World Sauna Forum brings a great group of sauna companies, cooperating partners and clients internationally to The Sauna Region Of The World, Jyväskylä, Finland.
You have possibility to practice saunayoga during the event ( detailed schedules soon). Sauna yoga developed by Tiina Vainio became very popular in Finland. Sauna yoga can be practiced in guided groups in Finland, Sweden, Estonia, Germany and Japan. Vainio has also published a book that contains sauna yoga movements suitable for a home sauna.
Sauna Scent Bar
A significant aspect of Finnish sauna therapy involves pure, aromatic plants and herbs, both fresh and dried. On Thursday, we are organizing an experiential “walk-in to the world of sauna scents” bar, open to everyone, where we will go through five different plants and their benefits for sauna-goers. On-site, you will have the opportunity to smell the scents brewed from all five different herbs. Additionally, you will learn how you can enhance the sauna’s well-being effects with these plants on your own sauna sessions. You will also receive information and a birch scent to take with you. Welcome!
During the day, Pentti Hakala, the world champion in making a sauna whisk is at the Sataman viilu. At the sauna clinic, Pentti shares his know-how with everyone interested.
Pentti Hakala won the Finnish sauna whisk making championship in 1993, became a Sauna Master in 2000 and won the world championship in whisk making in 2001.
More information and programme announced soon!
Kyrö Distillery
Mikko Koskinen
During the evening, there is a Kyrö Distillery bar where you can buy and enjoy various drinks and learn about Finnish beverage innovation.
Friday morning will be spent getting into various themes and topics. You can choose your own program based on your interests. Workshops will be led by experts and professionals from our Sauna from Finland network. Join us!
You can already sign up to ensure your spot in your preferred group. Just fill out this form. More detailed program, presenters, and content will be sent to workshop participants a week before the event.
Join us to learn more about the quality factors and certification process for the Finnish sauna experience!
Time: 9:30 AM – 12:00 PM Location: Solo Sokos Hotel Paviljonki, 9th floor
Learn about the Authentic Finnish Sauna Quality Certificate and how to obtain it for your hotel, spa, or sauna business. Explore case studies from nature retreats to urban hotels, and gain insights into elevating your sauna experience. All participants receive the Authentic Finnish Sauna Experience Quality Certificate handbook!
Join us to learn more about designing a wellness space with a Finnish sauna in it!
Time: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM Location: Sataman Viilu
Learn about the art of designing a wellness space, including a Finnish sauna. Find out the key design principles and material selections to create an excellent Finnish sauna experience.
“ Our projects always begin with a workshop where all stakeholders are involved in the design process. In this workshop, you will delve into sauna design through practical solutions, ambiance, spatial sequences, and experiential aspects. “
We will also hear other member companies at the workshop.
Join us for a morning of wellness and sauna experience Round the Lake Jyväsjärvi!
Time: 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM Distance: 6 km, asphalted route
Led by Sari Puumala, a passionate outdoor enthusiast and former competitive athlete, this session promises to invigorate your senses and leave you refreshed for the day ahead.
Browse a variety of wellness products and experience hands-on sauna yoga sessions. Try out new beauty care products and learn about the therapeutic benefits of sauna therapy.
Join us for a hands-on workshop exploring the therapeutic benefits of sauna therapy. Learn about the healing power of water and plants and create your own foot or hand bath products to take home.
Evening programme at Savutuvan Apaja – Narvi Night
4:30 PM Departure from the harbor of Jyväskylä Päijänne-Risteilyt Hilden Oy
Our memorable evening starts on the ship MS Suomen Suvi, where you can admire the scenery from the sundeck or have a drink as we travel towards Savutuvan Apaja.
5:15 PM Arrival to Savutuvan Apaja Welcoming mocktails!
5:15 PM Sauna From Finland – introductions & rewards
5:30 PM Apaja’s greeting Savutuvan Apaja staff will welcome you and present the evening’s menu.
