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Nature & Adventure

Ice and Winter Baths in Uppsala

En man badar i en isvak och tittar över frusen sjö

The tradition of bathing for health benefits has deep roots in European history. Even Hippocrates, the “father of medicine,” recommended cold baths to his patients over 1,600 years ago. Today, cold-water swimming has become more popular than ever. In Uppsala, you’ll find several beautiful natural spots where you can enjoy a refreshing winter dip – and at some locations, a warm, relaxing sauna awaits afterwards. Winter swimming is a truly unique winter experience that will leave you with an endorphin rush!

En kvinna sitter i en vildmarksbastu

Fjällnora, vildmarksrelaxen

Address: Fjällnora 35, Uppsala
Website: www.uppsala.se

Fjällnora is a large nature reserve teeming with wildlife – elk are hunted here during the season. There’s plenty to explore, including an exciting high ropes course and a cozy café. In winter, you can take an invigorating dip in one of the ice holes on Lake Ramsen, right by the wilderness relax area. At least two holes are kept open in the ice, and nearby you’ll find a wood-fired sauna available for rent. The charming round sauna sits on a floating platform right beside the ice hole.

En man på står i morgonrock på en brygga och blickar ut över en frusen sjö

KFUM Alnäs

Address: Mälarvägen 14
Website: kfumalnas.se/vinterbad

Built in 1906 by the YMCA of Uppsala, Alnäs has hosted summer camps for children and youth for over 60 years. Today, it’s a year-round destination offering a range of outdoor activities. Everything you need for a great winter swim is here – a bathing jetty equipped with a ladder and bench, and a modern sauna just 100 meters away, available for rent. Alnäs is beautifully located by Lake Ekoln, only 20 minutes from central Uppsala, and is easy to reach by car, bus, or even by bike.

En man vinterbadar i en isvak och håller ett grepp om badstegen

Björklinge, Sandviksbadet

Address: Sandbrovägen, Björklinge
Website: www.uppsala.se

Björklinge is a village just outside Uppsala surrounded by scenic nature. Sandviksbadet is located by Lake Långsjön, a natural spring-water lake known for its exceptionally clean water – so pure it can be used for drinking. A dip here feels especially refreshing! There are changing booths on site, and the jetty remains in place all year round.

Good to know

  • Stay safe while winter swimming! Whether you’re an experienced swimmer or trying it for the first time, make sure to follow safety guidelines. Read up on winter swimming before you go.
  • Make sure you’re in good health and never swim alone.
  • Bring warm, dry clothes and a mobile phone for safety.

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