Get Ready to Dive In: Dazzling Seine Swimming Spots Are Back In Paris
Summertime Swimming Pools Installed Along Seine River in Paris - Summertime swim opportunities in Paris: The famed Seine river will serve as open-air swimming pools for the public.
Summer in Paris is about to get a whole lot cooler! The city of love is opening up three fabulous outdoor swimming pools right in the heart of the Seine this July. And if that isn't exciting enough, there's even a pool just a stone's throw away from the iconic Eiffel Tower!
Water quality has been vigilantly monitored, ensuring it's as clean and pristine as a French croissant. To top it off, these pools won't just be for a quick splash—they'll be fully decked out with changing rooms, showers, lifeguards, and sunbathing spaces.
Get Swimming with the Seine's Latest Additions:
- Eiffel Tower by Night: Envision taking a dip while the Eiffel Tower glimmers at night. This pool, perfect for families and children, will be a dreamy addition to your holiday snaps.
- Notre-Dame's Secret Cove: Fancy a refreshing swim near the famous Notre-Dame Cathedral? Dive into this serene pool to cool off while soaking in the stunning surroundings.
- Library Lawn Lounge: Located adjacent to the National Library, this pool is a perfect spot for sunbathing and lounging on cozy lawn chairs.
Climate change has taken a toll on global temperatures, making these swimming spots essential for Parisians to beat the heat. Mayor Anne Hidalgo stressed that these pools are a well-timed response to the anticipated summer heatwave, and a step towards a higher quality of life in the city.
Back to the Seine's Waters Again
Believe it or not, swimming in the Seine runs deep in French capital history. Although officially banned in 1923, Parisians still took a dip here and there, continuing the tradition into the early 1960s.
With renewed focus on water quality and the upcoming Paris Olympics in 2024, we're now seeing the once incredibly polluted river return to its former glory. It's time to bring back this iconic river's rich tradition of swimming— Parisian-style!
Here's a quick rundown on some interesting tidbits about the Seine's struggle for clean water:- In the early days, the Seine was infamous as a dumping ground for industrial and domestic waste.- Swimming in the river was officially banned in 1923 due to health risks, and by the 1970s, only three fish species remained.- Large-scale construction of wastewater treatment plants began in the 1940s, but it wasn't until the early 2000s that significant improvements were achieved.- Over €1.4 billion has been invested in upgrading the sewer system and building rainwater and wastewater storage basins in preparation for the Olympics.- Plans are in place to open designated swimming areas along the river starting in 2025.
In the heart of Paris, a revived community policy is encouraging individuals to embrace an active lifestyle by taking part in outdoor-living activities, such as vocational training programs for lifeguards, home-and-garden workshops for setting up sunbathing spaces, and sports events surrounding the riverside swimming pools. With the return of the Seine's stunning swimming spots, Parisians can embody the rich tradition of community involvement in watersports and further enhance their quality of life.