6:30 PM Dinner buffet Dinner buffet available 6:30-8:00 pm Dessert buffet available 7:30-8:30 pm See the menu
8:00 PM All the saunas are ready! Enjoy 3 different lakeside saunas + saunatruck by Narvi. Bars by Kyrö Distillery and Hiisi Panimo are open.
02:00 AM Event ends Return transport via bus at 9:00 PM, 10:00 PM, 11:00PM, 12:00 AM, 01:00 AM and 02:00 AM
Dinner buffet
Bread buffet
A selection of self-baked breads Pies and croissants Butter and spreads
Dinner buffet
Apaja’s green salad Country salad of early summer Chicken salad
Harvest season salad dressing, herb oil and vinaigrette Homemade croutons
Roasted summer roots and potatoes
Mushroom risotto made from barley Warm smoked salmon Sour cream sauce and herb paste
Dessert buffet
Own yard rhubarb pie Chocolate mousse Coffee and tea
Two-hour sauna bathing including a warm hot tub, a swim in lake Melasjärvi, a towel, a sauna bench cover, and shower products
A three-course seasonal menu at Restaurant Gösta (vegetarian/vegan option available when informed in advance)
Entrance to Serlachius exhibitions
Please note that towels, sauna bench covers, and shower products are waiting for you, just remember to bring your swimsuit.
Refreshments are for sale on site (card payments only). Fresh water is served for free.
After the sauna bathing, you will be pampered with a delicious three course menu at Restaurant Gösta in the heart of the museum. The menu is prepared from seasonal, local ingredients by our awarded top chef Henry Tikkanen and his talented team.
Place: Serlachius, Joenniementie 47, Mänttä, Finland
Date and time: Friday 6 June 2025 at 9 am–15 pm (6 h)
Serlachius Art Sauna time: upon arrival–12.30 pm
TIMETABLE
9.00 Bus transfer from Jyväskylä Route: Jyväskylä Travel Centre, platform for charter busses – Hotel Alba – Serlachius
10.15 Arriving to Serlachius
10.15-12.30 Private Serlachius Art Sauna experience, includes a short introduction to the design and architecture of the Art Sauna in English
12.30 A delicious three course menu with a cup of coffee/tea at Restaurant Gösta Please inform possible allergies and special diets in the “Additional information” section at the end of the reservation
The participants can visit the exhibitions at Serlachius independently during the day.
1.45-3 Bus transfer back to Jyväskylä Route: Serlachius – Hotel Alba – Jyväskylä Travel Centre, platform for charter busses
PRICE: 120 €/person, under 18-year-olds 95 €/person
INCLUDED: Return bus ticket Jyväskylä–Serlachius, Mänttä–Jyväskylä, a private Serlachius Art Sauna experience, 3-course menu, entrance to Serlachius exhibitions
GROUP SIZE: The maximun group size is 24 people. The trip will take place when there are at least 10 participants.
CANCELLATION POLICY: In case there are not enough participants and the visit cannot be implemented, the payments will be refunded. Otherwise, the tickets are non-refundable.
PLEASE NOTE: The day trip will take place if there are at least 10 participants. The trip is confirmed to all participants on Wed 4 June by 12 o’clock.
Any questions? We’re happy to help! Serlachius International Sales Service sales@serlachius.fi tel. +358 3 488 6801 (weekdays 9 am–3 pm)
Welcome to Tupaswilla courtyard in Laukaa, 30 minutes drive from Jyväskylä city. We offer a memorable day for you within our area of expertise: Finnish cultural traditions and the Finnish smoke sauna experience with natural peat treatment. Beautiful surroundings and charming log houses create a relaxing atmosphere –welcome!
Traditional smoke sauna with guided natural peat treatment, swimming in the forest pond
Craft demonstrations
Buffet lunch
The World’s Largest Smokesauna
Our smoke sauna takes 150 persons in. This is a unique building made of old logs and recycled materials. There are separate changing rooms and showers for men and women; the sauna room is common with swimsuits on. There’s a cosy fireplace on the porch. Swimming in the forest pond with cold springs is refreshing throughout the year.
