The mental and physical benefits of saunas are widely known, and some countries have been well ahead of the pack when it comes to discovering the amazing things they can bring. However, a levelling up of knowledge is necessary, and countries such as the UK have needed some extra education. Fortunately, this is changing, and offerings such as the newly announced world champion sauna master-led retreats from Dolce Vita Hotels will help to bring all people up to speed.

As mentioned, the UK’s sauna culture has been somewhat behind the curve in comparison to other countries. However, the good news is that Brits have now shaken off the shackles, and its popularity is growing.

Communal saunas have started to pop up in many popular hotspots, such as Brighton, Kings Cross, Stratford, and Hackney. Some are even offering the traditional Aufguss—a German term that translates to “infusion.”

If you are unfamiliar with the word, Aufguss is a multi-sensory wellness ritual. By introducing this tradition, health-conscious Brits are now starting to understand that the humble sauna is much more than sitting in high heat, wafting air over the face with one’s hands and sweating out toxins.

At the UK’s first Sauna Summit in May 2024, the Sauna Society revealed that more than 30 sauna pop-ups have appeared already this year, with the sense of community at the heart of their rapid growth.

The aforementioned Aufguss is an experience that goes much further than what most people would imagine. It combines physical, mental, and emotional aspects and is performed by a sauna master, also known as an ‘Aufgussmeister’.

Following in the footsteps of countries like Finland, Germany, and Italy, the UK hosted its first National Aufguss Championships just last year. The Aufguss World Championship then sees sauna masters from around the world showcase their skills in performing the Aufguss ritual, where they are judged on their creativity, skill, knowledge, and showmanship.

Now, Brits can experience a Sauna Retreat led by Sauna Master World Champions with Dolce Vita Hotels, a collection of four family-run wellness hotels in wellness hotspot South Tyrol.

The retreat—Sauna Around Week—will take place from 20 to 27 October 2024. Traditional Aufguss, sauna shows, and rituals will take place daily, and the best part is that it is free to guests of Dolce Vita Hotels.

How it works
Two Sauna Master World Champions, Michael Niedermair (above), the reigning Italian Sauna Master Champion and two-time World Vice Champion from South Tyrol, supported by Kasia Klajn, a former World Champion, will head this year’s sauna retreats.

The sauna events will be at each of the five—and four-star Dolce Vita properties ALPIANA, Preidlhof (below), Lindenhof, and Feldhof, located in Lana and Naturno.

Through their inclusive hotel hopping concept, which allows guests to use the facilities of each hotel free of charge, guests can move freely between properties to see the champions in action while staying at just one. Each hotel is just a short walk or drive away, making it easy to transition between them.

If you can’t make it this year, don’t panic, as Dolce Vita Hotels hosts the Sauna Retreat annually in April and October, and for some extra encouragement, Dolce Vita Hotels is also home to two Sauna Master World Champions.

Explaining what’s involved in a sauna infusion and sauna show, Sabrina Telfser, Sauna Master and Spa Manager at Preidlhof Luxury Dolce Vita Resort said, “A visit to the sauna has many benefits, from strengthening the immune system and circulation training to relaxation of the body and mind. According to sources, the origin of saunas dates back to the Stone Age, and over the centuries that followed, different types of saunas have developed.

“We have the Finns to thank for the tradition of sauna infusions (called “Aufguss”). The sauna plays an important social role in their culture and others.

“During an Aufguss, water and ice with essential oils are poured onto the stones of the sauna oven. The steam produced increases the humidity in the sauna and makes the heat more intense. Using different rhythmic movements of a towel accompanied by background music, the Aufgussmaster creates an intense and enjoyable multi-sensory experience.

“Many sauna visitors forget about the heat during the Aufguss and, therefore, stay in the sauna longer. It takes approximately 10-13 minutes and can be optimised and intensified by using essential oils and aromatherapy during sweating. In the Aufguss, we use various utensils to distribute the air, particularly special towels and fans.

“There is a wide variety of different types of Aufguss and rituals in the sauna: classic, relaxing, themed, show, singing bowl rituals, incense rituals, scrub in the steam bath, and so on. At Preidlhof, there are between 3 and 6 different infusions every day, from the classic Aufguss to a scrub in the steam bath to themed or special show Aufguss.

“The show Aufguss is a special kind of ritual. It’s like a short theatre play in the sauna. The sauna masters tell a story using scenography, costumes, utensils, fragrances, and music. It’s a truly emotional and enriching experience. There has even been a World Championship for show Aufguss for many years.”

What does it take to be a Sauna Master and Champion? Sabrina says, “About ten years ago, I completed my training as a sauna master. After the basic training, I have attended various further training courses in this field over the years.

In Italy, there are various ways of training to become a sauna master. The sauna masters are then certified by the Italian Sauna Association AISA. Aufguss masters are determined at national qualifying rounds in the participating countries and then take part in the Aufguss World Championship. I was able to take part in 2018. It was a great experience.”

With a combined 38 pools, 32 saunas, 28 restrooms, and 5 SkySpas, Dolce Vita leads the way in award-winning wellness. Expansive spa areas offer extensive facilities, from infinity pool panoramas to sauna towers, and each property offers a sanctuary of relaxation and rejuvenation in nature.

Prices: The Sauna Around Week is free to guests of Dolce Vita Hotels. Room prices start from 171 euros per person per night, approx. £147 (including 3/4 board—breakfast, afternoon buffet, and dinner).

South Tyrol is well and truly on the wellness map. Dolce Vita Hotels are the ideal places to embrace sauna culture, whether you’re a beginner or intermediate or would like to embrace your inner sauna master. Find out more here.