![](https://mb.cision.com/Public/16757/3716927/840d5f20d336dbad_800x800ar.jpg)
Photo: Helena Wahlman/imagebank.sweden.se ( Download)
Not many will have missed the chilly trend that is wild swimming, winter bathing, winter swimming, ice bathing - whatever you like to call it. Whether you're doing it for well-being reasons or the adventure of it the trend seems set to stay - and there are plenty of 'refreshing' spots across Sweden that are great for winter swimming. Hotel and travel search site momondo.se has teamed up with lovers of winter bathing from Dark & Cold to showcase some of the best winter beaches and what to pack in your beach bag.The Dark & Cold Association, or the Happy Friends of Cold and Darkness as they call themselves, is a non-profit association dedicated to developing positive experiences in those parts of the world that have a prolonged period of cold and darkness.“All credit to sun and beach holidays, but we also want to celebrate the cold and darkness that we experience here in Sweden during the winter months. Winter bathing in particular is a great example of how to have positive experiences even in winter, to feel more alive, by taking advantage of the long cold spells and the few hours of sunshine that the season brings us," says Lars Westerlund, spokesman for Dark & Cold.Endorphins, dopamine, mindfulness, improved blood circulation and fewer sick days are just a few of the many health benefits that a wild, winter swim can bring, according to Lars Westerlund. But also, for those who want to experience Sweden in a new way during the winter months, the cold experience is a good option.“Winter bathing is one of the most exotic things the cold months have to offer in Sweden, from north to south. Sweden is one of the most water-rich countries in the world and has one of the longest coastlines in Europe. In other words, the possibilities for a beautiful, sparkling winter swim are endless,” says Per Christiansen, spokesman for momondo.
The 5 best winter beaches across Sweden according to Dark & Cold:
1. Ganlet, GothenburgA nice walk to the swimming area by the sea, which can be reached all year round via several ladders, is part of the overall experience here. It's also a really cosy place to enjoy a hot drink you've brought with you to enjoy after a swim.
2. Winter Park in Östersund, JämtlandIn addition to ice baths and wood-fired whirlpools, Vinterparken is also a nice day trip destination. Ice skating, cross-country ski trails, a playground and a museum keep you busy even after the winter swim. The beach has sun loungers with blankets if you want to sit for a while and enjoy the fresh air - or watch the stars on a clear evening.
3. Vitskärsudden in Obbola, VästerbottenHere you can enjoy the view of one of Vitskärsudden's many cairns with a hot drink and a good snack after a winter swim.
4. Festningsbadet in Varberg, HallandFästningsbadet is a popular destination in the summer months, but it also offers swimming in winter. And Fästningspiren is centrally located, so swimmers can enjoy Varberg's cosy city centre while they're there.
5. Kivik Harbour, SkåneA popular destination all year round. In summer the place is full of sun-seekers - why not take the opportunity to enjoy the beautiful harbour in winter too? Kivik Harbor has a ladder that is available all year round.
Here´s what Dark & Cold recommend you pack for the beach - in winter
- Swimwear
- Small towel - to put on when changing.
- A warm hat - a warm hat can be worn during and after the bath to keep the body warm. That's because a lot of body heat is lost through the head.
- Warm gloves - can also be useful when climbing down an icy ladder.
- A large towel or a warm bathrobe - to wrap up after bathing.
- Warm, loose clothing that is easy to put on afterwards. Even if you don't catch a cold in the water, you can easily catch a cold after swimming if you don't dress warmly and dry.
- Something warm to drink after your swim - for example, hot chocolate, juice, coffee or tea.
- Something tasty to eat after the swim - it is well known that winter swimming makes you hungry.
- Neoprene shoes - a great way to protect your feet and toes.
- A friend - never winter swim alone and always stay close to the ladder.
About Dark & Cold
Dark & Cold works on a not-for-profit basis to develop positive experiences in parts of the world that experience long periods of cold and darkness. This is about cooperation to further cold and darkness into something that enriches the lives of both those who live in these areas and those who have the privilege of visiting this part of the world. For more information on Dark & Cold, visit https://www.darkandcold.com/en/ .Here are our 8 Swedish highlights for the cold season. With its snowy landscapes and thousands of frozen lakes and rivers, Sweden is the ideal destination for anyone looking for a real winter with all the trimmings. Ice bathing, watching the northern lights, relaxing in the sauna and much more. https://visitsweden.com/what-to-do/nature-outdoors/winter-activities/(Back to Top)
|