River Swimming in Seine Restored for Parisians
**Swimming Returns to the Seine: Paris Revives a Century-Old Tradition**
After a century-long hiatus, Parisians and visitors can once again take a dip in the Seine. Three designated swimming sites have been opened along the river, offering a unique opportunity to swim with a view of some of Paris's most iconic sights.
The reopening of the Seine for public swimming is the result of a significant cleanup effort, following a $1.5-billion project to improve the water quality. The water now consistently meets European safety standards, making it suitable for public swimming. However, challenges such as increased bacterial levels due to rainfall were encountered during the 2024 Olympic Games, leading to some competition delays.
The three new swimming sites—Bras Marie, Bras de Grenelle, and Bercy—offer unique settings for swimmers. Bras de Grenelle provides stunning views of the Eiffel Tower, while Bercy is a family-friendly spot. The public baths, installed using floating pontoons and containers, come equipped with changing rooms, showers, and are supervised by lifeguards.
The initiative, known as "Paris Plages," transforms the banks of the Seine into an urban paradise during the summer, offering a variety of leisure and cultural activities. The programme includes beach bars, sun loungers, boules courts, and sporting activities, providing a lively atmosphere for both swimmers and non-swimmers alike.
Mayor Hidalgo emphasized the importance of improving the quality of life in the city, particularly in light of expected temperature increases. Closing streets along the Seine to car traffic was a first step to make the river more accessible.
The reopening of the Seine for swimming has been met with enthusiasm from locals and visitors alike. German exchange students Juliane and Greta from Munich enjoyed their first swim with a view of the Eiffel Tower, while Véronique, a retiree, hopes that the new swimming opportunities will attract tourists.
The public baths along the Seine in Paris are free for use, making it accessible to all. With the summer heat on the rise, Paris is preparing for peak temperatures up to 50°C in the future, and the swimming opportunities provided by the Seine will offer a refreshing respite. The sports minister stated that everyone should be able to swim in the Seine this summer, marking a significant return to a centuries-old Parisian tradition, blending history with modern ecological and safety considerations.
The home-and-garden concept is extended to the riverside as Paris Plages transforms the banks of the Seine during summer, offering an outdoor-living experience with public baths, beach bars, and various sporting activities. As swimmers enjoy the unique settings provided by the three new swimming sites along the river, they engage in sports activities like swimming, which is becoming an integral part of the lifestyle in revitalized Paris.
