Nature and urban life exist side by side in Stralsund. Almost entirely surrounded by water and of outstanding beauty, this old maritime trading centre is often referred to as the "Venice of the North". The Strela Sound with its Boddenlandschaft lagoons is one of the best fishing areas in the country. There is plenty to see along the Baltic Coast Cycle Route between Flensburg and Usedom. A visit to the animal park in Stralsund is always great fun.Strela Sound
The Strela Sound is an arm of the Baltic, whose width varies enormously and which separates the island of Rügen near Stralsund from the mainland. This estuary, unusually deep at four metres on average, covers an area of 64 km². On the Rügen side, the Strela Sound is characterised both by steep sides and flat banks with bands of reeds. Both saltwater and some freshwater fish thrive in this brackish water, which offers an abundance of food and excellent spawning grounds. Strela Sound is also of outstanding importance as a resting, breeding and feeding ground for birds. Baltic Coast Cycle Route
There is more to see here than ships, herrings and flocks of cranes. The Baltic Coast Cycle Route is the perfect way to experience the beauty of the Baltic coast, where both the sea and the land often remind you of a landscape painting. Cyclists can take pleasure in the changing scenery, the fresh breeze is exhilarating and they can experience the full splendour of lush northern nature or dive into the maritime atmosphere of pretty Hanseatic towns and elegant seaside resorts. Stralsund Animal Park
The Stralsund Animal Park is home to over 800 animals from 133 different species, including about 70 breeds of domestic or native animal. In the main you will find native and rare species of animal as well as those threatened with extinction. Among the special highlights are the white donkeys, the Pomeranian Coarsewool sheep and the Girgentana goat. Other animals include chimpanzees, kangaroos, lions, polar wolves, bison, bird-eating spiders and raccoons. There is also a pet's corner for little nature lovers. The demonstration farm provides interesting insights.