Experience
Facilities
After you leave your shoes outside on the mat you can store your valuables in the cubbies inside the antechamber. We’ve designed the space so that each guest has their own cubby and hook. Just step in, settle, and relax. Here in the antechamber, you’ll also find water bottles, electrolytes, and organic towels available for purchase, so you can stay hydrated and comfortable throughout your session.
Heat
The sauna’s temperature naturally builds throughout the day as the stove is tended. Earlier sessions tend to be gentler, often sitting around 60–80°C (140–176°F). As the evening air cools and the fire continues, later sessions can feel hotter, sometimes reaching approximately 80–100°C (176–212°F). If you prefer a softer heat, we recommend joining one of the first or second sessions of the day. If you enjoy a more intense sweat, later sessions may suit you. Everyone’s experience of heat is different, and we encourage guests to listen to their bodies and take breaks as needed.
Steam
Our Regenzelle rain ladle by SAUNAGUT is a piece we fell in love with while traveling in Europe, and we knew we had to bring it home for Rove Sauna. Its large bowl and balanced walnut handle create a pour that releases steam in a smooth, even wave, making for truly wonderful löyly. Löyly is that deeply soothing, enveloping heat and steam that defines a true sauna experience. It’s one of those subtle details that makes each round feel artful and intentional.
Essential Oils
We use a blend of essential oils in each round. Each blend has been carefully chosen for its ability to withstand high sauna temperatures while offering distinct benefits to the body and mind. From the bright, uplifting notes of sweet orange and peppermint, to the opening and clarifying aromas of eucalyptus and rosemary, to the soothing and grounding blend of lavender and frankincense, each round is designed to bring balance and renewal. If you prefer a scent-free experience, simply let your sauna guide know, and we’ll happily omit essential oils from your session.
Fan
We use a handcrafted cotton and wooden sauna fan dyed with plants, traditionally used in European Aufguss rituals, to gently guide heat and scent through the space. Rather than adding more heat, the fan moves the warm air already present, helping steam circulate more evenly throughout the sauna. This allows guests to experience waves of warmth and aroma in a more intentional, controlled way. The movement is slow, deliberate, and rhythmic. Many people find it grounding and calming, while others enjoy the sensation of heat arriving and passing, rather than staying static.
Timing
Each round lasts approximately 15 minutes. The timer is simply a gentle reminder of how much time has passed during that round. If you’d like to stay in the sauna a little longer, you’re welcome to remain until just before the next round begins. We do encourage everyone to take breaks between rounds, as regular cooling periods are best for the body. You’re also very welcome to step out sooner at any point. Please listen to your body and take the time you need.
Cool-down
During the warmer months, we set up our much loved bucket shower. Nothing beats the invigoration of a crisp, clean cascade of water poured from above. Ours is a self-filling 5 gallons and once you get the hang of it, you might crave it as much as the heat! In the colder months when the hoses freeze, we offer smaller buckets for gently ladling water over the body between rounds. This allows for cooling as needed without the full douse. You might also try our other favorite cool-down option if the weather agrees - making a snow angel!
Lounging
If you arrive early, please make yourself comfortable in our Adirondack chairs before your session begins. They’re also there for resting between rounds. Sometimes warmed by the sun, sometimes under the stars, the chairs offer a place to ground, socialize, or sit in quiet reflection. In the evenings, they’re softly lit by ambient solar lighting and they are always surrounded by trees. You’re very welcome to linger after your session as well, enjoying the warmth, conversation, or simply a little more time outdoors at your own pace.