Bonn's Rheinaue is one of the most impressive parks in Germany and an important legacy of the 1979 Federal Garden Show. When it opened on April 27, the 160-hectare area was intended to be more than just a new recreational area: It was to be the connecting element between the historic town centers of the cities of Bonn, Bad Godesberg and Beuel, which were still independent until 1969, and the municipality of Oberkassel. It was to form the front garden of the government district that was just being built at the time and welcome people from all walks of life.
No wonder that the park - with its left and right bank of the Rhine - is still extremely popular today. After all, over 2.2 million cubic meters of earth were moved, hills, lakes and playgrounds created and a 45-kilometre network of paths laid out to create it. Over the years, an area previously used mainly for agriculture was transformed into a leisure and recreation center that continued to take shape. The dream of Munich landscape architects Gottfried and Anton Hansjakob came true. They created a green lung in the heart of the Rhine metropolis of Bonn.
Auensee and themed gardens
The 15-hectare Auensee lake with its six pontoon bridges has been one of the most popular attractions on the 160-hectare site ever since it was created. Guests use it for long walks by the water. They also appreciate the diverse themed gardens, which promise a change from the extensive meadows. These include the rose garden with around 6,000 flowering specimens and the Japanese Garden, which was a gift from the Japanese government for the 1979 Federal Garden Show. With its Zen elements, waterfalls and artistically designed bonsai trees, it creates an atmosphere of harmony and tranquillity.
The garden for the blind is also a special attraction with its bronze elephant fountain and over 30 plant varieties. It enables blind and visually impaired people to get to know the park's flora better. Touching, tasting, smelling and feeling are expressly permitted.
Visitors to the Rheinaue Leisure Park on the third Saturday of the month between April and October also have the chance to attend one of the largest flea markets in Germany. Antique treasures, handicrafts and works of art change hands in the natural event area.
