10 authentic Scandi outdoor saunas hidden around Australia

Australia’s growing Scandinavian sauna culture invites you to feel the heat, embrace the cold, and reconnect with nature in breathtaking destinations.

Scandinavian-style saunas have gained popularity in Australia over recent years, with travellers embracing the health benefits of hot-and-cold therapy as part of their getaways. Beyond improving overall wellbeing, many of these experiences offer an opportunity to connect with nature, from bushland saunas to cold ocean plunges, both restorative and grounding. If you’re looking for an authentic Scandinavian outdoor sauna experience without leaving the country, here’s a list of some of Australia’s best.

1. Kuuma Nature Sauna, Tasmania

Imagine drifting into a secluded bay, steam rising from the sauna stones as you soak in the serenity of southern Tasmania. Kuuma , Australia’s first sauna boat, is a custom-designed pontoon blending relaxation and adventure. Once in a quiet cove, guests warm up in the sauna before diving into waters averaging 9ºC in winter and 17ºC in summer, or cool down using the shower bucket on deck.

Address: 40 Marina Dr, Barretta TAS

2. Floating Sauna Lake Derby, Tasmania

In the heart of Tasmania’s mountain biking haven, Floating Sauna Lake Derby offers a place to soothe tired muscles after a day on the trails. Perched on the edge of Briseis Hole’s tranquil waters, this floating sauna is architecturally designed for comfort and style. It blends Finnish wood-fired heat with Australian nature—a refreshing plunge into the freshwater lake.

Address: 99 Main St, Derby TAS

3. Håut Hutt, Victoria

Haut Hutt — Håut Hutt’s saunas are crafted using sustainably sourced Western Red Cedar.

Why settle for one sauna when you can have three? Håut Hutt in Victoria’s High Country offers a choice. Paloma, a permanent sauna in Porepunkah, features a floor-to-ceiling window overlooking a peaceful garden, complete with a bucket shower and plunge bath. The nomadic saunas, Juniper and Mondo, travel to stunning spots along the Ovens River, where guests can take a crisp plunge into mountain-fed waters. To enhance your session, owner Harry suggests arriving early to ground yourself in the surroundings, hydrating well with their complimentary lemon-and-salt-infused water, and pacing yourself between cycles. He adds that autumn drapes the High Country in golden hues, making these sessions even more magical.

Address: 7127 Great Alpine Rd, Porepunkah VIC

4. Koho Floating Sauna, Victoria

Sweat it out while dolphins and seals frolic nearby at Koho Sauna on the tranquil Gippsland Lakes. Floating on a pontoon in Lakes Entrance, this wood-fired sauna offers front row seats to nature’s antics. Guests can alternate between the sauna, a daring plunge into the lake, or a brisk cold shower on the deck. For those wanting to linger longer, Idle Lake House, a floating accommodation next door, offers discounted rates when booking both experiences.

Address: 160 Esplanade, Lakes Entrance VIC

5. Sea Soul Sauna, Victoria

The highlight of Sea Soul Sauna is its invigorating ocean plunge, just a short jog across the sand. Guests are encouraged to relax in the sauna for as long as they feel comfortable, typically between 10 and 20 minutes, before taking the plunge. If feeling hesitant, staff are on hand to offer guidance and a motivational pep talk to help you take the leap! For the best experience, dry off before re-entering the sauna to improve sweating.

Address: Mordialloc Sailing, 12 Bowman Street, Aspendale VIC

6. Cedar & Salt, New South Wales

Cedar & Salt’s portable saunas bring Nordic-style heat to scenic spots like Palm Beach and Manly. With an ethos rooted in authenticity and a deep connection to the environment, guests are encouraged to unplug, de-digitize, and restore their minds and body, all while enjoying ocean views. With Australia’s coastline as its backdrop, Cedar & Salt’s mission is to bring the sauna experience to more people, creating social, shared rituals. Byron Bay you’re up next!

Address: Check the website for pop-up locations.

