This pool is legendary amongst locals. Located on top of a hill, in the middle of the Föhrenwald forest, Krapfenwaldbad is the top choice for many. As the highest swimming pool in Vienna, it has a charming view over the whole city. All the city’s remarkable (and not so remarkable) distinct features like Stephansdom, Votivkirche, Riesenrad, Donauturm, social housing Alt Erlaa, and the Millennium Tower can be seen from above, while chilling by the pool with a Spritzer. Surrounded by forest from all sides, there is generous shade being provided by pine trees almost all over the rather large meadow.
If you actually want to swim, better come before midday or 6 pm. During the time in between, the lap pool is crowded and becomes more of a browsing of the sexy bodies on display (wearing sunglasses is advisable).
Krapfenwaldbad has a lap pool, adventure pool, family and children (0.70–0.90m deep) pools, a children’s playground, a football pitch, a beach volleyball court, gymnastic equipment, table tennis tables and many sun beds.
The former holiday house of the Viennese Kaiser Franz Josef Krapf has been renovated and pimped up with a restaurant and espresso buffet, so no lack of Pommes, Spritzers, ice-cream and other tempting snacks.
Swimming options for the serious swimmers: Don’t bother turning up here for some serious laps unless you’re just wanting to impress that pretty girl or guy you know is spending their summer days here.
How to get there?
Catch the U4 subway to Heiligenstadt, jump onto the bus 38 and get off at the station Krapfenwaldgasse. From here, it’s a 10 minute walk straight ahead.
