Saunas
Finnish sauna - tradition meets intensity
Our cozy Finnish sauna with a fireplace and a spacious lounge area is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy a proper sauna session. The two-level bench design allows you to choose your preferred heat – sauna pros can climb to the top, while beginners might prefer the lower level. The bench comfortably fits 3–4 people at a time. The temperature ranges from 70°C up to a sizzling 120°C. The heat helps to relax muscles, boost blood circulation in the skin, and encourages a good sweat. Breathing becomes easier as the airways clear, and the sauna’s calming effect on the nervous system can promote better, more restful sleep. After each session in the hot room, cooling down is key – step out onto the private terrace behind the sauna, take a refreshing shower, or for the brave ones, dash over to the nearby pond for a quick dip. This sudden temperature change gives your metabolism a kick and is even said to rejuvenate the skin. P.S. For everyone's comfort and cleanliness, whisking (with birch branches) is not allowed in Matsu Talu’s Finnish sauna.
Smoke sauna - the king of saunas
Our classic smoke sauna sits closest to the pond, with a wooden terrace leading straight from the sauna door to the refreshing water – perfect for a quick cool-off after a hot sauna session. The steam (or leil) in a smoke sauna feels gentler compared to a regular sauna, and the unique smoky aroma adds to the soothing atmosphere. This is the grandfather of all saunas – no chimney, just pure tradition. The large stone heater is fired for 5–6 hours, filling the room with smoke that slowly escapes through the open door. Guests enter only once the firewood has turned to ash and the air has cleared, leaving behind a warm, soft heat. The wide bench seats up to 8–10 people, making it great for group relaxation. P.S. In the smoke sauna, using sauna whisks (vihtlemine) is not only allowed – it’s encouraged! Bring your birch whisk (or any other whisk) and enjoy a full traditional experience. P.P.S. A quick tip – if you want to leave the sauna clean, avoid leaning against the sooty walls! There's no separate washroom inside the smoke sauna, but you can rinse off with a water basin, in your room, or in the washing area of the main sauna building.
Russian sauna - whisk away as long as the leaves last!
There’s an old saying: “The Russian sauna is the poor man’s doctor.” And there’s some truth to that – our traditional Russian sauna offers a gentle, healing heat that helps both body and soul. This sauna features a large metal stove filled with sauna stones. Steam is created by pouring water into a special opening on top of the stove – just be careful not to get burned! The temperatures here are lower than in the Finnish sauna, and the steam is softer and more humid. The gentler heat allows your pores to open slowly, helping your body sweat out toxins and shed dead skin cells. Because the steam is milder, you can relax, chat, and sit comfortably for hours – perfect for long evenings with friends or family. There’s no separate washing area in this sauna. You can rinse off with a bowl of water or freshen up in the Finnish sauna’s washroom or inside the house. The large bench fits 6–8 people at once. P.S. On the first steam round, no whisking! That’s the time to soak your sauna whisk. The first round gently opens up your pores and prepares your body for the second steam – which is when it’s time to whisk away! Whisking is a tradition that’s good for both the body and the spirit.
Barrel sauna - hot tub of saunas
Our cozy barrel sauna is a unique experience that brings warmth and charm to any stay at Matsu Talu. The round shape ensures a quick and even heat-up, creating a pleasantly steamy atmosphere perfect for unwinding. This compact wood-fired sauna is ideal for small groups or couples. It warms up slowly and offers a snug, intimate space to enjoy the soothing heat and calming scent of natural wood. After your sauna session, cool off under the open sky or with a refreshing dip nearby. The barrel sauna is the perfect blend of simplicity and comfort — just you, the steam, and the surrounding peace of nature.
