100 years of Waldbad Schmiedefeld: Celebrate and swim with friends!

100 years of Waldbad Schmiedefeld: Celebrate and swim with friends!

On July 6, 2025, a big festival will be celebrated in the Schmiedefeld forest pool: the forest pool will be an proud 100 years old. The Schmiedefelder Waldbadfreunde have organized the celebrations, which are not just limited to swimming, but will also offer various cultural program items to properly honor this special occasion. Over the last hundred years, the forest pool has become a popular place for locals and visitors, where you can not only swim but also enjoy excellent leisure ideas.

The history of the forest baths began in May 1925, when the community representatives approved the proposal to lease the bathing pond from the then Henne-Wirt. Since then, continuous investments have been made to offer bathers safety and enjoyment. It's no wonder that the forest pool is very popular with both locals and holidaymakers, as it offers soothing relaxation in nature. In the past, students and club members were even able to use the bathroom free of charge, which reflects the social nature of this place [insuedthueringen.de].

The swimming season and rules for guests

The swimming season has already begun in many outdoor pools. The Waldbad Rückersdorf opened its doors on May 17th. Opening hours are daily from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., and the prices are quite moderate: adults pay 6 euros, while children between 3 and 14 years only have to shell out 3 euros. Pupils aged 15 and over, trainees and students can go swimming for 4 euros. If you would like to go to the forest pool more often, you can get a ten-ticket or annual ticket. There is even a small snack bar on site, which provides refreshment after swimming, as tagesschau.de informs.

An exciting new regulation that applies in many outdoor pools in Germany is topless swimming. In Dresden's outdoor pools, for example, this is now officially permitted in order to promote gender equality. This type of swimwear is becoming more and more popular and is another sign of change in outdoor pools. Only the primary sexual characteristics need to be covered, as can be seen in reports on dawo-dresden.de.

Popular outdoor pools in Thuringia

The Rückersdorf forest pool has particularly stood out recently and was named the most popular outdoor pool in Thuringia in 2024, which offers the opportunity to relax and do sports. The pool is idyllically located on the edge of the forest and offers a variety of facilities, including a 25-meter swimming pool and a new wooden sauna with solar panels on the roof. With investments of around 20,000 euros from donations and income, the offering will be improved in the long term to meet the needs of bathers.

Whether in the Waldbad Schmiedefeld or in other outdoor pools in the region - summer is here with its opportunities for swimming and relaxation. Many are looking forward to the 100th anniversary celebrations, which will represent the culmination of a long tradition of dealing with water and nature.