What the sauna

Tag: history

  • Visiting a Traditional Smoke Sauna in Koli, Finland

    Visiting a Traditional Smoke Sauna in Koli, Finland

    There are saunas, and then there are smoke saunas. Our visit to Savukka in Koli, Eastern Finland, proved just how unforgettable and deeply Finnish a true smoke sauna experience can be. Nestled on the shores of a crystal-clear lake amid Koli’s breathtaking national landscape, Savukka offers an atmospheric escape into a sauna tradition that stretches back centuries.

    A Unique Smoke Sauna Experience in Koli

    A quick note: finding the sauna isn’t always straightforward! The parking area is near the road, and there’s no view to the lake or the sauna from your car. Make sure you check the right address and head down towards the lake. Walk the short forest path to the water’s edge and you’ll know you’re in the right place as soon as you catch that unmistakable scent of woodsmoke in the air.

    And here’s something truly special: Savukka isn’t just any smoke sauna – it’s one of the oldest surviving smoke saunas in Finland (and, quite likely, in the whole world). For nearly 200 years, these sturdy timbers have been warming bodies and souls on the lakeshore. If walls could talk, Savukka’s would be humming with stories from generations of sauna-goers.

    What is a Traditional Finnish Smoke Sauna?

    The traditional Finnish smoke sauna is the oldest form of sauna, and it’s a true gem of sauna culture. There’s no chimney. Instead, a large stove (the “kiuas”) is heated with wood for hours, filling the sauna room with thick, aromatic smoke. Once the sauna is hot enough (and trust us, we’re talking really hot), the smoke is carefully vented out, leaving behind clean, velvety heat and the unmistakable scent of woodsmoke.

    This is sauna as it was enjoyed by Finns for centuries – before the days of electric heaters and quick “ten-minute” sauna sessions.

    How to Heat a Smoke Sauna (and Why You Probably Shouldn’t Try It Yourself)

    Heating a smoke sauna is a slow, almost meditative ritual – and it’s not for the impatient. First, a massive pile of firewood is stacked into the kiuas. The fire is started early, sometimes as soon as the sun rises. For hours, the sauna fills with smoke as the stones heat up. Typically, the heating process takes at least 5–6 hours, sometimes even a whole day. Patience is key!

    But here’s a crucial detail: heating a smoke sauna incorrectly can actually be dangerous. If it’s not done right, carbon monoxide (yes, the deadly stuff – called “häkä” in Finnish) can build up in the air. That’s why this is not a job for beginners, and why you should never try to heat a smoke sauna yourself unless you really know what you’re doing. Thankfully, at Savukka the experts handle everything – so you can just show up and enjoy the löyly without a worry.

    Once the stones are glowing hot and the temperature is just right, the fire is allowed to burn down. The smoke is then carefully ventilated out, leaving only a subtle smoky aroma and perfect heat. The result? Steamy, soft, lingering löyly (that’s what Finns call the sauna steam), and a unique atmosphere you’ll never forget.

    Our Visit to Savukka: A Timeless Sauna by the Lake

    Our crew included two adults, two teenagers, and a four-year-old explorer. The teens braved the heat and the cold lake water once, but the rest of us couldn’t resist the pull of the dimly-lit sauna and the refreshingly cool lake – taking turns between the soothing steam, the quiet darkness of the sauna, and the benches outside for cooling down.

    There’s water available for everyone (pro sauna tip: stay hydrated, because you’ll sweat – a lot). The atmosphere was relaxed and welcoming, with a sense of history in every log and stone. The old timber walls and the enormous kiuas (stove) invite you to slow down, breathe deep, and soak in the experience.

    Public sauna sessions are held on Wednesdays (check Savukka’s website for up-to-date details). At the time of our visit, entry was €20 per person – and you could stay as long as you liked. Private sessions are also available if you want the place to yourself.

