Wild Swimming Retreat in Estonia — Explore Nature’s Lakes

Escape to the heart of Southern Estonia and immerse yourself in a wild swimming retreat by a serene 10-meter-deep bog lake. Swim daily in some of Europe’s darkest waters and relax in a floating sauna, surrounded by the stunning natural beauty of the Estonian wilderness. Stay in our boutique nature cabins, accessible via a scenic boardwalk, where you can unwind in nature and perhaps spot beavers gliding along the lakeshore. In the evenings, connect with local culture through guided excursions, making this the ideal eco-friendly retreat for those seeking adventure and tranquility.

What's Included:

4 nights’ accommodation in boutique nature cabins
All meals included – fresh, locally sourced ingredients
Daily wild swimming excursions, both on-site and in nearby lakes
A guided hike or cultural event
Sauna and hot tub experiences to unwind after a day of adventure

Why Choose This Retreat?

This retreat offers the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. Wild swimming in Estonia’s unique bog lakes is a rare and exhilarating experience. You’ll have time to fully disconnect, enjoy nature, and recharge in an eco-conscious environment. Between swims, relax by the fireplace, chat with fellow guests, or reflect quietly. With a small group size of up to 15 people, the retreat ensures a personal and intimate atmosphere.

Dates and Price:

Next retreat: Winter 2025/26 (exact date to be confirmed)
Starting from €770 per person

Not Included:

Transportation to the retreat location

Fitness Level:

Light – suitable for most fitness levels, but participants should be comfortable with wild swimming and responsible for their health, especially in cold water.

Sample Itinerary:

This itinerary serves as a preliminary plan and may be adjusted based on weather conditions, group preferences, and seasonal availability.

Day 1: Arrival and settling in

15:00 – 17:00: Arrival and check-in at boutique nature lodges.
17:00 – 18:00: Welcome drink and snacks, meet fellow participants.
18:00 – 19:00: A short walk around the surroundings, exploring the bog lake and swimming spots.
19:00: Dinner – a seasonal, locally inspired menu.

Day 2: Culture and wild swimming

07:00 – 08:00: Morning swim in the bog lake – an invigorating start to the day.
08:30 – 09:30: Breakfast.
09:30 – 10:00: Detailed introduction to the retreat and overview of the day’s plans.
10:00 – 15:00: Cultural excursion to Setomaa: guided tour to discover the unique heritage of the Seto people. Traditional Seto-style lunch at a local farm.
15:00 – 16:00: Swimming in two contrasting lakes – one dark and the other crystal clear.
16:00 – 18:00: Free time – rest, independent nature walks, or extra swims.
18:30: Dinner.
23:30 – 00:30: Midnight swim – June nights in Estonia remain almost light. A mystical, tranquil experience in the bog lake. Floating candles and lanterns can enhance the magical atmosphere of this unique night swim.

Day 3: Deep nature immersion and water rituals

05:30 – 08:00: Early morning bog hike with a wild swim – a peaceful and meditative sunrise experience.
08:30: Picnic breakfast in nature, featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
10:30 – 12:00: Relaxation at the retreat site – bog sauna, Finnish sauna, and hot tub experience to restore body and mind.
12:30 – 14:00: Lunch, nourishing and inspired by local flavors.
14:00 – 18:00: Free time – enjoy swimming, forest walks, or personal reflection.
18:30: Dinner.
20:00 – 22:00: Evening sauna rituals – enjoy a deeper relaxation session with both the bog sauna and Finnish sauna, plus the hot tub under the open sky.

Day 4: Peipsi adventure & sauna rituals

08:30: Breakfast.
10:00 – 16:00: Excursion to the Old Believers' village by Lake Peipsi (Onion Route): Guided tour to learn about the rich history and traditions of the Old Believers. Traditional home-cooked lunch, including samovar tea, onion pies, and fish soup. Wild swim in Lake Peipsi – Europe’s 4th largest lake, offering an exhilarating open-water swimming experience.
18:30: Dinner.
20:00 – 22:00: Final sauna experience – bog sauna, Finnish sauna, and hot tub relaxation before the retreat’s end.

Day 5: Farewell and departure

08:30: Breakfast.
10:00: Departure. Farewell gift: A handcrafted Setomaa peat bog soap, enriched with natural Estonian peat’s purifying and nourishing properties – a perfect way to take a piece of this retreat’s water and nature home with you

request a personalized offer

FAQ: Wild Swimming Retreat in Estonia

1. What’s the water temperature, and how cold does it get?

The bog lake changes with the season:
Summer: ~12–18°C
Autumn: ~6–12°C
Winter: around 0°C or frozen. We keep part of the lake ice-free for swimmers.
It’s safe, clean, and naturally soft on the skin due to peat tannins. You choose how long you stay in.

2. Do I need any cold-water experience?

No. You only need to be comfortable entering natural water and paying attention to how your body feels. Warm recovery spaces, saunas, blankets, and hot drinks are always available.

3. What should I pack?

Bring:
• Swimsuit(s)
• Quick-dry towel
• Warm layers for after swimming
• Comfortable outdoor clothing
• Optional: water shoes
All saunas, rest areas, blankets and hot drinks are provided.

4. How do I get there from the UK?

Travel is not included in the price, but we will happily help you plan the best and easiest route.

Most guests fly into Tallinn or Riga. Travel to Tartu by bus or train, or come straight to us by rental car.
We arrange pick-up from Tartu or help organise a private transfer.
Send us your travel dates and we’ll recommend the simplest plan.

5. Is this a group retreat or a private one?

It’s a small-group retreat (up to 15 people).
Ideal for solo travellers looking for calm and for small groups wanting a nature-based reset.

6. What is the accommodation like?

You’ll stay in boutique cabins by the bog lake:
• Mostly private single rooms for maximum rest
• Quiet, Scandinavian-style design
• Direct access to saunas, nature trails and the lake

In addition to your private cabin, there is a large social lounge and café area where guests can relax, connect with others, and enjoy local food and drinks.

7. Is this suitable for solo travellers?

Yes — very much.
The small-group feel makes it easy to meet people, while private cabins offer quiet personal space.

8. What’s included in the retreat price?

• 4 nights accommodation in boutique cabins
• All meals (seasonal, local)
• Wild swimming sessions
• Sauna rituals and hot-tub access
• Guided cultural or nature excursion
• Use of all shared facilities
Not included: travel to Estonia.

9. What fitness level is required?

Light. This retreat focuses on immersion, calm, and nature — not athletic performance.

10. What are the saunas like?

Two unique experiences:

• Floating Sauna on the bog lake
• Honeycomb Sauna with steam room, lounge, and shower

Both are atmospheric, private, and perfect after chilly swims.
Saunas are also good for your health, and Estonia has centuries-old sauna traditions — we’re happy to share them with you.

11. Why is the water so dark?

Bog lakes are naturally dark due to peat tannins.
The water is clean, soft, and soothing — a classic Nordic swimming environment.

12. What kind of food is served?

Seasonal Estonian countryside cuisine made from local ingredients.
We can accommodate dietary restrictions — as long as we know them in advance.

13. Are there mosquitoes?

In summer evenings, there can be some — like in any northern forest.
Cabins don’t have personal insect-repellent devices inside, but we keep repellents available outdoors (especially during evening events) and indoor spaces remain insect-free.

14. Is Estonia safe for travellers?

Very safe.
Southern Estonia is quiet, friendly, and peaceful.

15. Can I extend my stay before or after the retreat?

Yes.
Nearby attractions include:

• Taevaskoja sandstone cliffs
• Seto cultural region
• Lake Peipsi and Old Believers’ villages

We can help plan your onward journey.