Uusi Sauna - A Modern Neighborhood Sauna in Helsinki's Jätkäsaari

After a hard days work, our group of three headed to the newest parts of Helsinki, Jätkäsaari, to check out a sauna that boasts having updated the classic neighborhood sauna to the 21st century.

Photos (unless otherwise stated): Uusisauna.fi (Sanna Kaesmae)

With easy access via public transport, Uusi Sauna (‘New Sauna’ in English) is a welcome addition as it combines the quality selection of a gastropub with the pleasant atmosphere of a cosy public sauna. New Sauna has over 100 customer seats, a kitchen, and two terraces.

The men’s and women’s wood-heated saunas can accommodate about twenty people at a time. The changing rooms are spacious, with 54 lockers for men and 40 for women. The unisex washroom also has a compact cold plunge pool for those who want to cool off between bathing sessions.

When we visited on a Tuesday evening, the place was surprisingly full; cheerful chatter emanated from the sauna into the changing room and incoming folk inquired those sitting whether more heat was needed. The comfortable, large stove (kiuas) provided soft warmth in the abstractly designed room, but could also become quite intense when requested. A nice attention to detail is a linen seat cover as opposed to a flimsy paper one you might encounter in some public saunas.

For cooling off there is a rectangular-shaped courtyard that, especially in winter, provides a great contrast to the massive sauna.

The interior holds a cool sense of history. Photos from Ruisrock ’71 could easily be mistaken for those from Woodstock ’69, judging by the style of the people in the pictures.

You can visit to enjoy the food and the atmosphere whether you’re in for the sauna or not. During our visit, we tried both the beer selection as well as the delicious house-made cheese burgers. Their selection includes exquisite craft brews as well as non-alcoholic options topped with a knowledgeable staff.

The sauna fee is €18, and you don’t need to book in advance. Towel rental is €5 and bathrobes are also available for rent. It’s a good idea to bring your own sauna slippers!

Uusi Sauna is also available for private events and experiences. We highly recommend you visit their website before your visit.

You can also get a feel for Uusi Sauna on social media:
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