    How to Sauna: Practical Tips from Savukka

    First time at a smoke sauna? Don’t worry, here’s everything you need to know before you go:

    • Mixed sauna! Savukka is a mixed-gender sauna – everyone bathes together. That’s why everyone wears a swimsuit.
    • Choose your swimsuit wisely. This is not the time for your whitest bathing suit: in a smoke sauna, every surface is covered in a fine black patina from the smoke, and there’s a good chance it’ll leave a mark on light fabrics.
    • Always sit on a pefletti. This is a small sauna mat or disposable seat cover – at Savukka, your entry fee includes a single-use pefletti, so you don’t have to bring your own.
    • Bring your own towel. You’ll want something to dry off with after those refreshing lake swims.
    • Drink water before, during, and after. It’s easy to get dehydrated.
    • The dressing room is shared. Yes, you read that right – there’s one dressing room for everyone. So before stepping inside, knock on the door and make sure no one’s there. The unwritten rule: only share the dressing room with your own group. If you know same-sex people are in the dressing room, you can ask if it’s ok to step in. If the dressing room is occupied by the opposite sex, don’t even think about it.
    • No running water. Savukka is as traditional as it gets – there’s no plumbing or showers. For washing up, use the big tubs of lake water in the (hot!) sauna room. You can clean yourself there while others are enjoying the sauna, or you can take a dip in the lake.
    • No soap in the lake! It’s super important to protect the pristine water – never rinse soap or shampoo in the lake. Our solution? Swim in the lake after sauna, then take a proper shower back at your cabin or cottage.
    • Listen to your body. If you feel dizzy or overheated, step outside and cool off before going back in.
    • Enjoy the silence. Respect others’ relaxation. There’s a time for quiet conversation, but the true magic is in the hush and the crackle of cooling stones.
    • Don’t pour too much water on the stove at once. A little goes a long way with a smoke sauna!
    • You can find the full list of tips and etiquette on Savukka’s website.

    Why a Traditional Smoke Sauna is a One-of-a-Kind Experience

    The traditional Finnish smoke sauna is, quite simply, unlike any other sauna in the world. Step inside, and you immediately know you’re somewhere extraordinary: this room was literally filled with thick smoke just hours before you arrived, part of a ritual that’s been repeated day after day, year after year, for nearly two centuries. The walls, floor, and ceiling are pitch black with soot; the air is saturated with the deep aroma of woodsmoke. If you touch the walls or benches, you’ll leave with a mark of black soot on your skin—but don’t worry, those marks wash right off, and the benches are covered with towels and your pefletti seat cover to keep you clean. For some first-timers, the intense, smoky scent can make your eyes water a bit, but it’s completely safe, and for many, that aroma becomes a beloved part of the experience.

    Smoke sauna is not just about sweating. It’s about unwinding, connecting with nature, and experiencing something ancient yet timeless. For a few precious hours, all that matters is the heat of the stones, the cool splash of the lake, and the soft, smoky air.

    Conclusion: Why You Should Experience Smoke Sauna

    Whether you’re a sauna pro or a total newbie, the smoke sauna at Savukka in Koli is a must-try. It’s an authentic slice of Finnish culture, lovingly preserved and open to all.

    So, if you ever visit Koli (and why wouldn’t you?), be ready to trade your quick electric sauna for something legendary. Trust us, you won’t regret it. Just remember to bring your swimsuit (preferably not a white one!) and your sense of adventure. We’re already planning our next visit!

  • Finnish Sauna Culture: More Than Just a Hot Room

    Finnish Sauna Culture: More Than Just a Hot Room

    If you think a Finnish sauna is just a steamy wooden box, think again. In Finland, sauna is a way of life. It’s where business deals are made, babies are born (yep, that actually happened), and stress melts away faster than ice on hot stones. Let’s dive into the heart (and heat) of Finnish sauna culture.

    What Is a Finnish Sauna, Really?

    At its core, a Finnish sauna is simple: a wood-lined room heated by a stove (called kiuas) with stones that get hot enough to make you sweat buckets. Pouring water on those stones (löyly) creates a wave of soft, steamy heat that wraps around your body like a warm hug. 

    But a sauna is so much more than just heat—it’s a tradition that goes back thousands of years. Finnish sauna culture is rooted in this simplicity and presence.

