We Tried It: The Northern Lights Experience at Bains de Lavey

What if an evening at the thermal baths came with a spectacular show? This autumn, the Baignades Boréales transform the Bains de Lavey into a world of lights, fire and music. We tried this immersive experience, combining relaxation in the warm thermal waters, a sunset over the mountains and mesmerising performances. A magical escape that's as relaxing as it is spectacular!

The sun sets over the Dents de Morcles

As soon as we arrive at the Bains de Lavey, that familiar feeling envelops us: the warmth, the humidity and the unique atmosphere that promises a few hours of relaxation. Once changed, we head to the pools as daylight slowly begins to fade.

We make our way to the large outdoor pool: immersed in the warm water, we enjoy the spectacle nature has to offer. Before us, the Dents de Morcles gradually take on golden hues in the last rays of sunshine. A striking contrast with the cool October air, and a beautiful introduction to an evening dedicated to light.

Before the show, we take some time to explore the steam rooms, each with its own colourful and fragrant atmosphere. We then stop for a short break at the Bar Arc-en-Ciel, where fruity, refreshing smoothies accompany the final moments of daylight.

Around us, a certain buzz of excitement begins to build. Visitors chat, admire the pools and seem to be just as eager as we are for the first performance at 7:30 pm.

One last moment of relaxation before the show

We still have a little time to spare, so we head to the wellness area, where we first settle into the infrared heat and sea salt room. Here, the temperature is gentle, soothing and almost comforting. It's hard not to indulge in a few minutes of pure relaxation!

After spending some time in the sauna, our attention is drawn to the first lights appearing outside. The show is about to begin!

But before returning to the pool, we can't resist a little detour to the snow pyramid in the heart of the wellness area, where snow gently falls. A few handfuls rubbed onto our skin to cool down after the sauna, and we're ready to immerse ourselves once again in the warmth of the thermal waters.

When the steam creates a dreamlike setting

Back in the large outdoor pool, we settle near the platform where the artists are preparing their instruments. Discs and percussion instruments are set up as bathers gradually gather around us.

Night has now fallen. Spotlights illuminate the trees and buildings surrounding the pool, but it's the steam that truly catches our attention. As the warm water meets the cool air, it creates delicate clouds of mist through which beams of light gently disappear.

The result is magnificent: a misty, almost surreal atmosphere, where the lights seem to float above the water. Everything suddenly feels calmer, softer, as though the setting itself is preparing to take the stage.

Then the first notes begin to sound.

Fire, percussion and a touch of magic

The Baignades Boréales truly come to life. Created by Lumen Créations, the show combines laser projections, fire performances and live percussion, transforming the outdoor pool into a spectacular open-air theatre.

The music draws us into a mysterious atmosphere, almost from another era. Flames burst into life, creating movements in the darkness and interacting with the projections illuminating the trees. We hardly know where to look!

The performers create a series of impressive effects using various flaming props. Each new sequence brings its own surprises, and despite the steam rising from the pools and the smoke from the flames, we thoroughly enjoy the performance.

Our favourite moment? The absolutely mesmerising finale. A breathtaking sight that will remain etched in our memories for a long time.

For around fifteen minutes, we almost forget that we're sitting in a thermal pool. Between the percussion, the lights and the fire, the show transports us into another world.

A gentle return to calm

The last flames fade away and applause fills the air. Little by little, the baths return to their peaceful atmosphere. Visitors begin to disperse, conversations resume and steam continues to dance above the water.

We take a few more moments to enjoy the comforting warmth before leaving the pools. The evening continues with a meal at La Table des Bains, the perfect way to end this experience on a delicious note.

We leave with the wonderful feeling of having experienced much more than a simple visit to the thermal baths: a moment of well-being and enchantment, where entertainment and relaxation came together in perfect harmony.

And since we chose a Friday evening, it's hard to imagine a better way to start the weekend!

Baignades Boréales: your must-try autumn experience

Fancy experiencing it for yourself? The Baignades Boréales at Bains de Lavey take place from 13 October to 6 November 2026, Tuesday to Friday.

Two identical performances, lasting approximately 15 minutes, are held each evening at 7:30 pm and 8:30 pm. The show is included in the admission price to the thermal baths, at no extra cost.

The baths remain open until 10 pm on event evenings. Please note, however, that two-hour admission tickets are not available during this period.

The perfect combination of relaxation, entertainment and autumn magic in the heart of the Alpes Vaudoises!