Korksee (Baggersee Kieswerk Vogel), Kork

The Korksee, also known as the Korker Baggersee or the Baggersee Kieswerk Vogel, is a former gravel-pit lake at Kork, a district of Kehl in Baden-Wurttemberg, Germany, between Kehl and Willstaett and about 20 km east of Strasbourg. It is a freshwater swimming lake, so there is no sand-and-surf beach, tide or salt water; the shore is mostly grass banks leading to the water. It is a designated swimming lake with regular water-quality tests, which is the best guide to its water condition, since colour and clarity vary with season and algae. The lake is an open, sheltered basin rather than a cove, and wind rarely produces waves strong enough to matter. The atmosphere is quiet and local, suited to relaxed swimming, sunbathing and picnics rather than a lively beach scene. Facilities are basic: the grass banks are the main amenity, and visitors should not expect confirmed loungers, kiosks or lifeguard hours, so checking with the town of Kehl before a visit is wise. Bringing water, snacks, shade and a towel is the safest approach. Access is mainly by car or bicycle from Kehl, as there is no direct tram; the ride from Kehl through the Rhine plain is flat and suits casual cyclists. Visitors travelling from Strasbourg cross the Rhine at Kehl and continue east, and should allow extra time on hot weekends when roads and informal parking fill up. Because the lake is in Germany, prices are in euros and German local rules apply, including taking rubbish home and respecting nearby nature areas. The swimming season runs from about June to early September, and the lake is most pleasant on warm weekday afternoons or early evenings.