What is Aufguss and what are its benefits?

Originating in Northern Europe and particularly popular in Central European countries, Aufguss is a traditional Finnish sauna ritual. The German term literally means “infusion” and describes a practice that has evolved over time into a true wellness ceremony.

During a session, the Aufgussmeister, or sauna master, pours water onto the hot sauna stones, sometimes infused with aromatic essences. The resulting steam is then distributed throughout the sauna through rhythmic, choreographed towel movements, intensifying the sensation of heat.

More than just a sauna session, Aufguss is a multisensory experience involving both body and mind.

Its associated benefits include:

• Muscle relaxation: the warmth encourages the muscles to relax and helps ease tension.
• Intense sweating: the high temperature stimulates the body’s natural response to heat.
• Circulatory wellbeing: heat promotes peripheral vasodilation and temporarily increases blood flow to the skin.
• Mental relaxation: accompanied by music and fragrances, the ritual encourages a pleasant sense of calm and relaxation.

The Aufguss experience in the panoramic sauna at RoofTop54

At Esplanade Tergesteo, Aufguss rituals take place in the panoramic Finnish sauna at RoofTop54, our Adults Only area overlooking the beautiful Euganean Hills.

Here, the warmth of the wood, the steam and the Aufgussmeister’s movements combine with music and aromatic fragrances, creating sessions that are always different. Essences with fresh, floral or balsamic notes complement the experience without taking centre stage.

After the ritual, guests can continue their wellness journey with a refreshing dip in the plunge pool and a relaxing break in the lounge areas, alternating warmth and rest according to their own needs.

Sound rituals in the Stanza del Silenzio

Wellbeing can also be experienced through listening. In the Stanza del Silenzio (Silence Room), we offer sound rituals featuring Tibetan singing bowls, the handpan and traditional ethnic instruments. These immersive experiences invite guests to slow down, let go of everyday thoughts and find a moment of tranquillity.

Each instrument creates its own distinctive soundscape:

• Tibetan singing bowls: crafted from metal, they produce deep tones and harmonious vibrations that accompany relaxation and encourage mindful listening.
• Handpan: a distinctive circular musical instrument that creates soft, enveloping melodies with a fluid, meditative rhythm.
• Ethnic instruments: gongs, drums and other percussion instruments enrich the ritual with different sounds and frequencies, creating a captivating and immersive atmosphere.

Through an interplay of sounds, vibrations and pauses, these rituals offer an opportunity to step away from everyday noise and enjoy a moment of inner listening.

The pleasure of finding your own rhythm

Warmth and steam in the panoramic sauna, vibrations and soundscapes in the Stanza del Silenzio: two complementary experiences for enjoying wellbeing through all the senses.

At Esplanade Tergesteo, every ritual is an invitation to pause, listen to your body and rediscover the value of time dedicated to yourself. Because sometimes, true luxury simply means having nowhere to rush to.