The archipelago of South Funen, better known in Germany as the Danish South Sea, is very popular with pleasure boaters. Ærø, with its beautiful harbour towns of Marstal and Ærøskøbing, is particularly popular.
But in summer it is often so lively that the boats in the crowded harbours lie across the pits. Only a few crews, on the other hand, stray to Birkholm. This is right next door and is one of the smallest inhabited islands in Denmark.
However, there really isn't much to see or discover on the moraine island. With an area of less than 100 hectares, it is not even as big as Heligoland and its highest point is just two metres above the surface of the sea.
But anyone who passes the narrow harbour entrance is inevitably overcome by a feeling of tranquillity: No cars, souvenir shops or restaurants. Instead, you can enjoy unspoilt nature and precious silence.
In the 19th century, over 80 inhabitants still lived here and there was a merchant, a telegraph station and even a school. People farmed and fished. Today, there are only five islanders who spend the whole year on the island.
The remaining houses in the village serve as summer residences. Nevertheless, the island boasted a small island newspaper until last year - when it had to be buried along with its former creator and editor.
The few remaining inhabitants are also known as the "French of the island sea" due to their irrepressible sense of humour and party mood. This has also led to a small tradition
special nicknames for mishaps...
You can read the full district report in the current July issue of BOOTE, which will be available from 20 June. Subscribers they have before!
The booklet is available in DK-Shop or you can download the report directly from the Link down.
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