The Tupaswilla smoke sauna was chosen as the best smoke sauna in Finland 2016 by the International Smoke Sauna Club. The quality of the humid heat is special due to the huge oven. It weighs about 5000 kilos and takes 5-6 hours to heat using birch and alder wood.
Natural Peat Treatment in the Warm Sauna
Natural peat treatment is a health promoting experience. The ancient peat, dug from a deep swamp, is 100% natural ingredient. It contains various nutrients and minerals. Peat used as a mask on your skin helps to clean and soften the skin as well as to clean metabolic waste from the body. Remember hydration: drink 1-2 litres of water before peat sauna treatment.
Craft Demonstrations
Have a guided walking tour through the Tupaswilla courtyard and see the artisans at their work.
The blacksmith’s workshop: See traditional forging of tools, knives, and amulets.
Wool dye workshop: Learn about the dye use of natural ingredients like mushrooms, tree leaves, and lichen from the surroundings.
Shingle roof making: See how Finns used to build waterproof roofs and shields from thin spruce shingles.
There are souvenir products for sale, including smith work, dyed yarn, and cosmetic peat care products by Lehtopeat-shop.
Embrace an experience that combines the essence of Finnish sauna traditions, exquisite cuisine, and a truly unique atmosphere in the scenic embrace of Lake Päijänne. The charming saunas of Savutuvan Apaja invite you to unwind in the heart of Finland’s lake nature. The warmth, aromas, and serene surroundings provide the perfect moment to escape the everyday. Our saunas’ authenticity is highlighted by the Authentic Finnish Sauna Experience Nature certificate awarded by the Sauna From Finland association.
At Savutuvan Apaja, tradition and the tranquility of nature meet the luxury of modern sauna culture. Refresh yourself after the sauna with a dip in the cool waters of Lake Päijänne or relax in the bubbling comfort of outdoor jacuzzis.
The evening is crowned with Menu Suvi, a culinary journey prepared outdoors by the lake. Featuring locally sourced ingredients, it showcases the finest seasonal flavors. This night offers a perfect harmony of enjoyment for all your senses.
You are warmly welcome to an unforgettable closing celebration where the Finnish sauna experience and delicious cuisine come together in a festive delight!
Evening programme includes
Boat Cruise transport to Savutuvan Apaja
Welcoming mocktails
Dinner buffet Savutuvan Apaja
Free use of multiple Different Finnish Saunas
Option to swim in the lake and enjoy hot tubs
Dinner – Menu Suvi
Menu Suvi features locally sourced delicacies, where grilled salmon from Rossin Kala pairs perfectly with summer’s pan-seared vegetables, potatoes, and refreshing sour cream. Seasonal salads, such as Green Goddess cabbage salad and marinated mozzarella with toasted nuts, complete the experience. For dessert, white chocolate mousse and rhubarb provide a delightful finish inspired by the flavors of the season. The menu is prepared before our guests’ eyes, surrounded by the beauty of nature. Its purpose is to encourage enjoyment of togetherness and the outdoors in a relaxed and convivial atmosphere.
Grilled salmon
Rustic pan-seared vegetables and potatoes
Chive sour cream
Salad with microgreens, cherry tomatoes, and pickled cucumbers
Marinated mozzarella, mixed greens, and toasted nuts
Green Goddess cabbage salad
Seeds, homemade croutons, and caramelized onions
Seasonal vinaigrette, house dressing, and herb oil
Sauna from Finland reservers the right to changes in the programme.
Keynotes
Emma O'Kelly
Author & Journalist
The Sauna Boom in the UK and where Finnish traditions fit in
Emma O'Kelly is the author of two books on sauna culture. Her new book Wild Sauna came out in May 2025 and is a guide to saunas of the UK.
In 2023 she published Sauna - the Power of Deep Heat with Finnish photographer Maija Astikainen. She is also a journalist who has worked with Wallpaper magazine for 25 and she lives in London.