7. Blue Mountains Sauna, New South Wales

Surrounded by crisp mountain air and towering eucalypts, the team at Blue Mountains Sauna describes the experience as “giving yourself a warm hug" and a chance to reset both body and mind. Guests can embrace the traditional sauna cycle: warm up, take a cold plunge, then relax by an indoor fire or outdoor fire pit under the stars with a cup of tea. Bench towels are provided, but bring your own for drying off.

Address: 7 Quinns Ave, Leura NSW

8. Sauna Cult, Queensland

If you’re worried you won’t sweat enough, Sauna Cult has you covered—literally—with Finnish sauna hats to help enhance the heat. Its panoramic window offers breathtaking views, strengthening the connection to nature. Guests can use a bucket and ladle to create löyly, the signature Finnish steam, by pouring water over heated rocks. For those ready to embrace the complete hot-cold cycle, cold plunge barrels are set up on the deck, providing a refreshing and invigorating finish.

Address: 512 Brookfield Rd, Brookfield QLD

9. The Salty Finn, South Australia

Inspired by her Finnish heritage, owner Kate set out to bring the essence of Finland to Adelaide, adding, “If I can’t bring you to Finland, I will bring Finland to you." Embracing Scandi tradition, guests bask in the heat and steam before an icy ocean plunge. Kate recommends the experience on crisp winter mornings or beneath golden sunsets. Running from April to November, The Salty Finn offers communal and private sessions, popping up at various beach locations near Adelaide.

Address: Check the website for location details.

10. Alchemy Saunas, Western Australia

Alchemy Saunas at Port Beach is Perth’s ultimate destination sauna. It combines Finnish-style heat with the rejuvenating chill of the Indian Ocean. Located steps from the white sandy beach, it offers an authentic hot-cold cycle. If you time your session right, it’s the perfect place to recharge and catch one of Perth’s iconic sunsets.

Address: 42 Port Beach Road, North Fremantle

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In recent years, Ballarat has emerged as one of Victoria’s most dynamic and daring cities. And, this spring, two unexpected creative showcases will take over the town.

No matter the season, it’s always a good time to visit Ballarat – but spring might be the most ideal. The weather is warmer, the skies are clearer, the flowers across its botanical landscapes are in bloom. And events in Ballarat transform the city into a playground of creativity.

This year, Ballarat will welcome both new and returning artistic events, best paired with a jaunt through the city’s eclectic array of things to eat, drink and explore. Here’s how to spend a spring weekend in this cool cultural hub.

The events

Two of the most exciting events hitting Ballarat this spring are the 2025 Ballarat International Foto Biennale and the inaugural edition of Sunnyside, a captivating and immersive art extravaganza.

Ballarat International Foto Biennale

Whether you’re a photography enthusiast or simply curious, the Ballarat International Foto Biennale is a must. The event permeates the entire city, with works by over 360 local and international photographers adorning over 100 buildings, businesses, streets and public spaces.

This year marks the 11th chapter and will centre on ‘Lifeforce’ – a theme that’s all about humanity and connection. Among the many talents on show, the headline artist is Campbell Addy, a British-Ghanaian creative who explores roots and identity. Be sure to visit before it ends in 2025 on 19 October.

Sunnyside

Sunnyside is making its debut this year, introducing a brand-new celebration of colour, creativity and community to Ballarat. The 17-day celebration, from 6 to 23 November, will feature immersive installations and experiences, talks, a vibrant opening night gala, and workshops covering everything from crochet to neon block printing.

Internationally acclaimed London-based artist Morag Myerscough will lead the celebration and convert Ballarat’s historic Mining Exchange – a gold rush era trading hall – and the city’s streets into a multi-sensory art spectacle.

While you’re there

Don’t miss out on everything else Ballarat has to offer. Here’s where to eat, drink, see and stay in the city.

Where to eat

Vibrant Latin American dishes at Pancho, adding flavour to Events in Ballarat. — Savour bold Latin American dishes at Pancho. (Image: Einwick)

For daytime dining, you’re spoiled for choice. Johnny Alloo does contemporary cafe fare in a warm and inviting space, while Hydrant Food Hall is a popular pick for breakfast and lunch classics. Eclectic Tastes makes seasonal dishes that incorporate plenty of local produce, giving you a great opportunity to taste the region’s flavours.

