Old Danube, Recreational lake in Vienna, Austria
The Old Danube is a 1.6 square kilometer bathing lake in the east of Vienna, surrounded by green areas, reed zones, and public swimming jetties. The water stays warm in summer, while boat rental stations and small cafés are scattered along the shore.
This arm of water belonged to the main course of the Danube until the 1870s, before flood control works separated it from the river. Since then, the body of water has developed into a popular recreation area for the growing city population.
Every summer, locals gather along the shore to celebrate the Lichterfest, where decorated boats glide across the water and fireworks light up the sky. Families bring blankets and picnic baskets, while the atmosphere remains relaxed and festive at the same time.
Subway lines U1 and U6 bring visitors close to the lake, from where short walking paths lead to different shore areas. The Strandbad Gänsehäufel requires an entrance fee, while many other access points remain free.
Several floating platforms are scattered across the water and serve as meeting points for swimmers and sunbathers during summer. These structures change their position depending on the season and water level.
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