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Saunas

Want to stay overnight in Amsterdam and relax in a wonderful wellness center? You can at Van der Valk Hotel Amsterdam Zuidas. Our wellness center features four different types of saunas to help you unwind completely. Read all about the saunas at the Amsterdam Zuidas wellness hotel here.

Finnish Coal Sauna

Finnish Coal Sauna

A Finnish coal sauna (also known as a savusauna) is the oldest and most traditional type of sauna in Finland. The Finnish sauna has been an important part of Finnish culture for centuries, but it has also become incredibly popular beyond the country’s borders. Historically, the sauna has been used not only for relaxation and personal care, but also for social gatherings and other major community events. As a result, Finnish sauna culture was inscribed on the UNESCO List of Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2020.

The traditional savusauna works by heating large stones for several hours. These stones then store the heat. Pouring water over them creates a warm, moist steam (also called löyly) that raises the temperature, intensifies the heat, and provides a pleasant warming experience.

Regular use of the coal sauna offers many health benefits: relaxation of muscles and joints, temporary relief from stiffness, stress reduction, and stimulation of blood circulation. In addition, it provides a sense of calm and well-being and supports recovery after physical exertion.

Sanarium

Sanarium

A sanarium is a gentler version of the classic Finnish sauna and is often described as a combination of a sauna and a steam bath. The sanarium was developed in Germany as a more accessible alternative to the traditional Finnish sauna. Today, a sanarium is also sometimes called a biosauna.

The temperature in the sanarium ranges between 50 and 60 degrees Celsius, with humidity around 50%. As a result, the heat feels much gentler than in traditional saunas, yet warmer than, for example, a steam bath. Essential oils or herbal extracts are often added to enhance the relaxing effect.

A visit offers many health benefits. For example, it helps relax muscles and joints, reduce stress and tension, and stimulate blood circulation. Unique to the sanarium is its pleasant effect on the skin and respiratory system.

Herbal Sauna

Herbal Sauna

Step into the aromatic world of the herbal sauna. This gentle form of sauna combines heat with the scent and benefits of aromas and herbs. The heat releases the aromatic compounds from the herbs, creating a relaxing and aromatic sauna experience.

The herbal sauna originated from a combination of Northern European sauna cultures and knowledge of medicinal herbs. The herbal sauna typically has a temperature of 40 degrees Celsius, making it a suitable option for first-time sauna-goers due to its milder heat.

The herbal sauna helps relax the body and mind, stimulates blood circulation, and supports breathing thanks to the warm, humid air. It’s an ideal place to truly unwind and reconnect with yourself.

Steam Bath

Steam Bath

Relax in our soothing steam sauna, also known as a steam bath! The steam sauna combines a relatively low temperature with very high humidity: in this sauna, it’s all about warm, moist air that envelops your entire body.

This type of sauna has a long history dating back to the bathing cultures of the Romans, Greeks, and the Middle East. It served as part of personal hygiene, relaxation, and social interaction. Modern steam saunas are thus inspired by these centuries-old traditions.

A steam generator heats water to produce steam, which is then distributed throughout the room. This creates a humidity level of nearly 100%, while the temperature typically remains between 40 and 50 degrees Celsius. Aromas are also added, further enhancing the experience.

A visit to a steam bath promotes relaxation, reduces stress, stimulates blood circulation, and soothes the respiratory tract thanks to the warm, humid air. It also supports the skin’s natural cleansing process.