We tried this new floating sauna in Kelowna

Looking for more winter activities in Kelowna? Toby from 103.1 Beach Radio has just the spot for you, and it’s floating in Lake Okanagan.

Jessica and Nick Rastas were inspired to create Löyly Floating Sauna after a holiday trip to Tasmania, where they came upon a similar business, and were instantly hooked.

“We thought it would be great to bring it to Kelowna, and do one here,” Nick told Toby. “My dad is from Finland, so I grew up having lots of saunas, we had one in our backyard.”

Located on the docks of the Downtown Kelowna Marina, Löyly touts a cozy sauna room with a large window overlooking the lake, as well as an outdoor area with a cold plunge pool.

Ice baths or cold plunges have gained popularity in recent years as studies show there are some great health benefits for regular users.

“The fact that it’s kind of a craze right now is helpful,” Jessica said. “The benefits of it are quite astounding: mentally, physically, all different ways, it's pretty amazing.”

The sauna itself was constructed by Nick, Jessica, and her father over the course of seven weeks, and the barge portion was assembled by Shoreline Pile Driving.

In their first meeting with the Marina, it was already discussed that if the business was a success in their first season, more floating saunas could be produced.

“We're just so grateful for how the community has embraced what we've been doing here and have been showing up,” Jessica said. “I think it’s too early to start talking about franchising, but that’s a goal for the future. I could see them in lakes in the Kootenays and Kalamalka and different areas around the Okanagan if it takes off like it has been here."

Löyly Floating Sauna is open from now until mid-April at the Marina in downtown Kelowna. You can book a session through their website or find them on Instagram.

Check out the video to see Toby’s tips on taking the plunge!