
Naturbad Riehen
A stunning natural swimming pool by Herzog & de Meuron, offering chlorine-free waters and lush green spaces for a refreshing escape.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer people, more serene

Naturbad Riehen
Best Time
Fewer people, more serene

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning natural swimming pool by Herzog & de Meuron, offering chlorine-free waters and lush green spaces for a refreshing escape.
"Beautiful and cozy natural swimmingpool, it was lovely and very relaxing even being full of people."

🏊♂️ Chlorine-Free Fun
Enjoy the natural, eco-friendly water system – no harsh chemicals! Great for sensitive skin and babies.
☀️ Pack for Sun
Bring sunscreen, hats, and towels. Plenty of green space to relax, but shade can be limited.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Natural Swimming Pools
Main pool areas
Experience crystal-clear, chlorine-free water in beautifully landscaped natural pools. Perfect for all ages!

Kid-Friendly Zones
Shallow areas and play zones
Dedicated areas with slides and diving boards make it a hit for families and adventurous swimmers.

Relaxing Ambiance
Lush green surroundings
Enjoy a serene escape with ample green space for lounging and soaking up the sun.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds
Eco-Friendly Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Best places to swim?
🏊♂️ Chlorine-Free Fun
Enjoy the natural, eco-friendly water system – no harsh chemicals! Great for sensitive skin and babies.
☀️ Pack for Sun
Bring sunscreen, hats, and towels. Plenty of green space to relax, but shade can be limited.
👶 Baby-Friendly
This natural pool is lovely and very relaxing, even when busy. Great for going with your baby.
🍔 On-site Cafe
Grab a bite at the cafe serving burgers, fries, coffee, and homemade sodas.
Tips
from all over the internet
🏊♂️ Chlorine-Free Fun
Enjoy the natural, eco-friendly water system – no harsh chemicals! Great for sensitive skin and babies.
☀️ Pack for Sun
Bring sunscreen, hats, and towels. Plenty of green space to relax, but shade can be limited.
👶 Baby-Friendly
This natural pool is lovely and very relaxing, even when busy. Great for going with your baby.
🍔 On-site Cafe
Grab a bite at the cafe serving burgers, fries, coffee, and homemade sodas.
💧 Water Quality
The natural eco-water system is a highlight, avoiding that 'stinky chlorine' smell.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Naturbad Riehen for its beautiful natural setting and refreshing, chlorine-free water, making it a great spot for families and those seeking a sustainable swimming experience. While some reviews note potential deterioration in landscaping over time, the overall sentiment highlights its appeal as a clean, relaxing, and well-priced natural lido with good facilities for all ages.
"I visited this beautiful structure by Herzog & de Meuron back in June 2017, and the landscape was stunning at the time. However, when I revisited in January 2025, everything had dried out, and the pool area was surrounded by temporary covers. The once impressive landscaping seen on ArchDaily had unfortunately deteriorated, leaving me quite disappointed. I am adding the photos I took back in 2017, I think the place needs a good care."
Ozge Ustundag
"Beautiful and cozy natural swimmingpool, it was lovely and very relaxing even being full of people. Very nice for go with our baby. We will come back. 💚"
Paula Prada
"Great pool for kids and adults, amazing natural eco water system - no stinky clourine.. there is a small cafe restaurant that serves hamburgers, french fries, coffee, home made soda, drinks, etc.. highly recommended!"
Eldad Ben Shalom
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Naturbad Riehen is easily accessible by public transport. Tram lines 2 and 16 stop nearby, and it's a pleasant walk from the station. Driving is also an option, with parking available, though it can fill up quickly during peak times.
Yes, there is parking available at Naturbad Riehen. However, it's advisable to arrive early, especially on hot summer days, as parking spots can be limited and fill up quickly.
Cycling is a popular and convenient way to reach Naturbad Riehen, with dedicated bike paths leading to the area. There are bike racks available on-site for secure parking.
While there isn't a direct train station at Naturbad Riehen, you can take a train to Basel SBB and then connect to a tram or bus that will take you to the vicinity of the swimming pool.
From Basel city center, taking Tram 2 or 16 directly towards Riehen is the most straightforward method. The journey is relatively short and offers scenic views.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Opening hours for Naturbad Riehen vary seasonally. It's best to check their official website for the most up-to-date information, especially regarding summer and shoulder season schedules.
Entrance prices are generally considered good value. There are typically different rates for adults, children, and concessions. Check their website for current pricing.
