Although living in German Schleswig-Holstein, I have not been to Helgoland for two decades so I decided to have a weekend trip with a friend, whose sister lived on the island.

My decision for the Atoll was purely based on the fact that it was a) a rather new spot and b) had an attractive modern webpage.

They were pretty booked out so the reservation process back in August by phone took about 20 minutes to find a suitable date. The girl on the reception was very kind and helpful, which was underlining the good impression from the webpage.

One should stay on Helgoland over night to get a "real" impression, since all the day the island is usually crowded by one day tourists since it offers tax free shopping.

Helgoland is located quite remote (for German Measurement) in the Norther Sea, three ferries and various small planes are going there, but you never know if you can really take ferry/plane in advance due to changing weather conditions. Prior to our departure day to Helgoland the Hotel gave me a call to inform me on stormy weather and that a specific ferry I intended to take will not go. Quite nice service, although I already shifted my plans.

On our departure day, it was heavy storm, so one after one all the ferries cancelled. We were lucky to get the last seats in a plane but arrived that way much earlier than expected on the island. Reception staff was very kind (again) and they let us go into our rooms (which were already prepared) even though it was just 10:30am. Really nice, again.

The hotel itself is modern, clean and equipped with everything you would await. Nothing very special, but up to the standards, modern and clean. They have a rather small pool (which can be viewed from the reception area through looking-holes - might be a downturn for some people) and a nice breakfast buffet (not a vast selection, but again up to the standards). In short: Exactly what I expected.

It is a nice spot I can recommend (I suggest to take a room with a view to the sea), maybe a little (too) expensive in the high season, I would have rated it 3*, but the staff really made the difference to put it above average (4*).