It may seem a little adventurous to go to the lake at temperatures below the "bathing comfort zone", but this is exactly what helps many people to find unexpected strength, inner freedom and health. Ice bathing is in vogue and the addictive potential is high. Special cold bathing areas have been set up at the Carinthian lakes. Including at Lake Millstätter See.
People swim at the large Carinthian lakes all year round. While sporting activity and fun take centre stage in summer, the healing power of the water takes centre stage when bathing below 15 °C. Used correctly, the cold strengthens the immune system, reduces stress, inhibits inflammation and ensures a restful night's sleep. It increases well-being and has an impressive effect on the psyche. One person who recognised this very early on was Sebastian Kneipp. Around 1850, the priest wrote his health-promoting teachings, which are still valid today, after taking baths in the cold, wintery Danube several times a week.
The main season for cold and later ice bathing in the Millstätter See - Bad Kleinkirchheim - Nockberge region is the autumn and winter months. However, the lakes at the right altitude also get the endorphins pumping in summer, as the desired effects can be felt when the water temperature drops below 15°C.
The rule of thumb for ice bathing or winter bathing is: the cooler the water, the shorter the TIME spent in it. If the lake has a water temperature of 5 °C, bathers stay in the water for a maximum of 5 minutes. In 2 °C cold ice water (and below), two minutes is the upper limit. This time can be much shorter for the first few attempts. As a general rule: nothing has to be done, everything can be done and everyone chooses the pace that is comfortable for them.
The cold bath workshops with Flo Mausser & Martina Sowinz, Bernhard Friedrich and Josephine Worseck & Douwe van den Berg can also be booked as a day experience in the experience shop!
When? 28.09., 08.10. & 28.10.2024
On the “Day of the Innocent Children” - one of the twelve special "Rough Nights" - up to 50 Kaltbad residents have the opportunity to get in the mood for the coming year in a “fresh and healthy” way. They will be accompanied by Wim Hof instructors Flo Mausser and Martina Sowinz. In addition, a particularly mystical program with traditional Carinthian incense awaits. In keeping with Carinthian custom, children from the surrounding area will provide all participants with “fresh and healthy” wishes.
When: 28.12.2024
Meeting point: Seevilla Cherny, 9873 Döbriach
Duration: 10:00 - 15:00
Cost: € 95.00
Info and registration: Döbriach tourist office
Tip: Slow, short and together
There is one important rule when ice bathing: At least two people should bathe in the cold water, preferably in a group, at your own pace and only for as long as you feel comfortable. There is a risk of hypothermia. Taking part in an ice bathing workshop or, even better, TIME for me on a cold bathing weekend is the best way to prepare for a refreshing ice bathing season.
Cold bathing experience in Döbriach on Lake Millstätter See
Facilities: A heated changing room is installed directly on the shore. Cold bathing guests can change here. The public toilet facilities can also be used in the winter months.
Best time to swim: The water temperature of Lake Millstätter See usually falls below 15°C in October and only exceeds this limit again in May.
When ice swimming, happiness is often just a few steps away from the shore. A few calm breaths in the cold water are enough to give you a sense of inner freedom.
