Warnemünde is a seaside resort and a district of the city of Rostock in Mecklenburg, Germany.
It is located on the Baltic Sea and, as the name implies, at the estuary of the river Warnow. Warnemünde is one of the world's busiest cruise ports.
Images : Boats in winter and tall ships : Joachim Klook
Many never see Warnemunde.
They walk off cruise ships, stroll to the station and then take the train to Berlin or nearby Rostock on day trips.
No criticism intended, but that is a pity. We opted for to stay local and we are glad we did.
Yes, we were graced with good weather, apart from two very short, sharp showers, but we strolled through the charming town, which boasts traditional and eye-catching buildings, towards the stunning beach.
Our feet sunk into the fine, sun-kissed sand, which was a pleasing temperature, towards the inviting Baltic.
I've swum in the Atlantic and The Mediteranean plus The Black Sea and floundered around in the North Sea after our yacht capsised, but I'd never considered paddling in the Baltic. Yes, it was bracing, but I felt the beneift.
The sand stretches for kilometers and many take leisurly walks. Kite surfers glide over the waves and the elite of the sailing world meet for Warnemunde Week in July to take part in an extensive racing programme.
The contrasts here are huge. Children in tiny sailing boats test their skills just outside the harbour wall and kayak enthusiasts paddle their way up the Warnow River through a range of exciting landscapes.
Some of the world's largest cruise liners berth just yards away from old fishing cutters which still line the dockside. Many are used as restaurants and music venues.
Don't however make the mistake that Warnemunde is a haven for those who are young and fit, far from it.
Via the accessible beach access - basically wooden pathways - those of penaionable age can enjoy a carefree day on the beach in a wicker beach chair or - on request - a beach wheelchair.
Students love it too. Beach sports include volleyball and football plus surfing, kiting and stand-up paddling, but there is also the trendy Kropeliner Tor Vorstadt area - known as KTV - which pluses with bars and music venues.
Tempted? I'd be surprised if you wern't and here are some of the attractions on offer.
Warnemunder Vogtei:
The oldest building in the town which was a palace in 1250 and also the seat of the municipal bailiff. Now it is the Tourist Office.
Munch Haus:
It housed the Norwegian painter Edvard Munch and now it is a cultural meeting place with constantly changing exhibitions of modern art.
Alexandrinenstraze:
Fishermen, sailors and pilots lived in these charming houses.
Alter Strom:
A colourful promenade with captain's and fishermen's houses, cafes, pubs and boutiques. Indeed. My wife spotted exclusive ladies lingerie only stocked in selected outlets in Britain.
Westmole:
The west pier runs more than 500 metres into the Baltic Sea and it is a mecca for walkers and anglers.
Leuchtturm:
The 32-metre tall lighthouse, made of white glazed brick, is open from Easter to Autumn and provides a good view of the area. A nominal costs applies.
Sea promenade: This spacious area was built over 100 years ago parallel to the Baltic and boasts a number of hotels and guest houses.
Kurhaus and Kurpark:
Built in 1928, this provides the platform for various summer events.
Hollandermuhle:
Corn was milled in this Dutch-style windmilll until 1991. Today it is a described as a gastronomic establishment.
Warnemunde Kirche:
The neo-Gothic church was built in the centre of the resort from 1866 to 1872. It has lavish furnishings and a carved alter.
Mittelmole and fish market:
The middle pier with fish market is just the place to watch the boats and people go by. Smoked fish is a speciality.
So, don't walk on by. Take a look and you will not be disappointed. We weren't.