Almkanal
Experience Salzburg's unique Almkanal: a fast-flowing, frigid canal offering an exhilarating 'conveyor belt' swim and a peaceful natural escape.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Bracingly cold, refreshing dip
Almkanal
Best Time
Bracingly cold, refreshing dip
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience Salzburg's unique Almkanal: a fast-flowing, frigid canal offering an exhilarating 'conveyor belt' swim and a peaceful natural escape.
"Splendid spot for a swim – though perhaps ‘swim’ is the wrong word. The water is frigid and fast-moving!"
🌊 Embrace the Cold!
The water is frigid and fast-moving. It's more of a swift ride than a leisurely swim. :dash:
🪓 Use the Timber Planks
Convenient timber planks are placed along the banks for easy entry and exit. :wave:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Almkanal 'Swim'
Various entry points along the canal
Experience Salzburg's unique 'conveyor belt' swim in the fast-flowing, frigid canal. Ride the current and hop out on timber planks.
Nature and Chill
Along the canal banks
Enjoy the natural surroundings and a relaxing atmosphere by the water. Perfect for a peaceful break.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Chill: Salzburg's Almkanal
Timing Your Almkanal Dip
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Käsespätzle, nice coffee, swimming spots, and generally what to do in Salzburg?
🌊 Embrace the Cold!
The water is frigid and fast-moving. It's more of a swift ride than a leisurely swim. :dash:
🪓 Use the Timber Planks
Convenient timber planks are placed along the banks for easy entry and exit. :wave:
Visit Salzburg - outside the city?
🚶♂️ Walk Back and Repeat
After your ride, simply walk back to your starting point to go again. :walking:
🌿 Enjoy the Nature
It's a great spot to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Salzburg. :evergreen_tree:
Tips
from all over the internet
🌊 Embrace the Cold!
The water is frigid and fast-moving. It's more of a swift ride than a leisurely swim. :dash:
🪓 Use the Timber Planks
Convenient timber planks are placed along the banks for easy entry and exit. :wave:
🚶♂️ Walk Back and Repeat
After your ride, simply walk back to your starting point to go again. :walking:
🌿 Enjoy the Nature
It's a great spot to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Salzburg. :evergreen_tree:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Almkanal as a unique and refreshing spot in Salzburg, particularly for its invigorating 'conveyor belt' swim. While the water is bracingly cold and fast-moving, many find it an amazing and chill place to spend quality time in nature. It's a local favorite for a quick, natural dip.
"Splendid spot for a swim – though perhaps ‘swim’ is the wrong word. The water is frigid and fast-moving, propelling bathers swiftly in one direction like boxes on a conveyor belt. One slips into the canal, rides (or fights against) the current for as long as one chooses, and hops out using one of the conveniently placed planks of timber along the banks. Then just walk back to where you began and repeat the process."
Philip Lombard
"Amazing place to spend quality time on nature and swimming"
Edu Arbiol.
"Good place for swimming and chilling."
Mill W
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Almkanal is accessible by public transport within Salzburg. Many visitors find it a pleasant walk or bike ride from the city center. Check local bus routes for the most convenient access points.
Yes, the Almkanal runs through parts of Salzburg and is generally well-known to locals. Look for signs or ask for directions to the canal system.
Parking might be limited near the canal itself. It's often recommended to use public transport or walk/cycle to avoid parking hassles.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Almkanal for swimming and enjoying the nature is free. It's a natural public space.
The Almkanal is a natural waterway and is accessible at all times. However, swimming is best enjoyed during daylight hours for safety.
🎫 🏊♀️ Onsite Experience
The water in the Almkanal is known to be very cold, even in summer. It's a bracing experience rather than a warm swim.
While locals do it, the current is fast and the water is cold. Be aware of your limits and use the provided planks for exiting. It's not a typical swimming pool experience.
Bring a towel, swimwear, and perhaps water shoes. A waterproof bag for your belongings is also a good idea.
Typically, there are no dedicated changing facilities. It's best to change before or after your visit, or discreetly by the banks.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the unique 'swim' action with people riding the current. The natural banks and the flowing water also make for scenic shots.
It can be challenging due to the fast current and cold water. Consider a waterproof phone case or a GoPro for capturing the experience.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
Adventurous Souls
Key tip: Wear swimwear you're comfortable with and consider water shoes for better grip on the planks. The 'swim' is all about the ride, so focus on enjoying the natural current!
Nature Lovers
Recommendation: Pack a small picnic or a book to fully savor the tranquil atmosphere along the canal.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique Almkanal 'Swim'
Strategically placed timber planks along the banks serve as convenient entry and exit points. After your exhilarating ride, you simply hop out, walk back to your preferred starting spot, and repeat the process. This method allows for a quick, refreshing dip and a fun way to cool off, especially popular with locals seeking an invigorating natural experience.
While the water temperature is consistently cold, even in the height of summer, this is part of its appeal for many. It’s a testament to Salzburg’s integration of natural elements into urban life, offering an adventurous and memorable way to connect with the environment.
Nature and Relaxation by the Canal
Many visitors find the Almkanal to be a 'chill place' perfect for spending quality time in nature. Whether you're taking a break from sightseeing or looking for a quiet spot to unwind, the canal offers a serene ambiance. It’s an opportunity to experience a different side of Salzburg, one that emphasizes natural recreation and simple pleasures.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit