Swimming lakes and waterways around St. Anton

When the sun is high in the sky over the Stanzertal in the height of summer and the mountain meadows shimmer, there’s only one thing to do: jump into the cool water! But where’s the best place to cool off around St. Anton am Arlberg—especially when you have older children or teens who want to do more than just splash around?

As a host family at Hotel Freisleben, we know the best spots for hot days—from the water park right in town to crystal-clear mountain streams and even real whitewater adventures in the valley. In this post, we’ll give you an honest look at what’s really possible around St. Anton and which option suits which mood.

To be honest, let me say right off the bat: St. Anton is not a traditional seaside resort

St. Anton am Arlberg is located at an altitude of about 1,300 meters—and you can really tell that when it comes to the water. You won’t find a warm swimming lake with a sandy beach, like those in the lowlands, right on your doorstep here. If you search online for “swimming lakes in St. Anton,” you’ll quickly come across websites that indiscriminately list lakes that are actually quite far away.

The good news: That’s exactly what makes this region so special. Instead of crowded lakes, you’ll find crystal-clear mountain water, modern water parks, and—for those who love action—some of Tyrol’s best whitewater routes.

Here are our favorites:

Arlberg WellCom – the water park right in the heart of town

The easiest way to cool off is practically right outside your door: The Arlberg WellCom on Hannes-Schneider-Weg is just a few minutes’ walk from St. Anton and is the perfect place to go when the weather isn’t cooperating or your legs are tired from hiking.

Facilities include a spacious indoor pool, a heated outdoor lap pool, and a current channel that leads from the indoor area to the outdoors. A whirlpool and a counter-current system round out the offerings. In the summer, the outdoor area is especially exciting for older children, with a wide slide, a play stream, a children’s pool, and a large lawn for sunbathing and relaxing.

Good to know: In the summer, WellCom is usually open daily (most recently, from mid-June, from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.). The St. Anton Summer Card includes admission to the water parks—we’ll be happy to tell you at the front desk which card and which services apply to you. You can also find out the current opening hours there.

Arlberg-Stanzertal Wellness Park in Pettneu – the peaceful alternative

A little further up the valley, in the neighboring town of Pettneu am Arlberg, lies the Arlberg-Stanzertal Wellness Park. It’s just a few minutes’ drive away—and deliberately focuses on tranquility. The indoor pool, with its pleasantly warm water, massage jets, and a separate children’s pool, is ideal if you prefer a more relaxed atmosphere. You won’t find any spectacular slides or diving platforms here—that’s by design.

Who it’s for: Families who want to spend a quiet afternoon by the water—without the hustle and bustle. The Wellness Park is also a partner of the Summer Card.

Whitewater Activities for Older Children: Rafting and Canyoning

Do you have teenagers with you who are looking for a real adventure? Then when it comes to water activities, there’s no getting around rafting and canyoning. The Rosanna River originates right near St. Anton and joins the Trisanna further down the valley to form the Sanna—a stretch of river that has hosted world championships in whitewater rafting.

Most of the guided tours start in the Tyrolean Oberland around Landeck, Imst, and the Ötztal—all easily accessible by train or car from the valley floor. Experienced, certified guides offer tours at various difficulty levels, ranging from relaxed family-friendly routes to more challenging tours for teens and adults. Family-friendly canyoning tours, such as those in the Rosengarten Gorge near Imst, are particularly popular for beginners.

Important: All participants must be able to swim for rafting and canyoning. Depending on the tour, there may be minimum age and height requirements—please check with the tour operator in advance. Bookings are always made through professional, guided tour operators. We’d be happy to help you find the right tour.

Natural mountain water: Dip your feet in instead of taking a headfirst plunge

There are beautiful spots along the water around St. Anton that, while not supervised swimming lakes, are perfect for a refreshing dip whenever you feel like it. The turquoise-blue Verwallsee in the Verwall Valley is a true place of healing—perfect for taking a break during a hike or e-bike tour to dip your feet in the cool water. The mountain streams along the hiking trails also invite you to cool off.

Please note: Mountain lakes and streams are very cold, unsupervised, and sometimes have a current. They are suitable for cooling your feet and for a quick dip at the shore, but not for extended swimming. Be mindful of nature and your own safety—especially when with children.

If you’re looking for a worthwhile outing: The Silvretta Reservoir on the Bielerhöhe is accessible by car from St. Anton via the Silvretta High Alpine Road (about an hour, toll road) and offers a magnificent high-mountain backdrop—more for sightseeing and hiking than for swimming, but definitely an experience.

Day Trip: Lech Forest Swimming Pool

It’s well worth the trip over the Arlberg Pass to Lech for a full summer day. Opened in 2020, the forest swimming pool between Lech and Zug features a 25-meter lap pool, an aqua fitness pool with bubble loungers, a children’s and baby pool, and a wide wave slide. There’s also beach volleyball, tennis, table tennis, a spacious playground, and a kiosk selling snacks and ice cream.

Who it’s for: Ideal for families with older children who want a fun-filled day at the pool with plenty of space and room to move around. About a half-hour drive away.

Practical Tips for Hot Days in the Arlberg Region

• Use the Summer Card: As a guest, you’ll receive the Summer Card—which allows you to ride buses and many mountain railways for free and gain access to the water parks. You can find out the exact benefits of your card at our front desk.
• Don’t forget sun protection: The sun at high altitudes is intense. Sunscreen with a high SPF, a hat, and sunglasses are must-haves in every bag.
• Pack your water shoes: Sturdy water shoes will protect your feet along mountain streams and on rocky banks.
• Change of Clothes & Snack: Mountain weather can change quickly—a light jacket and a small snack will make any day on the water more relaxing.
• Get an early start: In the height of summer, it pays to start early, whether you’re at the pool or on a guided tour.

After Water Day: Back to the Hotel Freisleben

After a day by and in the water, there’s nothing better than returning to our cozy home. Here, you can relax—and recharge with regional cuisine to get you ready for the next day.

• Centrally located: Water parks, buses, and the train station are all within easy reach—you can often leave your car at home in the summer.
• Nourishment from the Heart: Our breakfast and dinner menu, featuring regional products—including some from our own farm—provide the energy you need for active summer days.
• Snacks for the road: Upon request, we’d be happy to prepare a lunchbox for your trip to the water.
• Personal Tips: We know the region well and would be happy to help you find the right rafting or canyoning tour—or the best spot for your day on the water.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you swim in a lake in St. Anton?
There isn’t a traditional swimming lake right in town. For swimming, check out the water attractions at Arlberg WellCom and the wellness park in Pettneu. Mountain lakes and streams are better for cooling off your feet than for swimming.

What’s suitable for older children and teenagers?
Guided rafting and canyoning in the valley, the lazy river and the wide slide at Arlberg WellCom, as well as a day of swimming at the Lech Forest Pool, offer plenty of variety and action.

Is admission to the water parks included?
The Summer Pass includes admission to the water parks. Benefits vary depending on the pass—please contact us for details and current opening hours.

At what age can you start rafting and canyoning?
That depends on the provider and the tour. You must be able to swim, and there are minimum age and height requirements. It’s best to check with the tour operator in advance.

Enjoy summer in the Arlberg region now

Whether it’s a relaxing swim in the pool, a break by a mountain stream, or a thrilling whitewater adventure—every generation will find the perfect way to cool off in the St. Anton area. We look forward to sharing the most beautiful spots with you and pampering you here at Hotel Freisleben.

See you soon in Arlberg!

Your Klimmer family
Hotel Gasthof Freisleben