Bern to restrict Aare river access for major construction work

City announces temporary ban on boating and swimming in parts of River Aare from September as flood protection work and Marzili pool renovation begin

Swimming and boating on the River Aare will be banned starting September 22, 2025.
The ban will remain in effect until spring 2026.
The closure is required for the 'Gebietsschutz Quartiere an der Aare' flood protection project.
The Marzili outdoor pool is undergoing renovation concurrently with river works.
Energie Wasser Bern is replacing utility lines along the site during the pool closure.

September 22

Start Date

Spring 2026

Reopening Timeline

"Boating on and swimming in the Aare will be temporarily prohibited for safety reasons."
— Swissinfo / City of Bern

"The construction work is closely coordinated and will be carried out in stages over several winter months."
— City of Bern and partners

Bern Locks Down the Aare

Swimming and boating on the River Aare will be banned starting September 22, 2025.
The ban will remain in effect until spring 2026.
The closure is required for the 'Gebietsschutz Quartiere an der Aare' flood protection project.
The Marzili outdoor pool is undergoing renovation concurrently with river works.
Energie Wasser Bern is replacing utility lines along the site during the pool closure.

September 22

Start Date

Spring 2026

Reopening Timeline

"Boating on and swimming in the Aare will be temporarily prohibited for safety reasons."
— Swissinfo / City of Bern

"The construction work is closely coordinated and will be carried out in stages over several winter months."
— City of Bern and partners