Have you ever wondered where Kassel residents go to escape the city? It’s here in the Fuldaaue. This green oasis in the southeastern part of Kassel is more than just a park. The Fuldaaue has a rich history.
It was created for the Bundesgartenschau or Federal Garden Show in 1981. Locals often call it “Buga” because of this. The Fuldaaue runs along the eastern bank of the Fulda River. It stretches from the Schwimmbadbrücke to the Waldauer Fußweg. Damaschkestraße marks its southern border. The Fulda River defines its western edge including the extended regatta course.
Two footbridges connect the Fuldaaue to the Karlsaue. This makes it easy to explore both parks. At the heart of the Fuldaaue lies a man-made lake. People affectionately call it the Bugasee. This lake came to life in the 1960s. Gravel was mined here. The resulting pit filled with groundwater. By 1980, the surrounding beaches were complete.
The Bugasee is quite large. It sits 138 meters above sea level. Its area covers 33.7 hectares. The maximum depth is 6.78 meters. The average depth is 3.35 meters.
A large playground sits in the western part of the Fuldaaue. Part of it is a water playground. Other areas are perfect for grilling or sports. Despite human changes, the Fuldaaue still protects against floods. It serves as a vital floodplain.
Much of the Fuldaaue remains close to its original state. Local groups work hard to preserve it. The Kassel Entwässerungsbetrieb and the local angling club help maintain its natural character. They aim to renature the area. This secures habitats for rare and endangered plants and animals.
The northern part of the Buga-See is a designated nature reserve. It protects breeding, resting, and wintering areas. Many endangered water birds rely on this area.
The Fuldaaue offers many activities. The Buga-See has several beaches for swimming in summer. The Fulda River was once a key waterway. It transported grain, coal, and machines. Since 1977, it mainly serves tour boats, sports boats, canoes, and rowers.
Cafés and club restaurants line the shores. Countless boathouses dot the tranquil promenades. The Hessische Radfernweg R1, a long-distance cycling route, follows the Fulda. It provides constant views of the water.
The Fuldaaue along with the Buga-See, Karlsaue, and Waldauer Wiesen create a diverse landscape. These meadows mix commercial nurseries, allotments, sports fields, and sheep pastures. The Bleichwiesen, near the Ahna estuary, have been renatured. This is an appealing gem for Wesertor residents.
Since 2023, boats can again pass between the upper and lower reaches of the Fulda. This makes the 14-kilometer stretch navigable within the city.
Swimming in the Fulda is generally allowed in Kassel. It has become more popular in recent years. As a federal waterway, swimming here can be risky. Swimmers share the river with boats, anglers, and stand-up paddleboarders.
The Fuldaaue stands as a testament to Kassel’s commitment. It balances recreation with nature conservation. It provides a valuable green space for both people and wildlife.