Floating saunas in Bryggjuhverfi
Bryggjuhverfi residents will soon be able to enjoy floating saunas, a popular Nordic pastime that offers numerous health and wellness benefits. Reykjavík City is moving forward with the project, which is one of several that stemmed from a recent report on ocean-related experiences and outdoor recreation.
The project is modeled on similar floating saunas in Oslo and Copenhagen, which have become very popular and have enriched public life in those cities, a success Reykjavík hopes to replicate in Bryggjuhverfi. Mobile saunas have grown increasingly popular in Iceland in recent years, making the floating saunas a welcome addition. They will offer direct access to the ocean, making it easy to alternate between sauna and sea bathing. City officials have been in active consultation with the Bryggjuhverfi residents' association about the project.
Photo of floating saunas in Copenhagen.
Floating platforms to be installed for the saunas
The first step is to prepare the site for the planned floating saunas, with a design based on the aforementioned models in neighboring Nordic capitals. The facility includes a walkway from the wharf edge down to a large floating dock. Floating platforms for the saunas will be installed at the large floating dock. The future operator will then be responsible for installing the actual saunas on the floating platforms. The floating dock will provide access to the sea, with a separate swimming area marked off by buoys.
Good location
Bryggjuhverfi is set to expand significantly in the coming years, with development underway in its western part. The proximity to major future development in Ártúnshöfði makes this an ideal location for such a facility, along with its closeness to neighborhoods like Grafarvogur and Árbær. The sea in this area is also perfect for such an activity. The facility for the planned floating saunas is expected to be completed this summer.