If you’ve ever met a Finn, you know we take our sauna seriously. It’s not just a place to sweat, it’s practically a national treasure. We have over 3 million saunas in Finland, which is quite impressive considering we only have about 5.5 million people. That’s more than enough to invite every single Finn into a sauna at the same time.

But if you’re new to this whole “sitting in a wooden room while pouring water on hot stones” concept, don’t worry. I’m here to guide you through it. Just trust me when I say that you haven’t really experienced Finland until you’ve experienced sauna.

A BRIEF HISTORY OF SAUNA: MORE THAN JUST A HOT ROOM

Sauna is an ancient tradition in Finland, dating back over 2,000 years. In the old days, it wasn’t just a place to relax. It was the heart of the home, the place where people bathed, healed, and even gave birth. Yes, you read that right. 

In fact, my great grandparents were both born in a sauna in Lapland. Back then, it was the most sterile place in the house. Think about it: constantly cleaned, full of hot steam, and free from dirt. Also the fact that hospital was too far away forced women to give birth in the sauna.

Sauna has always been the place for deep conversations, problem-solving, negotiations between the heads of states and yes, a little bit of social nudity. But don’t worry, we’ll ease you into that part.

WHY YOU NEED SAUNA IN YOUR LIFE (EVEN IF YOU DON’T KNOW IT YET)

You might be thinking, “I don’t really like sweating on purpose,” but trust me, sauna is more than just a sweat fest. Here’s why you should give it a go:

• Stress relief: The warmth of the sauna melts away stress faster than you can say “löyly” (which, by the way, is the lovely steam that rises when you pour water on the hot stones).
• Better sleep: A sauna session in the evening is like a lullaby for your entire body. You’ll sleep like a baby—except no crying at 3 AM.
• Good for your heart: Sauna improves circulation, lowers blood pressure, and gives your heart a gentle workout (without having to run a marathon). But of course, be gentle with your body!
• Pain relief: Sore muscles, stiff joints, tension headaches? Sauna takes care of all of that while you just sit there doing absolutely nothing.
• Detox: Sweating helps flush out toxins and makes your skin look like you just had the world’s most expensive facial—except all it cost you was sitting in a warm wooden box.
• The thrill of cold water dips: Sauna and swimming go hand in hand. You heat up, then jump into the sea. It sounds crazy, but afterward, you’ll feel like you can conquer anything.

YOUR SAUNA EXPERIENCE AT HOTEL HYPPEIS

Now that I’ve (hopefully) convinced you that sauna is a must-try, let me introduce you to ours.

At Hotel Hyppeis, we offer a truly authentic archipelago sauna experience right by the Baltic Sea. And if you’re feeling shy about jumping in with strangers, don’t worry, we’ve got good news for you! You can rent our sauna privately for an hour and enjoy it at your own pace. Either you can do it more simple and just try it yourself, or book our Sauna Experience with an introduction to the sauna culture and manners.

WHAT TO EXPECT FROM OUR SAUNA EXPERIENCE?

A true Finnish sauna by the sea
Our sauna sits right by the sea, meaning you have a view of the sea while you sweat out all your worries. You’ll also have the possibility for swimming.

An introduction to the sauna ritual
Before your sauna session, we’ll guide you through the Finnish sauna traditions, so you’ll feel like a pro in no time.

The magic of löyly
That wonderful wave of steam when you pour water on the stones? That’s called löyly, and it’s the essence of a good sauna experience. Sit back, breathe in, and enjoy. You can try relaxing scents like eucalyptus, menthol or birch with your löyly.

Optional whisk (vihta) experience
If you’re feeling adventurous, try using a vihta (traditionally it’s a bundle of birch branches but we’ll offer you another choice) to gently tap your skin. It increases circulation and makes you feel wonderfully refreshed.

Cool Down, Finnish Style
After your sauna session, step onto our private deck, breathe in the fresh sea air, or take the plunge into the sea. I promise, it’s the best feeling in the world.

Relax under the clear blue sky
Finish off your sauna experience by simply sitting back and enjoying the peacefulness of the evening. It’s a moment you won’t forget.

FINAL THOUGHTS: DON’T LEAVE FINLAND WIHTOUT TRYING SAUNA

I know stepping into a sauna for the first time can feel a little intimidating. Will it be too hot? (No, you control the steam.) What if I don’t like it? (You will, and if not, there’s always a way out.) Do I have to go naked? (Up to you! If alone, yes, or a towel is totally fine. With others, we were bathing suites).

I still think, that sauna is something you just have to experience. It’s a place where stress disappears, conversations flow, and time slows down. And once you step out, take a deep breath of fresh archipelago air, and feel that post-sauna glow… you’ll get it.

So when you visit us at Hotel Hyppeis, make sure to book your private sauna session, either one normal sauna hour or our Sauna Experience. Come for the warmth, the tradition, the experience. Leave feeling completely, utterly, wonderfully renewed.

Welcome to Houtskär!

Warm wishes,
Outi and Sam

PS. There are several great saunas in Turku and along Archipelago Trail, here just few of them:  Villa Wolax, Villa Järvelä and Herrankukkaro.

Our blog aims to guide and inspire your journey to Houtskär, highlighting the essentials for a fulfilling trip. Do you need further information on any specific aspect of traveling to Houtskär or wish to explore another topic? Just be in touch, we’re happy to help you: info@hotelhyppeis.fi.