In Finland, saunas are more than just a tradition—they’re a way of life. With over three million saunas in the country, you’ll find them in homes, offices, and even gas stations.
But some saunas take things to a whole new level, combining history, adventure, and creativity for an unforgettable experience. Whether you want to skate between sauna sessions, relax inside a whiskey barrel, or even sweat it out inside a plane, these unique Finnish saunas prove that there’s always room for innovation in this age-old ritual.
Sauna on Wheels: The Traveling Steam Room
Why stay in one place when you can take the sauna with you? Finland’s mobile saunas bring the heat wherever you go—whether it’s a festival, a private party, or a frozen lake. These wood-fired, portable saunas are mounted on trailers, allowing guests to enjoy a steaming hot session in unexpected locations, from snow-covered forests to city streets. Some even come with outdoor hot tubs, so you can cool off under the stars.
The Viking Sauna: Step Back in Time
Set in the forests of Häme, Urpola Manor offers a sauna experience fit for a Norse warrior. Designed to reflect ancient Viking architecture, this sauna combines rugged wooden interiors, roaring fires, and forest views for an immersive, historical experience.
But don’t let its rustic charm fool you—this sauna is packed with modern amenities, ensuring total comfort while you imagine yourself in a different era.
A Sauna in a Whiskey Barrel? Yes, Please!
For a sauna session with a twist, head to Koskenkorvan Trahteeri, where an enormous 10,000-liter whiskey barrel has been transformed into a fully functional sauna. While the scent of aged whiskey has faded, the cozy, circular interior and wood-fired stove create a one-of-a-kind atmosphere.
With space for up to seven people, it’s the perfect spot to relax, unwind, and soak in the warmth of Finnish tradition—inside a piece of distillery history.
Flying High: The Sauna Inside a Plane
Most flights leave you feeling stiff and tired—but not this one. At Ilmatar Airplane Lodge, an old Finnish Air Force DC-3 aircraft has been converted into a fully functioning sauna, complete with wooden benches and a steaming stove.
Located right where the passenger seats used to be, this sauna lets guests sweat it out inside a real aircraft while staying firmly on the ground. It’s the ultimate mix of aviation history and Finnish relaxation culture.
Floating Skate Park and Sauna Combo
If you think sauna time is all about relaxation, think again. At Vuokatti Skate & Sauna, you can hit the halfpipe before stepping into the steam. This floating sauna and skateboarding ramp bring together extreme sports and traditional Finnish wellness in a setting like no other. With an outdoor grill and a rooftop terrace, it’s the perfect place for thrill-seekers to recharge after an intense skating session.
Sauna Gondola: A Ride to Relaxation Above the Slopes
Imagine soaking in the warmth of a sauna while gliding high above a snowy landscape. At Ylläs Ski Resort in Lapland, you can do just that in the Sauna Gondola, the world’s first ski lift sauna. This modified ski lift cabin is equipped with a small wood-heated sauna, allowing guests to enjoy breathtaking views of the snow-covered wilderness while experiencing the comforting heat of a traditional Finnish sauna.
The gondola ride lasts about 20 minutes, after which guests can continue their experience in a larger sauna at the top station, complete with an outdoor hot tub. A must-try for winter enthusiasts looking for an elevated sauna adventure—literally!
Ready for a One-of-a-Kind Sauna Experience?
Saunas in Finland are anything but ordinary, and these unusual locations prove that tradition and creativity can go hand in hand. Whether you’re a history buff, an adventure-seeker, or just looking for a fun new way to enjoy Finland’s favorite pastime, these saunas offer an experience you won’t forget.
Which one would you try first?
Want to make the most of your trip? Check out the best activities in Finland!
