Finnish Sauna Tours in Rovaniemi: The Ultimate Arctic Contrast

Discover the essence of Finnish culture with our selection of Sauna Tours in Rovaniemi. Often described as "the opposite of cold," the sauna is deeply ingrained in the Finnish way of life, serving as a sanctuary for physical and mental rejuvenation. It's a place where worries are left behind, allowing for deep relaxation and an invigorating contrast to the Arctic chill.

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Understanding the Finnish Sauna Tradition

The sauna holds a unique and revered place in Finnish culture. It's more than just a bath; it's a profound ritual of cleansing and well-being. With approximately 3 million saunas for a population of 5.5 million, saunas are an integral part of nearly every Finnish home and cottage.

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The Amazing Saunas in Finland

When you visit the country of Finland, you will see so many intriguing things. However, one item that you will think about for a minute is how many saunas are available for use in this country! It is thought that there are between two and three million saunas in Finland alone, so you can find one just about anywhere that you are.  This is definitely different than other countries around the world, because most areas only have a few saunas.  

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These saunas are heated by burning wood in a stove that either allows the smoke to exit through a chimney or one that does not.  The one without a chimney allows some of the smoke to stay inside the sauna and many of the locals prefer those saunas over the others.  Humidity inside the saunas is increased by throwing water on top of the heated rocks inside.  

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How Finnish Saunas Are Heated

Traditional Finnish saunas are primarily wood-fired, offering an authentic experience distinct from electric saunas. The heat from the burning wood warms a large pile of stones. When water is thrown onto these hot stones, it creates "löyly" – the soft, humid steam that fills the sauna, providing the characteristic warmth and deep relaxation.

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Sauna Etiquette and Benefits

There are not too many rules when it comes to using the saunas in Finland, but you need to be aware of the ones that you must follow.  First, you must remove all your clothes before entering. Once you do that, you can stay inside the sauna for as long as you wish and then exit and return as many times as you want.  

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Once you are finished relaxing inside a sauna, you must cool your body down.  The best way to do this is to jump into the Arctic Lake for a little swim, but during the winter, you can also roll around in fresh snow.  It is necessary to do this every time that you exit the sauna, as it is the only way that you will feel the maximum results, which includes boosting your immunity.

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Your health is quite important, which is why you need to pay attention to how you feel and do what is necessary to keep yourself in excellent shape.  When you use a sauna in Finland, you will be ensuring that your blood is stimulated and flowing at its maximum rate.  As your body temperature rises, poisonous waste will be excreted from your body in the form of sweat, making you instantly feel better.

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Once your body is cleansed, you should feel rejuvenated and invigorated, as well as ready to tackle anything that comes your way!

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When you use a sauna for the first time, you must be aware that you will not be capable of instantly adjusting to the high temperatures.  Therefore, you will want to start out your sauna experiences slowly.  

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Saunas are typically heated to temperatures ranging from 70°C to 100°C (158°F to 212°F). It's recommended to start with shorter sessions and gradually increase time as you become accustomed to the heat. Always listen to your body and hydrate.

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Low Heat –The temperature inside a low heat sauna is between 122- and 160-degrees Fahrenheit.  This is perfect for beginners and those who are ill.  

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Moderate Heat – The temperature inside a moderate heat sauna is between 180- and 190-degrees Fahrenheit.  This is the temperature that is preferred by many, so you will see many more people in these.

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Extreme Heat– The temperature inside an extreme heat sauna is between 212- and 266-degrees Fahrenheit.  These high temperatures are rarely used, if ever, and are not recommended at all!

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The benefits of regular sauna use are widely praised:

• Physical Cleansing: Promotes detoxification through sweating.
• Muscle Relaxation: Relieves tension and soothes sore muscles.
• Stress Reduction: Offers a peaceful environment for mental relaxation and stress relief.
• Improved Circulation: The alternating heat and cold (if combined with swimming) invigorate the body.

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‍Do’s and Don’ts When Using Saunas

A few DO’s that you need to be aware of:

• DO remove your jewelry, watches, and anything with metal, every time you enter the sauna,as it can all get extremely hot.  
• DO take how you feel into account before choosing your sauna temperature for the day.  If you are feeling dizzy, dehydrated, or just off, a lower temperature may be better.
• DO vary your times in the sauna, between mornings and night, as you will notice the difference in how you feel.
• DO take your time in the sauna and return as many times as needed for relaxation.

A few DON’Ts that you need to be aware of:

• DON’T enter a sauna immediately after eating, as you can become ill quickly.  At least an hour is recommended to digest your food.
• DON’T rush through your sauna experience, as you will never receive the full relaxation that you deserve.
• DON’T try to stay in a sauna longer than everyone else. This is not a game, nor a challenge. You can end up with heat stroke or other serious ailments if you choose to extend your time in the sauna for no reason at all.

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Combine Your Sauna Experience with Arctic Adventures

Many of our sauna tours offer unique combinations to enhance your Lappish experience:

• Ice Hole Dip (Avanto): Dare to take an exhilarating plunge into a specially prepared ice hole (avanto) in an Arctic lake after your sauna session – a truly breathtaking, bucket-list contrast that fully awakens your senses.
• Snow Rolling: In deep winter, experience the ultimate cool-down by rolling directly in the soft, fresh snow after exiting the hot sauna – an invigorating and unforgettable sensation.
• Wilderness Dining: Enjoy traditional Lappish meals cooked over an open fire, completing your cultural immersion.
• Northern Lights Observation: For evening tours, combine your sauna experience with a search for the magical Aurora Borealis.
• Animal Encounters: Some tours integrate a sauna visit with adventures like exploring Ranua Wildlife Park or enjoying husky and reindeer safaris.

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Important Note on water usage: in our authentic wilderness locations, water for the sauna is directly carried from the lake and heated in a small pot for the löyly steam. This provides a genuine traditional experience. Guests typically wash and shower back at their hotels after the tour to complete their personal cleansing.

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Book Your Authentic Finnish Sauna Experience Today!