Discover the Bliss of Sauna and Cold Plunge at Takka Saunas in the Keweenaw Peninsula
On the northernmost tip of the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, the Keweenaw Peninsula is a hidden gem for travelers seeking natural beauty and tranquility. Known for its rugged coastlines, lush forests, and rich mining history, this area offers a unique escape into nature's wonders.
Sunset on Lake Superior
Tucked away on the rugged coast of Eagle Harbor on Lake Superior, Takka Sauna provides an extraordinary sauna and cold plunge experience. This traditional Nordic wellness practice, which involves alternating between a heated sauna and a cold plunge, is renowned for its invigorating effects on both body and mind. Takka Saunas marries this time-honored tradition with the stunning backdrop of the Keweenaw Peninsula, creating a rejuvenating retreat for those in search of relaxation and revitalization.
Takka Sauna Lake Superior: A Unique Retreat in the Keweenaw Peninsula
Where is Takka Sauana?
On the coast of Lake Superior off of M26 in Eagle Harbor, near Copper Harbor.
What can you expect at Takka Sauana?
Takka Sauna Lake Superior
Immerse yourself in an ancient tradition that's been around for over 2,000 years, rooted deeply in the Nordic cultures, especially Finland. Imagine stepping into the warm embrace of a sauna, where the heat works wonders on easing stress, relaxing muscles, and boosting your heart health. But the real magic happens when you step out and take the exhilarating plunge into cold water. At Takka Sauna in the Keweenaw Peninsula, the sauna and cold plunge tradition meets modern wellness in a way that's both authentic and refreshing. This sauna-cold plunge combo is a powerhouse for your health—it gets your blood pumping, sharpens your mind, and leaves you feeling revitalized.
The sauna is located at the Fresh Coast Cabins, a rugged resort in Eagle Harbor that’s a short drive from Copper Harbor. When you arrive, head to the gift shop to check in and they’ll show you to the sauna.
What is included at Takka Sauna?
Takka Sauna provides cozy waffle-knit robes, neoprene booties for your cold plunge, plenty of towels, still water, and electrolyte LMNT water to keep you hydrated. There is an outdoor restroom available for sauna guests as well.
Lindsay and I getting ready to cold plunge
If you’re not ready to brave the chilly waters of Lake Superior, they have a waterfall shower outside for a quick and refreshing splash. There is also a firepit with Adirondack chairs available for lounging. The sauna shares the beach with the Fresh Coast cabins so you may see folks walking to the beach.
The coolest part of the sauna is the view. Inside the sauna, you have an unobstructed view of Lake Superior and if you book a sunset session, it is absolutely magical.
Takka Sauna at Lake Superior
Recommended Nordic circuit
Sauna for 10-15 min
Cold plunge to cool down for 5-10
Repeat for 3-4 cycles
Takka Sauna bookings include 75 minutes or 90 minutes (sunset session) giving you plenty of sauna and cold plunge time plus a little extra to relax around the fire or beach.
Cold plunge pool
Visiting Takka Sauna is more than just a sauna session; it's an unrivaled relaxation experience set against the stunning backdrop of Lake Superior. For outdoor enthusiasts or travelers looking for a unique Yooper experience, this dynamic duo of heat and chill at sunset is a must-try for a blissful evening.
Sauna and Cold Plunge Near Me – Why Choose the Keweenaw Peninsula?
View of the sauna from Lake Superior
Visiting the Keweenaw Peninsula is a must for outdoor enthusiasts looking for adventure, but also a beautiful place to relax. Going to a sauna is an integral part of the lifestyle of the Upper Peninsula so when you book a sauna session with Takka Sauna you’re getting the best of both worlds! There are saunas and cold plunges around the world but experiencing one like this in the woods on the coast of Lake Superior is a one-of-a-kind experience.
Takka Sauna just opened a new location in Hancock, Michigan offering an incredible view of the Portage Lake Lift Bridge plus social sauna sessions (semi private) and private sessions are available. If you book, let them know Em’s on the Road sent you!
Planning Your Visit to Takka Saunas
When is the best time of the year to visit the sauna?
Summer: Peak season because of warm(ish) weather so expect the calendar to be busier in June, August, and September.
Fall: A gorgeous time in the U.P! Be mindful that fall colors happen a lot quicker in this area starting to turn at the end of Septemer-mid October. I visited the first weekend in October one year and they were just getting started!
Winter: Very snowy and cold but beautiful! It’s much slower in terms of tourism and some businesses in Copper Harbor are only opened seasonally so keep that in mind.
Spring: Pretty chilly and often very slushy as the snow is melting. But if you’re looking for a quick getaway to a cabin and sauna, you might be able to take advantage of off peak pricing at Fresh Coast Cabins or other nearby hotels or cabins.
Places to stay near Takka Saunas
Fresh Coast Cabins: This easiest and closest option. There are a variety of renovated cabins sleeping 2-6 people.
Copper Harbor: Closest town with several hotels, cabins, and camping options. There are a few restaurants there as well. I’m a big fan of Jamsen’s for breakfast and coffee and there is a fantastic general store called The Genny.
Eagle River: Another nearby town with an incredible barbecue restaurant and inn called Fitzgeralds. The Jampot is also a popular bakery run by monks in the area.
If you want a true Nordic sauna and cold plunge experience without leaving the United States, check out Takka Saunas in the Keweenaw Peninsula. For more adventures in the Upper Peninsula, check out my itineraries with things to do in nearby Marquette, Michigan.
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Sources:
"Finnish Sauna: Design and Practice" by Allan Konya offers an in-depth look into sauna culture and design, sharing the historical and cultural significance of saunas, particularly in Finland.
"The Sauna: A Complete Guide to the Construction, Use, and Benefits of the Finnish Bath" by Rob Roy provides insights into the health benefits and traditional uses of saunas.