In Finland, the sauna is not just a room for bathing; it’s a fundamental part of the national identity, a sacred space for physical and mental cleansing. With over three million saunas for a population of 5.5 million, it’s clear that the sauna is deeply ingrained in Finnish culture. It’s a place of equality where social status and titles are left at the door, and it’s a central part of family life and social gatherings. The Finnish sauna ritual is a cherished tradition. It begins with a shower to ensure cleanliness before entering the sauna, which is typically heated to a temperature between 80-110°C. The core of the experience is “löyly,” the unique steam produced by throwing water on the hot stones of the stove. This burst of steam raises the humidity and intensifies the heat, making you sweat and feel an even deeper sense of warmth. To further stimulate circulation and release the fragrant aroma of birch, a “vasta” or “vihta”, a whisk made of fresh birch branches, is sometimes used to gently beat the skin. The cycle of heating up is followed by a refreshing cool-down, which can involve a cold shower, a dip in a lake, or even a roll in the snow during winter. This contrast of hot and cold is a key part of the experience, leaving you with a feeling of profound relaxation. During our time in Finland, we had the pleasure of experiencing this tradition firsthand. We enjoyed two saunas: one at Ranuanjärvi Camping (Leirintäalueentie 5, 97700 Ranua) and another at Camping Silversand (Aarne Karjalaisentie 15, 10960 Hanko). Both were excellent, providing a true taste of Finnish sauna culture in a tranquil, natural setting.
Privates saunas generally costs from € 25,00 tom € 50.00 for one hour