    Why Finns Love the Sauna

    With over 3 million saunas in a country of just 5.5 million people, Finland has more saunas than cars. There’s one in almost every home, apartment building, office, and even Parliament. For many Finns, a week without sauna is like a week without coffee—unthinkable. 

    Many Finns do go to sauna several times a week, and those who don’t sauna at all are a rare breed. Sauna is just—well, sauna. An essential part of life.

    And no, it’s not just for luxury or relaxation. Sauna is part of everyday life. It’s where people go to wind down after work, connect with family, or just sit in silence. There are no phones, no meetings, no noise—just heat, breath, and stillness.

    A Finnish sauna isn’t a place for achieving anything. Yes, science backs many health benefits of sauna, such as helping lower the risk of heart disease. Sure, it helps with recovery after sports and promotes better sleep. But those aren’t the reasons Finns love sauna.

    Why do we then go to sauna? Because it simply makes everything better. Sauna clears your mind, melts away minor aches, and gives you a sense of balance. It puts things into perspective. It’s where daily worries get left behind on the bench. Sauna is where the soul rests. 

    Honestly—what more reason do you need to give Finnish sauna culture a try?

    The Naked Truth (and Why That’s Totally Normal)

    Let’s get this out of the way—Finns usually sauna naked. Not to shock anyone, but because it’s the most natural, hygienic, and comfortable way to do it. That said, it’s totally fine to wear a towel or swimsuit if you’re more comfortable. Just don’t bring your phone in. Seriously.

    Young or old, rich or not-so-rich—everyone saunas. Babies might have their first sauna at just a few months old. Elders continue the ritual into their 90s. It’s the great equalizer: no matter who you are, you’re just another human sweating it out. 

    Finnish sauna culture also embraces what might now be called body positivity—or more fittingly, body peace. You don’t have to be fit or flawless to enjoy the sauna. Everyone is welcome, exactly as they are. No one should feel ashamed of their body, not a single part of it.

    What is considered awkward or inappropriate? Staring at others or making any kind of comment—spoken or unspoken—about someone else’s body. That just doesn’t belong in the sauna – or anywhere, to be honest.

    Respect the Peace: Sauna Etiquette

    When you step into a Finnish sauna, you leave titles, job positions, disagreements, and political opinions behind. None of that matters in the steam. The sauna is a space for quiet, calm, and connection. So don’t ruin the peaceful vibe by bringing up hot-button topics. The sauna is a sanctuary for the soul—let’s keep it that way.

    Gems of the Finnish Sauna Culture

    • Löyly: The magical steam created when you throw water on the stones. The hotter and softer the löyly, the better.
    • Vihta/Vasta: A bundle of birch twigs used to gently beat yourself or others. Sounds strange, feels amazing.
    • Cooling down: After heating up, it’s common to jump in a lake (yes, even in winter), roll in snow, or stand outside (yes, even in winter).
    • Repeat: Sauna isn’t a one-and-done deal. Heat up, cool down, repeat. Three rounds is a good start.

    Old Roots, New Love

    Finnish sauna culture is ancient, but far from outdated. While traditional wood-fired saunas are still beloved, you’ll also find sleek electric saunas in city apartments, design-forward sauna spas, and even mobile saunas on trailers. Finns innovate, but never forget the roots.

    If you haven’t tried a real Finnish sauna yet, now’s the time. It’s not just about sweating—it’s about slowing down, connecting, and giving your body and mind a break. Who knows? You might just fall in love with the Finnish sauna culture.

    Curious to learn how to sauna like a true Finn? Check out our guide to Finnish sauna etiquette and step into the steam with confidence.

  • The History of Sauna: The Steamy Legacy of Finnish Sauna Tradition

    The History of Sauna: The Steamy Legacy of Finnish Sauna Tradition

    From ancient smoke huts to modern sanctuaries, Finnish sauna culture has been heating hearts, muscles, and souls for over 2,000 years. Let’s dive into the history of sauna. 

