Jätkänkämppä Smoke Sauna
Experience authentic Finnish sauna culture in a traditional lumberjack lodge on the shores of Lake Kallavesi in Rauhalahti, Kuopio.
The Jätkänkämppä Smoke Sauna offers an immersive experience into Finnish sauna culture and the traditions of Finnish lumberjacks. Located 600 meters from the Spa Hotel Rauhalahti, the Jätkänkämppä (Lumberjack Lodge) is a recreation of a 1950s lumberjack camp. The main draw is the large, authentic smoke sauna situated on the shore of Lake Kallavesi. Smoke saunas are a traditional Finnish type of sauna heated with wood, filling the room with smoke before it's vented out, leaving a distinctive aroma and a gentle, lingering heat. Bathers can enjoy the sauna's warmth and then cool off with a swim in the lake. In winter, a hole is cut in the ice for a refreshing dip. Public sauna evenings are held regularly, offering a traditional Finnish buffet with local specialties and live accordion music. The Jätkänkämppä Smoke Sauna provides a unique cultural and relaxation experience, allowing visitors to connect with Finnish heritage in a beautiful lakeside setting.
Local tips
- Combine your sauna visit with the traditional Finnish dinner buffet offered on public sauna evenings for a complete cultural experience.
- Brave the ice hole during winter for an invigorating contrast to the sauna's heat.
- Bring your own towel and swimsuit, although towels can be rented.
- Check the Jätkänkämppä schedule for public sauna evenings and lumberjack demonstrations, typically held on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
A brief summary to Smoke Sauna
- Katiskaniementie 8, Kuopio, 70700, FI
- Visit website
- Tuesday 4 pm-9 pm
- Thursday 4 pm-9 pm
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Kuopio city center, take bus number 40 towards Rauhalahti. The bus ride takes approximately 20-30 minutes. Get off at the Spa Hotel Rauhalahti stop. From there, walk about 600 meters to the Jätkänkämppä Lumberjack Lodge. Bus tickets can be purchased on board or via the Vilkku mobile app. A single ticket for two zones costs approximately €4.75.
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Walking
From Spa Hotel Rauhalahti, follow the signs towards Jätkänkämppä. The walk is approximately 600 meters along a well-maintained path. The walk should take about 10 minutes.
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Taxi
From Kuopio city center, a taxi to Jätkänkämppä costs approximately €20-€30, depending on traffic and the taxi company. The ride takes about 10-15 minutes. Taxis are readily available in the city center or can be booked through local taxi services.
