Envision a shimmering expanse before you. This is the Au\u00dfenalster. It is more than just a lake. The Au\u00dfenalster is a vibrant heart of Hamburg.
The Au\u00dfenalster’s story began in 1625. The “outer” part of the lake was outside Hamburg’s city walls. These walls were stripped down in 1804 and became parks. But the division between the Au\u00dfenalster and Binnenalster remained.
Today, bridges connect the city across the Alster. The Lombardsbr\u00fccke and Kennedybr\u00fccke span the river. These bridges mark a historic spatial division.
Around the Au\u00dfenalster, you will notice different vibes on each side. The western shore became a wealthy area in the late 18th century. The eastern side developed later in the 19th century. It was once owned by the city’s finance department.
The Au\u00dfenalster itself covers 1.64 square kilometers. It is relatively shallow with an average depth of 2.5 meters. The Alster River feeds it, along with the Osterbek and Wandse rivers. Several canals also flow into the Au\u00dfenalster.
Look around at the districts that border the Au\u00dfenalster. Harvestehude and Rotherbaum lie to the west. Winterhude, Uhlenhorst, Hohenfelde, and St. Georg are on the eastern shore. Many streets here are among Hamburg’s most desirable addresses.
The western shore is home to several consulates. The U.S. Consulate General is here. Hotels like the Hotel Atlantic are nearby. A new hotel is under construction at Fontenay.
Throughout the year, festivals bring life to the Au\u00dfenalster. In May, the Japanese community celebrates the Cherry Blossom Festival here. Sometimes, a cold winter freezes the Alster. The Alstereisvergn\u00fcgen is held on the ice then.
Almost all of the Au\u00dfenalster’s banks are public. The Alsterpark surrounds the lake. Formerly private gardens became public in 1953. This happened when Hamburg hosted the International Horticulture Show.
Joggers love the 7.6-kilometer path around the Au\u00dfenalster. Water sports thrive here too. Sailing and rowing clubs have been around for a long time. The Alster’s water is tested regularly and is considered very clean. But swimming is not recommended.
The Alster was dammed around 1250 to form a millpond. The Au\u00dfenalster is one of the most difficult sailing waters in Germany. This is due to the changing winds caused by the surrounding buildings.
The Au\u00dfenalster offers a unique view of Hamburg. Small steamboats offer tours. These tours share stories and information about the city and the Alster.
Take a moment to breathe in the air here. The Au\u00dfenalster is a place for everyone. It is a place where history meets recreation. It is a true gem in Hamburg.