Outdoor Activities and Nature Experiences

Ice Baths & Winter Baths in Uppsala

The tradition of taking cold baths for health purposes has ancient roots in Europe. In fact, it was recommended by the “father of medicine,” Hippocrates, to his patients already 1600 years ago. Today, ice bathing has become a hot trend in Sweden. There are several picturesque spots for a winter dip in the lakes surrounding Uppsala. Many of the sites also offers a wonderfully warm sauna where you can heat up afterwards. Winter bathing is a unique winter activity that will give you a boost of endorphins!

Fjällnora, The Wilderness Relaxation

Fjällnora is a nature reserve and recreational area with beautiful nature and a rich wildlife, moose is hunted here during the hunting season. There are various outdoor activities to discover, some are truly unique. Like the charcoal burner’s hut, where you can learn about the life of charcoal workers who used to produce charcoal in this forest. There is also a café in the area.

During winter, you can take a dip in an ice hole at the wilderness relaxation area by Lake Ramsen. When the lake freezes, there are at least two ice holes to choose from, and at one of them, you can rent a wood-fired sauna. The cozy circular sauna, is located on a raft right next to the ice hole.

YMCA Alnäs

In 1906, the summer retreat Alnäs was built by the YMCA, and they have now hosted summer camps for children and youth here for over 60 years. However, Alnäs offers numerous outdoor activities all year round. Enjoy a winter bath from the bathing dock with both a ladder and a bench where you can change. You can also rent the modern sauna just a stones throw away from the bathing dock, at a reasonable cost. Alnäs is located by Lake Ekoln’s shore, only 20 minutes from central Uppsala, easily accessible by car, bus, or bike.

Sandviksbadet, Björklinge

Björklinge, located in the northern part of the municipality, has some picturesque natural areas. Sandviksbadet next to lake Långsjön, is one of them. This is a spring water lake, which means the water is of such high quality that it can be used for drinking water. This makes a dip in the ice hole here particularly refreshing. Changing rooms are available on-site, and a jetty is present year-round.

Safety First

Whether you’re an experienced winter bather or a curious beginner, make sure you have taken all the appropriate safety measures before heading out. You should be of good health, always have company, and remember to bring warm, dry clothes and a mobile phone.

Map

Fjällnora, The Wilderness Relaxation
Fjällnora 35, 755 97 Uppsala, Sweden
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YMCA Alnäs
Mälarvägen 14, 756 53 Uppsala, Sweden
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Björklinge, Sandviksbadet
Sandbrovägen, 743 74 Björklinge, Sweden
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