15.01.2025 Ice Bathing – Just Take the Plunge into Cold Water
The Naturparkregion Reutte is not only known for swimming fun in crystal-clear lakes during summer – it’s also a real “hot” tip for water lovers in winter. As temperatures drop and the lakes settle into their winter rest, snow-covered shores and breathtaking winter landscapes create a truly magical atmosphere.
A visit during the colder season is definitely worthwhile – and it can even have positive effects on your health. The partially frozen waters throughout the nature park create a remarkable sense of peace and stillness, giving the landscape a very special mood.
In today’s article, we would like to introduce three of the most popular winter activities on and in the waters of the Naturparkregion Reutte.
Breathing the Right Way 1. Ice Bathing
Ice bathing, provides an intense freshness boost along with potential benefits for your immune system. In general, it refers to bathing in water temperatures close to freezing. When you immerse your body up to the chest in cold water, your core temperature begins to drop within a short time. In response, the body reacts by rapidly producing heat.
Preparation with the right breathing technique: What makes ice bathing special is proper preparation, especially breathing. One of the best-known methods is the Wim Hof Method. This involves deep inhaling and exhaling for about 30–40 breaths without a pause. Afterwards, the breath is held for around one minute. Beginners are advised to start with two rounds.
The ice bath: A slow entry is recommended: first step into the water up to your knees while maintaining calm, steady breathing. Take two deep breaths, then gradually immerse yourself up to your collarbones. Your hands should remain out of the water if possible. The cold causes the blood vessels to constrict and then expand again, which stimulates circulation and helps stabilize the cardiovascular system. Regular winter swimming has also been shown to support the immune system and improve physical performance.
Warming up afterwards: To gain the full benefit, it’s important to warm up the body properly afterwards – ideally for at least as long as you spent in the water. The Horse Stance (also known as the rider stance) is a particularly effective exercise. This position, commonly used in martial arts, helps build strength, stability, and endurance while gradually bringing the body back to warmth.
Important! What to keep in mind when winter swimming:
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Always adjust the duration of your ice bath to the water temperature and your personal physical condition. It should only last a few seconds to a few minutes.
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Make sure to maintain calm and controlled breathing at all times.
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If you have any health issues, such as cardiovascular problems, you should avoid winter swimming.
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Never bathe alone – and it’s much more fun together!
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Warm clothing and gentle movement afterwards help your body heat up gradually and prevent hypothermia.
Tip: The best way to warm up, of course, is in a cozy mountain hut – by a heated stove with a warming soup or a hot cup of tea. Discover our winter magic huts here.
Try Ice Bathing for Yourself Workshops & Events
Monday - January 20, 2025 Ice Bathing Workshop
Join us for an icy adventure! Experience the pure power of winter with ice bathing and winter swimming. Discover how the icy water can invigorate not only your body, but also your mind and soul. Together, we’ll embrace the cold and take our health to the next level.
Duration: approx. 2.5–3.5 hours
Special price: €20 per adult
Payment: On site (cash or card) or online
Minimum number of participants: 4 people
Meeting point: Monday, 20 January 2025 at 13:00 at the Reutte Tourist Office, Untermarkt 34, 6600 Reutte
(or um 13:30 directly at Hotel Forelle, Plansee (Sennalpe)
Registration: Simply register online or reserve your spot by phone or email.
Course information: +43 677 64397688
Impressions from the New Year’s Ice Bath on 6 January 2025 1st Epiphany Ice Bath at Lake Plansee
For a safe and successful introduction to ice bathing, we recommend the guidance of experienced local experts:
Discover the latest ice bathing workshops and upcoming dates in our Experience Shop.
For Active Visitors 2. Ice Swimming
Feel free and dive into the refreshing waters. Swimming in clear mountain lakes is actually possible all year round – and in winter, it becomes a truly special experience. The water may be slightly cloudier and visibility more limited, but by keeping a fixed point on the shore in sight, it’s easy to stay on course.
If you plan to stay in the water for a longer time, a wetsuit is definitely recommended, as it helps retain body heat. Moving continuously through the water also generates additional warmth through muscle activity.
Tinted or mirrored swimming goggles help reduce glare from the sun. Make sure to swim close to the shore whenever possible or use a swim buoy for added safety. A brightly coloured swim cap also improves visibility and helps keep your head warm.
Several lakes in the region are well suited for ice swimming, including Plansee, Urisee, Lechausee (Baggersee) and Lake Frauensee.
How about taking the plunge? 3. Ice Diving
The Naturparkregion Reutte is the perfect place to take the plunge into icy waters. And if the experience at the surface isn’t refreshing enough, you can dive even deeper – quite literally – with ice diving at Lake Plansee or Lake Urisee.
From the end of January to the end of March, you have the opportunity to explore the fascinating winter underwater world during guided ice dives. For more information, please contact the Plansee Camp or the Urisee.
Winter Magic in the Naturparkregion Reutte
Experience the magic of winter in the Naturparkregion Reutte – with countless activities to explore.
