Basel Expats

Looking for somewhere to go for an afternoon with the whole family? Looking for a really different swimming experience? Or just want to relax on your own or with your partner? Then the Laguna Swimming Centre has it all… just five minutes across the border into Germany!Apart from the normal lane swimming pool, there is also a large fun pool with wave generator, beach area, fountains and more. On the far side form the changing rooms is a small channel that loops around in a twisty “gorge” with strong currents, fountains and caves, bridges and slides.

There is a smaller childrens pool with some more caves and slides, and even a water roundabout ride. There is also the ubiquitous long 50m long slide with twists, turns and a long queue to get on board.

Going from this central area the next pool starts inside, but takes you outside to enjoy the sun and snow in winter, or the gentle fresh air in summer. The water is always warm, there are some more fountains, and some whirlpool bays for you to just chill out and relax in.

Going a bit further takes you past the menthol steam cave and now you have a choice of three further pools. To the right is the toddler pool, with miniature slides and warm water for little legs. In front is a polo shaped pool that is really warm, and while is is possible to swim around in circles, most people just lie around the edges and let the whirlpool jets massage their aching limbs.

Finally in the middle of the polo pool, across the bridge is the final glory hole: the ultimate in relaxation, a body temperature (37C) pool where you just find some space around the edge and lie there, the ultimate in relaxation – but for no more than 10 minutes for safety reasons.

With bookable extras like sauna, massages and more, plus a restaurant and bar, time goes quickly here, but it’s both fun and relaxing. Definitely worth a visit.