Russian banya

Location: Outside area of the sauna facilities
Climatic conditions: 80 °C, approx. 30 % humidity
Recommended duration: 8 – 12 minutes

Since December 2007, the wellness offer has included a third blockhouse in the park, the 70 m2 Russian banya.

Not only the Finns but also the Russians have enjoyed a century-old bathing tradition that continues to this day in many parts of the country. Reports of the Russian bathhouse (banya) date back to the early Middle Ages and it is still used by the whole family as a place for cleansing, maintaining good health and communication.

The authentic blockhouse is made from slowly grown Siberian wood, which is particularly suitable for a sauna. Comprising a large ante- or recovery room with benches and tables and the actual sweating room, the bathhouse has ample space for up to approx. 25 people and offers an impressive sauna experience.

At a temperature of about 70 to 80°C, the banya is not as hot as the Finnish sauna and has a much higher humidity. Water and birch branches (Russian: wenik) are thrown over the hot coals in the stove (13.30 h, 15.30 h, 17.30 h and 19.30 h) and the steam thus generated is then fanned in a vertical movement to distribute it. The birch aroma leaves a pleasant, natural scent.

In addition to regular sauna operation, authentic and celebrated “birch rituals” are held several times a week for groups of up to 12 people.

 

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Kurzentrum Rheinfelden • Roberstenstrasse 31 • CH–4310 Rheinfelden • Telephone +41 61 836 66 11 • www.kurzentrum.ch