Renting a sauna: how to choose the perfect place to relax?
In Lithuania and other Baltic countries, a unique way of relaxing - renting a sauna - is becoming increasingly popular. This type of holiday offers more than just a night's stay - it's a complete experience that combines traditional sauna culture with comfortable accommodation. A sauna rental usually includes a private farmhouse or house with an authentic sauna, relaxation areas and all the amenities you need for a quality holiday.
This type of holiday is characterised by its suitability for a wide range of occasions - a romantic weekend for two, a family holiday or a gathering of friends. Observing modern holiday trends, we see that people are increasingly looking not only for a place to spend the night, but also for a holistic experience of well-being, which is exactly what farmhouses with baths offer.
In this article, you will find out what the main advantages of sauna farmhouses are, what to look for when choosing one, which are the most popular places in Lithuania offering quality sauna rentals, and how to book the ideal place within your budget.
Why choose a sauna? Key benefits and experiences
A holiday in a farmhouse with sauna is much more than just accommodation. It's a complete experience, combining wellness, privacy and authentic Lithuanian traditions.
Sweating in the sauna has proven health benefits: it helps remove toxins, improves blood circulation, and reduces muscle tension and stress. The warmth relaxes the body, and bathing in birch, oak or other vases boosts immunity and helps to restore strength.
The properties with sauna are often located in remote areas surrounded by nature, ensuring complete privacy and tranquillity - the perfect environment for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and the daily stresses.
Couples rental with sauna provides the ideal setting for a romantic weekend away - privacy, cosiness and being together in an unforgettable natural environment strengthen the bond. For families, such farmhouses offer a safe space where children can explore nature and parents can enjoy the peace and quiet. For groups of friends, it is the perfect place to socialise, admire nature and experience the rituals of a traditional Lithuanian sauna together.
Sauna culture has deep roots in Lithuania. The traditional Lithuanian sauna is not only a place of purification for the body, but also for the spirit, where the four basic elements of fire, water, earth and air are encountered. Many homestead owners preserve authentic sauna traditions and are happy to introduce them to their guests, so this is a great opportunity to get in touch with cultural heritage.
Sauna traditions in Lithuania: more than just relaxation
A Lithuanian sauna is not only a place of hygiene or relaxation, but also a cultural phenomenon with a deep symbolic meaning. In the past, the sauna was considered a sacred place where people not only washed, but also healed and performed various rituals. It was believed to protect against evil spirits and diseases.
The traditional Lithuanian sauna ceremony usually takes place in several stages: first, the body is heated at a low temperature, then the temperature is gradually increased, bathing with a vantage point is included, and the ceremony is completed with a cold-water bath or a dip in a lake. The bathing stimulates blood circulation and helps deeper sweating, while the cold water closes the pores of the skin and gives a feeling of freshness.
Most quality farmhouses with baths offer the services of a bath attendant, who not only supervises the heating of the sauna, but also performs a traditional bathing ceremony, using local herbs, honey, salt or other natural ingredients to exfoliate the body and care for skin. This is an invaluable experience for those who want to relax and learn about the ancient Baltic culture.
Key points to consider when choosing a farmhouse with sauna
In order to choose the perfect place to relax with a sauna, it is important to pay attention to a few essential details that will determine the quality of your stay.
The type of sauna is one of the most important aspects. Several types of sauna are popular in Lithuania: wet (Russian) sauna, dry (Finnish) sauna and infrared sauna. A wet sauna is characterised by high humidity (50-70%) and a medium temperature (60-70°C), which creates a pleasant evaporative effect and allows you to enjoy the treatments for longer. The dry sauna operates at a much higher temperature (80-100°C) but with lower humidity, which allows sweat to evaporate more quickly from the body and the skin to feel more intense heat. An infrared sauna operates at a lower temperature, but the rays penetrate deeper into the tissues, so the body cleanses more effectively.
In addition to the type of sauna, look out for additional attractions and facilities. Many of the farmhouses offering quality holidays have hot tubs (outdoor hot pools), which are especially nice to relax by in the winter while watching the starry sky. A fireplace in the house creates a cosy atmosphere in the cool evenings, and private access to a lake or river allows you to refresh yourself in a natural body of water after a bath. If you're travelling with your family, make sure the farmhouse is child-friendly with a playground, a safe environment and plenty of space.
The quality of accommodation is also very important. Check how many bedrooms there are, whether there is a fully equipped kitchen, the quality of the furniture, and the level of privacy. Some farmhouses with baths can be very minimal, while others offer luxurious facilities. Assess the location of the farmhouse - distance to town, nearby attractions, shopping opportunities. This is especially important if you are planning a longer stay.
