Volker Koch writes about his recent work trek to Denmark where he rose with the lark for a daily swim at 6:10 am. Trivia note is that the highest Danish waterfall is measured at one metre.
“I had the opportunity to spend a few days working in Denmark and would like to share a few winter swimming communities with those who happen to venture to cinnamon swirl country.
The first swim location is the very welcoming 'Hop i Fjorden' initiated in 2009 by Lars Rubusch, who introduced me to fellow members who kindly gave me a lift every morning from the centre of Kolding. The group has permission to use a jetty just next to the grand Koldingfjord Hotel situated in the rather posh suburbs outside Kolding. From there, they jump into the Kolding Fjord every weekday at 6:10am (sharp!)
On weekends, they gather at 9.30am at the second swim location, another newly built and interestingly designed wooden jetty just a few minutes down the road towards Kolding at the end of Lyshøj Allé.
Both locations here on Google Maps
During the winter the swimmers virtually just hop in and get out again, they also have swim events across the Fjord throughout the summer.
Another winter swimming community I got to know is near Copenhagen. The fantastic public, open year-round Kastrup Sea Bath near Amager Strand which is aptly dubbed 'snegl' (swirl) by the locals. It consists of a jetty that ends in a beautiful circular structure providing both, a spectacular and sheltered amphitheatre for a dip. On a Sunday, 7am seems to be the most popular time to meet.
Easy to reach by tube from the Copenhagen centre with a 5 minute walk away from the Femøren Metro station
A brisk 30 minute walk north along Amager Strand is the Amager Helgoland Sea Bath where one can swim as a member of the 'Cold Thrills' Club. It looks beautiful (through the pin-code secured gate) and there are changing rooms and sauna facilities, but it seems like it's essential to know a club member to gain access as a visitor.
Easy to reach by tube from Copenhagen centre, get off at Øresund Metro station.
Both Amager Strand locations here on Google Maps
Images attached courtesy of 'Hop i Fjorden' and Tine Rugaard Møller
Happy winter swimming and Fjord hopping."
