Himmelsøen

Denmark Lake 1 - Excellent

Himmelsøen is a freshwater bathing beach in Darup, Denmark, located approximately 22 hectares in size on a former gravel pit. The beach consists of fine sand and is approximately 120 metres long, with a gently sloping lake bottom of fine sand and small to medium-sized stones. The surrounding area features green spaces, agricultural land, and has been the subject of nature management projects including habitat creation for sand lizards.

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Water

Freshwater lake of approximately 22 hectares. The water depth increases gradually and remains under 2 metres for 45–55 metres from the shoreline. Outside the marked bathing area, depths reach up to 9 metres with areas of thermocline formation. The lake has no inlet or outlet streams; water circulation depends on wind direction.

Location

Darup, Roskilde Municipality, Denmark. A large car park is located 40 metres from the beach. Disabled parking is available near the beach with a wheelchair-accessible ramp leading to the water's edge. The bathing area is marked with buoys.

Facilities

Toilets with drinking water, disabled parking with wheelchair-accessible ramp, picnic tables and benches, shelters, barbecue area, playground with zip-line, warning signs for water quality, waste bins, lifeguard equipment (rescue ring).

Season

Monitoring occurs during the bathing season. Classification is revised annually in May before the start of the bathing season.

Water Quality

Water quality classification: Excellent. Based on routine monitoring for E. coli and enterococci during the bathing season from 2016–2019. Classification is revised annually before the bathing season begins. The water meets all required standards.

Risks

Potential for swimmer's itch (cercarial dermatitis) caused by microscopic parasites, particularly in shallow water and reed beds. Low risk of cyanobacteria (blue-green algae) and phytoplankton blooms. Sudden temperature changes below the thermocline outside the marked bathing area may cause cramping. Glass fragments and litter may occasionally be present. No risk of major macroalgae accumulation.