From tradition to luxury: a selection of saunas in Central Estonia, Viljandi County and Mulgimaa.  

A sauna in Estonia is much more than just a place to wash. It’s a place to collect experiences. People go to the sauna with friends and family, or even alone, to unwind and enjoy life. The sauna experience can engage all the senses: the soothing sounds, the play of light and shadow, the scents of natural herbs or wood, and even treatments inspired by ancient sauna traditions. Estonians are incredibly creative when it comes to building saunas. You can find them in the most surprising places and made from the most unique materials. 

In Central Estonia, you’ll find a variety of saunas and ways to enjoy them: Finnish saunas, Russian saunas, traditional smoke saunas, tent saunas, hot tubs and barrel saunas, therapy saunas, floating saunas on Lake Võrtsjärv, steam saunas, salt saunas, and sanariums – with pools or hot tubs.  

Renting a sauna in Järva County is a wonderfully difficult choice 

Nowhere else will you find such a rich variety of saunas gathered in one small area. Järva-Jaani Vintage Museum’s Centre offers one of the most unusual sauna experiences in Estonia. Several saunas have been built inside old fire trucks, all parked close together forming a quirky “sauna circuit”. But you don’t always have to pack your sauna gear and drive to Järva-Jaani. The friendly “Sauna-Leili” truck also goes on tour, bringing the steamy experience to nearby locations. 

No sauna at home? No problem! Sauna-Mercedes “Saunamersu” drives to wherever it’s needed. Most often, the sauna stove is heated up at Tenno Matkad’s campsite in the forests of Karinu. The team also responds to special requests, bringing the Mercedes sauna right to your yard or to the shore of your favourite lake. A hot sauna followed by an icy plunge in natural water, what could be better? 

In old Estonian belief, one had to leave the sauna before darkness fell. Staying inside past midnight was thought to risk falling into the clutches of the Old Devil himself. 

At Toosikannu Nature Park, however, the sauna selection is so impressive that you might not make it out by midnight if you want to try them all. There’s a Russian-style sauna with a traditional stove, a smoke sauna, and a Finnish sauna located on an island surrounded by water. You’ll also find several hot tubs, guided sauna rituals, and even a forest spa. For the bravest visitors, winter swimming is part of the experience. Here, both body and mind find complete renewal. 

At Kolu Kümblustalu, the sauna stove is made from jadeite – a semi-precious stone that releases silicic acid with steam. This element is believed to be one of the key micro-minerals that support wellbeing, health, and beauty. After the sauna, the masseurs of the house will make sure every muscle and joint is relaxed.  

Where to go for a sauna in Viljandi County that guarantees unforgettable experiences? 

Do you want to experience a sauna like David Beckham? Head to the igloo sauna by Lake Võrtsjärv in Oiu, Viljandimaa. These dome-shaped saunas are not only perfect for traditional sauna rituals but are also a treat for the eyes. You can rent one as a private sauna for two or host a small sauna party with friends. 

The famous wave-edged pools at Suure-Jaani water and sauna centre create a nature-inspired atmosphere for swimmers. Large windows open to soothing views that help you forget the outside world, especially on cold or rainy days. As you soak in the warmth, you’ll feel a sense of wellbeing and happiness flowing through you. 

Everyone leaves the sauna with glowing pink cheeks, that’s included free of charge! For an even more “blushing” experience, visit the Schloss Fellin Hotel Spa in Viljandi, where the soft pink glow of the Himalayan salt sauna will radiate warmth. The spa features several unique sauna chambers, each offering its own touch of relaxation. 

Unforgettable saunas around Tõrva 

One of the most spectacular experiences awaits at the Salu hunting lodge where the floating sauna Britannia glides peacefully across Lake Võrtsjärv. Imagine relaxing on the raft in the middle of the lake where the sauna is warm, the table is set, and your gaze drifts across the calm water toward the horizon. What makes this experience truly priceless is watching the sun set or rise over the lake, it’s a sight you rarely get from a sauna on land. 

The Tõrva Veemõnula Water and Sauna Centre is known for its variety of options. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a traditional steam session, unwind in a salt or steam sauna, Veemõnula has something to suit every taste.  

For those who prefer a touch of luxury, Wagenküll Spa is the perfect choice, offering unique sauna experiences. In this castle spa, you’ll find everything from a refreshing cold-water oasis to water-massage pool and a hot Japanese bath, sauna selection is impressive – steam, aroma, salt, smoke, amber, and Finnish saunas all await you. The newest addition is a large heated outdoor pool that can be enjoyed all year round. 

And finally, there’s one sauna in the Tõrva region that you simply won’t forget — the Torupillitalu Sauna. Looks like a simple, rustic smoke sauna, but when the host plays live bagpipe music just for you, it really adds the magical finishing touch. It’s a memorable way to feel part of Estonia’s living cultural heritage. 

Floating Sauna on Lake Kamari in Põltsamaa 

The floating sauna Krõõt on Lake Kamari offers a truly unique experience. Enjoy a sauna while gently gliding on the water. You can heat up in the sauna, soak in the hot tub, and then take a refreshing dip in the cool lake. The raft has a roof, so the sauna trip is perfect in any weather and perhaps even more magical when it rains. 

Saunas in Unique and Scenic Places 

Central Estonia offers many ways to enjoy more traditional sauna experiences. Around Tõrva, you can visit saunas at Marja Farm  and Rahamäe Farm. In Järvamaa, you’ll find the Matkapesa Sauna on the shores of Lake Väinjärv and a rustic sauna at Hindreku Tourist Farm. In Viljandimaa, unforgettable sauna rituals await at Energia Farm and at Männiku Metsatalu smoke sauna. And in Soomaa, you can enjoy a hot steam session at Soomaa Holiday Village. 

The sauna is a tradition with meaning and a deeply rooted part of Estonian culture. It is a place where the past and the present meet, where both the body and spirit are cleansed. On Saturdays, the scent of sauna woodsmoke drifts across the whole of Estonia. 

Enjoy a good steam in Central Estonia!