en
Alessandra Sarelin

Private Sauna Ritual 

The Ash Tree Sauna

Welcome to a guided sauna ritual for a private group at Saarnila - the ash tree sauna - in Parainen

Taking part in a sauna ritual in this unique sauna connects you to the ways of Finnish ancestors. They called the sauna the temple of the forest.

This experience is ideal for you if you are interested in cultural heritage, mythology, and wellness, and wish to go deeper than an ordinary sauna visit.

This private experience is suitable for:

  • Experienced sauna enthusiasts

  • Those seeking relaxation, grounding, and cultural insight in an authentic setting 

  • For travellers reconnecting with their heritage, the ritual will take you on a journey in the steps of your ancestors

  • For wellness tourism or for travellers on a cultural pilgrimage

Welcome a Guided Sauna Ritual and the Ash Tree Sauna 

Finnish sauna traditions are rooted in a deep connection to nature and the forest. The birch, as well as other trees, have been important in sauna wellness for generations.


The scent of birch leaves carries you back to the light summer nights of a carefree childhood. Whisks of bundled twigs and leaves work like giant, gentle hands, drawing forth a person who is in no hurry. After this guided sauna ritual, you will feel grounded and reconnected to your own roots.

The Ash Tree Sauna Facilities 

A Unique Traditional Sauna

This private sauna is called the Saarnila sauna after the huge ash tree growing outside the sauna building. Nobody knows the exact age of the sauna, but it dates from the time when children were born in the sauna. Here you can feel the stories of birth, healing and rituals stored in the logs. Heating the sauna takes 5–7 hours, depending on the season and weather. This is an experience you will not forget.


The sauna is about 6 km from Saaristotie in Parainen, the Turku Archipelago area, in the midst of beautiful fields and meadows. You will receive the address after booking.


There is space for 5–7 persons on the sauna benches. Groups of 2–9 persons are welcome. For larger groups, we conduct two one-hour rituals. There is a cosy space with wood heating for those waiting their turn.


The service includes:

  • A guided sauna ceremony — either 90 minutes or 2 × 60 minutes
  • Storytelling about Finnish sauna traditions
  • Whisks from several trees
  • A non-alcoholic herbal sauna beverage
  • Towels

The group has access to:

  • A private, unique wood-burning sauna for 3 hours
  • Outdoor toilet
  • Fridge for drinks and snacks
  • Changing facilities

A Multisensory Sauna Ceremony

Before we enter the sauna to feel the birch and the steam, your sauna guide will introduce you to Finnish sauna folklore and traditions, as well as the history of the Saarnila sauna.


The ceremony includes:

  • Ancient rune songs
  • Gentle whisking with soft vihtas
  • Natural scents and locally gathered herbs
  • A sauna treatment with salts and herbs

This experience is grounding, soothing, and deeply connected to Finnish nature and mythology. The guided ritual takes about 1.5 hours. The facilities are reserved for you for 3 hours.

Price: €490

For groups larger than four persons, €5 per person is added. Light snacks can be ordered from a local restaurant, but please note there are no kitchen facilities on site. A picnic can also be arranged.


We look forward to welcoming you to the forest temple.

How to Proceed? 

1. Contact Me

Get in touch by:

Please contact me early when planning your trip. Let me know:

  • How many persons there are in your group

  • Any allergies, food restrictions, or health-related considerations


2. Prepare for Your Experience

After booking, you will receive further instructions by email on how to prepare and what to bring with you to your sauna experience.