BORKUM   EDWR

Date of Visit = July 1997

Pilot: = Chris Belton

e-mail = chris@yarboo.freeserve.co.uk

One of the East Friesian islands. Particularly user-friendly. We arrived at Groningen (Eelde) late evening desperately seeking a small airfield where we could camp for the night. This was the only one within range (1 hour to nightfall) which was still open. Since it was Netherlands to Germany, no customs required, though available SR-SS at 2 hours notice.

Very informal, and camping possible behind the hangar, 50 metres from a small tourist hotel, with restaurant (closed that evening) in the dunes. Great little island consisting of heathland, dunes and marshes covered in brightly coloured briar roses. Quite touristy in a civilised, German way, with lots of cycle tracks and healthy-looking cyclists. Pleasant little town of Borkum in walking distance, with excellent cheap breakfast in supermarket cafe.

Dentist's house has fence made of whales' jawbones (trophies?). Boat trips to see seals from distance (not allowed too close - come to North Coates instead, where you can walk right up to them on the beach or swim with them in the (very cold) sea.).