Elina Mäkinen made history as the first Finnish woman to complete the Ice Mile, but she does not see ice swimming as a sport you win against others. For her, it is personal. Quiet. Honest.
She believes an ice hole is a place where you meet yourself.
Finland, especially Lapland, offers the perfect setting for this tradition. Frozen lakes. clean water. deep silence. Add to that a strong sauna culture, and you get one of the world’s most unique wellness experiences.
Ice bathing has been part of Finnish life for thousands of years, always linked with the sauna. In recent years, more people have started trying it, not for illness, but for balance. Better sleep. Sharper focus. A calm start to the day.
From city saunas in Helsinki to remote Arctic lakes, Finland makes it easy and safe to try your first icy plunge.
Here are Elina Mäkinen’s five favorite places to experience ice bathing in its purest form.
1. Ice bathing under the Northern Lights
Särkitunturi Fell and Särkijärven Majat
Lapland has very little light pollution, which makes it one of the best places on earth to see the Northern Lights. According to Mäkinen, it is also home to some of the most peaceful ice bathing lakes.
She begins every ice bathing season at Särkitunturi. The small lakes here freeze early, and the views stretch across the Pallastunturi fells, one of Finland’s most valued national landscapes.
Mäkinen often cuts her own ice holes using simple tools. For those who want a softer introduction, Särkijärven Majat offers lakeside cabins, a wood heated sauna, and a ready ice hole. Wool socks are even provided to help manage the cold.
This spot combines wild nature with comfort, which makes it ideal for first timers who still want an Arctic feel.
2. A true wilderness experience for beginners
Isokenkäisten Klubi
Kuusamo sits just below the Arctic Circle and is known for deep forests, waterfalls, and dramatic land shapes. It feels far from everyday life.
About an hour from the town lies Isokenkäisten Klubi, a log built wilderness lodge surrounded by silence. It was once used as a winter retreat for Finnish leaders and still carries a sense of quiet respect.
Guests can choose between a traditional smoke sauna or a modern electric one. A clear ice hole waits just outside. The lodge also follows Finland’s sustainable travel standards, which adds to its appeal.
This place is ideal if you want safety, warmth, and nature without crowds.
3. Ice bathing in sacred surroundings
Jeris Arctic Sauna World
Mäkinen calls Jeris Arctic Sauna World a northern paradise. It sits on the shore of Lake Jerisjärvi, a lake sacred to the Sámi people.
The area includes several saunas, each named after ancient Finnish gods of forests, weather, air, and water. One sauna even has an upper level designed for watching the Northern Lights.
The ice hole is just steps away from the sauna doors. The views across the Olos fells are especially beautiful at sunset, when the snow turns gold.
Hotels nearby and regular transport make this one of the most accessible locations on the list.
4. For experienced ice bathers seeking adventure
Lake Hietajärvi in Pallas Yllästunturi National Park
Lake Hietajärvi is remote, quiet, and unforgettable. Its water is unusually clear, and the sandy lake bottom stands out against the snow.
There is a simple fireplace shelter nearby where you can warm up after the plunge. Firewood is provided by the state.
Getting here requires a winter hike and proper gear. Mäkinen recommends this spot only for advanced ice swimmers who know how to manage safety and cold exposure.
Reindeer often wander through the area, sometimes more than people. In winter, you are likely to be the only one there.
5. The classic Lapland dream
Lake Kilpisjärvi and Mount Saana
At the far north of Finland, Lake Kilpisjärvi sits beside Mount Saana, one of the country’s most loved natural landmarks.
Mäkinen once lived here through the winter and describes it as deeply communal and peaceful. The village is small, but the landscape feels endless, with views reaching into Sweden and Norway.
If you do not have equipment to cut your own ice hole, the local hotel maintains one using pumps. For those who do it themselves, care is essential. Ice holes must be marked clearly, and snowmobile routes must be respected.
When asked if she meets other swimmers here, Mäkinen smiles. Mostly fishermen stop by, surprised at the size of the hole.
