Ice Swimming in Berlin: Brave Hearts Take the Plunge - Berlin’s icy lake plunges draw record crowds despite freezing winter
Winter swimmers in Berlin braved freezing temperatures this weekend by diving into an icy lake. The group, part of the long-standing Berliner Seehunde club, gathered at Orankesee despite the subzero conditions. Their tradition of cold-water swimming has grown even more popular in recent years.
The Berliner Seehunde club has been uniting winter swimming enthusiasts for over 40 years. Members meet every Sunday from autumn to spring at Orankesee’s beach. This weekend, they had to break through a 12-centimetre-thick layer of ice before taking the plunge.
The club is well known for its festive traditions, including an annual Christmas Day dip and an ice carnival. Interest in winter swimming has risen sharply, with the club’s waiting list now full. Many are drawn to the activity for its health benefits, such as a stronger immune system and a sense of personal achievement. Safety remains a priority for the group. The club advises against swimming alone and encourages regular practice to build resilience. Beyond the physical rewards, members also value the strong sense of community that comes with the shared experience.
Winter swimming continues to attract more people in Berlin, with the Berliner Seehunde club at the heart of the trend. The group’s long-standing traditions and emphasis on safety keep participants returning each season. For now, those hoping to join will have to wait as the club’s membership list remains closed.
