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Diving into a frozen lake: behind the scenes of the Zollhaus Open
Before the swimmers arrive, the Zollhaus lake needs preparing: ice to cut, lanes to set up and a few test dives. This is how an ice swimming race comes together.
A pool cut into the ice
Every winter the forest lake next to the Landhotel Altes Zollhaus in Germany’s Ore Mountains turns into a pool. Not just any pool: a 25-metre, five-lane pool cut into the ice, with the water at around 2 °C. This is where the Zollhaus Open takes place – the German Ice Swimming Championships we organise with Addicted To Nature.
The video shows just a small part of the preparations for the 25 February 2023 edition – plus a few dives into the icy water, because testing the lake before the athletes do is part of the job.
Watch more on our YouTube channel.
What it takes to prepare the lake
- Cutting the ice to open the pool – and clearing it again every time the water freezes over.
- Setting up lanes, starts and platforms so that distances are exact and the judges can do their work.
- Thinking about afterwards: sauna, hot tub and warm changing rooms matter as much as the race.
- Safety: rescuers, a doctor and a clear plan for every swimmer leaving the water.
What it feels like to dive in at 2 °C
The first contact is a shock: your breath stops, your skin burns, your head only wants out. Then, if you breathe out slowly and stay calm, you get that clarity every ice swimmer knows. After a few minutes you get out, dress quickly and head for the sauna.
If you want to try it, don’t start with a frozen lake. First read our guide on how to start ice swimming safely and find out why it’s worth alternating sauna and cold water.
Zollhaus Open 2027
The next edition takes place on 19–20 February 2027, with races from 50 to 1000 metres. You can sign up as an athlete or come and cheer: all the information is on the Zollhaus Open 2027 page.
There’s always a big sauna tent next to the race lake: that’s where swimmers warm up between heats.
From our shop
Double sauna tent with wood stove
- Room for 8–10 people
- 3-layer quilted fabric
- Stainless steel stove with glass door
Ice bathing at the Zollhaus
Try it with us at the Landhotel Altes Zollhaus
Our guided ice baths take place at the Landhotel Altes Zollhaus in Germany’s Ore Mountains: in the forest lake next to the hotel or in an ice-cold tub.
- Wim Hof Method weekends with certified instructors
- Breathing, ice baths and mindset
- Four saunas to warm up afterwards
Frequently asked questions
How cold is the water at the Zollhaus Open?
Around 2 °C. The lake is at about 800 metres above sea level and is usually frozen at the end of February.
How do you make a pool in a frozen lake?
The ice is cut to open a pool, then lanes, starts and platforms are set up. During the event the pool has to be kept clear of new ice.
Who can take part in the Zollhaus Open?
Experienced cold-water swimmers, over distances from 50 to 1000 metres. Details and registration are on the event page.
Where is the lake?
Next to the Landhotel Altes Zollhaus in Neuhermsdorf, in Saxony’s eastern Ore Mountains, close to the Czech border.
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