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

On a wellness kick? Discover luxurious natural spa baths around Australia

There’s no better place to unwind than the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges – a leafy and idyllic region shrouded in mist, fern-filled gullies and a peaceful atmosphere.

Wrapped in the crisp mountain air, ancient ferns and ethereally verdant landscapes of the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges , you’d be forgiven for thinking you’re in another world (or at least another part of the planet).

But this gorgeous pocket is under an hour from Melbourne, a mix of top-notch food and wine, boutique stays and forested scenery that make for an easy weekend away or even a midweek escape. In fact, visiting during the week can offer a deeply relaxing experience, with fewer crowds and more space to linger.

If you’re keen to unwind, here’s how to spend your time in this idyllic neck of the woods.

Where to eat

From farm gates to cosy eateries, the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges house a plethora of places to feast. Start your day with a leisurely brunch and coffee at Ripe . This local hangout combines warm hospitality and hearty cafe fare against a backdrop of the hills’ iconic tree-fern canopies. It’s also nestled in the heart of Sassafras, the quaint village that best captures the Dandenong Ranges’ old-world charm.

Next, take yourself on a gastronomic adventure. Visit Yarra Valley Dairy , a regional favourite doing handmade cheeses, or Cherry Hill Orchards , where in summer you can pick your own cherries and enjoy them in the farm’s picturesque grounds. Treat yourself to a tasting at one of the Yarra Valley’s renowned wineries to finish – Rochford , Re’em and De Bortoli are standout picks for a sample of the region’s signature drops.

By night, book a table at either Citrine in the mountain town of Olinda or restaurant 1309 at Balgownie Estate in the Yarra Valley. Both do elevated seasonal fare paired with excellent drinks.

And if you’re simply in the mood for a tipple, you’re spoiled for choice. The Alpine Hotel in riverside Warburton is a historic and character-filled spot pouring pints and locally made drinks, while Four Pillars is a must for gin lovers. The distillery’s award-winning spirits are famed nationwide, but here you can try them right from the source.

Things to do outdoors

two people walking through Dandenong Ranges National Park — Wander the Dandenong Ranges National Park.

A motley patchwork of misty rainforest, rugged bushscapes and beautifully tended gardens, the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges are some of Melbourne’s most scenic pockets. No visit to the region would be complete without a wander through its lush surrounds, either by bike or on foot.

The Ngurrak Barring trail stretches 39 kilometres through the Dandenong Ranges, connecting the towns and fern-filled forests that make the hills so unique. Along the way, be immersed in thought-provoking art installations and cultural stories, sharing a different perspective of this ancient landscape.

While in the area, wander through Cloudehill Garden & Nursery and the Dandenong Ranges Botanic Gardens , situated in Olinda. The cooler climate, rich volcanic soil and consistent rainfall offer both gardens ideal conditions for vivid and vibrant flora.

Over in the Yarra Valley, the 40-kilometre Lilydale to Warburton Rail Trail is a flat and family-friendly path perfect for leisurely bike rides and longer walks. It takes you through vine-lined scenery and towns like Seville and Wandin. Biking enthusiasts should head to the Warburton Mountain Bike Destination, a network of 160 kilometres of trails that traverse through untamed terrain.

For a more laidback outing, Alowyn Gardens encompasses seven acres of themed gardens perfect for a meandering stroll. The nearly 100-metre-long wisteria archway that connects different garden zones is a highlight – especially in October, when the lilac blossoms are in spectacular bloom.

The arts and culture scene

Yarra Valley and the Dandenong Ranges are havens for arts and culture thanks to their inspiring landscapes and thriving creative community. Naturally, a slower escape should include a visit to some of the region’s best studios and galleries.

The TarraWarra Museum of Art in Healesville showcases modern and contemporary Australian art, with both a permanent collection and a rotating display of thoughtful exhibitions. The building and grounds are well worth exploring: a striking architectural landmark amid landscaped lawns and open-air sculptures overlooking the Yarra Valley.

Delve into the area’s rich history at the Yarra Ranges Regional Museum , a treasure trove of more than 13,000 unique pieces. See everything from Indigenous artefacts to archival photographs and historical objects that tell the region’s story.

On your way back to the city, stop by the leafy enclave of Eltham to discover Montsalvat . This five-acre artistic playground is Australia’s oldest continuous art community, combining galleries, Gothic-style buildings and expansive heritage gardens.

Stay at a local retreat

Re’em yarra valley accommodation — Re’em is an ideal pick for an indulgent stay.

No matter your style, and no matter your budget, you’ll find a suitable spot in the region to rest your head. If the weather is warm and the sky is clear, set up a tent at BIG4 Yarra Valley Park Lane Holiday Park or Pine Hill Cabin & Caravan Park. The former has secluded camping spots surrounded by tranquil bushland and local wildlife, along with glamping pods and cabins. The latter has powered and unpowered sites suitable for all kinds of campers, and is pet-friendly if you’re travelling with your four-legged friend.

Or, book yourself into the RACV Healesville Country Club & Resort – a sprawling retreat complete with stylish rooms and luxe amenities that invite you to unwind. Relax at the day spa, tee off at the 18-hole golf course, or recharge with a round of tennis or a few laps in the pool.

And if you’re after something truly indulgent, Re’em is an ideal pick. A boutique collection of just 16, the luxuriously appointed rooms feature plush linens, high-end amenities and oversized baths with panoramic views across the estate. A gourmet breakfast showcasing gorgeous local produce is also included.

Start planning your reset getaway at visityarravalley.com.au.