This is the most traditional and well-known type of sauna, the one that often comes to mind when people think of “bastu.” In this bastu, you’ll be enveloped by the soothing aroma of burning birch wood, the comforting crackle of the fire, and the sight of flames dancing in the dimly lit room. As water is splashed onto the hot stones, a natural, gentle heat rises to the ceiling, filling the space with a rich, steamy atmosphere. While it takes a bit longer to heat up with wood, the experience offers a truly authentic and immersive bastu experience.
The smoke bastu is the oldest and most authentic type, deeply rooted in tradition and commonly found in Finland and northern Sweden. Unlike regular wood-fired saunas, the smoke sauna lacks a chimney, allowing the fire to burn for several hours and accumulate heat in the stones. Before entering, the smoke is released and the space is aired out, leaving behind the lingering scent of smoke in the wooden walls, which gives the sauna its unique character. The heat is soft and long-lasting, and the steam that fills the room is thick and soothing. A smoke sauna is more than just a relaxing experience; it’s often a ceremonial and social gathering.
In Soukolojärvi, just outside Övertorneå, you’ll find what is believed to be the world’s oldest smoke sauna, and it’s located in a village with the highest concentration of smoke saunas in Sweden. The most impressive of them all? That would likely be the smoke sauna in Kukkolaforsen, which can accommodate up to 60 people, offering a truly communal and unforgettable experience. If you’re looking to experience authentic sauna culture in its purest form, these locations are a must-visit. → In sauna veritas
A dry bastu is a type of bastu where the temperature is high (typically 70–100°C), but the humidity is very low, usually under 20 percent. It’s sometimes referred to as a “Finnish bastu” or “traditional bastu.” The main difference from a steam or wood-fired bastu is that very little – or no – water is poured onto the stones. The result is a dry, intense heat that makes the body sweat quickly.
The steam bastu differs from traditional bastus in that the temperature is lower, usually around 40–50°C, but the humidity is very high, up to 100 percent. Steam is generated with a steam generator. The atmosphere is soft, humid, and gentle on both your skin and your breathing. Steam bastus are often found in spas and swimming facilities, and they’re perfect for those who want a milder bastu experience that also offers relaxation and skin hydration. → Arctic Wellness
The electric bastu is the most common type found in modern homes and facilities. Here, the stones are heated by an electric heater. The advantage of the electric bastu is that it’s easy to use, heats up quickly, and requires no firewood. The heat is even and controlled. The steam, when water is poured onto the stones, is often drier than in a wood-fired bastu, but the intensity can be adjusted. Electric bastus are perfect for private homes, hotels, spas, or public baths. → Bastu – a true health boost
