How about a journey to a leisure island right here in Cologne? This is the Groov. It is more than just a park. The Groov is an oasis of relaxation in the south of Cologne.
Known by locals as a leisure island the Groov is in the district of Porz-Zündorf. The Groov is a very special spot on Cologne’s city limits. It has expansive sandy beaches and old trees. A marina adds to its charm.
The Zündorfer Marktplatz is adjacent. Visitors can buy snacks and drinks there. Pedal boats are also available to rent. The Groov is a versatile recreational area. It features a spacious Rhine floodplain. You can find beautiful sandy beaches. Paths wind around the Untere and Obere Groov. These are the two inland waters.
But what does Groov mean? The name comes from the Gallic word Grave. Grave means gravel or sandbank. In the past, a sandbank separated the Rhine arm from the main stream. This created a natural harbor in Zündorf. The village prospered because of this harbor.
In 1849, the original island in the river was connected to the bank by a dam. The facility got its park-like appearance in the mid-1970s. This happened during a redesign.
The Groov has a rich history. The Rhine branch now consists of two lakes. They are linked by two channel pipes. The lakes no longer have a fresh water source. They were threatened by collapse. A floating fountain was installed. It provides fresh oxygen to the water of the lower lake in the summertime. The upper lake is supplied with fresh well water. This achieves the same effect.
The adjacent marketplace has flood protection. The foundations for a mobile flood protection wall are in place. The marketplace had been raised in comparison to the Rhine river in 1972 and again in 2006.
You can reach the Groov by Stadtbahn line 7. Get off at the Zündorf stop.
The Groov is one of the most attractive destinations for people of all ages. It is especially popular as a destination for bike tours. On beautiful weekends, the bike paths can get crowded. This is especially true on the left bank of the Rhine past Rodenkirchen. The same goes for the right bank of the Rhine along the Poller Wiesen.
Between March and October, a small ferry provides passage. You can quickly cross to the opposite bank of the Rhine. This takes you to the district of Weiß.
Take a moment to breathe in the fresh air. Feel the gentle breeze coming off the water. Listen to the laughter of families enjoying their day. The Groov offers a perfect escape from the city. It is a place where history and recreation meet. I hope you enjoyed this trip to the Groov.