Naturbad Riehen

Naturbad Riehen is a public swimming spot in the municipality of Riehen, right next to Basel in Switzerland. Instead of a chlorinated pool, it offers fully biologically cleaned water, and it was designed by the architects Herzog & de Meuron, best known for projects such as Tate Modern.

What is this place?

The bathing facility sits at Weilstrasse 69 and runs seasonally, during the warm months. Riehen launched a competition to renew its swimming pools back in 1979, and Herzog & de Meuron won it. The project was put on hold in 1982 and only revived in 2007. The architects then proposed a facility as close to nature as possible, with biological water filtration. For visitors this means swimming in a pond-like body of water rather than a conventional concrete basin.

How is the water cleaned?

No chemicals are used. Regeneration zones planted with aquatic plants surround the swimming area. Water also passes through dry and wet filters, and as it seeps through, microorganisms remove germs. This makes the site one of Switzerland's "Naturbäder", natural pools without chlorine.

When to go

The season runs through summer; in 2026 the main season spans from mid-June to the end of August. Opening hours and current prices are best checked on the official site, naturbadriehen.ch, since they depend on weather and season. Tickets come in adult, reduced and child categories, and multi-entry and season passes are available. In summer the site hosts activities such as the Aqua Rhythm water gymnastics class, which only requires regular admission.

Why visit?

• Architecture by a world-famous studio in an unusual recreational role.
• Chlorine-free water filtered by plants and microorganisms.
• A quiet setting in Riehen, close to Basel and the German border.
• A good stop on a trip to nearby museums and gardens.

Frequently asked questions

Does Naturbad Riehen use chlorine? No. The water is cleaned biologically, through plants, microorganisms and filters.

Who designed it? The architecture firm Herzog & de Meuron, which won the municipality's competition.

Is it open all year? No, it is a seasonal facility with its main season in summer. The official website lists current dates.

Are there activities for guests? Yes, in summer there are classes such as Aqua Rhythm, a form of water gymnastics.

How do I get there? It is in Riehen near Basel, at Weilstrasse 69, 4125 Riehen. Reaching it from Basel by public transport is straightforward; check timetables before you set out.

Who is it for?

Families, people who prefer to avoid chlorine, fans of contemporary architecture, and anyone who would rather swim in water that feels closer to a lake than to a city pool. It works for a short dip after work or a full day relaxing on the lawns around the water, especially on hot summer days when the Basel area gets very warm. Its position near the German and French borders also makes it easy to combine with a trip around the tri-border region and its small towns.