Umeå Kallbad - Cold Water, Warm Community
It all started with a vision: a year-round facility for cold-water bathing and sauna in the heart of Umeå. With the help of passionate enthusiasts and voluntary contributions, an old wagon was transformed into a sauna that now stands as a symbol of community at Bölesholmarna.
– Cold-water bathing is a physical, mental, and deeply personal experience. For me, it brings a strong sense of presence and calm, and afterward, I feel refreshed, energized, and happy. It’s a meditative moment—a way to disconnect from everything else and truly be in the moment. At the same time, you learn a lot about yourself. You challenge yourself physically by facing discomfort, but also mentally by understanding your own reactions. You realize you don’t need to act on an impulse but can observe it and choose how to respond, says Elvira Lundgren, an active member of Umeå Kallbad.
Every Sunday, over 100 enthusiasts gather for the traditional Söndagsdopp (Sunday Dip), an activity that has become a cornerstone of the community.
– Our vision is to give the people of Umeå the opportunity to swim in the river year-round and eventually build a floating facility with both sauna and ice bathing, says Dan Allen, one of the driving forces behind Umeå Kallbad.
Photo: Amanda Sveed
