The sauna has a rich history that dates back thousands of years, and today is enjoyed by millions of people.
Whether you’re visiting a health spa or have an infrared sauna installed in your home, the benefits to your health, both mentally and physically are incredible. Today, many people have become real sauna enthusiasts, travelling the length of the world to find optimum relaxation.
But where exactly are the best destinations in the world for a relaxed getaway and the ideal sauna?
Finland
It’s perhaps no surprise that we’re starting with Finland; the birthplace of the sauna. They were in fact invented in the country and are so deeply ingrained in the culture that they’re often considered a necessity rather than a luxury. You’ll even find them in Helsinki’s branch of Burger King!
Of course, we’re not saying you should visit there for ultimate relaxation, not unless you fancy a Whopper anyway. But places like the Loyly sauna in the Finnish capital offer an incredible sauna experience, while you’ll find luxury offerings in pretty much every town and city. Traditionally, a sauna session should be followed by a refreshing dip in the sea. So take your swimming costume!
Sweden
Staying in Scandinavia, Sweden also boasts a strong sauna culture and you’ll find many luxury retreats in the more rural areas of the country. Many of the saunas in Sweden are wood-fired, providing a real rustic and authentic atmosphere. The Arctic Bath hotel in Swedish Lapland is one of the more unique offerings. It’s a floating hotel with a circular sauna in the middle of a frozen lake. Sounds incredible, right?
Japan
Known as centos or onsens, saunas are a big part of Japanese life and often incorporate elements of natural hot springs. They create a serene and therapeutic environment. Beppu, located on the island of Kyushu is one of the must-visit stops for any sauna lover and combines hot springs with the more traditional bathhouses, all surrounded by lush greenery.
Norway
Back to Scandinavia now, and Norway also has plenty of sauna traditions, especially along the coast. They’re known as badstu in the country and you’ll often find wood-fired saunas offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Tromso is a good stop off for brilliant saunas, with SALT saunas inspired by Sami tents and offering panoramic views of the fjords and mountains of the country. Is there anything more awe-inspiring than that?
Iceland
Finally, Iceland’s geothermal activity makes this country a brilliant destination for hot springs and sauna experiences.
Saunas aren’t quite as prevalent as the likes of Finland and Norway, however spots like the Blue Lagoon, one of the world’s most famous geothermal spas really make up for that. The mineral-rich waters are bucket-list worthy, while there are also plenty of saunas to dip into in the complex.
You’ll find many of the luxury hotels in Iceland also have opulent health spa facilities, including saunas, making the country one of the finest wellness breaks on the planet.
