Experience the thrill of the chill this winter in Finland. Not convinced? Well, Finland has been confirmed as the world’s happiest country for many consecutive years, which means they must be doing something right, right? Embracing the invigorating tradition of ice swimming in Helsinki is more than just a daring plunge into freezing waters—it’s a transformative experience for both body and mind.
As the capital of Finland, Helsinki boasts a unique blend of cultural richness and natural beauty, and its commitment to the tradition of ice swimming is no exception. So, without further ado, let’s embrace the cold and tap into sisu (an untranslatable Finnish word that describes the concept of valour and resilience) and feel the happiness flooding in.
Aurinkolahti Beach
Unfortunately, you cannot heat up in a sauna when embarking on an ice swimming adventure at Aurinkolahti Beach. However, some studies suggest that it is better for your body to self-generate warmth for recovery. This relatively new ice swimming spot in Helsinki offers you an ice dipping experience for a small fee on Saturdays from 12 pm to 4 pm. Also, if you want to try ice swimming more often, you can purchase a membership wristband. Although there is no sauna, there are at least warm changing rooms!
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Kuusijärvi
Located just outside of Helsinki sits Vantaa. Here, you can find smoke and even electric saunas close to Lake Kuusijärvi. This lake allows you to swim throughout the year, especially during winter. Vantaa’s Lake Kuusijärvi is the only ice swimming spot in Helsinki that is not seawater. So, if that makes you excited, then the trip to Vantaa would be well worth it!
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Kulttuurisauna
Nestled in Merihaka, Kultuurisauna stands out as one of Helsinki’s most serene retreats. To preserve a tranquil ambience, the facility limits group admissions to no more than three people. This unique sauna venue features distinct spaces for men and women, each offering a rejuvenating sauna experience. The picturesque courtyard, complete with stairs leading down to the sea for swimming, adds to the overall tranquillity of Kultuurisauna.#
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Löyly Sauna
Situated on the southern edge of Helsinki, Löyly stands as a testament to traditional Finnish sauna culture and a remarkable achievement in contemporary architecture. During the winter months, patrons have the unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the frigid waters of the Baltic Sea for an invigorating swim, followed by a cosy respite with hot cuisine near an open fire at Löyly’s restaurant. If you would like to book sessions with Löyly Sauna, you must make sure to do so in advance.
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Allas Sea Pool
In addition to providing guests with the opportunity to explore three saunas and a heated swimming pool with panoramic views of both Helsinki Cathedral and Uspenski Cathedral, Allas ensures that its cold seawater pool remains open during the winter season. In the event of freezing, efforts are made to break the ice. The seawater pool is a short distance from the saunas, so it is advisable to wear flip-flops to prevent your feet from becoming cold during the walk.
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St George Care Spa
At Hotel St. George, unwind in their classic sauna to ease tension before immersing into a contemporary interpretation of the time-honoured Finnish ice-hole experience. Filled with mineral-rich Finnish water, the ice dip provides a revitalising experience for both the mind and body, embodying the essence of Nordic wellness. Their offerings extend with a selection of customised treatments and exercises designed to allow you to indulge in relaxation, emphasising well-being and tranquillity fully.
If you enjoy this article, be sure to read about ice karting: one of the best winter activities in Finland!
Don’t Be an Ice Hole!
There are various health benefits associated with ice swimming. Firstly, ice swimming enhances one’s mood and focus. Secondly, nothing sets off the fireworks of anti-inflammatory processes in the body like an ice plunge can. This act of resilience improves the immune system and stress management and assists in regulating body temperature. Lastly, ice swimming boosts metabolism, like you won’t believe.
It is estimated that this form of cold therapy can burn as many calories in 15 minutes as in a high-intensity workout of 45 minutes. Inducing a drop in the body’s core temperature prompts it to employ innovative strategies to maintain warmth. As your body’s temperature decreases, it reaches a threshold where it initiates the process of burning calories to generate heat and sustain warmth. So, this form of therapy is beneficial to everyone. If you have stress, ice swimming is the solution. If you feel you need to reset, ice swimming is the solution. So, don’t be an ice hole. Instead, climb into one.
