Berlin’s Best Bavarian Curling Lanes: A Beginner’s Guide [+ Rules Explained]

Bavarian curling has been around since the 14th century. The earliest records come from Austria [6]. From 2026, this sport even becomes an Olympic discipline [6]!

You know Bavarian curling and boules? Bavarian curling is a mix of both [1]. It’s becoming more and more popular in Berlin. Whether you come with friends or with colleagues, you’ll have a good time [6]. At Café am Neuen See in Tiergarten, you can play on real-ice rinks. The winter beer garden at Zollpackhof also offers this centuries-old sport [1].

Here’s everything you need for your first attempt on the ice. The rules, explained simply. I’ll show you the best locations in Berlin and give you practical tips to get started. Looking for an unusual team event? Or just want to try something new? You’ll find everything you need for your Bavarian curling experience right here.

Bavarian curling explained simply

Bavarian curling looks complicated? The basic idea is simple. You probably know Bavarian curling, but curling has its own rules and its own character [1].

Aim of the game and how it works

The aim is to get your Eisstock as close as possible to the “Daube”, a 12 cm rubber ring that serves as the target [1]. Two teams play against each other, four players each [7]. Each round (called a “Kehre”) gives every player one attempt [6]. You pick up the Eisstock by its handle and set it down on the ice with a smooth swinging motion. From there, it glides towards the target field [1].

Bavarian curling rules explained simply

The playing area has three zones: the standing area, the target area and the stretch in between. The Daube sits on the centre cross of the target area, about 24.5 metres from the throwing point [1]. Once all eight Eisstocks have been thrown, the Kehre is over and it’s time to count points:

1. The team with the Eisstock closest to the Daube scores three points [1].

2. Every further Eisstock from the same team that lies closer than the opposing team’s best stock earns two more points [1].

3. Any Eisstock outside the target area or touching the boards is out of play [6].

If an Eisstock knocks the Daube out of place, its new position becomes the target. If the Daube ends up outside the playing area, though, it goes back to the centre cross [1]. Games usually run to six Kehren, with the right to play first alternating between teams [6].

Different game variations

There’s more to Bavarian curling than the classic team competition:

• Target competition: you aim for set target points and score accordingly [1].

• Distance competition: the longest throw wins. The world record stands at 566 metres [1].

• Styrian Bavarian curling: a traditional folk variant with larger teams (10 to 20 players), played on Bavarian curling lanes of at least 40 metres [6].

Rules vary by event and region. Professionals play to strict international rules, while casual games often use simplified versions that are more about having fun [7].

Equipment and playing field

Good spirits alone won’t win you a game of Bavarian curling. The right equipment matters, and so does a suitable playing field. Planning to try Bavarian curling in Berlin? Here are the basics.

What do you need to get started?

An Eisstock has three parts: the handle, the body and the running sole [6]. The body is the heart of the equipment. Depending on the type, it weighs between 2.73 kg (a junior stock) and 3.83 kg [7]. Each body carries a letter code:

• Type M: 3.80–3.83 kg

• Type L: 3.70–3.73 kg

• Type P: 3.50–3.53 kg

• Type E (junior stock): 2.73–2.78 kg [6]

The running soles matter most. There are winter and summer versions: winter soles are made of rubber, summer soles of plastic [6]. You can tell the hardness (Shore rating) by colour, ranging from purple (very soft) through blue, yellow and orange to white (very light) [7].

You’ll also need non-slip shoes or spikes for a secure footing on the ice, plus warm, comfortable clothing [1]. Many Berlin venues let you hire the full kit, which is ideal if you just want to try it out first.

Synthetic ice vs natural ice

Berlin has both natural-ice rinks and refrigerated ice rinks. Natural ice depends on the weather, while refrigerated rinks use cooling units to keep the ice quality consistent [8]. A typical refrigerated rink has an ice layer 6 to 8 cm thick [8]. There are also synthetic ice rinks now, which work all year round and need neither water nor electricity [9].

What does a typical playing field look like?

A Bavarian curling field has three zones: the standing area, the target area and the throwing lane in between [10]. Both areas are rectangular, measuring 3 metres wide and 6 metres long [1]. The distance between the standing area and the target area is 14 metres [1].

The throwing line sits at the end of the standing area. From there, you release your Eisstock towards the target area, where the Daube is placed at the centre [10]. The German Bavarian curling association recommends a total length of 28 metres for a full-size field, but for beginners in Berlin, shorter lanes of 10 to 14 metres work just as well [11].

Experience Bavarian curling in Berlin

Berlin gives you plenty of ways to try this alpine sport, and the capital has become a genuine hotspot for it.

