German North Sea Islands

[dombrosk]

This summer I'll be riding along the north sea route from the Dutch/German border up as far as Cuxhaven.

There are quite a few possible Island excursions along the way, starting with Borkum, then Juist, Norderney, Baltrum, Langeoog, Spiekeroog,and Wangerooge.

Can anyone recommend one or two of these as best for a cycling tour?  I've been on Schmiermonnikoog in the Netherlands and like that kind of wild, semi-populated island over a busy party-oriented area.

I'm heading as far as Cuxhaven to be able to take a day trip out to Helgoland, but wouldn't mind visiting another island along the way.

Happy riding!

[dombrosk]

For the sake of future travelers, I'm going to answer my own question now that I'm back from tour.

I went onto two islands, Norderney and Langeoog.

For my tastes, Langeoog was a much better fit.  It's totally car-free and has a very laid-back feel. 

There's a unique way to enter.  Unlike most ferries, where you roll your own loaded bike on and off, for Langeoog you need to strip down your bike and hand over your bike and panniers for separate loading.  (you can hang onto hand items like your handlebar bags).  Everyone's gear is loaded onto small wagons which are forklifted onto the ferry.  Then, when you arrive at the island, you walk to a cute little Willy Wonka train that rumbles with you and your gear to the village on the other side of the small island, where you are reunited with your stuff.

There is a youth hostel for camping, lodging and restaurants are excellent and not cheap.

Norderney on the other hand has a traditional ferry including cars and is much more built up.  If your preferences run more in the direction of a high-energy busier spot, this might be a better fit for you.

General verdict is that this part of Germany has great biking, both on the islands and along the coast with the North Sea Cycle Route.