La Réserve Eden Au Lac Wants Guests To Take A 'Polar Plunge' In Lake Zurich

Wellness escapes don’t always have to be tropical, and this one will certainly take your breath away.

Cold-water swimming may be painful (initially), but science suggests it can actually decrease pain and reduce fatigue, all while improving your mood and memory. It's a health ritual that is practiced around the world by everyone from athletes to health enthusiasts, and even Hippocrates and Thomas Jefferson were both known to enjoy a cold dip every now and then. And now, Zurich's La Réserve Eden au Lac is inviting guests to give it a try as the centerpiece of a truly unique wellness experience.

The resort's La Réserve Extreme-Iceborne concept is led by Jan Pekarek, an extreme athlete and cold-water evangelist whose 2.5-hour workshop guides participants through the process, using breathwork and meditation to endure the cold water. The package is only offered until February 28, 2023, and includes a one-night stay, complimentary breakfast, VIP welcome amenities, and more.

la reserve eden
It's not all about daring the cold here. There's luxury to be enjoyed as well. | La Réserve Eden au Lac

La Réserve Eden au Lac opened prior to the pandemic, so many people still haven't had the opportunity to see and enjoy the results of a nearly two-and-half-year restoration by Philippe Starck. The resort was designed to make guests feel as if they're on a yacht, with subtle nautical touches throughout the hotel. 

The 40 rooms and suites, many with views of the lake and private balconies, are decorated in calming neutral tones that contrast with the original brick walls. La Muña, the rooftop restaurant, serves exceptional Japanese Peruvian specialties with 360-degree views of Zurich's historic center against the backdrop of the lake. 

There's no better time to visit Zurich than in the winter season, as the region's holiday festivities includes specialty markets, Christmas displays, and seasonal concerts.

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