Sub zero temperatures, snow and ice – have you tried the trend of winter swimming? It’s popping up everywhere on social media and many rave about the positive effects on the body and soul. They say you never regret an icy dip! We have listed our top locations for winter swimming in central Stockholm, as well as our top tips and a list of useful things to bring when you go for a winter swim. The map at the end of this post shows you where all our tips are located in Stockholm.
Many people who try winter swimming praise it for positive effects such energy boost, reduced stress and overall boost in confidence and wellbeing. Whilst those effects have not (yet) been scientifically proved, there is evidence of increased blood flow and overall better immune system. As long as you are generally healthy there are no reasons not to try it!
If you are curious to try winter swimming there are several locations available in Stockholm. If you require a sauna nearby the options may be slightly limited, and during the pandemic the opening hours and availability may be reduced. If you do not require a sauna the easiest way is to go for a brisk walk by the water and find a suitable jetty with a ladder. We have listed our top spots for winter swimming – both with and without sauna.
Norrbergsbadet in Vaxholm
Norrbergsbadet is located centrally, yet private, in the quaint archipelago town of Vaxholm. Here you can find a jetty with a ladder to help you get in to (and up from) the water.
Top tip – Enjoy a cruise from central Stockholm to Vaxholm through the beautiful archipelago. Prebook you boat ticket to Vaxholm online for guaranteed space onboard.
Källtorp’s Lake in Nacka
Hellasgården in the Nacka nature reserve sports both a sauna and a jetty where you can take a dip in the frozen Källtorp Lake. During the winter months the whole in the ice is kept open by pump control.
Fredhällsbadet on Kungsholmen
During the summer months the swimming spot by the rocks at Fredhäll is very popular, but the location is also suitable for winter swimming – from the rocks or the jetty. There is also a swimming club with a sauna available for club members.
Kaananbadet in Bromma
At Kaananbadet you can enjoy a dip at the whole in the ice maintained by the sauna club Isbjörnarna (the Polar Bears). Available for members as well as visitors.
Tenöbadet at Bogesund
Located at Bogesundslandet in Vaxholm you can find Tenöbadet, a popular swimming spot in the summer. It’s also perfect for a dip during winter time. There is a ladder to descend from, or you can wade in from the beach or slide of the cliffs.
Domarudden in Österåker
At Domarudden in Österåker there are plenty of opportunities for winter swimming – with or without sauna. There are also a number of other outdoor activities available.
Safety comes first when trying something new. Winter swimming is an adventure that requires preparation and a good amount of respect. We have listed some important things to think about:
Preparation is key when it comes to enjoying winter swimming. You’ll definitely feel chilly after your dip, but to reduce the cold and maximise the benefits we have prepared a list of good things to bring.