Lonna Sauna: An Island Escape
Experience traditional Finnish sauna culture with stunning archipelago views, just minutes from Helsinki's city center.
Lonna Sauna, located on the charming island of Lonna, offers a unique blend of traditional Finnish sauna culture and contemporary design. Just a ten-minute water bus ride from Helsinki's Market Square, this island retreat provides a serene escape from the city. Lonna Island itself has a rich history, having served as a military outpost and demagnetizing station for ships. In 2016, the island opened to the public, transforming its historical structures into a restaurant, café, and the Lonna Sauna. The sauna, designed by architect Anssi Lassila, features two wood-burning loft saunas, offering panoramic views of the sea and the Helsinki skyline. The sauna experience at Lonna is a tribute to Finnish traditions, with a focus on creating a calm and respectful atmosphere. The sauna is open to all genders, with separate changing rooms available, and a gender-neutral changing room on site. After a relaxing sauna, guests can enjoy refreshments on the large terrace, which offers stunning views of the archipelago. Lonna also hosts various events during the summer months, including live music and cultural gatherings.
Local tips
- Book your sauna time in advance, especially during weekends and peak season.
- Take the ferry from Market Square for a scenic and convenient ride to Lonna Island.
- Bring swimwear or be prepared to sauna in the traditional Finnish style (without a bathing suit).
- Combine your sauna visit with a meal at Restaurant Lonna to enjoy local, seasonal cuisine.
- Check the FRS Finland or JT-Line websites for the most up-to-date ferry schedules.
A brief summary to Lonna Sauna
- Lonnan saari, Helsinki, 00190, FI
- +358447199409
- Visit website
Getting There
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Public Transport
The primary way to reach Lonna Island is by ferry from Helsinki's Market Square (Kauppatori). * **Starting Point:** Helsinki Market Square, easily accessible by tram or bus from anywhere in the city. * **Ferry Operators:** FRS Finland operates waterbuses to Lonna Island. * **Ferry Pier:** The water bus departs from the Keisarinluodonlaituri pier, located between the Suomenlinna HSL ferry and Korkeasaari ferry docks. * **Ferry Schedule:** Ferries typically operate from May to September, with departures every hour. Check the FRS Finland website for the most up-to-date schedule. * **Ferry Cost:** A single ticket costs approximately €8. * **Journey Time:** The ferry ride to Lonna Island takes about 10 minutes.
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Walking
While walking directly from Helsinki city center to Lonna Island isn't possible (as it's an island), you can walk to the Market Square to catch the ferry. * **Starting Point:** Helsinki city center (e.g., Central Railway Station). * **Route:** Walk towards the South Harbour and Market Square (Kauppatori). The walk is approximately 1.5 km and takes about 20 minutes. * **Cost:** Free (walking). * **Note:** This guidance covers reaching the ferry departure point only. You will still need to take the ferry to Lonna Island.
