Luxury Outdoor Sauna Kits That Turn Your Backyard Into a Spa

If you're considering a luxury outdoor sauna kit, you want more than just a place to sit and sweat. You want a spa-quality experience at home, and one that transforms your backyard into a wellness retreat. Luckily, there are several high-end sauna kits that combine timeless Finnish design with modern technology, like the Loyly Original, for instance.  

Through my direct work with manufacturers like HUUM and SaunaSell, and by building one myself, I've identified the specific features that distinguish luxury outdoor kits from standard offerings. 

In this guide, we'll break down what makes a sauna kit "luxury," which features are worth paying for, and what to expect from top brands.  

What Makes a Sauna Kit "Luxury"

1. Premium Build Materials

Luxury outdoor sauna kits stand apart because they're built to last for decades of outdoor use. The difference starts with the wood. Instead of standard kiln-dried spruce or pine, luxury models often use thermally modified woods like Thermo-Pine, Thermo-Spruce, or Thermo-Aspen. These woods are treated at temperatures over 200°C, and the entire process can last up to 110 hours. This is called thermal modification, and it changes the wood's cellular structure at its core.

Why does this matter? 

Thermal modification cuts the wood's moisture absorption by about half, meaning it's far less likely to warp, crack, or swell when exposed to changing weather. It also makes the wood naturally resistant to rot, insects, and UV damage. This happens because the harmful chemicals and contents are removed from inside the wood. 

Other qualities of thermal-modified wood are: 

1. Low heat retention capabilities, so you won't waste energy heating the structures, and the structures stay cool enough to touch comfortably.
2. Low thermal conductivity, so the heat doesn't get conducted outside of the sauna.
3. Heat and moisture tolerance.
4. Favorable acoustic properties, that is, wood absorbs sound rather than reflecting it, so the sauna stays a peaceful place to bathe.
5. No contents inside the wood.
6. Have surfaces that absorb and release moisture.

Another hallmark of luxury is wall thickness. Premium sauna kits use boards that are 40mm to 68mm thick, compared to the 19mm–28mm walls found in entry-level models. The result is better heat retention, more stable temperatures inside the sauna, and a noticeably solid, high-end feel. 

In the Loyly Original, for example, we used 40mm solid thermo-pine walls and thermo-aspen benches for comfort at high heat. Apart from the heat benefits, it also made the sauna room look aesthetically appealing: 

2. Efficient and Durable Sauna Heaters

If the wood is the body of a luxury sauna, the heater is its heart. A high-quality heater determines how quickly your sauna warms up, how well it maintains temperature, and ultimately, how enjoyable your sessions feel. That's why luxury outdoor sauna kits always pair premium construction with equally advanced heating systems designed to perform reliably in any season.

There are three main types of sauna heaters used in luxury sauna kits 

• Electric sauna heaters

Electric sauna heaters are generally the most convenient and the most popular sauna heaters. With an electric sauna heater, you can heat your sauna by turning a knob, using a control panel on the wall, or remotely with a phone app, depending on the model you got. 

Great ones always have high stone mass – nowadays there's a lot of heaters on the market that are essentially just cages that have the heating elements inside them, wires at the bottom, and then these are full of stones. They also have a high thermal mass. 

Two of my favorite options are: 

1. Harvia Virta Series. These might be the most reliable sauna heaters I have ever sold. We have experienced virtually 0 problems with them ever. Also, the black casing is nice, I like that look. Since the case is made of aluminium, it doesn't get very hot from the sites either, so that's nice for safety.

Harvia Virta HL80E Electric Sauna Heater

2. HUUM Hive Series. The UL limitations do not constrain these, so they get truly hot in the US, up to 230ºF. Also, open casing allows for a better airflow from the sides as well, which is nice. You'll also get a remote controllability option as well, in case you want to preheat your sauna from your phone before use

HUUM Hive Mini 9 kW 240V Electric Sauna Heater

I prefer free-standing heaters over wall-mounted ones, as they allow for more flexibility in the design of the sauna. You can place the heater in the middle or in a corner, or even embed it on the benches, like this:

• Wood Stoves 

Wood-fired heaters offer the most authentic and the best sauna experience overall. However, you need an outdoor sauna to install a wood stove if your house has already been built. Also, you need a constant supply of wood to heat your sauna. 

Unlike electric heaters, where you can get your sauna up and running with a push of a button, wood-fired heaters require more effort and time because you'd need to source wood, light the fire, and maintain it throughout your session. 

Two of my favorites are: 

1. Harvia Legend Greenflame. It has high rock capacity, which means great steam and very equal heat. Also, there's a larger window on the fire chamber, so you can see the flames dancing in the fire chamber, creating an unmatched atmosphere.

2. HUUM Hive Flow. Thanks to the unique airflow pattern inside the sauna heater, Flow is really energy efficient. You need to use less firewood to achieve the same temperature compared to your average sauna stove. Also known from its soft, long lasting steam and equal heat. 

3. Comfort-Focused Sauna Design

Luxury outdoor saunas are designed with comfort and usability at the center of the experience. Every detail, from seating to lighting, is engineered to make your sessions more relaxing, enjoyable, and authentic.

