Every summer, Strasbourg changes and offers its residents and visitors a unique experience: Les Docks d'été. Just imagine a short-lived beach right in the heart of the city, on the Malraux peninsula, where fine sand, children's laughter and a summer atmosphere replace concrete and traffic noise. That's what I'd like you to discover in this article. Get your towel and sun cream ready and follow me on a guided tour of this magical place.
The summer transformation of the Malraux peninsula
The Malraux peninsula, usually known for its library, is transformed every summer into an urban oasis. From 8 July to 3 September 2023, the concrete will give way to a beach of fine sand, colourful deckchairs and parasols, creating a holiday atmosphere right in the heart of the city. It's a real change of scenery, a bubble of serenity in the midst of urban bustle.
Right next to this ephemeral beach, the André Malraux library, a place of culture and learning, offers an interesting contrast. Imagine, after a morning spent reading in the cool of the media library, stepping outside and instantly finding yourself in a seaside atmosphere. It's this unique combination of culture and relaxation that makes Docks d'été a must-see place in Strasbourg during the summer.
And that's not all. The Malraux peninsula is also home to a water sports centre, open from Sunday to Thursday from 3pm to 7pm, and on Fridays and Saturdays from 3pm to 9pm. Whether you're a freshwater sailor or a true sea dog, you'll find plenty to keep you amused and refreshed.
The atmosphere of the "Presqu'île Malraux"
The atmosphere at Docks d'été is unique and unforgettable. As soon as you set foot on the fine sand, you are transported into another world. The noise of the city fades away, replaced by the laughter of children building sandcastles, the lapping of the water against the quays and the gentle murmur of conversations between friends and family.
Les Docks d'été, it's not just a place to relax, it's also a place for games and entertainment. Every afternoon, seasonal staff put on activities for children. And every Wednesday, from 10am to 12pm, the André Malraux library organises special events around books and reading. Don't forget to book on the Media Library website. Whether you're a keen reader or looking to keep your children occupied, there's always something to do at Docks d'été.
Summer activities for all ages
Summer Docks has something for everyone. For the little ones, the Moussaillons area (3 to 8 years old) offers games and activities adapted to their age. Juniors (aged 9 to 12) are not to be outdone, with their own dedicated area. And for adults and families, an all-ages area offers the chance to relax, play or take part in various activities.
The water sports centre is another attraction at Docks d'été. Whether you want to go pedal-boating, try your hand at paddle-boating or simply cool off, there's something for everyone. And after a day out in the sun and water, what could be better than relaxing on the beach, with a book in hand, enjoying the warmth of the evening?
Practical information about Docks d'été in Strasbourg
"Les Docks d'été"will be open from 8 July to 3 September 2023. The short-lived beach is open from 8am to midnight, so you can enjoy the cool morning air or the warm summer evenings. The water sports centre is open from Sunday to Thursday from 3pm to 7pm, and on Fridays and Saturdays from 3pm to 9pm.
Activities for children take place every afternoon, and special activities at the André Malraux multimedia library take place every Wednesday from 10am to 12pm. Don't forget to check the programme of events to make sure you don't miss a thing!
"Les Docks d'été" is located on the Malraux peninsula, close to Strasbourg city centre and in front of the Rivétoile shopping centre. You can get there easily on foot, by bike or by tram. Don't forget your towel, your sun cream and your good humour!
Other short-lived urban beaches to discover near Strasbourg
If you like the Docks d'été in Strasbourg, you'll be delighted to know that there are other ephemeral urban beaches in the region. Across the Rhine in Germany, you can discover K-Beach in Kehl and Essgut in Offenburg.
K-Beach, which opened on 18 May, is a place to relax and unwind. With its palm trees, fine sand and deckchairs, you'll feel like you're on holiday by the sea. K-Beach also offers themed evenings with a DJ at weekends and on public holidays. The site is open from 11am to midnight and can be reached by tram from the "Kehl Bahnhof" stop.
Just 30 minutes from Strasbourg, Essgut, also known as Plage 66, is another relaxing place to discover. With its fine sandy beach, deckchairs and lake, it's the ideal place to relax, swim or get together with family and friends. The on-site restaurant serves burgers, salads and flammekueches, which you can enjoy right on the beach. Access to the beach is free and available Monday to Friday from 2pm to 11pm and from 10am to 11pm at weekends.
My opinion of Docks d'été
The Docks d'été in Strasbourg is more than just a short-lived beach. It's a place to live, relax, play and enjoy culture. It's a place where you can feel like you're on holiday without leaving the city, where you can enjoy the sun and the water, read a book, play with your children or just relax and watch the world go by. It's
This is one of my favourite places to spend the summer in Strasbourg. My daughters love it. I love the relaxed atmosphere, the proximity of the water, the chance to read in the cool of the media library and then take a dip on the beach. It's a place that livens up the city, reminds us that Strasbourg is surrounded by water and offers a real summer atmosphere.
However, I regret that this short-lived beach doesn't last longer. It would be nice to be able to enjoy it as early as June. Fortunately, there are other urban beaches in the region, such as K-Beach in Kehl and Essgut in Offenburg, which also offer a summery atmosphere and activities for all the family.
So what are you waiting for? Put on your swimming costume, grab your towel and join us at Docks d'été. You won't regret it!
Where to swim in Strasbourg?
In Strasbourg, you have several options for swimming, not least in the municipal pools. There are nine in all, including the Wacken pool, which is open-air, and the Hautepierre pool, which offers outdoor activities and a hose. You can also take advantage of lakes such as the Baggersee and Lac Achard in Illkirch-Graffenstaden or the Ballastière in Bischheim.
Where to swim near Strasbourg?
There are several options for swimming near Strasbourg. You can go to Essgut in Offenbourg, the natural swimming pool at Ottenhöfen, the Plan d'eau de la Hardt, the Plan d'eau de Brumath, the Plan d'eau de Benfeld or the Plan d'eau de Gambsheim.
