Ready for an experience that will electrify your senses? In Sweden, the kallbadhus invite you to a fascinating tradition: alternating the warmth of a Nordic sauna with the refreshing coolness of a plunge into the icy sea. Far from being a simple winter fancy, these iconic establishments offer a wellness ritual where friendliness, relaxation, and contemplation take on their full meaning, from the shores of Malmö to the outskirts of Stockholm. Here are five exceptional places to taste the icy Swedish charm and warm your soul.
In need of invigorating thrills and extraordinary experiences? Head to Sweden, where the kallbadhus are a true institution. These icy baths in the open sea, always preceded by a comforting visit to the sauna, offer a unique cocktail of wellness, friendliness, and Nordic contemplation. From the legendary Ribersborgs Kallbadhus in Malmö to the very elegant Bjerreds Saltsjöbad and the refined Saltisbadet near Stockholm, here are five must-visit addresses to literally dive into the world of Nordic saunas. Forget the sweaters: the Arctic adventure starts now!
Ribersborgs Kallbadhus in Malmö: the must-visit of the south
The Ribersborgs Kallbadhus is the star of Nordic baths. Located in Malmö on a large pastel wooden pier, its elegant silhouette faces the iconic Öresund Bridge. Dating back to 1898, it has lost none of its bygone charm. Here, you can savor Swedish rituals: five saunas (including one unisex!), large outdoor pools, bubbling jacuzzis, and regular aromatherapy “aufguss” ceremonies that fill the sauna with essential oils. The atmosphere is cheerful, warm, and punctuated by events for both young and old. Feeling peckish? Head to the café or the delicious on-site restaurant. After the effort, enjoy some Swedish comfort!
Kallis in Helsingborg: intimate ambiance with a view of Hamlet
For those who prefer calm and breathtaking panoramas, Kallis in Helsingborg is the rare gem. Its minimalist architecture and large bay windows plunge you directly facing the Baltic Sea and the shores of Denmark. On bright blue sky days, guess what? You can even catch a glimpse of the famous Kronborg Castle – Shakespeare’s “Hamlet”! Here, silence reigns, punctuated by the whispers of regulars on the terrace. The traditional aufguss sessions, without mixed genders, create a contemplative, almost meditative atmosphere. A place to dream, breathe, and rejuvenate.
Bjerreds Saltsjöbad in Bjarred: elegance on stilts
Welcome to distinction with the sumptuous Bjerreds Saltsjöbad, perched on a 574-meter wooden pier (the longest in Sweden!). This venue, nestled in the chic resort town of Bjarred, combines tradition and modernity. From the two spacious panoramic saunas (not mixed), the view embraces Malmö, Copenhagen, and the Öresund. You can relax in absolute tranquility, with a saltwater pool and a restaurant that delights gourmets for brunch or lunch. Unfortunately, you will have to wait until May 2025 to rediscover this oasis of Nordic elegance: patience, the pleasure will be even more intense.
Kallbadhuset in Varberg: the Moorish gem for tourists
Less than an hour from Gothenburg, the Kallbadhuset of Varberg stands out as the most spectacular of Swedish baths. Imagine a palace from the Tales of the Arabian Nights floating on the waves, with its sculpted arches, domes, and eastern turrets. Since 1903, this treasure invites relaxation in an atmosphere of yesteryear. The two large non-mixed saunas, boasting stunning views of the Kattegat Sea, provide the perfect opportunity to extend this eastern interlude. Good to know: be sure to bring a coin for the locker; no lockers are included in the admission price! The café-terrace offers a modest but well-deserved snack break after the Nordic thrill.
Saltisbadet in Saltsjöbaden: refinement near Stockholm
Just a few kilometers from the Swedish capital, Saltisbadet is a secret and upscale retreat. Connected to the land by a walkway, this complex on an island welcomes men and women in two distinct buildings: one green dating from 1913 for ladies and the other white from 1925 for gentlemen. The ambiance is muted, far from the urban tumult and rich in history. Each space features its own wood-heated sauna and direct access to the invigorating waters of the sea. In winter, be sure to reserve: only the saunas for men remain open, in a serene silence.
À lire the classic and sports car show in the United Kingdom on June 7th and 8th, 2025
Escaping to these Swedish kallbadhus is to immerse yourself in one of the most original and invigorating traditions of Scandinavia. For all those curious souls, it is also a perfect excuse to extend your exploration: what if, at the other end of Europe, you also discovered the most beautiful hotels in Granada, for an unforgettable stay, for an unforgettable stay in Granada, an unforgettable stay in this Andalusian city or even an unforgettable stay in Granada!
