Zurich's Outdoor Pools Open for Summer Swimming Season

Zurich has 18 outdoor pools, with the most popular ones located along the Lake Zurich shoreline, offering stunning views of the surrounding Alps.

With summer in full swing, many Zurich residents are looking for ways to stay active and cool. Swimming is an excellent way to achieve this, and the city's outdoor pools and rock pools provide an ideal setting. The benefits of outdoor swimming are numerous, from improved mental health to increased vitamin D levels. Moreover, swimming laps in a natural setting can be a great way to clear one's mind and enjoy the scenic views of the city.

In Zurich, some of the best outdoor pools for lap swimming can be found in the neighborhoods of Enge and Horgen. The Enge outdoor pool, located on Mythenquai, offers a 50-meter pool with designated lap swimming lanes, while the Horgen outdoor pool, situated on Gotthardstrasse, features a 25-meter pool with stunning views of the lake. For those looking for a more natural experience, the rock pools at the Uetliberg mountain and the Limmat river are perfect for a refreshing summer dip. The City of Zurich's Sports and Recreation Department also offers a range of swimming programs and courses for adults and children at these outdoor pools.

Swimming in Numbers

According to the City of Zurich's statistics, over 1.5 million people visit the city's outdoor pools every summer, with the average visitor swimming at least 3 times a week. The most popular outdoor pool in Zurich is the Letzigrund pool, which attracts over 200,000 visitors annually. A day pass to one of Zurich's outdoor pools costs between 6 and 8 Swiss francs, making it an affordable option for both residents and tourists. Additionally, many of the outdoor pools offer special discounts for students, seniors, and families, making it an accessible activity for all.

For those looking to take their swimming to the next level, the Zurich Swimming Association offers a range of training programs and competitions for all levels, from beginner to elite. The association also partners with local swimming clubs, such as the Zurich Swimming Club and the Horgen Swimming Club, to provide coaching and training sessions at the outdoor pools. As the summer months approach, it's essential to check the opening hours and prices of the outdoor pools before heading out, as they may vary depending on the location and day of the week. With its numerous outdoor pools and rock pools, Zurich provides a unique and refreshing swimming experience that is hard to find in other cities.