Helsinki, the vibrant capital of Finland, is renowned for its unique blend of modernity and nature. Amidst this charming city lies a hidden gem that promises an unforgettable journey of relaxation and cultural immersion – the Löyly Sauna. If you're ready to immerse yourself in Finnish sauna culture and bask in the warmth of this extraordinary experience, read on for our top 8 tips to make the most of your visit.
1. Embrace the Ritual
Stepping into Loyly Sauna means embracing a centuries-old Finnish tradition. Sauna culture is deeply ingrained in Finnish life, and it's not just about heat; it's a spiritual and social experience. As you embark on your Löyly journey, approach it as a ritual – a chance to cleanse your mind and body.
2. Choose Your Sauna Time Wisely
Löyly Sauna offers both public and private sauna sessions. If you're seeking a more intimate experience, opt for a private session. Public sessions can get lively, allowing you to connect with both locals and travelers. Morning sessions tend to be quieter, while evenings offer a livelier atmosphere.
When I visited, it was a Friday late afternoon and the place was filled with a young, vibrant crowd--a mixture of tourists and locals. I personally would have not liked to have been here when it wasn't filled with people because it would have felt very boring and that wasn't the atmosphere I was looking for. I loved just the overall feeling of this place and the sense of community you got just by being here a short time.
3. Pack Your Essentials
When heading to Löyly Sauna, pack a bathing suit, towel, and flip-flops. While Finnish saunas are usually enjoyed au naturel, Löyly Sauna requires swimwear during public sessions, especially since it's a mixed gender place.
It's important to note that in Finnish culture, the only time you go au naturel is if you're in sauna with members of your own gender. The Finns are much more conservative that way than other parts of Europe. Take Germany and Austria, for instance. Most saunas are au naturel and there is no designated areas based on gender. Men and women are in the communal spaces and saunas together, completely in the buff, and no one seems the least bit bothered by it. Just as a general rule of thumb, before you enter any sauna in Europe, it's best to ask ahead of time what the cultural (and business) policy is on this matter.
At Löyly, you pay for your sauna time at the main desk. Then, they provide you with a towel and a key for your locker. You immediately go into your gender specific locker room and change, putting your belongings in the locker provided. Lots of people brought their phones into the sauna to take photos, but I opted not to. I didn't want to ruin my device in the intense heat, and I didn't want to leave it outside the spa unattended.
4. Prep Your Body and Mind
Hydration is key before entering a sauna. Drink plenty of water to ensure you're well-prepared for the heat. Mentally, embrace the idea of relaxation – leave your worries at the door and step into the sauna with an open mind.
These are key tips for any sauna visit. If you come hydrated and stay hydrated during your stay, you're not going to feel lousy by the time you leave. Take lots of breaks from the sauna room and drink your H20.
I did bring my water bottle with me, which wasn't the best decision. My bottle is metal so it got really hot in the spa. They do have water pitchers and cups in the rest area, so fill free to leave your water bottle in your locker and just stay hydrated with what the sauna provides.
5. Alternating Heat and Cooling
Finnish sauna culture involves alternating between heat and cooling. It gets HOT inside the sauna, especially if you have Finns in there who want to show how tough they are and keep throwing water on the coals. At one point, it got so hot that I felt like my throat was getting singed!
Once you heat up, you have a few options of ways to cool off. They have big shower areas with buckets of ice cold water that can dump on you--which is pretty fun. Or, you can hustle outside and take a refreshing dip in the Baltic Sea! I was so excited to do this, and truthfully, it's one of the main reasons why I wanted to come to this particular sauna over other ones that were offered. I probably dipped into the Baltic Sea 10 or 12 times during my 2 hour stay! I highly recommend it. This invigorating practice will enhance circulation and leave you feeling revitalized, besides being tons of fun!
6. Appreciate the View
Löyly Sauna is located along the coastline of the Baltic Sea and offers breathtaking views of the water and cityscape. In good weather, you can relax on the sun deck, enjoy the fresh breeze, and revel in the tranquil beauty of Helsinki's surroundings.
7. Culinary Delights
Complete your Löyly Sauna experience with a visit to the on-site restaurant. Indulge in Finnish culinary delights that complement your day of relaxation. From traditional dishes to modern interpretations, the restaurant adds a gourmet touch to your journey.
When I was at Löyly, I didn't get to visit the restaurant because it was closed for a private party. However, from what I've heard, the food is delicious, so if it's open when you visit, be sure to give it a try.
8. Mind Your Sauna Etiquette
Respect for others is essential in a Finnish sauna. Always shower before entering the sauna, sit or lie on a towel (not the bare wood!), and maintain a quiet and serene atmosphere. Engage in hushed conversations, allowing everyone to relish in the tranquility.
I will note that this may be a rule for saunas in general, but on the day I visited Löyly, it was more lively than reserved and that was totally okay. It was fun to be around people who were having their first Finnish sauna experience--like I was--and all the excitement and wonder that comes with that one-of-a-kind adventure.
In Conclusion
Visiting Löyly Sauna in Helsinki isn't just about sweating it out; it's a cultural and rejuvenating experience that will leave you with a deeper understanding of Finnish traditions.
Prepare for the warmth, embrace the tradition, and embark on a journey that's not just about heat, but about holistic relaxation and immersion into Finnish life. Helsinki's Löyly Sauna awaits – are you ready to heat up your experience in Finland's capital city? I know I sure am the next time I visit. 😊