Molenlauf Sassnitz

Running at the foot of the continent's longest outer pier

Sassnitz on the Baltic Sea island of Rügen is known for the longest outer pier in continental Europe — 1,450 meters of granite jutting far into the Baltic Sea. At its foot, in the Molenfuß-Gebäude (pier-foot building) in the town harbour, the Molenlauf starts every year at the end of October: a small but traditional public running event that ends the summer with sport.

Three courses for everyone

The format is family-friendly and aimed at all generations. The programme includes three courses that run through the harbour area and along the promenade:

• Children's and charity run over 800 meters — a relaxed start where even the youngest can complete their lap
• Walker's run of around seven kilometres for those who prefer walking to sprinting
• Main race of around seven kilometres with timing for ambitious hobby runners

At the 5th Molenlauf on November 2, 2024, a total of 181 runners started — a manageable but dedicated community that shapes the event's character.

Maritime atmosphere in the town harbour

What makes the Molenlauf special is the backdrop: the chalk cliffs of Jasmund National Park inland, the ferries from Sweden at the harbour quay, and the fresh Baltic Sea breeze. On the day of the event, a colourful supporting programme around the Molenfuß-Gebäude creates a lively atmosphere — snack stands, music, and award ceremonies foster a public running event vibe.

Organisers and tradition

The run is organised jointly by the town of Sassnitz and the Sassnitz Tourism Stammtisch (tourism working group) with the support of local clubs and sponsors. The premiere took place in 2020, and since then, the Molenlauf has become a firm fixture in the island town's event calendar and is considered the sporty season finale in the Vorpommern-Rügen district.

Sassnitz: Gateway to Jasmund National Park

Sassnitz is located on the east coast of the island of Rügen in the state of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern and is the gateway to the UNESCO World Natural Heritage beech forests in Jasmund National Park. From the town harbour, you can reach the famous chalk cliffs with Königsstuhl in about 12 kilometres, and the promenade connects the historic fishing harbour with the seaside resort architecture of the Mukran district. After the run, harbour restaurants and smokehouses offer a well-deserved feast.