    Whether you’re sweating out stress, engaging in deep conversations, or just enjoying the soothing warmth, the Finnish sauna tradition is a cornerstone of the whole nation. So, grab your towel (or don’t—this is Finland, after all) and step into the steamy past of Finland and saunas.

    The History of Sauna: From Ancient Roots to Modern Finnish Sauna Tradition

    There is no history of Finland without the history of sauna. 

    The history of sauna dates back over two millennia, to a time when early Finns sought warmth in the unforgiving Nordic climate. The first saunas were essentially underground pits, later evolving into log structures known as smoke sauna (savusauna). These rustic saunas were heated by burning wood until the room filled with thick, fragrant smoke. Once sufficiently hot, the smoke was vented, leaving behind a toasty, sterile environment—perfect for cleansing, relaxation, and even childbirth.

    Despite the soot-covered walls, smoke sauna became a staple of Finnish life. The heat wasn’t just for comfort; it was a practical way to stay clean in a world where winter made bathing otherwise impossible. The sauna was a place of healing, a warm refuge in the middle of harsh winters.

    In today’s world, the smoke sauna is a rare but unforgettable experience—one you can still find in Finland if you’re lucky. Warming up a smoke sauna takes the whole day, but trust me, it’s worth every minute.

    Finnish Sauna Tradition: Myths, Spirits, and Superstitions

    In Finnish sauna tradition, the sauna is more than just a hot room—it’s practically a temple of tranquility. With great heat comes great responsibility, and Finns have long upheld certain sauna etiquettes: no swearing, no loud behavior, and definitely no anger.

    After all, you wouldn’t want to upset the saunatonttu, the mystical sauna elf who watches over the steamy domain.

    Legend has it that if you neglect your sauna duties—such as keeping it clean or showing proper respect—you might find yourself on the receiving end of the saunatonttu’s bad luck. To stay in their good graces, it was common to leave small offerings, like ale or water. 

    Whether you believe in sauna spirits or not, one thing is clear: the sauna is a place for peace and mindfulness, not drama.

    Finland and Saunas: More Than a Bath—A Lifeline from Birth to Battle

    Historically, the sauna was the cleanest place in a Finnish household, making it an ideal setting for childbirth. Women would labor in the soothing heat, assisted by midwives who appreciated the sauna’s naturally sterile environment.

    In the history of sauna, it wasn’t just newborns who benefited from Finnish sauna tradition—so did soldiers. During World War II, Finnish troops built makeshift saunas wherever possible, using them to stay clean, recover from battle, and keep morale high. 

    When soap and warm water were in short supply, a sauna session was the next best thing. The idea of sweating out dirt and stress wasn’t just tradition—it was survival.

    The Finnish Sauna Experience: Whisks, Ice Dips, and Deep Relaxation

    A proper Finnish sauna experience isn’t just about sitting and sweating—it’s a full-body ritual. A key component is the vihta (or vasta, depending on the region)—a bundle of fresh birch branches used to gently whip the skin. While it may sound like medieval punishment, it’s actually a delightful way to stimulate circulation, exfoliate the skin, and enhance relaxation.

    Then comes the grand finale: the hot-cold cycle. After a good sweat, sauna-goers traditionally cool down by rolling in the snow or plunging into an icy lake. This exhilarating shock to the system is believed to boost circulation, strengthen immunity, and leave you feeling more alive than ever.

    The Future of Finnish Sauna Tradition

    Saunas are no longer essential for hygiene or survival, but they remain a cherished part of Finnish sauna tradition. Today, they exist in all shapes and sizes—compact apartment saunas, scenic lakeside cabin saunas, and even public sauna complexes where strangers bond over steam. 

    While technology has modernized the Finnish sauna experience, the core ritual remains unchanged: heat, sweat, rinse, repeat.

    For Finns, the sauna is not just a pastime; it’s a way of life. So, if you ever find yourself in Finland and saunas, don’t be shy—embrace the heat, take the plunge, and experience a tradition that has been warming bodies and souls for generations.

    Before you rush into the nearest sauna, make sure to avoid rookie mistakes—learn the essential sauna etiquette first. Then, sit back, enjoy the löyly, and become part of the history of sauna!