How to take a sauna?

Taking a sauna is a great way to relax. For many of us this is a given, but for beginners it might be good to have some tips and tricks!

Norwegian sauna tradition can be traced back to the Viking Age and the Middle Ages. The earliest saunas in Norway were so-called "smoke saunas" – simple log cabins with a stone stove without a chimney. The stone was heated to a high temperature, and then water was poured onto the stones to produce steam.

In the Pig House on The Homestead We have chosen a somewhat more modern twist, with a wood-burning stove from Harvia.

When you are going to use the sauna, this is a straightforward procedure;

1. Attach the flap in front of the door with the hook on the wall, so that you can easily get in and out.

2. Fire up the sauna. Firewood, matches and kindling are in the firebox next to the stove. If needed, you will find extra firewood under Stabburet Once it has caught fire, add more wood. It takes about 30 minutes before it is nice and hot.

3. The water bucket can be filled at the outdoor tap by the barn, or in the barn kitchen in the winter.

We recommend combining the sauna with a bath in Follsjø, or you can take a snow bath in the winter or drag the garden hose to the sauna for a quick cool down.

Remember to bring with you:

 A towel to sit on in the sauna

 Bathrobe and slippers (practical for the trip to and from Follsjø and across the yard)

 A water bottle to keep you hydrated

 Feel free to bring some herbal tea or a light snack to enjoy after the experience

Sauna rules:

 Shower or bathe before use.

 Always use a towel to sit on inside the sauna.

 Do not heat the sauna hotter than 90 degrees

 Food is not allowed inside the sauna.

 Leave the sauna as you found it: Fill with wood and sweep the floor.

 Bathrooms and toilets are shared areas – please keep them clean.

 Please note that all use of the sauna, as well as swimming or snow bathing, is at your own risk.