What makes a sauna special?
A sauna is a place to sit in warmth, pause and cool down between rounds. Water on the hot stones creates löyly, a wave of heat and steam. Your comfort and the people around you matter.
The house sauna: Finnish design among the logs
The main sauna area has two showers, a bathtub and an LED star ceiling. At its centre stands Eero Aarnio’s IKI Float heater with 160 kg of stones. The Huvikumpu notice recommends setting it to 60°C. Allow the stones time to heat; the manufacturer gives an approximate heating time of 45–70 minutes. The hot heater is close to the seating area, so move carefully.
The lakeside sauna: fire, water and tradition
The lakeside sauna is heated with wood. Water is carried from its well and warmed in a cauldron; it does not have the main house’s showers or running hot water. Fill the cauldron before heating and never heat it empty. An adult must handle the hot water. The lounge provides a place to rest by the fireplace. Read the on-site heating instructions before lighting the fire.
Your first sauna
Shower first and use a clean seat cover. Begin gently. Add water to the stones in small amounts, considering everyone else. A shower or some fresh air is enough for cooling down; there is no need to enter the pond or ice hole. Drink water and take breaks whenever you wish.
What should I wear?
In your own group, agree what feels comfortable for everyone. Nudity is familiar in Finnish sauna culture, but it is not a requirement for enjoying the experience. You may prefer swimwear or a towel. Public saunas have their own dress rules, which can differ.
Enjoy the warmth carefully
Supervise children closely and keep clear of the heater. Do not use the sauna while intoxicated. If you feel faint or unwell, leave and cool down gently. Skip the sauna when ill or feverish. Never put anything on the heater or dry clothes in the sauna.
Leave a little time afterwards
Switch off the electric heater and lights after use. Hang wet towels and bathrobes in the utility room. Follow the house instructions for the wood sauna and its fireplaces after bathing. Then settle down with a drink and something to eat, or simply take another quiet look at the view.
