Saint-Imier Pool: outdoor swimming in the heart of the Vallon

A great summer swim at the foot of Mont-Soleil

When the sun beats down on the Vallon de Saint-Imier, the whole family has one desire: to take a dip. The outdoor pool in Saint-Imier, perched in the Bernese Jura between Chasseral and Mont-Soleil, is the perfect place for that. It features a large 50-meter pool, a shallow pool for non-swimmers, a paddling pool for the little ones, and wide lawns where you can lay your towel. It's a village pool, friendly and unpretentious, where you can easily spend the whole day between swims, a picnic in the shade, and a game of beach volleyball. Perfect for catching your breath at altitude when the plain is stifling.

What your children will discover

Your children will first jump into the water, that's guaranteed. The little ones splash safely in the paddling pool and the shallow pool, while experienced swimmers dive into the large 50-meter pool. Between dives, there’s plenty to do: a playground for children, ping-pong tables, and a beach volleyball court for teens. The large lawns invite running, throwing a frisbee, or simply drying off in the sun. It's the kind of place where kids make pool friends in five minutes.

What to do there and the atmosphere on site

The atmosphere is typically summery and family-friendly: towels spread out on the grass, children's laughter, the smell of sunscreen, and cheerful lines in front of the snack bar. You alternate swimming, games, and snack breaks without ever getting bored. The snack bar with a terrace allows you to eat on-site without having to bring everything, and the green space provides room for everyone, even on busy days. It's an outing that can be easily improvised as soon as it gets hot, and one that you willingly extend until late afternoon.

Before you go

• Recommended age: from 0 to 17 years (paddling pool for the little ones, large pool for swimmers).
• Duration: half a day to a full day.
• Price: paid, reduced rates for children; rates to be confirmed on the official website of the municipality.
• Reservation: not necessary, entry for the day or by subscription.
• Accessibility for strollers/PRM: flat site with lawns, easy access with a stroller.
• Transport: in Saint-Imier, accessible by train (CFF station of Saint-Imier) then a few minutes on foot; parking nearby.
• What to bring: swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, cap, picnic supplies, and armbands for the younger ones.
• Ideal season: summer, from mid-May to mid-September, in warm weather.

Parents' tips

• Arrive early on hot days to choose a shady spot on the lawn.
• Bring plenty of sunscreen: the altitude of the Vallon is deceptive, the sun is strong.
• Keep the little ones close to the paddling pool and the shallow pool.
• Bring a picnic to supplement the snack bar during peak hours.
• Check the weather and opening hours before you leave: the pool is seasonal.

Useful information

• Address: Sur le Pont 24, 2610 Saint-Imier.
• Official website: https://www.saint-imier.ch/societe/piscine-en-plein-air/
• Hours: open from mid-May to mid-September; in May and September 9 AM - 7 PM, from June to August 9 AM - 8 PM (to be confirmed on the official website).
• Access: train to Saint-Imier station then a short walk; parking nearby.

Looking for more outings? Find all our activities in Saint-Imier.

Why we recommend it

Because it's the simple and safe summer swim we love: a large pool, a spot for the little ones, grass as far as the eye can see, and a snack bar to last the day. In the green setting of the Vallon de Saint-Imier, it's a sure bet to refresh the whole family without breaking the bank or driving for hours.

In two words

A family outdoor pool in the heart of the Bernese Jura, ideal for a big day of swimming and games between mid-May and mid-September.