Icebathing and Sauna in Stockholm nature

If you’re exploring Stockholm and craving a taste of true Swedish culture, trying out ice-bathing and sauna might be just what you need. We haven’t done this particular tour ourselves, but from what we’ve gathered, it offers an engaging way to connect with local customs, enjoy nature, and maybe push your comfort zone a bit. It’s a well-rated experience that attracts travelers looking for something different and memorable.

What really stands out are the warmth of the sauna combined with the refreshing chill of the ice lake, and the chance to enjoy some genuine outdoor Swedish life just a short drive from the city. Also, the fact that it’s guided by knowledgeable hosts makes it more accessible for first-timers. The only possible hiccup? If you’re not comfortable with cold water or have mobility issues, this might not be the best fit. But if you’re open to a little adventure, this tour could be a highlight of your trip.

This experience is best suited for those who want to try something authentic, are comfortable with outdoor winter activities, and enjoy a bit of physical challenge. It’s also a good pick for anyone curious about Swedish traditions or simply looking for a unique way to spend a few hours in nature.

Key Points

• Authentic Swedish Tradition: Experience sauna and ice-bathing as locals do, in a natural setting near Stockholm.
• Guided Experience: Knowledgeable guides explain the customs and procedures, making it accessible for beginners.
• Outdoor Setting: Enjoy a scenic walk through a forest area, with a small lake typically covered with ice during winter.
• Flexible Options: Sauna sessions are gender-segregated or mixed on certain days; towels and lockers provided.
• Health Benefits: The contrast of hot and cold boosts circulation, energizes, and provides deep relaxation.
• Value for Price: At around $198, this includes transport, entrance fees, and a warm drink, offering a well-rounded experience.

What to Expect from the Tour

This is a thoughtfully curated experience that combines outdoor adventure with culture. Starting in central Stockholm, you’ll meet your guide at Slussen, then hop on a local transport for about 20 minutes to the forested outskirts of the city. The short bus ride already hints at the sense of escaping into nature—something that’s integral to Swedish outdoor life.

Once you arrive, you’ll walk just five minutes to the wooden sauna and the nearby forest lake, usually covered with ice from November through April. The guide will walk you through all the details of how to enjoy sauna and ice-bathing safely, which is especially helpful if it’s your first time. You’ll be given padlocks for lockers, and towels are available to rent if you don’t bring your own.

The sauna experience is separated by gender but occasionally mixed on Mondays and Wednesdays, allowing for more social interaction. You’ll have the chance to alternate between the sauna’s heat and a dip in the icy lake, which many find both invigorating and exhilarating. The cold plunge, while optional, is highly recommended—trust us, it leaves you feeling alive and refreshed.

After your outdoor activities, you’ll have the option to relax with a Swedish fika—think coffee, tea, and perhaps a sweet treat—or enjoy a hearty lunch at a local restaurant that’s been serving guests for over 80 years. The atmosphere there captures that cozy, feel-good vibe that’s perfect after an outdoor adventure.

The Experience in Detail

Transportation & Timing

The tour begins at 9:30 am in the heart of Stockholm, making it easy to fit into a day’s schedule. The use of local transport gives you a genuine feel of how Swedes venture into nature, and the 20-minute ride keeps the journey short and sweet. Group size is small, capped at ten travelers, which means more personalized attention.

The Sauna & Ice Lake

Once at the site, you’ll be shown the separate facilities for men and women, or the mixed option on certain days. The sauna is a traditional wooden structure, heated to a comfortable temperature, and designed for relaxation. The ice lake, often frozen solid in winter, provides a stark but beautiful contrast to the warm sauna. The experience of plunging into icy water might sound intimidating at first, but with proper guidance, most find it surprisingly manageable—and incredibly rewarding.

The Guides & Safety

The reviews highlight Alexandra’s knowledgeable and caring approach, ensuring everyone feels safe and comfortable throughout. The guide explains all the customs, safety tips, and procedures, which is especially valuable for first-timers. As one reviewer said, “she made me feel really comfortable and safe,” which can be the difference between enjoying or dreading the experience.

Food & Relaxation

Post-activity, you can choose to unwind at the onsite restaurant, which boasts an 81-year tradition of welcoming guests. The cozy ambiance, warmed by a fireplace, complements the outdoor cold plunge perfectly. A simple lunch or fika is a great way to reflect on the experience and warm up again.

Value & Cost Breakdown

At about $198 per person, the price includes transportation, entrance fees, lockers, and hot drinks. While lunch and towels cost extra, the overall package offers a satisfying balance of outdoor adventure, cultural insight, and relaxation. Considering how unique and authentic this experience is, many find it worth the price—especially with the small group size and guided approach.

Real Travelers’ Insights

One traveler, Shawna, shared that Alexandra did “an amazing job guiding me through the traditional Swedish sauna and cold plunge,” making her first experience very comfortable. She mentioned feeling safe and appreciated the personal touch.

Another, Karolina, praised the outdoor aspect, calling it a “home run” for those wanting to experience local customs. She also enjoyed the nearby lake for ice-bathing and appreciated the warm, welcoming atmosphere at the restaurant afterward.

Both reviews underscore the professionalism of the guides and the authenticity of the setting—two key elements that make this tour stand out.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventurous travelers wanting a genuine taste of Swedish outdoor life. It’s suited for those comfortable with cold water or eager to try something new and invigorating. The guided approach makes it accessible even for beginners. If you enjoy outdoor activities, cultural traditions, or simply want a memorable story to tell, this tour fits the bill.

Who Might Want to Think Twice

If you have mobility issues, or if cold water immersion isn’t your thing, this might not be the ideal activity. Also, for anyone seeking a luxurious or pampering experience, this is more about authentic, active outdoor fun than comfort. Lastly, be prepared for weather conditions—winter outdoor activities require some resilience.

FAQs

Do I need to bring my own swimwear? Yes, you should bring your own swimwear, along with towels and slippers if desired. Towels are available to rent at SEK75.

Is transportation included in the price? No, tickets for local transport are not included, so plan accordingly.

What is the duration of the tour? The full experience lasts about 3 hours and 30 minutes, with a roughly 20-minute transfer time from central Stockholm.

Can I join if I’ve never done this before? Absolutely. The guide explains all procedures, making it beginner-friendly.

Are the sauna facilities gender-segregated? Yes, the sauna is separate for women and men, but on Mondays and Wednesdays, it’s mixed.

What should I wear? Just bring swimwear, slippers, and a water bottle. You can rent towels if needed.

Is food included? No, lunch is optional and not included in the tour price, but there is a cozy restaurant nearby for post-activity relaxing.

What if I want to cancel? You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance, with a full refund.

Is this suitable for families or children? The experience is outdoor and physically active, so it’s best for adults comfortable with cold water and outdoor winter conditions.

This ice-bathing and sauna experience offers a genuine slice of Swedish outdoor life, wrapped in natural beauty and guided by friendly experts. It’s a fantastic way to challenge yourself, learn about local customs, and enjoy a memorable outdoor adventure. Perfect for those seeking authentic experiences, especially if you love a little cold water therapy and scenic nature.

While it’s not designed as a luxury spa day, the combination of outdoor exhilaration, culture, and cozy post-activity relaxation makes it a worthwhile addition to your Stockholm itinerary. Just remember to dress appropriately, bring your sense of adventure, and be ready to feel truly energized.

Whether you’re a seasoned outdoor enthusiast or simply curious about Swedish traditions, this tour could be one of those stories you’ll be telling long after your trip ends.