It has been remarkable, how many times we have traveled to both Zurich and Switzerland and it is because Zurich and Switzerland are remarkable places.
So here is something special that the general tourist to Zurich (and some residents of Zurich) know nothing about.
Several times a year during the summer, the temperatures rise over 90 degrees and Zurich residents do something very special and flock to the Werdinsel natural river park. This park is really an island with a divided river on both sides. One side is really for floats and rafts only and the swimming side is unique.
The swimming side of the park is similar to a Disney World ride in that you jump into the river, which has a pretty solid, fast moving current, and with very little swimming effort, the river moves you along about 1/8 of a mile downstream to an exit point. It is a fantastic ride and it is very natural in that the river is extremely clean and cool, a welcome relief on a hot summer day. The ride is so cool and effortless, that you wind up repeating this excitement 10 times, it is that good!
The river park has plenty of room for sun bathing and two outdoor, casual restaurants and indoor changing areas and showers. The river park is very family oriented. There is no charge for this river park.
Getting to this natural river park is simple and easy. From the downtown main train station in Zurich, you need to take the #17 tram towards Werdholzli and come off at the Tuffenwies station. This is a 15-minute trip from the main train station. From the Tuffenwies station, it is just a 5-minute walk to the river park, just follow the people with towels, floats and sunscreen.
We have visited this park three times now and really can’t get enough of it. For us, it is a European happening and experience.
