Sohl: Natural Swimming Pond, Forest Trails and Vogtland History

The deep, evergreen spruce forests around Sohl and an extensive network of trails give the village a distinctly natural character. At the same time, its attractions range from a natural swimming pond with sunbathing and play areas to the historic spring and an Easter pyramid on the Osterpfad Vogtland. If you are planning a trip, you can explore Sohl at your own pace: with walks, time at the swimming pond or cultural points of interest.

The Natural Swimming Pond and Time Outdoors

The Sohl natural swimming pond is a public facility with free admission. The grounds include a sunbathing lawn, a playground, and a sports field with artificial turf and a basketball hoop; there is also an area for playing volleyball. The different spaces offer a range of ways to spend time here: relaxing on the lawn alongside playing and ball sports. This gives families different ways to enjoy a visit to the swimming pond, as the sunbathing lawn, playground and sports areas each offer something different. The facilities’ availability may vary by season.

Walks and Hiking Trails

Sohl is surrounded by deep, evergreen spruce forests. An extensive network of trails, most of which are well marked, offers plenty of room for relaxing walks. One destination for a walk is the forest spring between the listed village of Raun and Sohl. Another suggested hike starts in Sohl and, after crossing the B 92, follows the Sohler Weg. You can choose between a walk on the trail network and a specifically described route. Trail conditions can change, so check the current route description before setting out. The trail network provides a general setting for walks, while the suggested hike—with its start in Sohl, crossing of the B 92 and onward route along the Sohler Weg—gives you a specific sequence of trails to plan around.

Historical and Community Highlights

The Urquelle is considered the oldest known healing spring in the Vogtland region and was first mentioned in a document in 1538. This date provides a specific historical reference point and adds a cultural-history dimension to the natural attractions.

Since 2025, Sohl has had a decorated Easter pyramid, a new attraction on the Osterpfad Vogtland. It was created as part of a community initiative launched by the village club. Compared with the spring’s early documentary mention, the pyramid is a more recent, community-created feature. It adds another point of interest for travelers who are interested in local creativity and culture as well as the forest and natural swimming pond.

Getting There and Finding Accommodation

Bad Elster’s bus route 94 also serves Sohl. Check the timetable before you travel so you can plan the connection for your travel dates.

Consider which of these aspects you would most like to shape your stay, and factor that priority into your search for accommodation.

For the broader travel overview: Bad Elster.