What is a Finnish sauna?

When visiting Rovaniemi, there's no better way to immerse yourself in Finnish culture than by experiencing the sauna.

For Finns, the sauna is more than just a place to relax; it’s a sacred space, a tradition deeply rooted in daily life. In Rovaniemi, surrounded by Arctic wilderness, the sauna becomes an even more magical and invigorating experience, offering you the chance to warm up, unwind, and connect with nature in a uniquely Finnish way.

What is a Sauna?

A sauna is a small, wooden room heated to a temperature of 80–100°C, with benches arranged on different levels to offer varying degrees of warmth. Water is thrown onto hot stones atop a stove (known as kiuas), creating a burst of steam that raises the humidity and intensifies the heat. This process, called löyly, is central to the sauna experience, allowing you to fully enjoy its purifying and relaxing effects. It’s customary to alternate between the hot sauna and a cool dip in a lake, river, or even a roll in the snow if you’re brave enough!

Types of Saunas

Rovaniemi offers a range of saunas to suit every preference, each providing a unique way to experience this beloved Finnish tradition. Here are some types you can find during your stay:

• Traditional Finnish Sauna: The most common sauna in Rovaniemi, found in many hotels, cottages, and private homes. These saunas are typically heated by an electric or wood-burning stove, with the latter offering a more authentic experience. In a wood-burning sauna, the scent of natural wood and the sound of crackling fire create an atmosphere of deep relaxation.

• Smoke Sauna (Savusauna): A rare and cherished form of sauna, the smoke sauna is heated for several hours without a chimney. Smoke fills the room as the stove burns, and once the desired temperature is reached, the smoke is vented out. This sauna offers a gentle, moist heat and a distinctive, earthy aroma. While smoke saunas can be harder to find, some countryside lodges and special sauna tours around Rovaniemi offer this unique experience.

• Ice Sauna: For a truly Arctic twist, try an ice sauna! These saunas are made entirely of ice, with walls and benches carved from frozen blocks. Inside, a regular sauna stove creates steam, allowing you to bask in the warmth while surrounded by glistening ice. It's a must-try for those looking to blend sauna tradition with the magic of the Arctic.

Sauna Rituals and Traditions

The sauna is not just about sitting in the heat; it’s an entire ritual that involves different practices, each enhancing the experience in its own way. Here’s what you might encounter during a traditional Finnish sauna in Rovaniemi:

• Vihta or Vasta (Birch Whisk): One of the most cherished elements of Finnish sauna culture, the vihta (also called vasta in Eastern Finland) is a bundle of fresh birch branches tied together. During the sauna, you gently whisk or pat yourself with the vihta to stimulate circulation and release a fresh, forest scent. It’s a refreshing and invigorating practice that also helps soothe muscles and relax the body.

• Sauna Scents: To enhance the sauna atmosphere, Finns often use natural sauna scents. Essential oils made from pine, eucalyptus, birch, or menthol can be added to the water thrown on the stones, releasing soothing fragrances into the steam. In winter, you might find spruce or pine branches hung inside the sauna, adding a delicate, woody aroma to the air.

• Cooling Down: After spending some time in the sauna, it's traditional to cool down outside. If you’re in a lakeside sauna, take a dip in the water, or if it’s winter, try rolling in the snow – an invigorating shock to the senses! This hot-and-cold alternation is key to the full sauna experience, helping to boost circulation and leave you feeling refreshed.

• Sauna Snacks: Some sauna enthusiasts like to bring snacks and drinks to enjoy between sauna sessions. Refreshments often include mineral water, berry juice, or even a cold beer. It’s also common to snack on light, salty foods like pickled cucumbers, sausages (makkara), and rye bread to replenish minerals lost while sweating.

Where to Find Saunas in Rovaniemi

In Rovaniemi, you won’t have to look far to find a sauna. Many hotels, spas, and cabins offer private saunas as part of their facilities. If you’re seeking a more authentic or unique sauna experience, consider these options:

Tips for First-Time Sauna-Goers

If it's your first time in a Finnish sauna, here are a few tips to help you make the most of the experience:

• Go at Your Own Pace: There’s no right or wrong way to sauna. Take your time, listen to your body, and step out to cool down whenever you need to.

• Hydrate: Remember to drink plenty of water before and after your sauna session to stay hydrated.

• Embrace the Tradition: If you get the chance, try using a vihta and cooling off in the snow or water. It might seem intense at first, but it’s all part of the exhilarating Finnish sauna experience!

Experience the Warmth of Finnish Culture

The sauna is more than just a way to warm up on a cold day – it's a space for relaxation, socializing, and reconnecting with nature. During your visit to Rovaniemi, stepping into a sauna is like stepping into a cherished piece of Finnish heritage. Whether you’re in a cozy wood-burning sauna, an icy wonder, or a smoke-filled savusauna, you’ll leave feeling cleansed, refreshed, and deeply connected to the spirit of the Arctic.

So, embrace the warmth, the scents, and the soothing steam of a Finnish sauna. It’s an experience that will leave you glowing, both inside and out, as you explore the beauty and culture of Rovaniemi.