Overview
What it is
Heit Bergen runs floating saunas on the waterfront at Marineholmen. You book a shared or private slot, heat up in a wood-fired sauna, then cool down with a short dip in the sea right outside. It is not a natural hot spring. It is a classic sauna-and-swim routine, done in a very Bergen way, outdoors, weather included.
What makes it different
Bergen is built for wet, changeable conditions, and this setup treats that as part of the experience. Even on gray days, the contrast between deep sauna heat and a quick sea plunge feels sharp and satisfying. It is also a good “real Bergen” activity, locals use it year-round, not just in summer, and the location is practical enough to fit into a normal city day.
What to expect
Expect a friendly, straightforward vibe with timed sessions and compact space. Facilities like showers and toilets are nearby rather than inside the floating unit, so you will do short walks in your cover-up. Bring a towel to sit on, keep gear minimal, and plan to move with the session rhythm.
Location & Access
Where it is
Marineholmen is on the waterfront in Bergen, near the university and research buildings in the area. The sauna sits by the sea with views across the bay and surrounding hills. It is close enough to feel like the city, but far enough from the busiest streets that the water and wind take over the mood.
Getting there
Public transport is straightforward. The closest light rail stop is Florida, then it is an easy walk to the water. Walking from central Bergen is also possible if you like a longer stroll. If you drive, expect paid parking and do not assume a space at busy times. In wet weather, plan for slippery pavement near the waterfront.
Booking and timing
Check the official site for current session times and booking rules. Popular evening slots can fill, especially on weekends. If you are visiting in winter, add buffer time so you are not rushing to the pier in wind and rain. Arriving a little early also gives you time to sort layers and keep your bag organised.
What to bring
Bring swimwear, a towel to sit on, and a second towel for drying after the dip. Pack water to drink during the session. In colder months, add a warm hat and a windproof layer, the minutes between sauna and sea can be the coldest part. Footwear with grip helps on wet boards and ladders, and a dry bag keeps warm clothes dry while you are in the water.
Suitability & Accessibility
Who it suits
This is great for travellers who want a sauna plus cold-water swim without leaving Bergen. It suits solo travellers, couples, and groups, and it works in every season if you dress for the walk back. If you are new to cold plunging, you can still enjoy the sauna without fully swimming, a quick step in and out is enough to feel the contrast.
Families
Families can make it work if children can swim confidently and follow instructions, but it is not a kid-focused facility. Cold water and ladders require supervision and calm behaviour. If your child is small or unsure in open water, keep the dip optional and focus on short sauna rounds and quick warm-ups.
Mobility and access
I am not listing this as wheelchair accessible. Floating piers, thresholds, and water ladders can be limiting, and changing arrangements may involve steps. If you need step-free access, contact Heit directly and ask about the pier gradients, door widths, and the changing route for the Marineholmen site on your date.
Expectations vs reality
This is not a mineral hot spring soak. It is a classic sauna and sea dip, with Bergen weather as part of the package. If you want controlled indoor lounging, pick a spa hotel. If you want a simple, local-feeling contrast session, this is a solid choice.
Safety & Etiquette
Heat and hydration
Hot rooms dehydrate you faster than you notice. Drink water before and after, and keep your first round short if you are not used to sauna heat. If you feel dizzy, sit down, cool off, and skip the sea until you feel steady. Short, repeated rounds usually feel better than one long push.
Sea dip safety
Cold water is always a risk. Enter slowly using the ladder, keep one hand on the rail, and control your breathing. Only swim if you are confident and comfortable, and avoid mixing deep cold plunges with alcohol. If you are new to cold water, start with a quick step-in and step-out rather than a full swim.
Slips and surfaces
Wet boards and ladders are slippery. Move slowly, keep footwear with grip until the last possible moment, and give others space at the entry point. In winter, assume surfaces can ice. If it looks slick, shorten the dip and focus on safe movement.
On-site etiquette
Swimwear is required, and a towel under you is standard in the sauna. Keep voices low in shared sessions and make space when people move to the door. Phones and photos are best kept away in sauna settings, steam and wet hands are a bad mix, and nobody wants to appear in the background of a photo.
Weather planning
Bergen rain can be sideways. Pack a dry outer layer for the walk back and keep warm clothes protected in a bag. The session is more enjoyable when your exit plan is simple: dry off, dress fast, then head indoors.
FAQs
Is there an entry fee?
Yes. Sessions are paid, with options for shared and private bookings. Check the official site for current prices.
Do you need to book ahead?
Yes, booking in advance is the normal setup, especially on weekends and in peak travel periods.
What should you wear?
Swimwear, plus a towel to sit on and a towel to dry off. Bring a warm hat and windproof layer for the pier, especially in colder months.
Is it wheelchair accessible?
Do not assume. Floating access, thresholds, and changing arrangements vary. Contact the operator to confirm step-free routes and whether water entry can work for your needs.
Is this a hot spring?
No. The heat comes from the sauna and the cold comes from the sea. The experience is the hot and cold contrast in a Bergen waterfront setting.