Unna's solar-heated pool opens at 9°C—with an Easter egg hunt
Unna's Bornekamp outdoor pool opened its doors on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, despite chilly conditions. With the water temperature hovering at just 9°C, only ten brave visitors took a quick dip on the first day. The pool stands out as the only one in the city using solar-powered heat pumps to warm the water during the day. The pool's solar-powered heat pumps operate exclusively in daylight hours, a unique feature among Unna's swimming spots. Jessica Mense, chair of the Bornekamp outdoor pool association, remains optimistic. She predicts the water will warm to 16°C by Sunday, just in time for Easter celebrations.
On Easter Sunday, an Easter Bunny will hide marble eggs in the pool for divers to find. Owais Al Hariri, a lifeguard at the pool, plans to join the hunt. He admitted the water currently feels 'far too cold' and 'stings the skin', but the event will go ahead as planned. The pool is also known for its seasonal activities, including the annual Easter egg dive. This year's event follows the tradition of blending festive fun with a refreshing—if brisk—swim.
The pool's opening marks the start of a new season, with solar heating gradually raising the temperature. Visitors can look forward to warmer water by the weekend, along with the Easter egg hunt. The event will be one of the first major gatherings at the pool this year, combining community fun with its eco-friendly heating system.
