Europe's Sauna Boom: From Scottish Beach Boxes to Swedish Solar Eggs

Sauna culture is experiencing a significant resurgence across Europe, with a notable increase in public saunas and unique destinations catering to the trend. In the UK alone, the number of public saunas has seen a 1,900 percent increase over the last three years, growing from 45 to approximately 850.

This rise in popularity coincides with a growing emphasis on wellness and health retreats, leading to saunas appearing in diverse locations, from hotels to beach fronts.

Sauna Traditions Across Europe

Estonia, a country with over 100,000 saunas, offers an authentic experience with its traditional smoke saunas. This practice, inscribed on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list in 2014, involves saunas without chimneys, where smoke circulates for hours before being released, allowing hot stones to maintain high temperatures. There is an estimated one sauna for every 13 residents in Estonia.

Finland, often called the 'sauna capital of the world,' boasts around 3.3 million saunas, integrated deeply into its national culture. The city of Tampere is particularly known for its floating sauna boats and ferries. Both the Finnish president and prime minister have official saunas in their residences.

Sweden offers distinctive sauna experiences, including the 'Solar Egg' in Kiruna, an art installation designed by Bigert and Bergstrom that reaches temperatures of 75-85 Celsius. Another notable Swedish option is the Adventure Mine in Dalarna, where saunas are situated 80 meters underground within a former mine, featuring a cool pool for post-sauna dips.

Closer to home for many, Scotland features saunas like the 'beach box' on Findhorn Beach in Moray, offering communal sessions and a serene setting. The British Sauna Society has been advocating for authentic sauna culture in the UK since 2014, believing it can positively impact individuals and society.

Latvia is recognized by Spa Seekers as the world's number one sauna destination, with its capital, Riga, at the forefront. Saunas, known locally as 'pirts,' are deeply embedded in Latvian culture, with a tradition of family and friends gathering to enjoy them, especially on the national Latvian Sauna Day held in September. Historically, nearly every farmstead had a sauna.

Safety Considerations for Sauna Use

While saunas offer numerous benefits, health professionals advise caution. Dr. Ellen Welch, an NHS GP, notes that saunas can increase heart rate, widen blood vessels, and lower blood pressure. Individuals with unstable angina, recent heart attacks, severe aortic stenosis, or unstable cardiovascular conditions should consult a doctor before using a sauna. Those with well-controlled high blood pressure may use saunas with medical advice, but people prone to fainting or low blood pressure need to be particularly cautious.

Pregnant women are advised to take extra care, especially during the first 12 weeks, due to risks of overheating, dehydration, and fainting. Certain medications, such as diuretics and some blood-pressure medicines, can increase vulnerability to dehydration and dizziness. It is recommended to avoid alcohol before sauna use, stay hydrated, keep sessions brief, and leave immediately if feeling unwell. Gradual cooling down after a sauna session is also advised.