Birsköpfli

Birsköpfli in Basel is a riverside leisure spot at the point where the Birs flows into the Rhine. It sits in the Breite district and borders the neighbouring municipality of Birsfelden. Locals also call it Birskopf. It is one of the city's most popular places for swimming and picnics, and for industrial Birsfelden it is practically the only sizeable green space.

What will you find at Birsköpfli?

The heart of the area is a park along the Birs, with grassy lawns, plenty of shade trees and a small pebble beach. A park pavilion houses a bistro, and further from the water lie allotment gardens. Drinking fountains are available.

One landmark is the Birskopfsteg, a footbridge. Built in 1963, it was the first cable-stayed bridge in Switzerland. It was torn down in 2007 after a cable snapped, a temporary wooden bridge followed in 2008, and the permanent replacement opened in April 2012.

What can you do here?

• swim in the river and sunbathe on the pebbly shore,
• picnic or barbecue on the grass,
• play beach volleyball or badminton,
• grab a bite at the park bistro and catch cultural events run by the pavilion's new operators.

When is the best time to visit?

Warm days from late spring to early autumn. In summer it gets very crowded, especially on weekend afternoons, so arrive early if you want a shady spot.

What should you watch out for?

The shore is stony, with sharp rocks and occasional broken glass, so water shoes are a good idea. The Rhine current is strong, so swim with care. Visitors mention too few toilets and overflowing bins at peak times, and the canton has announced more frequent summer cleaning of the bank. A study is also looking at how to balance the needs of different user groups without taking away the area's relaxed, free character.

How do you get there?

Birsköpfli lies on the border of Basel and Birsfelden, right at the mouth of the Birs, close to the Kleiner Dreiland-Radweg cycle route. You can walk or cycle from central Basel along the Rhine. Entry is free and the area is open to all.

Frequently asked questions

Is Birsköpfli free to enter?

Yes. It is a public park and riverside beach with no entrance fee.

Can you barbecue there?

Yes, visitors use the grill and picnic spots on the lawns. Bring your own supplies and clean up afterwards.

Is there food nearby?

Yes, the park pavilion runs a bistro. You can also bring your own picnic.

Is swimming in the Rhine and the Birs safe?

People swim here, but the current can be strong and the shore is rocky. Enter the water carefully, ideally wearing water shoes.