What has changed: the name, the facility, the standard. What has remained the same: the idea that the thermal water should benefit everyone - not just those who can easily afford it.
1215. The water came first.
The oldest document that mentions the Leukerbad thermal water dates back to 1215. People bathed here as early as Roman times - because of the warmth, because of the minerals, because of the effect. Because of the water.
1865. For everyone who needs it.
Around the middle of the 18th century, citizens began collecting money. Not for themselves - for the poor who could not reach the healing spring. In 1865 the poor hospital and bathing establishment were finished: a clear attitude that continues to this day.
Sandra & Didier Grichting.
Sandra and Didier Grichting took over management in 2008 - as a family, not as a group. The 4-star classification came in 2020, and the Restaurant 51° opened in December 2022.
After a fire and a major renovation, the new Gemmiblick outdoor pool was added in 2025. The house remains what it was - with better pools.
Oldest document: Thermal water documented in Leukerbad
Construction of the poor hospital with a bathing establishment
Renamed to “Volksheilbad”
Sandra & Didier Grichting take charge
Therme 51° · 4-star classification
Opening Restaurant 51°
New Gemmiblick outdoor pool · Renovation completed
The thermal water belongs to everyone. That's what we mean.
Therme 51° does not belong to a private individual - the house is supported by a foundation that has officially existed since 1979. All income from table water - the water you order at the table - goes directly to the solidarity fund.
“Everyone should be able to take a break from everyday life - with our small contribution we make this possible for everyone.”
Competence Center for Disabled Sports Switzerland
Association for deaf-blind people
People with mental disabilities
Visually Impaired Forum Switzerland
Discover the house.
The best way to feel the history is in the water, at breakfast, at the dinner table.