Laukaa offers a surprising variety of tours that showcase Finland’s unique outdoor culture and stunning winter scenery. While it’s often a stopover for nature lovers heading to Lapland or the lakes of Central Finland, Laukaa itself provides memorable experiences that are both authentic and accessible. Our favorites include the Arctic Floating Experience, which combines tranquility and nature, and the Finnish Smoke Sauna with Jacuzzis, offering a deep dive into Finnish wellness traditions. We love these because they highlight the region’s focus on relaxation and connection with nature, making your visit truly special.
Below, you’ll find a quick overview of the types of tours that made our list, along with detailed insights to help you choose the best experience for your trip. Whether you’re after a peaceful float in icy waters or a traditional sauna session topped with outdoor hot tubs, Laukaa’s options won’t disappoint.
1. Jyvaskyla: Arctic Floating Experience
Floating in freezing water might sound daunting, but this Arctic Floating Experience provides a beautifully calming way to connect with Finland’s winter landscape. The tour lasts about an hour, and you’ll be provided with a flotation suit that keeps you warm and buoyant as you lie back in a crystal-clear, frozen lake. This is perfect for travelers looking for an unusual, peaceful activity amid pristine nature.
What sets this experience apart is the focus on mindfulness and relaxation in an Arctic setting. After your float, you’ll gather around a fire, enjoying hot drinks and cookies — a simple but effective way to warm up and share stories. The tour isn’t about adrenaline or high activity; instead, it’s about embracing the cold in a mindful way, which many find surprisingly rejuvenating. Reviews average a 3.7/5, with many visitors describing it as a “peaceful, almost meditative experience.”
While the price isn’t listed, the 1-hour duration makes this a quick but memorable addition to any winter itinerary. It’s best suited for those open to cold-water immersion and interested in experiencing Finland’s long-standing tradition of ice swimming and winter wellness.
Bottom Line: If you want a calm, authentic Arctic experience that challenges your comfort zone and leaves you feeling refreshed, this float is worth trying.
2. Jyvaskyla: Finnish Smoke Sauna Experience with Jacuzzis
For around two hours, this tour lets you learn about Finnish sauna culture at its finest. The highlight is the traditional smoke sauna, which is unlike modern saunas — it smokes slowly over a wood fire, creating a distinctive, aromatic environment. After heating up in the sauna, guests relax in an outdoor hot tub, surrounded by winter woods, then cool off with a swim in a nearby lake. This cycle of heat and cold is a cornerstone of Finnish wellness and offers a truly invigorating experience.
What makes this tour stand out is its authenticity and the chance to unwind in nature. The outdoor hot tub and lake swim provide a perfect contrast to the smoky, warm sauna. Many reviewers mention feeling deeply relaxed afterward, describing it as “a true Finnish ritual that leaves you refreshed inside and out.” The experience is rated 3.7/5, indicating consistent positive feedback.
This tour is ideal for those wanting a cultural experience combined with relaxation. It’s suitable for travelers comfortable with outdoor activities in winter and interested in traditional Finnish practices. A potential drawback is that it’s a bit physically demanding due to the temperature changes, but for many, that’s part of the appeal.
Bottom Line: For a full sensory immersion in Finnish sauna culture and outdoor relaxation, this experience delivers genuine value and memorable moments.
How to Choose? Practical Tips for Picking Your Laukaa Tour
Deciding between these tours depends on your interests and comfort with cold or outdoor activities. If you’re curious about embracing winter’s quiet beauty and want a gentle, meditative activity, the Arctic Floating Experience offers a uniquely calming option. It’s perfect for those looking to connect with nature in a quietly profound way.
On the other hand, if you’re eager to experience Finnish wellness traditions firsthand, the Finnish Smoke Sauna with Jacuzzis provides a more intense, full-body relaxation session. It’s well-suited for travelers wanting a deeper cultural experience with the added benefit of outdoor hot tubs.
Consider your budget, physical ability, and time availability. The sauna tour offers a longer, more comprehensive experience, while the floating is quick but deeply memorable. Booking early is recommended, especially during peak winter months, to secure your preferred time slot.
In summary, Laukaa’s best tours reflect the region’s focus on authentic Finnish traditions and outdoor serenity. For a peaceful, meditative moment in icy waters, the Arctic floating experience is unbeatable. If you prefer a warm, social, and culturally rich activity, the sauna and Jacuzzi tour will serve you well. Both are excellent choices—your trip to Laukaa will surely include at least one of these memorable experiences. We recommend booking in advance, especially if you’re visiting in winter, to ensure a spot on your preferred tour date.
Enjoy your Finnish adventure, and don’t forget to pack your warm layers!
