A beach getaway usually envokes images of the standard European countries Brits know well and love. But with overtourism anger really ramping up this year, there are some other countries offering similar experiences.

We may not simply know about it yet. A beautiful hidden gem in Europe loved by celebrities is the island of Sylt, which is the largest of the country’s North Frisian islands and Germany’s fourth largest.

Known for its stunning landscapes, sandy beaches, and unique culture, it remains under the radar of holidaying Brits. The small German island gained fame in the 1960s when a series of celebrity visitors transformed it into a party hotspot.

German playboy Gunter Sachs was among the first to visit, followed by high-profile guests like tennis star Boris Becker and American actor Kevin Costner.

The island’s vibrant nightlife and lavish lifestyle have continued to attract both past and present celebrities, reports Euronews.

While Westerland is the island’s main city, other towns such as Kampen, Wenningstedt-Braderup, and Munkmarsch are also scattered across the island.

The island has a permanent population of just 15,000, but this number swells during the summer when European holidaymakers arrive.

To visit the small German island, travellers will need to fly into Hamburg Airport.

Ryanair and easyJet offer direct flights to Hamburg from the UK, with fares starting at £19. From Hamburg Airport, the island is about a three-hour drive away, connected to the mainland by a railroad causeway.

Visitors will need to load their cars onto a train to reach the island. Despite its celebrity appeal, accommodation on the island remains fairly affordable. For instance, a one-night stay at the three-star Hotel Gutenberg costs £37 per person. 

There are several white sandy beaches on the island, including Ellenbogen Beach, Hoernumer Odde Beach, and Uwe Dune.

Other outdoor activities include Morsum-Kliff – a popular hiking trail on the island.

The walking route has been described as “one of the most important geological monuments in Germany.”

Additional activities on the island include a seal-watching tour, along with various boat excursions to neighboring islands.

Visitors can also explore the island’s lighthouse, known as the Leuchtturm. The island is a hotspot for windsurfing, kiteboarding, and sailing, thanks to the strong winds and excellent conditions. 

People can pitch up for the night in hotels from as little as £37 per person, per night, the Sun reports.