Hotel Fjordgaarden

The wind off the fjord carried a chill as I pulled up to Hotel Fjordgaarden in Ringkøbing. It was a Saturday in late autumn, and the low sun lit the flat Jutland landscape around the town. I had heard about their saunagus sessions, offered as an add-on to the spa access on weekends, and decided to give it a try.

Inside, the reception area felt welcoming with its simple wooden accents. I paid the 360 DKK for a 60-minute session and headed to the changing rooms. The place drew a mix of locals and visitors, all looking to unwind.

We settled into the sauna, a group of about ten, as the gusmester began the ritual. He poured water infused with natural oils over the hot stones, and the steam rose with a subtle, calming scent. It built slowly, warming my skin and easing the tension from the drive.

Each wave brought more heat, and I felt my body relax into it. The oils seemed to clear my mind, creating a sense of peace and awareness of every breath. We repeated this a few times, the room growing hotter with each pour.

Afterward, I stepped out to cool down. The air felt crisp against my flushed skin.

The pool waited nearby, its water still and inviting. I eased in, the coolness a sharp contrast to the sauna's warmth. It shocked my system at first, but then it settled into a refreshing calm. A few laps helped shake off the last of the heat.

Others chatted quietly by the edge, sharing stories of their day. I floated for a bit, looking out at the fjord through the windows. The session wrapped up after the full hour, leaving me ready for the evening.

On Tuesdays, they offer special packages every other week, including spa access and four saunagus for a combined price. I made a note to come back for one of those.

As I dressed and left, the sun had dipped lower, casting long shadows over the fields. Ringkøbing felt quiet, with its mix of old houses and paths along the water. The sauna had done its job, washing away the week's stress.

I walked to my car, feeling lighter. Sundays bring more of these sessions too, drawing crowds from nearby towns. It was a solid way to spend an afternoon in this corner of Denmark.