My Berlin moment – sunset over Tempelhofer Feld
Sunset over Tempelhof Field
What’s happening around me feels a bit mad. The vast expanse of the old airport grounds, the people on their quirky exercise equipment, with an S-Bahn train passing by in the background. And there I am, on wobbly legs in my old pair of roller skates, unused for years. It’s mad, I think. And yet it feels so strangely right, especially now, as the sun sets over Tempelhof Field.
The roller-skating course wasn’t my idea, but I let myself be persuaded. Nothing ventured, nothing gained. Or so they say. I was nervous all the same.
Once I arrived at the field, I was greeted by a bustling city scene: colourful picnic blankets spread out on the grass and runways. Children flying their kites and couples walking their dogs. No cars, walls or roads to be seen far and wide. It feels urban and cosmopolitan, and yet so unlike a big city at the same time.
Chleo snaps me out of my amazement; she’s an Australian in glittering gold roller skates who introduces herself as our instructor. I do my best not to look at the pros next to us performing their daring stunts on their skates, and join the group for our first, cautious warm-up lap.
Two hours later, I’d almost lost track of time when the session ends with a leisurely skate to the beer garden on the edge of the old airfield. But the group stays together, rounding off the day with street food and cold drinks. And then comes my Berlin moment: the orange-pink sunset, the sort you can probably only see here at Tempelhofer Feld.
Ready for your own Berlin moment?
Berlin’s famous landmarks, such as the Brandenburg Gate or the TV Tower, are just part of the Berlin experience: the spirit of the city can be experienced particularly well in places that lie a little away from the hustle and bustle.
As well as Tempelhofer Feld, the green south-east of the city – with its hidden gem, Neu-Venedig – the beautiful historic cemeteries and the unique view from Teufelsberg are all genuine insider tips.
Our tip
Berlin’s parks are more than just places for a stroll; they are the city’s green living room. Make sure you allow plenty of time for sporting activities, impromptu concerts or jugglers.