Some homestays offer additional wellness or beauty treatments, such as massages, body scrubs, face masks and even yoga classes. If you're interested in such a complete holiday, look for farmhouses that offer comprehensive spa programmes. Many homestay hosts can offer tastings of local produce, outdoor cooking or even guided hikes in the surrounding area.
How to assess sauna quality and safety
Quality and safety should be a priority when choosing a farmhouse with a sauna. First of all, look carefully at the photos and assess the condition of the sauna - does it look clean, well maintained and is there any visible damage? You can tell a good quality sauna by its natural materials (wood is the most common - aspen, lime or cedar), proper ventilation and ergonomic benches.
From a safety point of view, it is important to pay attention to whether the sauna has a thermometer and a humidity gauge, whether there is adequate lighting, and whether it is safe to enter and leave the sauna. If the property offers a sauna attendant, ask about his/her qualifications and experience - a professional sauna attendant will not only ensure a good quality sauna, but also a safe one.
It's also worth asking about certificates and regular maintenance of sauna equipment. Quality sauna heaters must be certified and regularly inspected to avoid fire hazards or other accidents. Pay attention to reviews that mention hygiene standards - clean water, fresh sheets and towels, and regular disinfection of the rooms are signs of good hygiene.
Before booking, ask if the owners provide instructions on how to use the sauna safely, especially if you plan to use it yourself. Good homestays always make sure that guests are properly informed about the specifics and safety precautions for using the sauna.
The most popular places and types of sauna in Lithuania
In Lithuania, you can find different types of farmhouses with baths, located in different regions, each with its own advantages and unique atmosphere.
The Lake District, which includes the Molėtai, Zarasai and Ignalina districts, is one of the most popular regions for sauna lovers.
There are many farmhouses with baths located by lakes, offering the chance to refresh yourself in a natural body of water after a sauna. These areas are particularly suitable for the summer season, when you can enjoy water activities, fishing and beautiful nature. Typical farmhouses in the region are often set in traditional wooden houses with an authentic rustic atmosphere, but often offer modern amenities.
The seaside region, especially Neringa and Palanga, offers a unique experience - saunas by the sea. Although there are fewer farmhouses with saunas than in the Lake District, they are often characterised by a higher standard of quality and an exclusive environment. After the sauna treatments, you can take a stroll along the seaside or simply enjoy the sea scenery from the window. The region is ideal for all seasons - in summer you can combine the pleasures of the sauna with a dip in the sea, and in winter you can enjoy the tranquillity and majesty of the sea.
Druskininkai and its surroundings are famous for their health traditions. Here you will find farmhouses with saunas, which often offer additional wellness services such as mineral water treatments, mud baths and massages. This region is particularly suitable for those looking for comprehensive relaxation and wellness programmes. The accommodation on offer varies from traditional farmhouses to modern spa houses with luxurious facilities.
Dzūkija National Park and its surroundings offer a peaceful holiday surrounded by forests. The region's farmhouses with baths are often located in secluded areas, where you can enjoy complete peace and privacy. It is the perfect place for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and indulge in the pleasures of nature and the sauna. Thanks to their remoteness, these places are particularly popular with couples looking for a romantic weekend.
As far as types of sauna are concerned, the most popular in Lithuania is the traditional Lithuanian sauna, which is similar to the Russian sauna. It is characterised by a moderate temperature (about 60-80°C) and high humidity, which is achieved by pouring water on hot stones. These baths often use a series of heated tubs made of various tree branches (birch, oak, linden), which are used to bathe the body, thus stimulating blood circulation and deeper sweating.
Finnish saunas are also popular and common. The temperature in this sauna can reach 80-100°C, but the humidity is lower than in a Lithuanian sauna. As a result, the body can tolerate higher temperatures as sweat evaporates more quickly from the surface.
In recent years, infrared saunas have become more popular, as they operate at a lower temperature (around 40-60°C), but the rays penetrate deeper into the body's tissues. These saunas are particularly recommended for those who cannot tolerate the high temperatures of traditional saunas, and are also good for relaxing muscles after intense physical activity.
Undiscovered places: lesser-known but valuable sauna rentals
In addition to the well-known sites, Lithuania has some less visited, but no less charming places with saunas. For example, the Anykščiai region, although known for its tourist attractions, has wonderful, less-visited farmhouses surrounded by forests that offer an authentic sauna experience and traditional Lithuanian hospitality.
