Munich offers you numerous swimming options that go beyond the classic pools and quarry ponds. Whether it’s a romantic Art Nouveau pool or a natural swimming spot along the Isar Canal, you can go for a swim here with a special flair in every season. But if you’ve had your fill of Munich’s pools, then you should take a trip to Franconia. This is where the Pottenstein Rock Pool is located, which not only impresses with its towering rock face but also captivates as a natural swimming spot. This year, however, there’s double the reason to visit the Rock Pool, as it ’s celebrating its 100th anniversary and invites you to some cool events to mark the occasion.
The Art Nouveau pool on the cliff
The Pottenstein Rock Pool first opened its doors on Pentecost 1926, making it one of Bavaria’s oldest outdoor pools. Back then, the pool was designed in the Art Nouveau style. In front of the 70-meter-high limestone wall of the Finkenstein stood a 1,300 m² concrete pool with three diving towers carved into the rock. In the 1970s, the pool would have needed to be renovated, but the costs were too high.
In 1987, the pool finally closed for 14 years and underwent a complete renovation during that time. The classic swimming pool was transformed into a natural swimming area that operates entirely without chlorine or other chemicals. The water is purified by plants and filter substrate in a separate filter basin. The pool is not heated, so the water temperature remains a refreshing 19°C.
100 Years of the Pottenstein Rock Pool
The Pottenstein Rock Pool has been around for a century and has always been considered one of Germany’s most beautiful outdoor pools. The towering limestone wall is not only typical of the Franconian Jura but also provides an impressive backdrop. Every spring, mountain rescue climbers scale the Finkenstein and remove loose rocks and debris so you can swim in the natural pool without worry. If you can’t get enough of rocky landscapes, you can stop by the Tüchersfeld Rock Castle after your visit to the pool—it’s also part of Pottenstein.
The spectacular view alone makes a trip to the Pottenstein Rock Pool worthwhile, but this year there are even more reasons to stop by. To mark the 100th anniversary , the Bauer family, who run the facility, has come up with a few special treats to celebrate with you. On July 21 and August 5, you can look forward to free concerts on the lake stage. July 31 marks the highlight of the anniversary season, when the grand celebration of the 100th anniversary will take place. But the series of events is far from over: On August 2, there will be a morning beer gathering in the pool’s own beer garden for you, and on September 5, theFelsenbad flea market will bring the festivities to a close.
📍 Location: Pegnitzer Str. 35, 91278 Pottenstein
🕐 Hours: Daily from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. when the weather is nice
💶 Price information: €4.50 adults, €3 children
