Finland, renowned as the birthplace of the sauna, boasts an astonishing three million sauna facilities spread across its landscape, providing ample opportunity for the entire population to indulge in this cherished tradition simultaneously. This summer, Helsinki welcomes a fresh addition to its wellness scene with the opening of Saunasaari, or “sauna island,” an innovative experience that melds the capital’s island culture with the timeless ritual of sauna bathing.
A short water taxi ride from Helsinki’s bustling Market Square brings visitors to Saunasaari, where charming wooden cottages create a picturesque wellness village along the shore. Majestic, unobstructed views of the city’s eastern skyline elevate the atmosphere, promising an idyllic retreat from urban life.
At the heart of Saunasaari lies its crowning feature: a large traditional smoke sauna, the only one of its kind in Helsinki. Surrounding it are two wood-fired hot tubs, known as palju, alongside separate changing cabins for men and women, and additional saunas where guests can unwind. Scenic pathways meander through the area, leading visitors to the refreshing embrace of the Baltic Sea.
Nina Stenros, one of the visionary creators behind Saunasaari, emphasizes the significance of connecting with Helsinki. She notes, “The Finnish archipelago, traditional smoke sauna, open-fire cooking, and genuine hospitality are all deeply rooted in our identity. We wanted to create an experience where visitors can step into that world without leaving Helsinki.”
Culinary delights further enhance the experience, as Nina and her partner Riky Stenros have crafted a restaurant concept that complements the saunas. Guests can savor a char-grilled dinner menu at the island’s summer kitchen, aptly named ‘Rök.’ The location features a spacious dining hall for larger gatherings, along with a more intimate setting for those seeking something cozier.
For €128, visitors can enjoy a comprehensive package that includes boat transfer and access to two smoke saunas alongside a dining experience. Alternatively, guests with their own boats can navigate to the island. For those looking to host private events, the entire island is available for rent, with reservations open for Fridays and Saturdays until the season wraps up on August 8th.
Saunasaari emerges at a time when the spa and wellness industry is booming, with the Global Wellness Institute placing its value at a staggering $6.8 trillion—an impressive growth rate of nearly nine percent annually. Parallel to this, the premium leisure experience sector has been essential in sustaining aviation amid recent economic challenges, signaling a noteworthy focus of growth in the US hotel market. Even luxury brands like LVMH are in on the trend, collaborating with Orient Express to unveil the world’s largest mega yacht.
While some may prefer the sweeping views offered by luxury sailing vessels, Stenros underscores that authenticity is what truly resonates with discerning travelers. “Fresh air, the beauty of the archipelago, local food, respect for traditions, and the scientifically recognized benefits of sauna culture are increasingly relevant. Visitors crave genuine experiences; they want to understand how people live, eat, and unwind in Finland rather than simply observing it from a distance.”