Smoke sauna
Ancient Estonian tradition for your mind and body
Sauna – older than anything
Our folk tales say that the sauna has existed since the beginning of time. It was far more than just a heated building—it was a sacred place for cleansing both body and soul. After all, there aren’t many places in life where earth, air, water, and fire come together, influencing a person with their power.
Of course, the sauna is older than modern inventions such as shingle roofs, chimneys, and mobile phones. The first saunas in our region were cave saunas. Over time, people started building them from logs, but it still took a long while before saunas with chimneys became common.
The smoke sauna is, therefore, our most original, longest-used, and most traditional type of sauna.
The sauna is located in the courtyard of the Mustjõe tavern estate
Perfect for 2-6 people
The sauna includes a small anteroom and a traditional steam room, along with an outdoor hot tub
Private sauna session for up to 8 people: €300. No time limit
Shared sauna (Thursday only): €50 per person. 2hr
Customs and Traditions
People used to visit the sauna at least once a week, but certainly on Christmas Eve and Midsummer’s Eve. The sauna is heated slowly and carefully, and it is a place to be enjoyed with quietness and respect. Idle chatter was not welcome, nor was speaking ill of others.
Hell’s Cauldron
Next to our sauna, we have a large “Hell’s Cauldron,” which we happily heat with the driest firewood for our best friends!
Sauna Capacity and Reservation Recommendation
We believe the Mustjõe smoke sauna comfortably fits 4-5 people at a time. However, our guests have told us that even 10 can fit with ease.
Of course, heating a sauna takes time, skill, and care—it is a full day’s work. That’s why we kindly ask you to book the smoke sauna at least a day in advance.
Additionally, you can order a delicious farmhouse-style dinner or enjoy herbal tea with a savory pastry
Come and experience the scent of the old smoke sauna at Mustjõe
🌿 Private Smoke Sauna Experience at Mustjõe
A sauna session begins the moment you step into our yard — into the life of old Estonia, where time moves slower and the air smells of wood and earth.
You’ll hear a short introduction to our place and the story of this land before being guided to the heart of the experience — the old smoke sauna.
There, surrounded by ancient logs darkened by centuries of steam, you’ll discover the traditions and meaning of the Estonian smoke sauna — why it’s listed as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage and why, for Estonians, sauna is never just a wash, but an essential part of both practical and spiritual life.
When the sauna is ready, you’ll be invited to step into the warmth, breathe in the scent of wood smoke, and let the leil — the gentle, enveloping steam — do its work.
Inside, the heat and silence invite you to slow down and simply be.
This is a private session, so you can enjoy the experience entirely at your own rhythm, without a guide.
Beforehand, we’ll share a few practical tips about sauna customs and comfort, so even first-timers feel confident and safe.
Afterwards, you’re welcome to relax in the old tavern room, enjoy herbal tea and a light local snack, and let the calm linger a little longer.
Included in the experience:
🔥 Private use of the historic smoke sauna with the Hell Cauldron
🪶 Introduction to Estonian sauna culture
🧖♀️ Sauna towels
🍵 Tea and spring water after sauna
Every private session is personal, unhurried, and true to the old ways — an experience that stays with you long after the last curl of smoke fades into the forest.
Thursday Shared Smoke Sauna at Mustjõe
Our old tradition revived — shared smoke sauna every Thursday!
In the old days, people always went to the smoke sauna together – neighbors, travelers, and sometimes complete strangers. This tradition is alive at Mustjõe.
It’s for those who don’t need a private sauna or simply want to experience an authentic Estonian smoke sauna together with others.
You might end up sharing the steam with strangers who may become friends.
You might meet men who can take a gearbox apart and shoe a horse, or women for whom baking bread is as easy as a Friday at city hall.
And of course, you’ll learn a thing or two about Estonian sauna culture and the wisdom that comes with it.
Included in the price:
🌿 authentic smoke sauna experience with the Hell Cauldron
🧖♀️ sauna towels
🍵 tea and spring water after sauna
Come alone or with friends – every Thursday at Mustjõe, the steam, stories, and new connections await!
Places are limited – book early.