easy
1–2 hours
Suitable for most fitness levels; no special conditioning required
Discover a Finnish-inspired private sauna experience in Charlottesville, Virginia, perfect for groups seeking relaxation and wellness. Dive into heat sessions, cold plunges, and quiet breaks designed to restore and reconnect.
Private sauna & lounge | 90 minute session | max 14 people
Experience the ultimate relaxation with a Private Sauna Session in our Finnish-inspired Sycamore Sauna. Gather up to 14 friends for a rejuvenating journey of heat, cold plunges, and restful breaks. This unique communal experience promotes wellness and stress relief, making it perfect for friends, families, and colleagues to bond and unwind together.
The Private Sauna Session gives exclusive access to our Sycamore Sauna, with a hot room capable of comfortably holding up to 14 people. Invite your crew to join you for a good sweat! Minimum age for a Private Sauna Session is 12.
We are pleased to bring this experience to our community.....a traditional, wood-fired, Finnish-inspired sauna (pronounced sow-na).
When you arrive for your sauna experience a staff member will orient your group to use of the sauna and answer any questions at the outset. Then your group will be free to enjoy the sauna session independently.
Typically one will spend from 10-15 minutes in the hot room, then cool down by sitting outside, plunging in the river, or taking a quick cold rinse with the bucket shower. (A cold-water tub can be reserved as a separate amenity for your group as well) After this, a rest period is recommended either outside or in the lounge area before heading back into the hot room. These rounds are often repeated a few times.
hot sauna, cold water, rest and repeat
an invigorating way to get outside, enjoying the natural world through the winter
a place and experience to enjoy together…..building community with friends new and old, families, and colleagues.
an ancient method to reduce stress, promote health, sleep better, and feel great.
beginner-friendly- no experience necessary… just an open mind!
Drink plenty of water before and after sauna sessions to prevent dehydration during heat exposure.
Wear loose, breathable clothing to and from the sauna for comfort and ease.
If new to cold exposure, start with brief plunges and listen to your body to avoid shock.
Limit individual sauna sessions to recommended times (10-15 minutes) to avoid overheating.
Sauna culture reached Virginia through European settlers, and this venue honors that legacy with a modern, authentic Finnish experience.
Rivanna River Company emphasizes environmental mindfulness by maintaining eco-friendly practices and minimizing water and energy use in sauna operations.
Necessary for cold plunge and sauna sessions.
summer specific
Useful for drying off and sitting inside the sauna.
Important to stay hydrated throughout the session.
Keeps feet comfortable and clean between sauna and cold plunge.