The Suvalkija region also hides a number of excellent farmhouses with sauna facilities, often located by smaller streams or ponds. The homesteads in this region are characterised by their tidiness and attention to detail, and the owners often offer traditional Suvalkian dishes that perfectly complement the sauna experience.
In the surroundings of Žemaitija National Park, you will find farmhouses with authentic Semitic baths, which are slightly different from the traditional Lithuanian ones. Here, the baths are often set up according to old traditions, using local herbs and performing specific bathing rituals that are typical of the region.
Several exclusive farmhouses with saunas at the foot of the dunes of Nida offer a unique opportunity to combine the pleasures of a sauna with walks in the dunes or pine forests. Although these places are more often visited in summer, winter has its own charm - you can watch the frozen expanses of the Curonian Lagoon after a sauna, or walk on the snow-covered beach.
Booking tips and price considerations
When planning a holiday in a farmhouse with a sauna, it is important not only to choose the right location, but also to understand the booking process and the financial aspects involved.
Prices for homestays with saunas in Lithuania vary depending on the season, location and amenities offered. Economy-class farmhouses with a main sauna can cost from €80 per night, while luxury villas with private saunas, hot tubs and extra facilities can cost €300 and more. The summer season, especially weekends, is usually more expensive, so if you are on a budget, it is worth considering a weekday or low season holiday.
Many homestays have different pricing for weekends and weekdays. Weekend prices can be 20-40% higher than weekdays. Many places also have a minimum number of nights, especially on weekends, usually requiring at least two nights. Some homestays also charge extra for heating the sauna, using the hot tub or additional services, so be sure to check all costs in advance.
You can use specialised platforms such as Atostogoskaime.lt, Booking.com, Airbnb or direct hostels' websites to find and book a holiday home with sauna. Specialised Lithuanian platforms often have a wider selection of local homestays and may offer discounts during low season. Before booking, be sure to read the reviews of previous customers, which can reveal a lot of useful information about the actual condition of the homestay, the hospitality of the hosts and the quality of the sauna.
When booking a homestay, you will usually need to pay an advance payment, which can be between 30-50% in total. Please note the cancellation policy - some homestays allow free cancellation up to a certain time before arrival, while others may deduct part or all of the deposit. It is also advisable to check whether the homestay has a card payment option or whether you will need to bring cash.
For the best value for money, we recommend:
- book in advance, especially if you are planning a holiday at a popular time (summer, holidays)
- choose a longer stay - many homestays offer discounts for longer stays
- look for special offers in low season
- enquire about loyalty programmes or discounts for regular customers
- Negotiate directly with the hosts, especially if you are booking for a longer period of time or with a large group
If you are planning a group event, such as hen, stag or birthday parties, make sure to inform the owners in advance. Some farmhouses may have additional rules for such events or offer special programmes and services.
Summary
Renting a sauna is a great way to escape the everyday and immerse yourself in a relaxing and prosperous experience. There are a wide range of sauna farmhouses in Lithuania, from modest countryside bathhouses to luxurious villas with all the amenities you could want. When choosing the right place, it is important to consider not only the price, but also the type of sauna, the amenities offered, the location and the additional services.
Whether you're looking for a romantic weekend for two, a family holiday or a fun holiday with friends, a quality sauna rental will provide unforgettable memories and help you recover. Remember that the best places are often booked in advance, so make sure you plan your holiday well in advance and carefully consider all the aspects discussed in this article.
Use the tips below to discover your perfect sauna farmhouse that will meet all your needs and expectations. Enjoy the authentic Lithuanian sauna tradition, relax and let yourself experience all the health and well-being benefits of sauna!
Frequently asked questions
What is included in a standard sauna rental in Lithuania?
A standard sauna rental in Lithuania usually includes a private sauna (wet, dry or infrared), accommodation, often a fireplace or hot tub, and sometimes access to a lake or nature. Amenities vary, so always check the description of the specific farmhouse.
How much does it cost to rent a farmhouse with sauna for a weekend?
Prices vary widely depending on location, size and level of luxury - from around €80 to over €300 per night. High season, secluded locations and luxurious amenities increase the price.
Are sauna rentals suitable for families with children?
Many of the bathhouses welcome families; look for specific amenities such as spacious cabins, a child-safe environment and outdoor activities.
Do I need to bring my own bath amenities or towels?
Most quality bathhouses provide towels, firewood and bath tubs, but always check with your hosts to avoid unpleasant surprises.
Can I rent a farmhouse with a sauna for just one night?
Some homestays have a minimum stay of 2-3 nights, especially at weekends. There may be more flexible options on weekdays or in low season.