Hanna Markuksela & Heikki Huovinen
head of psychology & head of performance
Heat, cold and water as nervous system regulators
In this keynote, we'll dive into the science (and a little magic) of using heat, cold, and water in different forms to keep your nervous system happy and healthy. From the sauna to cold plunges, we’ll share how ancient and modern methods are applied in elite sports and everyday performance and recovery. You'll learn why playing with temperature isn't just for the pros — it’s a secret weapon that everyone can benefit from. Whether you're chasing a personal best, building mental resilience or just trying to survive Monday mornings, we’ve got you covered with practical, research-backed tools.
Hanna trains coaches to master nervous system regulation and stress management techniques. As a psychologist and trauma therapist, Hanna has worked with thousands of clients and is also the author of two books. She brings a strong scientific and practical approach to all her keynotes, sharing stories about diverse types of nervous systems and providing actionable tips you can start using right away.
Heikki is a mental coach and exercise physiologist who believes that the individual’s best performance is achieved through rest, not by constant overachieving. Heikki has reached this conclusion through 15 years of versatile coaching experience and a broad multidisciplinary educational background. He has coached Formula 1 and Rally 1 drivers, and has successfully coached executives and leadership teams.
Saija Silen has been the chairperson of Finnish Sauna Culture association for a decade, since 2014.
She is a sauna enthusiast specializing in smoke saunas and Finnish sauna culture. She holds the position of managing director at Jämsä Sauna Village, owned by the Finnish Sauna Culture Association, and she also works as a guide for the sauna village.
The Finnish Sauna Culture Association owns and operates Sauna Village in Jämsä. It is a place of living sauna culture and home of 24 historical smoke saunas which have been restored for use as public saunas, providing a sauna experience that you could have had 100 years ago in Finland.
Saija is passionate about everything related to saunas, always enthusiastic about learning new aspects of sauna culture, and eager to experience löyly (steam) in various types of saunas.
She's also has a honorary title of Sauna master (Sauna mestari), given for the work that she has done on behalf of Finnish Sauna and its history.
Stig Arild Pettersen
secretary general of the Norwegian Sauna Association
Norwegian sauna boom
Stig Arild Pettersen is the secretary general of the Norwegian Sauna Association since 2023. He has a strong passion for building an open and inclusive sauna community, and for documenting and communicating Norway's partly unknown and forgotten sauna culture.
At the World Sauna Forum, he will tell the story about the ongoing Norwegian sauna boom, the rediscovery of Norwegian sauna culture and why the whole world is suddenly looking to Norway and has been named to host the International Sauna Congress 2026. Norway's cooperation and learning from Finland and other countries with a strong and vital sauna culture is important, and building an international network is central to Stig's work.
The Norwegian Sauna Association (Norges Badstulaug) is the national sauna association of Norway and a member of the International Sauna Association, working to promote access to saunas in Norwegians' everyday life. More than 150 sauna clubs and businesses – both commercial and non-profit – all over Norway are now members of the national association, and the membership base is growing rapidly.
The Sauna Boom in the UK and where Finnish traditions fit in
The Norwegian Sauna Association
A member of The International Sauna Association (ISA)
Fundamentals of Finnish Sauna Design and Construction
In this presentation, Dr. Liikkanen delivers a comprehensive exploration of the key principles of sauna design. Drawing on his four-faceted model of sauna experience design, he illustrates how heating, air quality, and interior design harmonize to bring sauna culture to life. Beyond covering the fundamentals, Dr. Liikkanen will guide the audience through common pitfalls and offer practical insights to help craft the perfect sauna experience for any occasion.
Dr. Lassi Liikkanen (he/him) is a designer, author, and founder. For the past ten years he has worked in the Finnish tech industry, most recently leading digital product design. He just to be an active researcher and has published over 80 peer-reviewed journal articles and conference proceedings in the fields of product design, interactive technology, music psychology and cognitive neuroscience - and naturally sauna. As a reminder of his academic past, he is also a docent of Human-centered product design at Aalto University in Finland.
Since 2016 he has been an internationally acknowledged contributor of sauna technology knowledge. He collects, creates, digitalizes and disseminates sauna-related knowledge through Saunologia.fi website accessed annually by over 400,000 Finnish visitors. In 2019, he authored a book, Secrets of Finnish Sauna Design, available also in English since 2021 and in Japanese from 2024.
