Vilm Island: A Hidden Wilderness in the Baltic Sea

One of the European Wilderness Network partners from Germany is Vilm Wilderness.

The European Wilderness Network representing Europe’s last Wilderness, was founded in 2014 and has grown to now 40 members in 17 Countries with more than 350 000 ha of audited Wilderness.

Nestled in the tranquil waters of the Baltic Sea, not far from the famed island of Rügen, Vilm Island is one of the most ecologically significant natural reserves in northern Europe. Often referred to as Germany’s last “primeval forest,” Vilm is a rare sanctuary where nature has evolved largely undisturbed for centuries. Its rich biodiversity, coupled with the fascinating stories of its history, make this small island an essential destination for nature lovers, scientists, and anyone seeking to experience the wild beauty of Europe’s natural landscapes.

A Journey Through Time: The Geological and Cultural History of Vilm

Vilm is no ordinary island. It’s a living relic from the last Ice Age, created around 10,000 years ago from glacial moraines that shaped much of the landscape we see today. Over the centuries, Vilm became a remote and enigmatic place, isolated from the mainland by rising sea levels. Though it was part of the larger island of Rügen at one point, the island was separated by storms and shifting waters roughly 3,000 years ago, giving it its current secluded and wild character.

The island’s history is rich with human interaction, beginning as early as the Middle Ages when Slavs considered it a sacred site. In 1249, it was officially mentioned in historical records. By the late 15th century, the island became home to monks, who established a chapel that later became a pilgrimage site for the people of Rügen. However, it wasn’t until the 19th century that Vilm began to draw the attention of artists, scientists, and nature enthusiasts. Its pristine nature, undisturbed by industrialization, made it a favorite of many, including famous artists who sought inspiration from its dramatic landscapes and untouched beauty.

In 1936, the island was placed under formal protection as a nature reserve, a move that helped preserve its unique flora and fauna. Today, Vilm is part of the Southeast Rügen Biosphere Reserve, continuing its legacy as a sanctuary for wildlife and an important site for environmental research.

The Flora and Fauna of Vilm Island: A Living Laboratory

What sets Vilm apart is its unparalleled flora and fauna, which have flourished over the centuries in an environment largely shielded from human interference. The island boasts over 500 species of ferns and flowering plants, many of which are rare or endangered in other parts of Europe. The forests are home to ancient trees, some of which are more than 650 years old. These towering oaks and beeches have stood the test of time, creating an atmosphere that feels almost otherworldly.

Please also read: VILM: First WILDIsland in Europe!

The Majestic Forests

Vilm’s forests are a testament to the resilience of nature. These old-growth woods consist primarily of mighty oaks, beeches, and hornbeams. The upper canopy is dominated by ancient oaks, while the understory is filled with younger trees such as hornbeam and birch. The forest floor is a riot of wildflowers in spring, with species like wood anemones, primroses, and liverworts carpeting the ground in vibrant colors.

In addition to the towering trees, Vilm is home to a fascinating range of other vegetation. Along the coastal edges, salt-tolerant plants such as sea buckthorn and sand lily thrive, adding a distinct texture to the island’s landscape. In summer, wild roses and hawthorn bushes bloom, filling the air with their sweet fragrance. The island is also home to rare plants like Tatarian lettuce and sand rocket, which add to the ecological significance of this unspoiled haven.

A Haven for Wildlife

Vilm Island is not just a paradise for plant life; it also serves as an important refuge for wildlife, particularly birds. The island’s diverse ecosystems provide ideal habitats for a wide range of species. The majestic sea eagle (Haliaeetus albicilla) is one of the island’s most iconic residents. Once nearly driven to extinction in the area, the sea eagle has made a dramatic comeback, and Vilm has become one of its favorite nesting sites.

Other bird species, including cormorants, gray herons, and various shorebirds, make use of Vilm as a breeding or resting ground. The island’s significance as a migratory stopover for birds makes it a vital part of the region’s ecological network. During the spring and autumn months, thousands of migratory birds stop at Vilm on their long journeys between northern Europe and Africa.

Beyond birds, Vilm is also home to a range of mammals, such as red deer, wild boar, and the elusive marten. These creatures roam the dense woodlands, often venturing across the waters of the island from Rügen, demonstrating the island’s connection to the mainland.

The Challenges and Triumphs of Wildlife on Vilm

Throughout its history, Vilm has had a tumultuous relationship with the creatures that call it home. In the early 19th century, an attempt was made to introduce cormorants to the island, but the local fishermen, fearing that the birds would threaten their livelihood, resorted to scaring them away using loud cannons. Despite these efforts, cormorants have since returned to Vilm, once again finding their place in the island’s ecosystem.

Similarly, attempts to introduce pheasants to the island were unsuccessful, as local hunters sought to diminish their numbers. Even more curious is the story of the red deer. Initially released on the island, the clever deer soon swam back to Rügen, only to return periodically from the mainland, continuing their elusive presence on Vilm today.

Perhaps the most poignant story involves the island’s majestic eagles. In 1840, a young eagle was sent to the Zoological Institute in Greifswald, and a few of these birds were even stuffed and put on display. Unfortunately, the eagles disappeared from the island by the end of the 19th century, partly due to the disturbance of their nests by local children. But as nature has a way of healing itself, the sea eagle returned to Vilm during the DDR period in the 1980s, though it was again driven away by human activity when a new antenna mast was erected near the eagle’s nesting site.

Vilm Island: A Center for Conservation and Education

Today, Vilm serves not only as a haven for wildlife but also as a center for environmental research and education. The International Nature Conservation Academy (INA), established in 1990, offers a platform for scientists and environmentalists to gather, share knowledge, and collaborate on global conservation efforts. The island’s near-pristine ecosystems provide a unique opportunity to study biodiversity, climate change, and sustainable practices.

For visitors, Vilm offers a rare chance to experience one of Europe’s last wild places. The island is accessible only via guided tours, ensuring that its fragile ecosystems are preserved for future generations. Along the way, visitors can marvel at the towering trees, observe the diverse wildlife, and learn about the island’s history and ongoing conservation efforts.

Please also read: How much Wilderness is possible in Germany?

A Natural Wonder for the Ages

Vilm Island is not just a geographic location but a living testament to the beauty and resilience of nature. With its ancient forests, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural history, it stands as one of Europe’s most important ecological gems. Whether you’re a researcher, an environmental advocate, or simply a lover of untouched landscapes, Vilm offers a glimpse into a world that has, for the most part, remained untouched by modern life. As a natural wonder, it reminds us of the immense value of preserving wild places, where time seems to stand still, and the forces of nature remain the true rulers.

In a world increasingly shaped by human hands, Vilm Island is a rare reminder of nature’s power to thrive on its own terms, a sanctuary where wildlife and wilderness continue to flourish in harmony.

European Wilderness Network

The main aim of the European Wilderness Network is a unified approach to Wilderness Stewardship and the representation of Wilderness and its challenges internationally and within the European Union. All Wilderness, WILDCoasts, WILDForests, WILDIslands, and WILDRivers, in the European Wilderness Network are unique and represent the best and wildest places in Europe.

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