The Nordic countries have a distinctive bathing culture. The cold climate and geographical features of these countries have led to a certain type of bathing culture establishing itself way back in the annals of history. Sauna baths, cold baths, spring baths and therapeutic treatments is an aspect of Nordic cultural history which has existed for thousands of years.

This book is about bathing in the Nordic countries; of attitudes and beliefs about bathing, our common but also separate traditions in Sweden, Finland, Norway, Denmark and Iceland. What is it that makes Nordic bathing culture distinct and where are the most interesting and spectacular baths to be found?

Ulrica Nordström visits among other places Swedish cold baths, Finnish saunas in the heart of Helsinki and naturally heated Icelandic springs.

Nordic baths
Vikings discover the bathing hut
Filth and disease
The origin of health resorts
The first hot baths
Swimming in the Nordic countries
Finland
Iceland
Norway
Sweden
Denmark
Literature
Index