Bavarian curling in Berlin: seven Bavarian curling lanes at Winterquartier Friedrichshain

Bavarian curling is one of the best winter activities in Berlin, whether you come with colleagues, friends or family.
At Winterquartier Berlin (Berlin’s winter quarters), one of the city’s largest and most modern venues awaits you: seven covered Bavarian curling lanes, six of them on real ice, right in the Napoleon Komplex, a former industrial site in Friedrichshain, Berlin, Germany, for sporting fun whatever the weather.

The lanes are open from late November to early March and are ideal for team events, company parties or casual rounds with friends.
You can combine your game with a drinks package or a visit to the neighbouring all-inclusive Christmas market, right next to the ice rink, with mulled wine, food and music.
Thanks to its proximity to Ostbahnhof station (S3, S5, S7, S9), Winterquartier is easy to reach by public transport.

Besides Winterquartier, Berlin has other venues offering Bavarian curling too – including Café am Neuen See in Tiergarten with six weatherproof Bavarian curling lanes, Zollpackhof near Hauptbahnhof with three cosy Bavarian curling lanes, or Ganymed, where you can also play under cover.

What makes Berlin special?

Berlin blends tradition with city life in its own distinctive way [3]. Some venues, such as Café am Neuen See, deliberately choose real ice over synthetic lanes [13], which makes for a more authentic winter experience. Most lanes are attached directly to restaurants [14], so you can combine your sport with a good meal. That combination is what makes Bavarian curling in Berlin such a special experience.

Tips for beginners and groups

The right equipment alone won’t cut it. Good technique and a bit of practice matter just as much, and these tips will sharpen your game noticeably.

Bavarian curling tips for beginners

Technique decides your success. Grip the handle firmly, with the end of the handle lining up flush with the edge of your hand [15]. Your palm should always face the direction you want to throw [1]. Keep your arm fully extended and don’t bend your wrist [1]. When you set the Eisstock down, the whole sole needs to touch the ice flat and evenly [1]. Ever played skittles or bowling? Use that experience: the arm movement is similar [1].

Avoid these common mistakes

The biggest mistake is rushing. Take your time to aim precisely [5]. A controlled throw beats raw power every time [5]. Don’t look sideways or down at the stock rest; keep your eyes on the target [15]. Stay relaxed and easy, it improves your chances of winning [1].

Planning Bavarian curling as a team event

Bavarian curling makes a great winter team event with a sporting edge [16]. You get a mix of competition, team strategy and a relaxed atmosphere [16]. For corporate events, I recommend combining the game with a shared meal on site [16]. Book your lane now! The format is simple: welcome and introduction, team games over several rounds, guidance from experienced game leaders, and a prize-giving at the end [16].

Staying safe in the cold

Dress warmly. Thick soles matter most on the cold ice [17]. Ice cleats or spikes that slip over your winter boots help against slipping [17]. Bring a hot drink to warm you up from the inside [17]. Warm up before you play, loosening your throwing arm and legs especially, so you don’t end up sore the next day [18]. If you’re playing on natural ice, be sure to follow the safety guidance from the fire service or the city [19].

Conclusion

Bavarian curling is a unique winter pleasure you really should try in Berlin. This centuries-old tradition combines sporting ambition with good company. Perfect for groups of friends or company events.

The basic rules are quick to pick up. With a bit of practice and the right technique, you’ll soon celebrate your first wins on the ice. Berlin has plenty of venues, so you’re sure to find a lane near you. Café am Neuen See and Zollpackhof are especially good for beginners. There, you can play and enjoy their food and drink at the same time.

Remember to dress warmly and keep your footing secure. The right grip and a controlled throw matter more than brute force. Bavarian curling is at its best when you stay relaxed and simply enjoy the winter atmosphere.

From 2026, this sport even joins the Olympic programme. Now’s a good time to become part of this growing tradition. Bavarian curling combines sporting challenge with cosy get-togethers, making it a natural fit for your Berlin winter programme.

Key Takeaways

Here are the key facts for your perfect start in Bavarian curling in Berlin:

• Simple rules, big fun: the aim is to land your Eisstock as close as possible to the Daube (rubber ring) — perfect for beginners and team events.

• Berlin has 11 venues: from Café am Neuen See to Zollpackhof, all easy to reach and ideal for beginners thanks to equipment hire.

• Technique is what counts: a firm grip, a straight arm and controlled throws matter more than raw power.

• The perfect winter event: it combines sporting challenge with good company — ideal for corporate events and groups of friends.

• Dress warm, play safe: thick soles, spikes against slipping, and a hot drink all help you enjoy the game to the full.

From 2026, Bavarian curling even becomes an Olympic sport. Take the chance now to experience this centuries-old tradition in Berlin’s winter atmosphere, and enjoy real ice rather than synthetic lanes while you’re at it.