Shortly after the pandemic, we wrote a deeply personal piece about how and why we started cold dips in Lac Léman. Since then, we’ve noticed an uptick in cold-water enthusiasts and often get asked how to start. So, let’s dive in.
Firstly, welcome. Perhaps you're going through a midlife crisis and trying out new things, perhaps you're a dopamine addict and ice climbing just wasn't cutting it. Or perhaps, like us, you are curious and open and enjoy a challenge. Winter swimming might seem like madness, but hear us out: it’s a health boost wrapped in a bracing (okay, borderline painful) experience. Plus, there’s something empowering about doing something hard—especially when you’re surrounded by others who like to do hard things too.
Why Do It?
Besides the obvious bragging rights? Cold-water swimming is said to improve circulation, boost your immune system, and deliver a rush of endorphins so powerful it’ll make you forget you can’t feel your toes. It’s also a great way to build resilience—both mentally and physically—because if you can handle Lac Léman in January, you can handle anything.
Tips to Get Started:
- Ease In: Don’t just cannonball in. Start with shorter dips (if you're saving this for next season, start in the autumn) to acclimate your body to colder temperatures.
- Gear Up: A good swimsuit, neoprene gloves, booties, and even a warm hat can help you brave the chill. Non-negotiables are a fluffy towel (like this one from Decathlon) and a thermos of something hot for after (TLG Tip: Try cinnamon tea – it’s so warming)
- Safety First: Never swim alone. Cold water can shock your system, so having a buddy is non-negotiable.
- Set a Time Limit: Stick to a few minutes at first. We often set our max depending on the lake’s temperature (quick formula: one minute for every degree i.e. the lake is 8 degrees, max 8 minutes). Hypothermia isn’t part of the wellness trend. Also, ask for one person in your group to be ready with a story before entering - the funnier or more ridiculous the better as this serves as a distraction.
- Warm Up Gradually: After your swim, layer up and sip something warm. No hot showers right away (it will STING)—your body needs time to adjust.
Where to Go in & around Lausanne:
- Lutry Plage: A local favorite with easy access and a picturesque backdrop. Bonus: head to Rush coffee nearby to grab a warm drink & defrost.
- Pully Plage: Just in front of the pool there’s a deck and ladder perfect for those wintry dips. Plus along the fence are free floaties to borrow.
- Les Bains des Rives at Bellerive Plage: Bellerive is popular in summer, but winter swimmers appreciate the calm waters and ample space to lay out your gear. And now that Les Bains des Rives has two saunas plus a café space, it's pretty ideal. Reserve your spot to enjoy the saunas and cozy tea room space too. Price: 21 chf for two hours access to saunas plus a cup of hot tea is offered.
- Jetée de la Compagnie area: The ladder entry is ideal if you’re more of a ‘rip the band-aid off’ type of person and there are fewer spectators here.
- Ouchy’s Quai: Convenient and scenic. Nothing like a swim with the Alps watching over you, the only downside is it’s quite public, so plenty of people may stop and film your crazy cold plunge.
- STEAM on the water: if you’re willing to go a bit further, this spot in Vevey is by far our favorite indulgence for winter swimming. With an incredible attention to detail, and a sauna with the most stunning glass window and view, it’s cozy and hidden which makes you feel connected to the lake, your body, and your mind in the best of ways. Price: 20 chf for two hours access to Sauna, all you can drink tea—just bring your own mug.
So grab a buddy, muster your courage, and give it a go. Worst-case scenario, you’ll come out with a great story. Best case? You’ll discover your new winter obsession.
TLP Tip: Don’t have a buddy who’s crazy enough to join you? Check out Lausanne’s very own cold water swimming club which meets every week.
