Eichholz

What Eichholz is

Eichholz is an open, grassy Aare-side bathing area beside Camping Eichholz. It is the upriver starting point for the best-known city swim: enter here, let the current carry you downstream, and leave the water at Marzili.

The setting is simple and practical rather than a built lido: a large lawn reaches the river, with a narrow gravelly edge for getting in and out. Mature trees provide patches of shade. The neighbouring campsite has a restaurant, while the bathing lawn itself has direct river access.

The Eichholz–Marzili swim

From Marzili, follow the river path upstream for roughly two kilometres to Eichholz. The walk passes the Dampfzentrale and the beach-volleyball courts by Monbijou Bridge. At Eichholz, swimmers typically pack clothes and valuables in a waterproof swim bag, enter gradually from the gravel shore, then float downstream.

This is river swimming, not a casual dip. The Aare is cold and its current is strong. Eichholz has no lifeguard service.

• For: confident, experienced swimmers who know the route and exit points.
• Not for: beginners, weak swimmers or anyone unfamiliar with moving water.
• Exit: use marked exits and leave the river in good time before hazards downstream.

Do not swim during high water or after heavy rain. Check water level, current and conditions immediately before entering; go with another person, stay sober, and use a buoyancy aid with a quick-release connection rather than tying a floating bag to yourself.

On land

Eichholz also works without entering the water. The lawn has space to lie out, picnic or play, and the campsite next door adds toilets, showers and food options for its guests. Keep the gravel shore clear for people entering and leaving the river.

Treat the riverbank as a sensitive public landscape: take rubbish away, respect any marked protected areas, and use designated barbecue points where provided rather than making new fire sites.

Getting there

Eichholz is south of Bern’s centre, near Wabern, on the Aare. From Bern station, tram 9 stops at Wabern, Eichholz; the riverside area is a short walk away. The centre is also about a 30-minute walk from the campsite along the river corridor.

Arrive on foot, by bike or public transport. Parking at the campsite is for camping guests, not day visitors. If you are planning the swim, walk upstream first; the current brings you back toward Marzili.