Lassi’s ambition is to help people enjoy authentic, healthy, and safe Finnish style saunas from Earth to Mars. To this end, he provides Finnish sauna design and consulting services online, connecting customers from all over the world with his team of Finnish sauna architects and specialists. He maintains research interests on sauna technology and design.
Sami Rintala (b. 1969) is an architect, professor, and artist residing in Northern Norway. He began his career in 1999 after his studies, working internationally in spatial art, and participated in art biennales including Havana in 2000 and Yokohama in 2001.
In 2003, Rintala moved to Norway and in 2007, he started the architectural firm Rintala & Eggertsson Architects with Icelandic architect Prof. Dagur Eggertsson. The firm has offices in Oslo and Bodø.
The works of Rintala and Eggertsson are known for their use of wood, ecological focus, and high-quality architecture. They often build their projects themselves, and this hands-on approach also characterizes their teaching, which takes place through intensive design & build workshops that Rintala has led a total of 259 times from 1999 to 2025. Eggertsson mainly teaches in Reykjavik, and Rintala in Trondheim’s school of architecture, and they have been visiting professors at universities such as Cornell in New York, Monash in Melbourne, and Westminster in London.
Their most recent completed projects are the Tahko Forest Spa in Finland in 2023 and the Nordic Pavilion exhibition at the Osaka World Expo in 2025. The firm has participated in the Venice Architecture Biennale four times and has won several international architecture awards, including the Global Award for Sustainable Architecture (Paris 2009).
Viilu Stage & Workshop Speakers
Mikko Jakonen
Founding Partner, Architect Studio Puisto
Mikko Jakonen is one of the founding partners and principal architects at Studio Puisto Architects. He has been responsible for the design of several public sauna projects, the most recent being Sauna-restaurant Luoto in Kuopio, which opened last summer. Studio Puisto is an architectural firm specializing in hospitality, working not only on domestic projects but also on multiple resort and spa projects worldwide in South Korea, Cyprus, and Greece. Among the latest completed projects by the firm, in addition to Luoto, is the Ähtäri Swimming Hall which opened in May.
"The roots of sauna culture run so deep in Finnish culture and history that there is endless inspiration for new projects. Designing a cohesive, functional, and beautiful sauna is already challenging in itself, but when you incorporate all the historical layers, rituals, and traditions, it forms a complex entity that at its best can create an unforgettable experience for users.”
Olli Keskinen is an architect with a background in marketing communication, having previously worked with several international brands such as Porsche and Oura. At Puisto, in addition to design work, he is responsible for developing sales and marketing strategies.
"Even though we understand the value of our cultural heritage, the popularity of the Finnish sauna worldwide has been such a positive surprise. We are currently involved in several projects globally where the Finnish sauna is specifically highlighted as a centerpiece for new resort and spa destinations. At the same time, the sauna has become a tangible spearhead for our marketing efforts, driving our design work into new territories and client relationships."
Martin heads the family company of the Aspa group. Aspa offers concepts, design and build of pools and thermal bathing areas. The company has four decades of experience and development. His core driver has always been evidence based and what each feature thermal bathing experience can do for and to the human body. He leads the company in three main fields, Hospitality Wellness, Home Wellness and Corporate Wellness.
Aspa have recognition for work such as Gulf Hotel & Spa in Bahrain (2018), Hotel Verde, Zanzibar [Greenest Spa in Africa] (2022), Vila Joya Boutique Hotel & Spa (2009, 2014, 2018) The Vine Hotel & Spa Porto and The Conrad, Algarve Portugal. Aspa are currently working on luxury hotel projects in the Red Sea and Amaala projects.
He is recognized as an industry leader and is currently developing the latest sustainable practices into the company and products.
He is a frequent public speaker on many world platforms, such as HotSpa, Paris, East African Hospitality Development, Dar Es Salam, Aqua Forum in Lisbon, Portugal Corporate Wellness in Dubai and at the Finnish Sauna Association in Finland.
