Cover Photo: Courtesy of Arctic Bath Sweden

The 12-room floating hotel was designed to blend into the nature of northern Sweden

There are few natural phenomenons more awe-inspiring than seeing the aurora borealis for the first time—except perhaps seeing them from the comfort of an open air hot tub.

Situated right under the northern lights in the winter, the floating Arctic Bath in Sweden is a totally unique hotel and spa experience that allows travelers to fully disconnect while immersing themselves in the natural elements.

According to Arctic Baths, the idea of a floating sauna first came to resident Per-Anders Eriksson during the opening of Treehotel, a luxury Swedish resort that’s perched among the trees (hence the name) in 2010. The vision was originally a glass cube on a raft until Bertil Hagström, designer of Treehotel, took over and executed the idea of the floating, circular building, which was ultimately designed to blend into the nature of northern Sweden while fostering a sense of calm.

The property consists of a series of 12 different cabins (including one suite), each with a double bed, Wi-Fi, heated floors, guided northern light tours, and access to the cold baths and spa.

“Cold baths are part of our history in this northernmost region. Often taken together with a warm sauna, the cold baths can help ease sore and aching muscles. Some say it helps your central nervous system and limit the inflammatory response.” Arctic Bath explained in a statement.

Guests hoping to explore the region during their stay will also have access to a variety of local activities, including self-driving husky tours, snowmobile safaris, ice fishing, and more relaxed off-site adventures, including photography lessons and day trips to Storforsen Nature Reserve and the village of Harads.

Arctic Baths cabins cost about US$3,500 per night, depending on the season and availability.

See also: The Most Extraordinary Experiences To Add To Your Travel Bucket List In 2020