The Natural Bathing Ponds as a Self-Contained Ecological System
Natural bathing ponds are miniature ecological systems in which processes take place similar to those found in natural lakes. A plant regeneration zone adjacent to the bathing area is responsible for the natural purification of the bathing water. Thus, the high quality of water necessary for bathing is guaranteed without the use of chemical additives.
The water is purified through the action of water plants, phytoplankton, and zooplankton while the water is circulated through plant filter stations and also mechanically conditioned. Floating debris is suctioned off of the surface and runs off through gutters; the water is thus briskly circulated. Fresh water is supplied from deep artesian wells, as needed; the water temperature and quality is thus maintained at an optimum. The entire installation is sealed underneath so that no contamination by groundwater is possible. Several times a week, special equipment is used to clean the bottom of the swimming area of sediments. Our guests are thus guaranteed clear and natural water for their bathing enjoyment.
Recreation with Respect for Mother Nature
The natural bath is cleaned by means of its own self-cleaning abilities, the prerequisite for which is the maintenance of its delicate ecological balance. Our guests can make a valuable contribution to maintaining this balance by behaving accordingly. The regeneration zone and the filter beds are stocked with native swamp and pond plants. Please do not enter this area. We also request that our bathing guests please shower prior to entering the water. Additionally, the use of excessive amounts of suntan creams, ointments, soaps and other such substances would disturb the natural balance.
The fascinating wetlands landscape at the Gargazon Natural Bath is open to visitors from May till September. In the spring, before the start of the bathing season, the bathing pond is emptied, cleaned, and refilled with fresh, clean water.
Basic Data
total area: 12,000 m²
total water area: 2,300 m²
bathing area: approx. 1,000 m²
regeneration zone (incl. plant filter): 1,300 m²
water depth: up to 2.00 meters
year built: 2009-2010
- How the Gargazon Natural Bath works (download)
- Technical details on water purification (download)