Drei Weieren Bathing Facilities

Drei Weieren (Dreilinden) is a cluster of man-made ponds on the hillside above St. Gallen, Switzerland, where summer swimming facilities operate. Wikidata lists it as a bathing facility inside the Drei Weieren recreation area, north of the old town near St. Georgen and the Mühlegg stop. Locals head here to cool off without travelling to Lake Constance.

How did the ponds come about?

The first basins were dug around 1610 to secure a water supply for the city, mainly for the textile trade, which needed water for bleaching cloth, and for firefighting. Five ponds eventually existed. People began bathing in them in the 18th century, and the three largest were divided by sex: one for women, one for boys and one for men. The city council only officially lifted the ban on women using the men's pond in 1972.

Where can you swim?

Today two ponds are used for swimming. The Mannenweiher (men's pond) is a free municipal bathing spot and home to the Gemeinschaftsbad Dreilinden, the community pool. The other, called the Frauenweiher or family pool, is a supervised, paid facility with more amenities. Sources vary on its exact name, so follow the signs on site. The remaining ponds are left for scenery and nature.

When should you go?

The bathing season runs roughly from early May to mid-September. In 2026 it opened on 9 May, with the family pool closing on 6 September and the community pool on 13 September. The community pool is normally open daily from 9 to 19, but check the city's website before you travel. Outside the season the loop path around the ponds is still open for walks.

How do you get there?

The easiest route is the Mühleggbahn funicular, which climbs from the old town to the pond area. City buses 2 and 8 towards St. Georgen Bach also work; get off at St. Gallen, Mühlegg. In summer a free bathing bus runs from the station and Marktplatz area.

What else is there to see?

A walk around the Drei Weieren takes about 30 to 45 minutes, and you can extend it to the Notkersegg convent. Viewpoints nearby give a panorama over the city, which makes the area popular with photographers and sketchers. A new visual identity introduced in July 2025 is meant to make the recreation area easier to find.

Frequently asked questions

Is entry to the ponds free? The Mannenweiher is a free municipal bathing spot. The family pool has its own supervised facilities; see the City of St. Gallen website for prices.

Can you swim all year? No. Swimming is limited to the season from spring to mid-September. Outside it you can still walk the path.

How long does the walk around the ponds take? About 30 to 45 minutes at an easy pace.

Do you need a car? No. The Mühleggbahn funicular or bus 2 or 8 to the Mühlegg stop is enough.