Hardy Germans brave snow to take a dip

An outdoor pool in Frankfurt-Hausen welcomed eager swimmers as early as 6.30 am on Friday. “They arrive in their dressing gowns, then get into the water – people love it,” said Otto Junck, Managing Director of Frankfurt Public Pools, ahead of the opening.

While the water in the Frankfurt pool had been pre-heated to a pleasant 28 degrees, elsewhere in Germany, hardy types braved nature’s elements in unheated waters.

In Wannsee lake outside Berlin, locals built several Easter bunnies out of snow to welcome swimmers to the shores. While some took the full plunge, others opted to paddle in the water wearing anoraks and hats.

Germany has been experiencing an unusually cold snap this year, with bizarre dreams of a “white Easter” coming true.

DPA/The Local/kkf