The Greatest Swimming Holes Across Germany
Top New Addresses in Berlin
Meditation and mindfulness are vital in everyday life. A particularly exciting spot is the Ohia meditation studio, opening in Mitte this September. Founded by Maggy Schellong and Elisa Gassner, this sanctuary of serenity is designed with utmost care. Offerings will include guided meditation sessions, sound baths, breathwork, and yoga.
For a taste of Apulian delicacies, Fresko, a new specialty food shop in Mitte, is highly recommended. It is run by Eva and Kappa, known for their establishment, Bar Milano, also located in the same neighborhood.
Favorite Places to Swim
The Schorfheide and Uckermark regions north of Berlin are breathtaking with overgrown forests and crystal-clear lakes—often referred to as ‘the Hamptons of Berlin.’ Near Hamburg, Weststrand awaits as one of the Baltic Sea’s most beautiful beaches, situated within a nature reserve.
In Leipzig, numerous former quarries provide a unique swimming adventure, while Wagenbrüchsee and Sylvensteinspeicher, near Munich, entice with their turquoise waters and mountain backdrops. For those in Cologne or Düsseldorf, the Eifel region’s dams and the Rhine Valley’s quarries and reservoirs are worth exploring. The stunning Rursee is a lake embraced by pristine forests.
What’s New Around the Lakes?
INSL, located on a small island in Brandenburg’s Untersee near Kyritz, is a charming destination. Accessible by ferry, visitors can spend the day relaxing, dining, and boating. Outside Berlin, also consider the upscale Alte Überfahrt on Werder Island near Potsdam, which offers breathtaking lake views.
The Gut Klostermühle, an Ayurvedic spa and stately manor hotel on the shoreline of Madlitzer See, provides a fantastic opportunity for pampering with saunas, an outdoor pool, and massages. Strolling through the forest and around the lake offers calm and relaxation.
Exciting Swimwear Brands
This summer, explore Oy Surf—a relatively new swimwear brand that utilizes innovative fabrics and recycled yarn from across Europe. The products are produced in Portugal and designed in Zurich and Berlin, making them both stylish and sustainable.
Emerging Trends in Germany
It is particularly exciting to witness younger individuals becoming more eager to explore local regions. Although the pandemic accelerated this trend, a shift toward regional exploration was already underway. This has resulted in a dynamic atmosphere in previously overlooked areas, as urbanites bring fresh energy and inspire the emergence of small restaurants, unique accommodations, and design-focused shops.
Looking Ahead
In celebration of our fifth anniversary this autumn, we are launching a pan-regional lake atlas featuring the most beautiful lakes and serene getaways by the water. Additionally, look for future editions focused on biking and cities like Frankfurt, as well as regions in Northern Portugal, Southern Sweden, Austria, and Switzerland. Exciting collaborations are also in progress, including a candle designed by German ceramicist Viola Beuscher and a yearly planner with graphic designer Julie Joliat that promotes sustainable practices.
