Five Traditional Finnish Saunas in Pyynikki VARALA Sauna Evening on the Shores of Lake Pyhäjärvi Early Bird Offer 2-hour sauna session - €28 per person. From 15 August, the regular price is €38 per person. Experience authentic Finnish sauna culture at Varala Sports Institute, nestled on the scenic Pyynikki Ridge just a 10-minute bus ride from the centre of Tampere. Surrounded by pine forests, lakeside cliffs and panoramic views over Lake Pyhäjärvi, Varala provides a unique setting to unwind and experience one of Finland's most treasured traditions. Your sauna evening includes access to Varala's five lakeside saunas, each offering its own distinctive atmosphere. Between sauna sessions, take a refreshing dip in Lake Pyhäjärvi or relax in the shared lounge areas or enjoy the peaceful surroundings from the terrace. Non-alcoholic refreshments are available for purchase on site. If you wish to enjoy alcoholic beverages during the evening, you are welcome to bring your own. Enhance your experience with pre-bookable add-ons. Traditional Finnish Sauna Ceremony Price: €19/person Sauna ceremonies at 18:00 and 20:15 Experience a guided Finnish sauna ceremony where centuries-old traditions, wellbeing, and Finnish sauna culture come together. More than simply enjoying the warmth of the sauna, this immersive experience offers an opportunity to slow down, relax, and discover one of Finland's most cherished cultural traditions. Led by Kata, an experienced traditional sauna guide, the ceremony combines gentle steam with carefully selected native Finnish plants, herbs, and natural aromas. As their fragrances are released by the heat, they create a calming atmosphere that gently awakens the senses while reflecting the deep connection between Finnish sauna traditions and nature. The ceremony also includes traditional Finnish songs, runic singing, and ancient incantations preserved through Finland's rich oral tradition. These elements shape the rhythm of the ceremony while offering insight into the history and symbolism of Finnish sauna culture. According to Finnish folk tradition, incantations were believed to promote health, provide protection, and bring good fortune, making them an integral part of sauna rituals and many of life's important milestones. The gentle warmth and peaceful atmosphere of the sauna complete the experience. This guided ceremony offers a memorable introduction to the history, symbolism, and cultural significance of the Finnish sauna. What’s included? ✓ 30-minute guided sauna ceremony led by traditional sauna guide Kata✓ Traditional Finnish sauna songs, runic singing and ancient incantations✓ Gentle steam enhanced with native Finnish plants and herbs, creating a unique sensory and aromatic experience✓ Traditional birch whisking (vihta/vasta)✓ An authentic Finnish sauna experience rooted in centuries-old traditions Taste of Finnish Nature - Sauna Evening Menu Price: €38/person Dining at 19:00 and 20:00 Prepared by an award-winning private chef, this seasonal menu brings together the finest flavours of the Finnish harvest and carefully selected ingredients from local producers. Designed to complement the unhurried atmosphere of a Finnish sauna evening, the menu celebrates the changing seasons through forest mushrooms, root vegetables, berries, and whole grains, bringing together the timeless flavours of Finnish cuisine with a modern twist What’s included? ✓ Welcome non-alcoholic shot✓ Seasonal tasting menu✓ Freshly brewed herbal tea✓ One non-alcoholic sauna drink (Choose from alcohol-free beer, Nokia Brewery mocktails, soft drinks or sparkling water)✓ Still water included during the experience Menu Welcome shot of crowberry juice ( non-alcoholic) Green salad with fresh Finnish sweetcorn and cherry tomatoes, dressed with sea buckthorn vinaigrette Bean and potato salad with herb yoghurt dressing Roasted root vegetables with whole oat grains and feta cheese Wild mushroom tartlets with chanterelle and funnel chanterelle Archipelago rye bites topped with smoked vendace mousse Mini potato flatbreads with smoked reindeer, lingonberry mayonnaise and wood sorrel Warm apple and plum crumble served with vanilla sauce Freshly brewed herbal tea Still water is served throughout the dining experience. A selection of non-alcoholic beverages is available for purchase. Good to Know AddressVaralankatu 36, FI-33240 Tampere, Finland Facilities Separate changing rooms for women and men Shared shower facilities Five traditional Finnish saunas Spacious, shared indoor lounges with panoramic lake views Large lakeside terrace and covered outdoor seating areas Direct access to Lake Pyhäjärvi Our recommendations for a full Finnish experience in Varala Experience Package 1 Dinner & Sauna Evening (€85) Begin your evening at 19:00 with a Taste of Finnish Nature dining experience. Continue with the Sauna ceremony at 20:15 followed by free sauna time until 22:00. Experience Package 2 – Sauna & Dinner Evening (€85) Start with a sauna session at 17:30, followed by sauna ceremony at 18:00. Afterwards, enjoy the Taste of Finnish Nature dining experience served from 20:00. Photo credits: Berries and mushrooms / Tarvainen
