff near Sassnitz, is one of the best-known viewpoints and a major tourist magnet.

Tourism and conservation

The cliffs attract visitors for scenic views, photography, and hiking. To limit erosion and ensure safety, access is managed through designated trails, visitor centers, and viewing platforms. Educational signage explains geology, ecology, and the importance of preserving the fragile shoreline and surrounding forest.

Cultural significance

Since the Romantic era, the Kreidefelsen have influenced artists and writers, with Caspar David Friedrich among those who drew inspiration from the coastal landscape. Today they remain a symbol of Rügen and a prominent natural landmark along Germany’s Baltic coast.