A Cold Boost – Turku saunas and winter swimming locations
FROM THE STEPS OF THE PIER TO THE WATER AND THE DELIGHTFUL FROZEN PLUNGE! HANDS DRIPPING WITH ICE WATER AND A TINGLING SENSATION ALL OVER, AS YOU MAKE YOUR QUICK ESCAPE. THEN COMES A WAVE OF HEAT, CARESSING THE ENTIRE BODY. OH, WHAT A WONDERFUL FEELING!
Okay, we get it, winter swimming is wonderful. But why?
Winter swimming is a fantastic example of Finnish madness. It perfectly represents the famous strength that flows through our Nordic veins. We fear not a dip into an icy hole, nor the frozen and pitch-black water underneath – more to the point, we actually enjoy it and long for the experience!
From the freezing water, we dash to another crazy hobby – sweating in a small room, more commonly known as a sauna. And that’s the method to the madness, baking steams between icy dips is key to the whole experience.
In all honesty, is there a nicer feeling than swimming in the ice and sweltering in the sauna, along with the total body euphoria that follows? No, no there is not.
The list of probable health benefits of ice swimming are surprisingly large. Some of these are factually researched, whilst some are simply folklore or the experiences of individuals.
• Wellbeing - Winter swimming actually increases the production of happiness hormones such as dopamine and endorphin. (Could this be the reason why Finns are such a happy nation?)
• Speeds up the metabolism - Activates brown fat and the processing of waste products.
• Refreshing - Like throwing ice cold water on your face, but a full body version.
• Helps with pain - Cold treatment relieves pain and relaxes muscles.
• ZZZZZZ – The quality of sleep improves.
Villa Järvelä
On the shore of Lake Littoinen, not only is there a hole in the ice, there’s also a hot tub. What luxury! If looking for the ultimate relaxation experience, weekdays at Villa Järvelä can include yoga, jogging, or sound therapy before a swim.
Herrankukkaro
Here’s a top secret – only half an hour from central Turku you’ll discover a tar-scented oasis of recreation. Herrankukkaro hosts public sauna events open throughout the year, although at most other times the venue is for private groups only.
On the shores of the Archipelago Sea, become truly at ease in the glow of the storm lanterns. Here you can really unwind in the world's largest underground smoke sauna and hot tubs, before the evening culminates with an archipelago buffet.
Villa Wolax
Located at the tip of the Island of Kuusisto, the seaside Villa Wolax is, in every way, an idyllic place. A real paradise for sauna-goers, especially during winter, it's no wonder that Fridays at the Villa Wolax sauna are becoming so popular.
Sauna Fridays offer a refreshing wood-fired sauna, swimming, a Jacuzzi as well as a delicious buffet.
Saaronniemi winter swimming
Ruissalo
Hovirinnan ranta
Piikkiö
Saaronniemen Saukot
Ruissalo
Turun Avantouimarit
Ispoinen Beach Sauna (also known as the Uittamo beach)
Ala-Lemun kartano
Kaarina
Winter swimming is best enjoyed in good company. So grab a friend or two and head off to relax with this wonderful activity.
In other respects, Turku's winter swimming locations seem to have a very easy-going atmosphere. What’s best about this hobby is the chance to share your passion with likeminded people. While sitting on the bench with a group, a good feeling flows all around, with plenty of encouragement for one another on the pier. The sense of communal spirit is strong.
Text by Jemina Sormunen
Images provided by Visit Turku, Villa Järvelä and Turun Avantouimarit
Published | Updated