Bains Municipaux: history meets well-being

Considered the jewel in the crown of the Neustadt district, the Bains Municipaux is a unique place entirely dedicated to well-being. The building, dating from the 19th century and listed as a historic monument, houses water pools, a balneotherapy area, a fitness room and an educational kitchen. Let’s discover this place full of surprises.

It’s hard to imagine what lies behind the imposing wooden doors of Strasbourg’s Bains Municipaux. But as soon as I step inside, I’m still blown away by the beauty of the architecture. Circular galleries, domes, marble and stained-glass windows add to the majesty of the place.

My favorite spot remains the large pool surrounded by period changing rooms, brass and copper showers and countless sculptures. This space alone is an ode to the Jugendstil style! I come here both to swim laps and to admire this exceptional architectural ensemble bathed in soft, enveloping light. But the adjoining small pool is no match for its predecessor. This more intimate version of the large pool is distinguished by its central basin covered in fine gold.

A visit to the Bains Municipaux inspires me and immediately transports me to another era, that of the early 19th century.

A plunge into the past

At the time, the creation of the Bains Municipaux was a minor revolution in Strasbourg’s urban landscape. Much more than just a “simple” bathing place, they solved many of the problems associated with public hygiene. When it opened in 1908, only 4% of Strasbourg residents had a bathroom in their home! The baths were also one of the only places in Strasbourg where all social classes met. Indeed, the working classes generally went to the basement, where the public baths and showers were located. On the first floor, there was a large pool reserved for men, and a small pool open to women and children. The upper bourgeoisie, meanwhile, found their way to the Roman baths on the second floor. It was “the place to be” for the notables of the time, who used to talk business there. Rest assured, the Bains Municipaux have long since ceased this distribution of space! Open to all, today they welcome working people, students, retirees, schoolchildren, families… in a spirit of benevolence and inclusiveness.

Authentic Roman baths

Completely renovated 3 years ago, the Bains Municipaux have preserved the architecture that is so dear to me. What’s more, the wooden changing rooms and stained-glass windows paying homage to the famous Hokusai wave have been given a new lease of life. The Roman baths circuit, with its mix of hot and cold baths, steam and hot-air ovens, has also retained all its authenticity.

But these renovations have also enabled the establishment to enhance its offering with a brand-new balneotherapy unit! I love going there with friends to enjoy the jacuzzi, saunas, salt grotto and amazing snow shower. But what I really recommend is going in the evening: the heated outdoor Nordic pool offers an exceptional view of the skilfully lit building and, icing on the cake, of Strasbourg cathedral. And to meet the needs of its clientele, the establishment also offers slots reserved for men, women and naturists.

Taking care of yourself

Another must-see area is reserved for skin care. In association with the Dr. Hauschka and Igrane Cosmetics brands, Bains Municipaux offers foot reflexology, facials, a facial and cranial massage, and a warm oil wrap. But body treatments don’t stop there: a fitness area with several pieces of weight-training equipment and a rich program of group classes are also available to customers. These include prenatal yoga, cycling, pilates, CAF and yoga. The aquatic area also offers a wide range of aquagym sessions and swimming lessons.

Group classes

Group classes continue in the Bains Municipaux teaching kitchen! Focusing on vegetarian, organic and balanced cuisine, these classes are led by dieticians. The aim is simple: to show that you can also take care of your body through food. An observation that is visibly shared by many of Strasbourg’s residents, so popular are these cooking classes! As you can see, the Bains Municipaux offer is rich, dense and diversified, but always with the same objective: taking care of yourself.