Pyhätunturi: Ice Floating & Sauna Experience

Travelers looking for something genuinely different in Lapland might find this Ice Floating & Sauna Experience from Outdoor Artisans Oy an intriguing option. It promises a blend of cold-water floating in a frozen lake, followed by the traditional Finnish sauna—an iconic part of Finnish culture. If you’re after a memorable way to connect with Lapland’s winter landscape and challenge your comfort zone, this might be worth considering.

What we particularly like about this tour is how it combines relaxation with adventure—floating effortlessly in icy water supported by a drysuit, then warming up in a sauna that’s open whenever you need it. Another plus is the supportive safety briefings and professional instructors, making it accessible even for first-timers. That said, it’s definitely not for everyone: there are restrictions on height, weight, health, and pregnancy, so make sure you check those before booking.

This tour suits travelers who are curious about Finnish sauna culture, enjoy outdoor cold-water experiences, or want a unique activity that’s off the beaten path. It’s especially good if you’re looking to balance adrenaline with relaxation, all set against the stunning backdrop of Lapland’s winter scenery.

Key Points

• Unique cold-heat combo: Floating in icy water supported by a drysuit, then warming up in a sauna.
• Safety first: Short safety briefing and professional instructors help ease nerves.
• Authentic Finnish sauna: Experience traditional sauna culture in a lakeside setting.
• Flexible timing: The tour lasts 2.5 hours, with open sauna access during the activity.
• Accessible but restricted: Not suitable for pregnant women, those with certain health issues, or those outside specific height/weight ranges.
• Weather-dependent: Experience is best in winter when lakes are frozen, but conditions may vary.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect During the Tour

The experience kicks off with a quick safety briefing and fitting into a dry suit—this is key to floating comfortably in the icy water without feeling overwhelmed by the cold. The drysuit acts like a protective barrier, allowing you to relax and float effortlessly in the frozen lake. The instructor will be there to guide you through the process, which is designed to be accessible even for beginners.

Once suited up, you’ll step into the frozen lake—the water underneath the ice remains liquid, which is what allows you to float. You’ll be encouraged to relax and feel how the icy water supports your body, providing a surprisingly calming sensation. The experience is about letting go of stress and embracing the cold in a controlled, safe environment.

For those feeling adventurous, there are opportunities to play with ice—like breaking chunks or trying to get out of the water with instructor help. Many reviews mention how “supportive the instructors are,” and how the floating was “more relaxing than shocking,” which is a good sign for nervous first-timers.

After floating, you’ll switch from the drysuit to swimming suits or towels and head to the lakeside sauna. The sauna is heated and open during the program, so you can go in as often as you’d like. Many find the contrast of cold and heat to be invigorating, a core element of Finnish wellness culture. Some guests also try ice swimming without the drysuit, which adds an extra thrill of natural, unassisted cold immersion.

The Sauna Experience and Cultural Insights

The sauna is a highlight, not just as a way to warm up but as a cultural ritual. In Finland, sauna isn’t just about cleanliness but about relaxation, socializing, and tradition. The sauna here is lakeside, offering a beautiful view, and the openness allows you to enjoy the winter landscape as you warm up.

Guests often remark on how “relaxing” and “authentic” the sauna feels, and how the warmth helps recover from the icy water. It’s common to take breaks between dips, drinking hot tea or water, and sometimes just sitting quietly. This part of the experience is as much about mental relaxation as physical warmth.

Practical Details and Considerations

The tour lasts around 2.5 hours, which includes the safety briefing, ice floating, and sauna time. You’ll get all the gear you’ll need—dry suits, towels, and guidance—but you’ll want to bring along thermal clothing, swimwear, and a towel of your own for comfort.

The activity is not suitable for pregnant women, people with heart problems, those under 4’9″ (150cm), over 243 lbs (110kg), over 5’9″ (180cm), or those feeling unwell with a cold. These restrictions are in place for safety, given the cold nature of the activity.

Pricing is flexible with a reserve now, pay later option, and full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance. This flexibility is handy in unpredictable winter weather, which can impact outdoor activities.

The group sizes tend to be small, making the experience more personalized and less crowded, which many reviewers appreciate. The instructors speak both English and Finnish, making it accessible for international visitors.

The Value of This Experience

At first glance, the price might seem high, but considering the quality of the gear, safety precautions, and authentic cultural experience, many find it fair. The key is how much the experience resonates with you—if you’ve ever been curious about Finnish sauna culture or want to try something polarizing and memorable, this is a good choice.

The contrast between icy water and warm sauna can be surprisingly relaxing and invigorating. Plus, the setting—close to dressing rooms and a warm lakeside sauna—means you won’t be shivering endlessly. It’s about balancing adventure with comfort, and many guests come away feeling refreshed, even if a little chilled.

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Who Is This Tour Best For?

This activity suits travelers who are healthy, open-minded, and curious about cold-water immersion and sauna culture. It’s ideal if you want an activity that’s both adventurous and relaxing, offering a taste of authentic Finnish wellness traditions. It’s also perfect for those who enjoy outdoor experiences but prefer to do so with safety measures in place.

Not recommended for those with certain health issues, pregnancy, or those uncomfortable with cold water or physical activity. It’s not a “family-friendly” activity per se, given the physical and safety restrictions, but older teens or adventurous adults will likely enjoy it.

FAQ

Is the ice floating experience suitable for beginners?
Yes, the drysuit provides support, making floating in icy water accessible for beginners. The instructors guide you carefully, ensuring your safety and comfort.

What should I wear during the activity?
Bring your swimwear, a towel, and thermal clothing. The drysuit is provided, but you’ll change into your own swimwear for the sauna.

Can I try ice swimming without a drysuit?
Yes, after floating with the drysuit, you have the option to try ice swimming without it, which some guests find exhilarating.

Is there an age limit?
Yes, you need to be at least 150 cm tall and under 180 cm, and over 110 kg or 243 lbs is not recommended. The experience is suitable for those in good health and with no cold-related issues.

What if I cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if weather conditions change.

How long does the experience last?
The total tour takes about 2.5 hours, including safety briefings, floating, and sauna time.

Is this activity family-friendly?
It’s mainly suited for adults or older teens who meet the physical and health criteria. It’s not specifically designed for children or families with younger kids.

Will I get cold during the activity?
The drysuit and warm sauna help manage the cold, but expect to feel chilly inside the suit. The experience is about embracing the cold safely, not freezing solid.

Is the sauna traditional?
Yes, it’s a lakeside, heated sauna that provides an authentic Finnish sauna experience, often with stunning views of the winter landscape.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a memorable, culturally immersive experience in Lapland, this Ice Floating & Sauna Experience offers a compelling mix of adventure and relaxation. It’s especially suited for travelers who want to challenge themselves in a safe environment while gaining insight into Finnish wellness traditions. The support from professional guides and the stunning natural setting make it a worthwhile activity, even if it’s a bit chilly and physically demanding.

While it may not be suited for everyone—particularly those with health restrictions or a fear of cold water—it provides a chance to do something truly different in the Arctic. For adventurous souls willing to try something outside their comfort zone, this tour could be the highlight of your Finnish winter trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: