This pool boast a 50 x 21 m Olympic basin that's open all year round (water is heated to 27°C in winter, with a covered descent into the pool), and a 168 x 24 m basin with fun leisure equipment (only in summer): seating, whirlpool, slide, counter-current pool.
Inaugurated in 1965 by the architect Alexandre Audouze-Tabourin, this was the first European complex of its kind.Its four 30 m pylons are a visual marker in the city, and the slant of its posts are evocative of swimmers diving into the water. This design lightens the massive aspect of the monument's concrete structure and the so-called "functionalist" design of its architecture expresses a certain strength, sturdiness and agility, all of which are often associated with swimming.
It has now been inscribed on the list of 20th century heritage buildings, and is acknowledged to be a remarkable site that's well worth seeing.
What the editorial staff have to say:
This facility was built at the request of the city's mayor Louis Pradel and his sports deputy Tony Bertrand in view of Lyon's bid for the Olympic Games in 1968. Although Mexico won, this pool is loved and enjoyed by all locals. It is open all year round (with a heated basin in cold weather), and gives users the opportunity to swim in an Olympic basin while enjoying the view of Fourvière hill. Prefer to splash around? The play basin is accessible in fine weather, and ideal for those who want to just sit in the water on a chaise longue, make the most of the whirlpool or encourage their children on the slide. A real aquatic break in the heart of Lyon!