Information on online ticket purchasing is not widely available, but it's always worth checking the official Naturbad Riehen website or contacting them directly to inquire about advance booking options.
Discounts may be available for children, students, seniors, and groups. It's recommended to inquire at the ticket counter or check their website for specific discount policies.
While there's a cafe on-site, many visitors bring their own snacks and drinks to enjoy on the green spaces. It's generally permitted, but always good to be mindful of waste.
🎫 🏊♂️ Onsite Experience
Naturbad Riehen offers natural swimming pools, slides, diving boards, changing rooms, showers, and ample green space for relaxation. There's also a cafe.
Absolutely! It's described as very nice and relaxing, even with babies. The natural water system is great for sensitive skin, and there are areas suitable for little ones.
Yes, there is a dedicated zone for swimming lengths, making it suitable for serious swimmers as well as recreational visitors.
The water is natural and chlorine-free, utilizing an eco-friendly system. It's clean and refreshing, offering a different experience than traditional chlorinated pools.
Information on lockers is not explicitly detailed in reviews, but it's common for such facilities to offer them. It's advisable to bring a lock if you plan to use them.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a small cafe restaurant on-site that serves items like hamburgers, french fries, coffee, and homemade sodas.
The cafe offers typical casual fare, including burgers, fries, coffee, and drinks. It's a convenient option for a quick meal or refreshment.
While the cafe is available, many visitors bring their own picnics to enjoy on the extensive green areas. This is generally accepted and a good way to save money.
Specific vegetarian or vegan options are not detailed in the reviews. It's recommended to check with the cafe directly upon arrival for current menu offerings.
Prices are not specified, but the cafe offers standard casual dining options. Bringing your own food can be a more budget-friendly alternative.
📸 📸 Photography
The natural pools themselves, the lush green surroundings, and the architectural elements of the facility offer great photo opportunities. Capture the interplay of water and landscape.
Photography is generally allowed for personal use. However, be mindful of other visitors' privacy and avoid intrusive photography.
Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the serene beauty of the natural pools and landscape.
Drone usage is typically restricted in public recreational areas to ensure safety and privacy. It's advisable to check local regulations or inquire with the facility management.
The facility was designed by Herzog & de Meuron, and its unique architecture is a draw. You can certainly photograph the design elements, but remember to respect the environment and other visitors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
🌿 Eco-Conscious Visitors
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Natural Eco-Water System
This commitment to sustainability extends to the overall design, creating a harmonious blend of recreation and nature. Visitors often praise the absence of the typical chemical smell associated with chlorinated pools, highlighting the pure and natural feel of the water. It's a testament to how modern design can integrate ecological principles for a superior visitor experience.
While the natural system is a major draw, it's worth noting that the water might have a slightly different clarity or temperature compared to a chemically treated pool. However, the overwhelming sentiment is positive, with many appreciating the eco-conscious approach and the resulting clean, invigorating swimming environment.
Architectural Significance
Visitors have noted the beauty of the structure, with one review mentioning its stunning appearance back in 2017. While there was a mention of the landscaping deteriorating by 2025, the underlying architectural merit remains. The design likely contributes to the overall serene atmosphere, making it a pleasant place to spend a hot day, even when it's crowded.
For architecture enthusiasts, Naturbad Riehen offers a chance to appreciate the work of a world-class firm in a recreational setting. The interplay between the built environment and the natural elements is a key feature that enhances the visitor experience, making it more than just a swimming pool.
Family-Friendly Appeal
The facility offers various zones catering to different age groups and swimming preferences. There are areas specifically designed for children, including slides and diving boards, which are sure to provide hours of entertainment. For those seeking a more relaxed experience, there are also dedicated lanes for swimming lengths.
Beyond the pools, the ample green spaces provide room for families to spread out, picnic, and relax. The overall atmosphere is described as lovely and very relaxing, even when the park is full of people, ensuring a pleasant outing for the entire family.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit