You need an active break from the big city? Go to Blackfoot Beach!
It will take you about 45 minutes from the main station to get there, but you can spend the whole day there and it has a lot to offer!
Blackfoot Beach is in the north of the city on one of seven lakes. The area used to be a gravel-pit, groundwater filled it up and it has been used for leisure for more than 85 years! It is made up of white sand and is an official public pool of the city of Cologne. That’s why you only have to pay the official entrance for public pools.
The site offers relaxing beach beds or deck chairs for hire and a beach bar with drinks and snacks. (It's not allowed to bring food and drinks, except 1 liter of water and fruit, vegetables and food for toddlers.)
But the best is the activities they offer besides swimming:
You can hire a canoe or boards for stand-up paddling; you can learn archery like Robin Hood; there is a beach volleyball pitch and even a diving school is located there.
But the best thing I would do there before going for a swim was the high-ropes course… (although I had to take a break after the children's beginner path... :-) )
It is safe, starting from the age of 6 and well-instructed. (Mo+Tue closed: reservation recommended - 22€/17€ - beach entrance included.)
Don’t miss the big slide!!
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