At night, head to Roy Hammond for delicious cocktails and contemporary Asian-inspired eats or Pancho for vibrant (and very good) Latin American food in fun surrounds. At Hop Temple, you’ll find an incredible selection of craft beers (more than 200, to be exact) and punchy pub fare, or you can head slightly out of town for tasty bistro classics at the historic and character-filled Buninyong Hotel .

In the mood for something fancy? Visit one of Ballarat’s many hatted restaurants, like Babae (produce-driven fine dining inspired by regional Victoria), Mr Jones (modern Asian by a chef with a Michelin pedigree) and Underbar (an ultra-exclusive spot doing ultra-refined tasting menus).

Where to drink

Food and wine tastings at Blue Pyrenees Estate, a refined experience beyond Events in Ballarat. — Relax over wine at Blue Pyrenees Estate. (Image: Visit Victoria)

No matter your poison, you’ll find a venue to suit in Ballarat. Aunty Jacks is a local institution, serving a generous line-up of beers made in the on-site brewery. Renard is perfect for a pre-dinner drink or nightcap, with a menu that spans creative signature cocktails, locally produced wines and Australian spirits.

Try some of Ballarat’s finest creations at one of its many boutique distilleries, including Grainery Lane and Itinerant Spirits. The former specialises in gin and vodka, while the latter offers gin, vodka and craft whiskey. Buy a bottle from either as a memento of your trip.

You can also venture a little further afield to one of the area’s renowned wineries and cellar doors. There are 25 scattered around the Pyrenees (Ballarat’s very own surrounding wine region), including Dalwhinnie, Summerfield and Blue Pyrenees Estate. Eastern Peake – a family-owned winery led by Young Gun of Wine 2025, Owen Latta – is also a must-visit.

What to see

A koala eating eucalyptus leaves at Ballarat Wildlife Park. — Meet a koala at Ballarat Wildlife Park. (Image: Visit Victoria)

If you’ve got time to spare after the thrill of the spring festivities, there’s lots to see and do. More art can be found in the city’s streets and laneways, with local street artists transforming the walls with impressive murals and installations.

Ballarat is equally renowned for its heritage architecture, much of which flourished during the gold rush. Notable buildings include Ballarat Town Hall, Her Majesty’s Theatre and Craig’s Royal Hotel, all located centrally and within walking distance of one another.

Travelling with kids? Head to Sovereign Hill for a living-history adventure or Ballarat Wildlife Park to meet koalas, reptiles and free-roaming kangaroos.

Where to stay

An elegant suite at Hotel Vera, offering boutique comfort. — Enjoy all-out luxury at Hotel Vera. (Image: Visit Victoria)

If you’re venturing to the city by train and want to stay somewhere central, Quest Ballarat Station is an excellent pick. The modern serviced apartments are situated just 250m from the station and a short stroll from downtown Ballarat, making coming, going and exploring the city incredibly easy. There’s also an on-site gym, barbecue area and accessible rooms available.

For a touch of French luxe in regional Victoria, The Provincial Hotel is a standout choice, with gorgeously appointed rooms and suites in a restored heritage-listed building. The hotel is also conveniently located on Lydiard Street, which is lined with grand historic architecture.

If you’re after something truly luxe, book a few nights at Hotel Vera. The exclusive collection of only seven suites presents all-out opulence: think lush linens, designer furniture, works by notable artists and gilded touches. It also happens to house fine-dining favourite Babae, making it an optimal stay if you’re keen to try the restaurant.

Getting there

aerial of hop lane in ballarat — Turn your Ballarat visit into a memorable weekend. (Image: Einwick)

One of the best things about Ballarat is its proximity to Melbourne. It’s only 90 minutes away by car – an easy journey down the Western Freeway – or can be easily reached by rail. The train from Southern Cross to Ballarat Station takes less than 90 minutes and drops you right in the centre of town.

Start planning your stay at visitballarat.com.au.