Spas are great. Floating spas are even cooler. But, a floating spa with views of the Northern Lights? Now, that seems unbelievable. But that's exactly what's happening in Sweden this winter as it was just revealed the long-awaited Arctic Bath Hotel and Spa is now receiving bookings between February 2020 and February 2021.
Designed by architects Bertil Harström and Johan Kaupp, the circular-shaped spa located in Lulea in Swedish Lapland actually freezes into the Lule River in the winter and floats on top of the water in the summer. There are an additional six detached floating cabins where guests can stay, and everything is connected by floating walkways making for a unique spa experience.
Inside the spa, you'll find one treatment room, four saunas, showers, two dressing rooms, and a hot bath. But, it's the outside that will likely grab your attention. It's there where you'll find an open central space with views of the Northern Lights or star-filled skies depending on the season.
Guests are even invited to participate in the Arctic tradition of a cold-water plunge with the water maintained at 39 degrees Fahrenheit in the outdoor cold bath. Yes, the designers developed a special technique to keep the center of the bath open during wintertime despite the frigid temperatures. Of course, you can combine that with the warmth of a sauna and cozy up inside with one of the proprietary spa treatments, yoga, meditation, and cleansing sessions such as crystal healing. And because of its location, there are no ambient distractions or light pollution, allowing you to relax truly.
"The Arctic Bath really is a first—it's a special spa experience," said AnnKathrin Lundqvist from the Arctic Bath team in a statement. "So much thought, engineering and ingenuity have come together to provide visitors with an experience they can't find anywhere else."
The spa is working with Off the Map Travel to create vacation packages using the Arctic Bath Hotel and Spa as home base. While each trip is customizable, a sample three-day itinerary includes a stay in a floating cabin, breakfast daily, nightly five-course dinner, a guided Northern Lights hunt, transfers, and spa access for $5,040 plus flights.
"The opening of the Arctic Bath has been eagerly anticipated over the last year ever since plans were first announced," said Jonny Cooper, founder of Off the Map Travel, in a statement. "The serenity of the location, combined with this distinctive wellness experience makes this a first in the travel world."
