Wood-Fired Sauna in British Columbia

Cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, forest walks, and of course the sauna.

At Tin Poppy Retreat in the Larch Hills near Salmon Arm, wellness travel takes on a restorative, off-grid form. Our year-round cabins have their own private, wood-fired sauna, perfect for relaxing after outdoor adventures.

Whether you’re visiting for cross-country skiing at Larch Hills Nordic Trails, snowshoeing, forest bathing, or a wellness getaway, saunaing completes the experience.

1. Heat it up: Start the fire at least 30 minutes before your session so the rocks and walls are fully heated. Have wood chopped and water buckets filled in advance.
2. Round 1 – Dry Heat: Sit in the sauna for 10–15 minutes to warm your body evenly. Then step outside for a cool down — a snow roll or cold shower works perfectly.
3. Round 2 – Steam (Löyly): Pour water over the hot rocks to create steam. Add a few drops of our own hand blended sauna oils to your water for an extra soothing or energizing effect.
4. Repeat: Most people do 2–3 rounds, alternating heat and cool-down.

Lighting the sauna stove:

1. Chop kindling into small, 1” and less diameter pieces
2. Lay kindling on crumpled newspaper and light
3. Keep feeding the fire small pieces to heat the stove up quickly then gradually start adding larger pieces.