For many travelers, visiting Lapland means chasing the Northern Lights, walking through snowy forests, or meeting reindeer. But if you ask a Finn what really defines Finland, the answer will almost always be the same: sauna.

Almost every Finn grows up with a sauna at home or nearby. For them, it’s not just a way to get warm, it’s a ritual, a place to relax, reset, and connect with yourself and others. If you’re searching for the best sauna in Rovaniemi, you’ll find many options, from public saunas in town to private, wood-heated retreats hidden in the forest.

But how do you choose the sauna that’s right for you and your group? Let’s explore the different types of Finnish saunas and what makes each one special, so you can find the one that speaks to you.

My first sauna experience

When I first came to Finland from the Netherlands about ten years ago, I was visiting my future in-laws. That’s when I had my very first Finnish sauna experience, and it’s a memory I will never forget.

Their cottage near Helsinki had a wood-heated sauna right by the water. It was late October, the air was already biting cold, and my initiation into the family was to take the pier out of the water before we could have our sauna. As the “new member,” that job was mine! My hands were freezing, my nose red, but when I finally stepped into the warm wooden sauna, everything made sense.

The fire crackled, the heat surrounded me, and I quickly understood why Finns love this so much. We sat together, threw water on the stones, and then ran outside into the cold night air to cool off.

That sauna had history. Generations had celebrated important family moments there, and that night, it was my turn to be welcomed into the family. These are the things that gives a sauna its soul, the stories, the laughter, the quiet moments shared and the memories made. 

Which Sauna is Right for You?

Finland has over 3 million saunas, more than one for every two people! Here are the most common types you might come across in Rovaniemi or elsewhere in Finland:

• Smoke Sauna
  The oldest, most traditional sauna. There’s no chimney and smoke fills the room as the fire heats the stones, then it’s ventilated before bathing. The result is a soft, rich heat with a beautiful smoky aroma.
  
  
• Wood-Heated Sauna
  Heated by a wood-burning stove, these saunas are loved for their gentle, even steam and the cozy sound of firewood crackling. This is the type we use at Arctos Lapland Spa for an authentic experience.
  
  
• Electric Sauna
  Common in hotels, gyms, and homes. Quick to heat, practical, but often missing that extra bit of atmosphere you get with wood-fired saunas.
  
  
• Public Sauna
  Public saunas are open to everyone for a small fee, perfect if you want to meet locals and experience the social side of sauna.
  
  
• Tent Sauna
  A simple sauna in a tent with a small stove, often seen at festivals or by rivers. Adventurous, fun, and surprisingly good!

How to choose your best sauna in Rovaniemi

When choosing a sauna in Rovaniemi, it’s worth taking a moment to read reviews on TripAdvisor or Google to see what other travelers have experienced.

We’re proud that Arctos Lapland Spa is ranked #1 on TripAdvisor with only five star reviews. Also on Google we received over 100 just 5 star reviews. So what makes Arctos Lapland stand out from other sauna places in Rovaniemi?

We believe it's the authenticity of the sauna. Before becoming a spa, this was a family’s sauna for many years. We’ve kept its original spirit alive, so when you sit on the wooden bench and throw water on the stones, you can feel its history. Something you can simple not create by putting up a brand new sauna.

Since opening Arctos Lapland Spa, many new memories have been made here too, from marriage proposals in the sauna to families seeing the Northern Lights from the sauna window.

Experience the best sauna in Rovaniemi

Ready to enjoy your own private sauna experience?

Come and see why so many guests say this is the most memorable moment of their Lapland journey.

