30.07.2021
Niddastrand: Sun, Sand, Summer
We love this time of year. Summer! The days are longer, the evenings warmer. It’s the time of year when cold beer and chilled wine really hit the spot. Our longing for that hard-earned beach holiday grows. Your bare feet in the sand, summer breeze in your hair and the sound of the ocean waves in the distance. Luckily for us we don’t have to travel far for that holiday feeling. Niddastrand is just a hop skip and a jump from Frankfurt am Main.
Off on the bike
We recommend taking a relaxed bike ride along the River Main in the direction of Höchst. Follow Gutleutstrasse from Central Station west until you reach Orange Beach. Here you can take the cycle lane all the river to Höchst. Approximately 300 meters before the confluence of the Nidda and the Main take a right in the direction of Nied. If you don’t have access to a bike you can take the tram (line 21) from Central Station in the direction of Höchst via Mainzer Landstrasse.
Niddastrand is nestled between the river Nidda and the horse stables of the Polo Club. The sandy surface is littered with sun loungers and deck chairs. There are also plenty of parasols to keep off the heat during the day. If horses are your thing then you will love this. You have to walk by the stables on the way to the beach area. It is an active working club so be prepared for horsey surprises and all things farm related. The horses are often out in the field and if you’re lucky you can catch the team practicing their polo skills. The beach serves a range of drinks, snacks and even ice cream at the weekend. Sausages are roasted on site and the fridges are stacked with classic favourites.
Activities for everyone
The place is usually filled with families and cyclists, taking a break before mounting their bikes and continuing on their route. It is the perfect playground for toddlers, who love to get their hands dirty in the sand. Don’t worry! Niddastrand’s toddler area is at the eastern side with plenty of space further to the west for quiet conversation.
The cycle lane along the Nidda is beyond the Polo field but still visible from the beach. Our only drawback we recognize is that there is no water directly at Niddastrand. However, the manmade rapids in the Nidda are just on the other side of the Polo field. This is a popular spot in summer as the river water is forced over the rocks and appears crystal clear through the strong momentum that the water picks up.
Wonderful countryside setting
Though perhaps not advised we could not resist removing our shoes and dangling our feet in the cool water. Splendid! It is far away from the hustle and bustle of the big city and has a relaxed country atmosphere. Stay for a refreshing Apfelwein, cold beer or chilled white wine and you will soon forget all your troubles. With your feet in the sand, sun on your face and cold beverage in hand it’s easy to feel that holiday vibe come on.
If you stay long enough, they may even light the fire. Now I don’t know about you but I don’t know many places in Frankfurt where you can enjoy an open fire in a countryside setting. It’s perfect for families with children but also for those who just want to get out and try something different.
Click here to find more english articles or activities for the summer.
British born European. Loves exercise and the outdoors. After stints in China, South East Asia and Australia now calls Frankfurt his home. Has a soft spot for champagne and can never get enough schnitzel. Avid traveller and keen photographer.
