Visitors to Sweden can now enjoy the health and meditative benefits of a new sauna ritual that includes bathing in crystal-clear natural spring water 80 meters below ground.
Created by Scandinavian travel specialists Off the Map Travel, “Savouring Swedish Serenity” incorporates mindfulness, yoga and wellness centered around the new Lady of the Mine sauna ritual, a tribute to the history of the mine itself. The combination of Swedish sauna, natural surroundings and culinary connection adds to the achievement of relaxation and peacefulness. A stay in the Scandinavian-designed Hello Sunnanhed barn-lodge with meals by an accomplished Swedish chef completes the experience.
Guests access the unusual underground Lady of the Mine sauna experience via a series of spacious tunnels and steps which gradually descend to the sauna below which clings to rock overhanging crystal-clear, emerald water. The experience is designed with a mix of story, song, hot and cold temperature, and tranquility and is guided by Sauna Master Elin Hietanen with a goal of calm and relaxation.
Between sessions in the sauna, guests emerge from the heat into the opening of the cave to cool down in the 40 degree Fahrenheit water, or simply enjoy a moment of silence in the stunning cave. Adding a further Swedish dimension, local drinks and foods are available throughout the sauna experience, with cheese and smoked meat from a nearby farm a significant part of the hearty provisions.
Guests will stay at the luxury Hello Sunnanhed barn set in an area popular with Swedish musicians who come to reconnect with nature for musical inspiration. Located near beautiful Lake Oreiön in Dalarna, Sweden, Sunnanhed is a meticulously renovated barn in Scandinavian style with soaring ceilings and expansive windows framing the natural splendor outside. The boutique barn-lodge serves as the perfect sanctuary for guests seeking solace and self-reflection.
The culinary journey continues at the lodge where private chef Görgen does what he does best: connecting his menus to the surrounding nature and celebrating local produce. A believer in storytelling as part of the dining experience, Görgen is a favorite among Swedish royalty and dignitaries and enchants guests with his tales. He is also available to take guests on a hiking and foraging experience to search for wild blueberries and other edible flora which will be incorporated into meals. Guests can prepare the meals alongside the chef if they wish.