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Back in 2022, Copenhagen’s city council set aside funding for a new kind of recreational facility: an open-water swimming lane. The project supports the city’s ambition to make it easy to stay active – even in the harbor.

Now it’s finally here. A 450-meter-long swim lane has been established in the open waters off outer Nordhavn, designed for more experienced swimmers looking to train in the sea.

While thousands of Copenhageners enjoy the city’s many harbor swimming zones each summer, this lane offers something different – a space specifically created for those who want to swim real distances in open water.

The course is clearly marked with large yellow buoys and lane ropes to ensure both swimmer safety and separation from boat traffic.

At the official presentation, Mia Nyegaard, Copenhagen’s Mayor for Culture and Leisure, stated:

“With this open-water swim lane, Copenhageners are getting a new and unique facility. It allows experienced swimmers to train safely in the sea, while also ensuring that boat traffic can navigate around the area without risk. It’s important that Copenhagen offers a wide variety of activities where people can stay fit and pursue their sport – including on the water, which is such a big part of our city.”

The initiative has been warmly welcomed by Copenwater, Denmark’s first open-water swimming club. Hans Henrik Heming, the club’s vice-chair, commented:

“We always welcome new places to swim. What’s exciting about this kind of swim lane is that it’s almost unregulated – it shows nature in its raw form, with waves and all. We love swimming in the open sea, even when there’s a bit of foam on the crests, so having this kind of access close to Copenhagen is fantastic.”

He also praised the municipality for its forward-thinking approach:

“We think it’s brilliant. It’s visionary of the city to develop Copenhagen in this way. The lane is clearly marked, so motorboats and others can’t enter where we’re swimming, which makes it feel safe – even though you’re out there in the raw, natural elements.”

While the lane may seem inviting, it’s important to emphasize that it’s not suitable for children or inexperienced swimmers. The open sea here can be cold and unpredictable, with currents and waves that demand experience and respect.

Copenhagen Municipality advises never to swim alone and recommends less experienced swimmers to use the city’s other harbor and outdoor swimming areas, which are staffed with lifeguards during the summer months.

That said, the new lane is equipped with a safety station and a water quality warning system — and it’s open year-round.

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