Grand Resort Bad Ragaz — Bad Ragaz, Switzerland
The hottest new wellness trend isn’t actually all that new, but it is literally hot. While cold plunges had their moment atop the ever-changing list of in-vogue health movements, saunas are proving to be the next indispensable experience for au courant travelers. While the actual practice of unwinding in a room designed to envelop its inhabitant in dry heat is an ancient one, sauna culture around the globe has experienced a major upgrade in recent years, incorporating cutting-edge technology, stunning surroundings and unprecedented luxury. Here are some of the world’s hottest sauna spots.
Ærth Saunas — Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
As Victoria’s newest wellness oasis, Ærth Saunas is a go-to destination for total rejuvenation in British Columbia. The open-air facility features two saunas, each crafted from a different type of wood. The Quiet Sauna is a no-talking space designated for stillness and reflection, while the Ceremony Sauna is all about connection and transformation, created specifically for guided rituals, breathwork and shared experiences. Another major perk of the property sure to delight anyone burned out on too much tech: Ærth institutes a strict no-phone policy, in an effort to keep the focus on full, immersive healing.
Grand Resort Bad Ragaz — Bad Ragaz, Switzerland
Located on the Alpine foothills in Eastern Switzerland, the Grand Resort Bad Ragaz is considered a preeminent European wellness resort. Guests have their choice of 15 different sauna experiences, including a traditional Finnish experience, a blood-pumping steam bath, a bio-sauna featuring medicinal herbs and much more. The property’s Kelo infusion sauna — the largest infusion sauna in Switzerland — features mood lighting, relaxing music and invigorating scents to stimulate the senses.
Desolation Hotel Hope Valley — Hope Valley, California
Located in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains, Desolation Hotel Hope Valley is a first-class wellness property for outdoor enthusiasts and relaxation seekers alike. Offering authentic, elevated experiences, the property’s accommodations include everything from historic cabins and luxury yurts to Airstream trailers and immersive campgrounds. In addition to picturesque hiking trails and a variety of dining options, the destination features an array of unique wellness experiences, including its signature wood-fired sauna. Inspired by centuries-old Eastern European traditions, the amenity blends natural elements with top-tier luxury, offering guests the opportunity to completely unwind their bodies and minds.
Huka Lodge — Taupō, New Zealand
New Zealand’s premiere holiday lodging received a million-dollar makeover in March 2025 after a century of serving the world’s most elite sauna-goers. Located near the Waikato River and broader Taupō region, on the central plateau of the country’s North Island, Huka Lodge has been renovated to cater to a whole new generation of travelers. The property’s new wellness grounds, set amongst a peaceful, secret garden, feature a series of huts that draw design inspiration from traditional New Zealand architecture. In addition to a gym and two spa treatment rooms, the sauna is accompanied by a surprise ice contrast shower and a steaming plunge pool.