Rein Sikk, Minister of Saunas
Author of the Concept of Tthe Sauna Year and the Sauna Century
A sauna journey can begin
For a truly unique sauna experience, I recommend starting your sauna pilgrimage at the sauna capital of Kadrina, home to Estonia’s only sauna museum, which is increasingly becoming a tourist attraction.
However, in all our village saunas in Kadrina, Väike-Maarja, Viru-Nigula, Laekvere, and Sõmeru, visitors are welcomed into the warmth of local culture, complete with traditional customs and sauna stories. While I haven’t been to every location myself, I hear nothing but praise from sauna enthusiasts. The saunas in local sports centers also provide a delightful experience, perfect for post-workout relaxation and companionship, not to mention the lively conversations among women.
For a truly unique sauna experience, I recommend starting your sauna pilgrimage at the sauna capital of Kadrina, home to Estonia’s only sauna museum.
In Rakvere, Aqva Spa shines with its renowned eight saunas and delights visitors with the Wesenbergh mini spa, featuring three saunas perfect for smaller groups to enjoy a cozy sauna experience. Aqva’s mixed saunas are the ideal place for encountering both local and internationally famous personalities, and you might even find yourself participating in a sauna ritual. And what stunning views await from Aqva’s relaxation area, overlooking the church and park! From gently warming to intensely hot, there’s a sauna experience for everyone.
The Vihula sauna center is beautifully complemented by its surroundings, where you can gaze out the window, reflect on the area’s 800-year history, and dream of perhaps encountering the famous von Schubert around the corner. The outdoor hot tub is also perfect for a relaxing soak.
The newest mini spa is located at Õnnela Guesthouse, nestled at the edge of forests and marshes. When visiting the sauna at the off-grid Linnumäe Farm, you might encounter more birds than people in the wild nature nearby.
Lammasmäe Holiday Center offers a unique experience with its six saunas, including a turfed sauna, a two-story sauna, and one with a cabinet stove, not to mention the one located in a cave. If the owner, Meelis Parijõgi, is present, you can expect to chat for quite a while. Hipe Guesthouse provides a similar mix of pleasure and contemplation. The craft of creating Hipe’s sauna birch whisk is an experience in itself—a true sauna opera.
