Altenteil is one of the best surf spots on Fehmarn and is popular with windsurfers and kitesurfers alike. The spot is located on the north coast of the Baltic Sea island, just east of the headland at Markelsdorfer Huk and right next to Ahoi-Camp Fehmarn. Its special location makes it a first-class wave spot, especially with wind directions between west-north-west and north-west.
The waves in Altenteil break on offshore sandbanks and are deflected by the headland at Markelsdorfer Huk. As a result, they run almost straight and head-on towards the beach. On good days, the waves can reach heights of up to three metres. A major advantage of the spot are the very slow breaking waves, which are literally inviting to ride and do not overtax even less experienced wave surfers. The sandbanks protect the bay and prevent a strong shorebreak, which makes it easier to get into the water.
With north-westerly winds, sideshore conditions prevail in Altenteil. The wind then comes parallel to the coast and sometimes even allows several turns on one wave. Due to the diversion at the headland, the waves break in a very sorted manner, which makes it easier to time jumps and manoeuvres.
Conditions and special features
In westerly winds, the waves in Altenteil are significantly smaller. In addition, the wind then comes gusty through the land cover of the campsite and the headland. Then there are freeride or bumg & jump conditions
An important point for all water sports enthusiasts: in the centre of the bay there is a small residual pier that can be dangerous when the water level is low. There are also some wooden piles in the water on the far left that you should keep an eye on. In north-westerly winds, there is also a strong current to the right. If you are travelling with too small a sail, you may have to walk many metres upwind to get back to the starting point.
The beach in Altenteil is rather rocky and drops off quite quickly - neoprene shoes can be useful. There is hardly any standing area, which can cause difficulties for beginners in particular.
Arrival and parking
Access to the spot is via the access road to the Ahoi-Camp. Important: There is an absolute stopping ban on this access road as it is a rescue route. Unfortunately, on busy days, the entire road is often parked up anyway, so that only one lane of traffic is possible. In such cases, parking tickets are occasionally issued. The car park in front of the campsite is open all year round and has toilet blocks. If you are staying overnight at the campsite, you can park and rig up directly there. The campsite offers numerous pitches in the front row with a view of the sea, from where it is only a few steps to the water. A little further east, behind the dyke, is the Belt-Camping Fehmarn site.
Suitability for various water sports
Altenteil is ideal for windsurfers with wave ambitions. Due to the slow breaking waves, the spot is also suitable for "wave beginners" who want to gain their first experience of riding waves. The waves are generally too shallow to really send you into the "washing machine". Nevertheless, they can reach considerable heights on good days.
Altenteil is also interesting for kitesurfers, but not for absolute beginners. As it gets deep immediately, there is a risk of drifting. Being able to hold height or pull against the wind is a minimum requirement here. Wave kiters will find perfect conditions in the north-west for riding the waves and making spectacular jumps. As a rule of thumb: the further west you go (or up to the Huk), the better the waves will be.
Best time to visit and seasonal recommendation
The best conditions in Altenteil are typically found in autumn and winter. During these seasons, low-pressure areas often provide strong north-westerly winds that bring perfect waves to the spot. However, it can also get very cold - a good wetsuit is a must.
In summer, the weather is often more stable with weaker winds. Altenteil is then more suitable for relaxed sessions in flat water or for practising freestyle tricks. However, there can also be good wave conditions on individual days in summer.
Spring and late summer often offer a good compromise between pleasant temperatures and decent wind conditions. These times are ideal for a water sports holiday on Fehmarn, where you can enjoy both wave action and relaxing days on the beach.
Altenteil on Fehmarn is a versatile spot that is one of the best wave areas in the Baltic Sea under the right conditions. With a little experience and the right equipment, windsurfers and kitesurfers can experience unforgettable sessions here. The good infrastructure and proximity to the campsite also make the spot attractive for longer stays. If you keep an eye on the weather forecast and are flexible, you are guaranteed to get your money's worth in Altenteil.
