The Recreatiebad ‘t Badhuis de Menin (Menen) is not just a simple Flemish municipal pool. Its Art Deco architecture, high-temperature pools, and wellness area make it a unique facility, particularly popular with French families from the Lille metropolitan area. Here, we detail the technical points that will truly affect your visit.
Swimming lanes and recreational pool: two separate schedules
A common mistake is to check the recreational pool hours thinking they also cover the banenzwemmen (lane swimming). The two operate on separate schedules, with time slots that do not always overlap.
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Since 2024, the city of Menen has adjusted these time slots in response to attendance data. The sports swimming sessions have been extended early in the morning on weekdays, while some evening recreational slots have been reduced due to persistently low attendance. This type of adjustment has been documented in several Flemish municipalities since 2024.
We recommend checking the Menin pool hours in Belgium before each visit, as seasonal adjustments can change the slots from week to week, especially during Belgian school holidays.
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Belgian public holidays are a recurring trap. Several visitor reviews report unnecessary trips due to a lack of clear information about exceptional closures. The official website of the city of Menen does not always update closures in real-time. A prior phone call remains the most reliable method on public holidays.
Entry fees for Badhuis de Menin and multi-entry cards
The pricing structure of ‘t Badhuis distinguishes several categories: individual adult entry, child rate, reduced rate, and “10-badenkaart” type cards (10-entry card). The prices are significantly higher than in comparable French municipal pools, a gap that several visitors note in their reviews.
This price difference is explained by the nature of the facility. The entry fee grants access not only to the swimming pool but also to the entire recreational area:
- Water slide, current jets, and waterfall in the recreational pool
- Heated paddling pool and water games for young children
- Wellness area with hammam and hot tubs (included in the standard entry)
The wellness access included in the base rate is a distinctive feature. In most border French aquatic centers, this access incurs an additional charge.
Note: since the 2025-2026 season, a trend of rising fees for free swimming and multi-entry subscriptions has been observed in Belgian public pools. This increase is motivated by rising energy costs. We recommend opting for the 10-entry card if you plan regular visits, as it significantly reduces the cost per session.
Water temperature and comfort of pools for children
The recreational pool at ‘t Badhuis is maintained at a temperature significantly higher than that of a standard sports pool. Visitors regularly describe the water as “warm,” making it a suitable choice for families with young children or swimmers who are sensitive to standard temperature pools.
The paddling pool is separate from the main pool, with a depth and temperature suitable for toddlers. The integrated water games allow for independent play for children without requiring constant supervision in the water.
The slide is the main attraction for older children. However, feedback indicates that there are age and height rules to be followed, which vary depending on attendance and the staff present.
Changing rooms and hygiene: a consistently highlighted strength
Several reviews converge on the cleanliness of the changing rooms and showers, a criterion that Belgian public pools have been investing in for several years. Changing tables are available, confirming the family-oriented positioning of the facility.
However, one downside that appears in user feedback is recurring issues with the functioning of the showers, which have been reported multiple times. This point should be anticipated, especially if you visit during peak times.
Birthdays and private events at ‘t Badhuis
‘t Badhuis offers birthday packages for children, a service that distinguishes it from strictly sports-oriented pools. Reservations are made directly with the facility.
This type of service generally includes a dedicated time slot with access to the recreational facilities. The exact conditions (number of children, duration, possible extra charges) vary and should be confirmed at the time of booking.
Attendance and preferred time slots
Wednesday afternoons and weekends concentrate the majority of visitors, particularly families from the Lille metropolitan area. For a calmer experience, weekday mornings outside school holidays offer significantly better swimming and relaxation conditions.
French and Belgian school holidays do not always coincide. Weeks when only French schools are on break represent a good compromise: moderate attendance on the Belgian side, easier access for cross-border families.
‘t Badhuis de Menin remains a rare facility in the cross-border area: heated recreational pool, wellness accessible without extra charge, preserved Art Deco setting. Systematic checking of hours and closure days before traveling avoids the disappointments that several visitors have documented, especially on Belgian public holidays.