Winterliche Groemitzer Seebrücke: Schnee, Dünengras, Holzpier ins Ostsee-Wasser, Sonne am Horizont.

Stufen mit gelben Geländern führen zu einer flachen Wattlandschaft bei Ebbe; wolkiger Himmel über der Hamburger Hallig.

Zwei Personen stehen am Küstenrand von Westermakelsdorf, Blick auf grünliche Wellen und wolkigen Himmel.

Nebel über dem Schaalsee; frostige Baumgruppe am Ufer, ruhiges Wasser, Schilf im Vordergrund.

5 winter swimming spots in Schleswig-Holstein

When the temperatures drop and most people prefer to snuggle up in warm blankets, others enjoy winter in a completely different way – winter swimming! With its lakes, rivers and stretches of coastline, Schleswig-Holstein offers ideal conditions for anyone who wants to take on the icy challenge. Whether it’s the North Sea, the Baltic Sea or an idyllic river or lake – here are five top spots where you can take a dip in the winter waters

Hamburger Hallig – Ice-cold mudflat fun

In the middle of the Wadden Sea UNESCO World Heritage Site lies a very special winter bathing highlight, the Hamburg Hallig. Here you can plunge into the North Sea at high tide and enjoy the rugged beauty of the salt marshes. After an icy dip, a visit to the Hallig Krog is worthwhile. A hot tea or a hearty meal round off the nature experience perfectly.

Good to know: Find out about the tide in advance and choose the safest time to swim accordingly. On the Hamburg Hallig, this is usually three hours before and after the tide.

Schaalsee – crystal-clear water in idyllic surroundings

Do you prefer fresh water? Then head to Lake Schaalsee, the deepest lake in northern Germany! Here you can immerse yourself in crystal-clear water with a view of forests and rolling hills. To protect the flora and fauna, swimming is only permitted at designated bathing areas, for example in Seedorf, Groß Zecher and Dargow. After an ice-cold dip, it’s worth taking a walk through the UNESCO biosphere reserve or visiting a cozy and beautifully heated café.

Grömitz – Baltic Sea kick with a view of the pier

It’s bathing season all year round in the Baltic seaside resort of Grömitz, even in winter! With a view of the impressive pier, you can venture into the ice-cold Baltic Sea and then snuggle up in warm blankets on the beach. The New Year’s swim on 1 January is particularly spectacular, when numerous daredevils, often in colorful costumes, plunge into the cold water. After the cold dip, you can warm up in the nearby saunas and then jump back into the cold sea to cool off.

Fehmarn – winter bathing with an island feeling

The sunny island of Fehmarn is not only a wonderful vacation destination in summer, but also in winter. You are guaranteed to find a quiet spot for your winter bathing experience on its many beaches. Those who love solitude should be well prepared and pack hot drinks, a cap, gloves and a warm blanket. A special highlight is the traditional bathing at the turn of the year. Afterwards, a hot sea buckthorn punch provides cozy warmth and a boost to the immune system.

Luftbild von Lübeck: Flussufer mit Park, Sportanlagen, Bootssteg und Booten; skyline der Altstadt mit Kirchtürmen im Hintergrund

Wakenitz – a natural paradise at the gates of Lübeck

A real insider tip: the River Wakenitz is not only wonderfully clean, but also leads through wild, natural landscapes on its way from Lake Ratzeburg to Lübeck. There are several bathing spots along the river, but in winter we recommend a dip in the water near Lübeck city center. Afterwards, take a detour to the old town with a hot chocolate or tea as the perfect reward.

Important tips for winter bathing

Before bathing:

Health check: If you’re new to winter swimming, get a medical check-up beforehand
The right equipment: Bathrobe, blanket, slippers, cap, gloves and thick knitted socks are essential
Warmth from the inside: Have a thermos flask of your favorite hot drink with you
Cap on! You should keep your head above water, especially during longer swimming sessions – this is the quickest way to lose body heat
Keep an eye on the time: Experienced winter bathers use the water temperature as a guide: 12 degrees = maximum 12 bathing minutes

After bathing:

Dry off quickly, wrap up warm and enjoy a hot drink
Soak up the incomparable feeling of freshness and energy