Heat wave in Cologne: How to enjoy the best minutes in the natural pool!

Heat wave in Cologne: How to enjoy the best minutes in the natural pool!

The summer heat has Cologne firmly under control, and on Sunday, June 23, 2025, many Cologne residents sought to cool off in the popular Lentpark. On such hot days, arriving early is more important than ever - swimsuit under your dress and at the entrance at 9 a.m. sharp. Here's how to enjoy the first cool minutes in the natural swimming pond, which many bathers describe as the best of the day. Claudia, 55 years old, can only confirm this.

The Lentpark impresses with its chlorine-free natural swimming pond, in which the water is naturally purified by plants and microorganisms. This creates an ecologically valuable bathing experience between relaxation and closeness to nature, like this Cologne bathing industry highlights. Despite the pleasant water quality, the pond quickly became overcrowded, which spoiled the joy of swimming. Too many people gathered in one place and the e-ticket fast lane was quickly switched off on Sunday afternoon due to the high number of visitors.

An uncomfortable Sunday outdoors

The sun was blazing relentlessly, and while the crowds were pushing to get into the water, Ebertplatz on the other side remained completely deserted. Only a few children dared to go into the fountain, and the restaurants such as “Kölsches Boor” and the nearby ice cream parlors hardly had any customers. The extreme heat also gave rise to many imaginative plans. Sarah (43) and Petra (48), who were working in their allotment, dreamed of a mobile swimming pool. Your plot is equipped with a water connection - ideal for creating a green oasis for hot days.

A look at the Hohenzollern Bridge revealed the challenges of a day in the swimming pool. One family struggled with rolling suitcases, which became a challenge as there is no ramp on the other side. It also turned out that a nearby water playground remained ice cold in the shadow of the high temperatures - unused and punished by the blazing sun.

Sustainability and climate protection in the swimming pool

The challenge of overcrowding in swimming pools contrasts with the changes necessary to meet climate goals. According to a report by the German Society for Sustainable Development Swimming pools must increasingly contribute to reducing CO₂ emissions. The goal is a CO₂-neutral bathroom, which not only requires energy savings, but also a reference to green energy.

Running such eco-friendly water experiences requires a good level of environmental and health awareness. Guests are encouraged to shower thoroughly before jumping into the water to maintain the biological balance of the natural swimming pond. Finally, residues such as sunscreen or sweat must be avoided in order not to burden the natural cleaning process.

With Lentpark, Cologne offers a place that both invites relaxation and sets an example for sustainability. In the hot summer sun, a “nice swim” can be a very special experience – provided you get to the right place in time.