• Explore our Autumn Spa Experience
• Discover our Winter Spa Experience

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Read here a selection of reviews that our guests wrote about our sauna & spa experience:

A night to remember

★★★★★

Loved the place! It was absolutely beautiful. We booked the evening session and we were so lucky to see the Aurora! The night was clear and the place is near a beautiful lake which is very dark - perfect for viewing the Northern Lights! The sauna was a delightful experience, and the hot tub was so relaxing! The host Raymond was very sweet, he picked us up personally from our place and dropped us back safely. He was there to make sure we were safe during the ice dipping. He served us a very sweet mocktail, marshmallows and a delicious hot dog which we could grill ourselves along with the bread and toppings. Absolutely delicious! Would highly recommend it if you want a very private session. Must try in Rovaniemi!

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An unforgettable experience

★★★★★

What a great experience and what a beautiful location on a large lake in nature. Magnificent. The location is so attractively decorated and with all lights, candles and wood fires it is a true fairytale paradise.

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Perfect day out!

★★★★★

The most memorable experience ever. Everything from making the booking, the detail of what will happen and the pick up. Raymond and Paula have a little slice of paradise by this lake. It was peaceful and serene. They have thought of every detail. It was so comfortable and relaxing highly recommend visiting Arctos Lapland for a beautiful sauna and ice dip experience.

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Super recommended, the experience was incredible.

★★★★★

The best experience of my life. Everything was perfect, the attention, the place, all the spaces were incredible. And the frozen lake was the best, getting in there and enjoying that experience.

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A truly magical experience

★★★★★

We had the most incredible time at Arctos Lapland, a truly magical experience, with every detail thoughtfully planned to perfection. From start to finish, it felt like something out of a dream.If you’re in Rovaniemi and want to experience an authentic Finnish sauna in a breathtaking setting, this is the place to go. Everything from the cosy atmosphere to the warm hospitality, made us feel so special. Watching the snowy landscape from the hot sauna, and then dipping into the ice-cold lake, was unforgettable.This isn’t just a sauna experience, it’s a moment of peace, nature and pure magic.You absolutely have to visit this place. We’ll remember it forever!

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Best sauna experience in Rovaniemi

★★★★★

One of the best spa/sauna experiences you can have in Rovaniemi. The host is very friendly, thank you very much Raymond.

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Highly recommend

★★★★★

By far my best experience in Lapland! Starting from the warm welcome to the host's attention to even the smallest details on the site was exceptional. Everything was perfectly organized and the cozy atmosphere made the entire experience seamless and enjoyable. Highly recommend!

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Incredible experience

★★★★★

The sauna and spa were an absolutely incredible experience! Not only did we get to enjoy the sauna, but we were also lucky enough to witness the Northern Lights. The top section of the sauna was amazing, and the dip in the lake was an unforgettable experience. The staff (Endy) there was very supportive and encouraged us to take the plunge, making it even more enjoyable.The sauna itself was super warm and cozy, and there were plenty of treats available—marshmallows, snacks, cookies, and more tempting goodies.We had originally hoped to go back if our schedule allowed, and honestly, it was worth every penny we spent. Thank you Raymond and Endy ❤️

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Loved our experience

★★★★★

Excellent sauna experience! Best one in Lapland…you will not be disappointed. Loved our experience!

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Stunning Arctic Spa experience near Rovaniemi

★★★★★

Absolutely stunning private arctic spa experience near Rovaniemi. Owner is polite and respectful, he takes care of this place nicely!Would love to visit again.

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Most exceptional experience in Rovaniemi

★★★★★

It was the best and most exceptional experience in Rovaniemi. Raymond was professional and a friendly host, his fancy traditional Finnish wood sauna hut was amazing and super relaxing. We even spotted northern lights at the private sauna area which was stunning. Everything was perfect. One of the must-trys in Rovaniemi!

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Unforgettable experience

★★★★★

Experiencing Finnish culture in Lapland was absolutely incredible! I was captivated by the stunning ice landscapes, even in the chilly minus 20 degrees. The thrill of warming up by the crackling bonfire while enjoying delicious snacks and relaxing in the hot tub was pure bliss. Every moment was filled with joy, and I can confidently say it was worth every penny! I can't wait to go back for more unforgettable adventures!

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