Umeå Kallbad is a volunteer initiative and rapidly growing community promoting cold bathing and sauna culture. This winter, the initiative has gathered winter swimmers for the popular “Sunday Dip” at Bölesholmarna in central Umeå, with up to 150 participants at individual events.

New Sauna and Bathing Experience

On February 7th, Umeå Kallbad will inaugurate a new sauna at Bölesholmarna in central Umeå. The sauna, which can accommodate ten people, is built with recycled materials and constructed by an dedicated team led by carpenter and recycling expert Sebastian Ulonska, one of the initiators of Umeå Kallbad.

Unique Experience: “Experience the Ice”

Simultaneously, they are launching a unique experience called “Experience the Ice” – a guided Nordic bathing experience that combines fire, ice, and traditional fika. The experience is led by Elvira Lundgren, community organizer for Umeå Kallbad, and is even offered with hotel pickup to make it more accessible for visitors.

“Sauna and cold bathing are part of Nordic cultural heritage and the health effects these traditions provide. Interest in health tourism is increasing, and we see Umeå Kallbad as an important part of this movement. More and more people are realizing the need to reconnect both with nature and themselves – a counterweight to the modern everyday pace and demands,” says Elvira Lundgren.

“Umeå Kallbad represents more than just a place to swim; it’s a testament to what we can achieve when a community comes together with a shared vision for wellness and environmental stewardship,” says Dan Allen-Hörnfeldt, one of the founders.

Community and Collaboration

The project is in collaboration with Umeå Municipality’s Recreation Department and has received a temporary three-month permit to activate a central meeting place through water-related activities. Work is ongoing to secure a longer building permit and permanent establishment.

Booking Information

Sauna sessions and “Experience the Ice” can be booked at umeakallbad.se. Annual memberships are offered, providing access to both sauna and cold bathing.

For more information, contact Elvira Lundgren at exploringhuman@icloud.com or +46 730 249 773.