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Ice Swimming German Open in Veitsbronn: water at 2.8 °C
A lake in Franconia, water at 2.8 °C and plenty of brave swimmers. The 2020 Ice Swimming German Open in Veitsbronn, supported by Addicted To Nature.
Ice swimming in Franconia
Veitsbronn is a small town near Fürth in Bavaria. This is where, in a lake, the Ice Swimming German Open took place. In 2020 the German Open were sponsored by Addicted To Nature – and we were there with the camera.
The water temperature? 2.8 °C.

Watch more on our YouTube channel.
What an ice swimming race is like
- Lanes in the lake, marked with floats, and starts from the water or the jetty.
- Different distances, from short, fast races to longer events for the most experienced.
- Only swimsuit, cap and goggles: no wetsuit.
- Careful aftercare: a warm area, sauna or heated tents and medical checks.
The atmosphere is special: you race against the clock, but above all against the cold. And on the shore everyone cheers for everyone.

Watch more on our YouTube channel.
Today: the German Championships at the Zollhaus
Today the German Ice Swimming Championships take place at the Zollhaus: they are the Zollhaus Open, which we organise in the forest lake next to the Landhotel Altes Zollhaus in the Ore Mountains. The next edition is on 19–20 February 2027. Information and registration are on the Zollhaus Open 2027 page and on the Landhotel Altes Zollhaus event page. You’ll find all our dates on our events page.
Want to get started? Read our guide on how to start ice swimming safely.

From our shop
Zollhaus Open embroidered patch
- Square, 7 x 7 cm
- For your jacket, backpack or swim robe
- Free shipping

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
Where is Veitsbronn?
In Bavaria, in the Franconia region, near Fürth and Nuremberg.
How cold was the water at the 2020 German Open?
2.8 °C.
What is Addicted To Nature’s link to the race?
Addicted To Nature sponsored the 2020 Ice Swimming German Open in Veitsbronn.
Where can I take part in an ice swimming race in Germany?
For example at the Zollhaus Open, the German championships at the Landhotel Altes Zollhaus, on 19–20 February 2027.
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