Get Back to Nature and Go Swimming in one of Berlin's Beautiful Lakes

Wannsee

Arguably the most popular of Berlin's lakes, Wannsee is actually compromised of two bodies of water known as big and little Wannsee. The popularity of this lake is largely down to its long beach which stretches for over 1km alongside the clear waters. There are facilities where you can purchase cold drinks and snacks, as well as a nudist area for those feeling adventurous. It is located to the west of the city and is easily accessible from S-Bahn Berlin-Wannsee.
Wannsee is situated close to the historical town of Potsdam, so you could easily combine a trip to the popular tourist town in the morning with a visit to the beach in the afternoon.

Planning your Day at the Lake

It is advisable to take a picnic and cool box stacked with refreshments, though it is customary to make sure you clean up after yourself. Whilst many of the lakes have BBQ areas, some do not, so it is always worth checking beforehand. Many of the lakes, such as Wannsee and Müggelsee, have areas where you can play beach volleyball, so if you are feeling energetic be sure to bring your ball. Parking at most lakes is free and finding a spot even on the hottest days is rarely a problem. If you do want to drive, hiring a car is Berlin is easy and cheap, just be sure you have the correct documentation.
There are many great Berlin activities, but when in town in summer, visiting a lake ought to be high on your agenda. The lakes offer a wonderfully unique experience in this vibrant capital, so pack your sandwiches and sun cream and be sure to check them out.

Weißensee

For those who are short on time, Weißensee is the perfect choice for a good bathing lake. Located in the municipality of Pankow, you can easily reach it by bike or via public transportation. There are also trams which run from Mitte, Prenzlauer Berg and Friedrichshain, taking you right to the entrance of the park. Though it is compact in comparison to other watery outposts around Berlin, it is still large enough to accommodate many visitors who come here to swim, relax and BBQ.

Schlachtensee

Schlachtensee is also located within the boundaries of the city and is a great after-work choice if you do not have the time to head further afield. Its location on the edge of the Grunewald forest makes it an excellent option for those who are into hiking. Why not complement a morning of vigorous walking with an afternoon spent unwinding by the lake?
Schlachtensee is easily accessible from S-Bahn Berlin-Schlactensee, has cafés in the vicinity and ample space along the water's edge.

Müggelsee

The eastern counterpart of Wannsee is Müggelsee. At almost 5km long, it is Berlin’s largest lake. It has three official bathing areas, two of which are beaches. For convenience and pleasure there is also a boat running to and from popular spots around the lake, which operates on an hourly basis. If you are feeling active you can also rent pedal boats and canoes and explore the lake at your leisure.
Müggelsee is a stone's throw from the small historical town of Köpenick, which is worth a visit while in the area. Easily reachable by S-Bahn and tram, Müggelsee offers the perfect day out for those based in the east of the city.

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Author: David Rickerson-Seidel

Guest Relations Manager at NH Collection Berlin Mitte Friedrichstrasse

My name is David Rickerson-Seidel and I have been part of the NH Hotel Group since September 2015 when the first NH Collection Hotel opened in Germany. After 16 years of hotel experience, I was offered a great chance to meet people from all over the world and each time I was able to learn from them – this is one of the reason why I love my position as a Guest Relation Manager. My daily task is to fulfil our guest’s needs before they actually asking for it. With my passion for my job it is always a great pleasure to see our guests happy and smiling before they leave the hotel and I know that we have done the job right. I always say that the only thing that a guest can’t buy and book in advance is our smiling receptionist with a warm welcoming, the friendly breakfast host who would like to know if you slept well, and our elusive room maid, who is preparing the room so that it feels like home – our employees make the difference – this is why you are not checking into your room at a terminal. Whatever you need – we are always there for you.