How to sauna like a local
A cottage sauna is the heart of a Nordic evening, and it's simpler than it looks.
Warm it up
A wood-fired sauna takes about an hour to heat, an electric one 30 to 45 minutes. Around 70 to 80 °C is plenty. Bring water to drink and a small towel to sit on.
Heat, cool, repeat
Throw a ladle of water on the hot stones for a wave of steam, which Finns call löyly. Stay as long as it feels good, then cool off in the lake, the sea or the shower, rest a while and go back in. Two or three rounds is usual.
Sauna manners
Shower before you go in. Families often bathe naked, and swimwear is fine among friends. Never leave a wood stove alone while the fire is going, and ask the owner how they like the sauna left.