• Ergonomic Seating

Premium kits often use contoured bench construction that supports the body during both short and extended sessions. Thermo-Aspen is the material of choice for seating surfaces because it stays cool to the touch, even at high temperatures, and has a smooth, splinter-free grain. For structural strength, most builders often combine it with Thermo-Pine or Nordic Spruce in the bench framing.

• Multi-Level Bench Systems

Unlike entry-level kits with single flat benches, luxury saunas include tiered seating levels. This allows bathers to choose between higher benches for more intense heat or lower benches for a gentler experience. 

• Atmospheric Lighting

Lighting is another area where luxury kits stand out. Instead of simple overhead bulbs, you'll find integrated LED systems with dimmers and adjustable color temperatures that let you tailor the mood. 

Some high-end models even feature fiber optic starry-sky ceilings or subtle color-changing accents that create a spa-like ambiance, all without breaking the traditional sauna aesthetic.

4. Advanced Ventilation Systems

Luxury sauna kits have engineered air circulation that maintains optimal humidity levels while ensuring fresh air exchange. Premium kits include precisely sized intake and exhaust vents, positioned according to traditional Finnish ventilation principles. The intake vents are located near the heater, and the exhaust vents are positioned opposite and higher to create a natural convection flow.

Many luxury models feature adjustable vent controls that allow users to fine-tune air circulation based on seasonal conditions and personal preferences. 

Advanced ventilation systems in some premium kits include mechanical exhaust fans with variable speed controls and integrated humidity sensors that automatically adjust air exchange rates to maintain optimal sauna conditions.

5. Additional Luxury Features

Premium outdoor sauna kits also come with comfort features that extend the wellness experience beyond basic heat therapy. These include integrated sound systems with moisture-resistant speakers and Bluetooth connectivity, allowing users to enjoy music or meditation audio during sessions.

Exterior features that define luxury outdoor saunas include architectural-grade roofing materials, decorative trim elements, and integrated lighting systems that create attractive nighttime ambiance, like this: 

Luxury sauna kits also include smart control integration that allows you to control temperature, schedule sessions, and monitor energy usage through smartphone applications. 

The Best Luxury Outdoor Sauna Kits to Buy in 2025

1. The Loyly Original

When I founded the Loyly Original, I wanted to create a kit that eliminated the common frustrations I encountered during hundreds of installations: 

• Compatibility issues between heaters and controls, 
• Assembly complications, and 
• Performance problems that emerge after the first year of use. 

Our goal was to take the guesswork out of the process and deliver a ready-made solution that stays true to traditional sauna design, while still being easy to install and maintain. And yes, we did it! 

The Loyly Original is built really high, so that bathers can sit well above the heater. This is because hot air is denser than cold air. As a result, the richest löyly (steam generated when water is poured over the stones) collects at the upper levels of the sauna more quickly. Bathers can soak in this steam at the top bench and enjoy the full intensity and therapeutic benefits of Finnish-style heat.

Also, the benches are made from thermo-aspen, which is the best interior bench material used in any sauna. It's comfortable to sit on, easy to maintain, and soft under your skin. Not to mention how it completely brightens up the sauna room! 

We were also very particular about the ventilation system. In this sauna, we used a mechanical ventilation system with intake and exhaust vents run by fans. This is to ensure your sauna dries up effectively, no matter the steam or sweat produced during sauna sessions. Also, we used a tempered privacy glass front that shields you from outsiders during sauna sessions but allows you to enjoy the breathtaking outdoor view when you're inside:

If you purchase the full package, we've included the HUUM Hive 18kW heater with smart control capabilities that allow precise temperature management and remote monitoring. You also get the HUUM Hive stone package, safety rails, and embedding flanges for a straight-out-of-the-box experience. 

Key Specs:

• Capacity: Up to 10 people 
• Construction: 40mm Thermo-Pine walls, Thermo-Aspen benches
• Weight: ~6,000 lbs fully loaded
• Electrical: 240V, single phase 
• Heating: Integrated HUUM 18kW heater 

Pros:

• Superior thermal performance from thick wall construction
• Integrated smart control system with remote monitoring
• Even heat distribution throughout the interior space
• Premium Thermo-Pine construction for long-term outdoor durability
• Comprehensive warranty coverage on all components

Cons:

• Higher initial cost compared to other outdoor kits

Who it's for: 

Customers seeking professional-grade performance with smart technology integration and are willing to invest in premium construction for long-term reliability.

Score: 9.8/10

Auroom Mira L

The Auroom Mira L is an Estonian-made outdoor sauna, but it has been a huge hit in the US for very good reasons. This sauna is made out of thermo-Nordic spruce and Aspen that is resistant to wrapping, rot, and heat. The light-toned spruce also gives it a clean, Scandinavian aesthetic that feels modern and timeless. Check out the interiors: 

Auroom Mira L is a perfect showcase of modern sauna building. You won't see any visible fasteners inside the sauna. The full-length glass front floods the space with natural light and creates a seamless connection between indoors and outdoors. Whether you're looking out over a garden, a deck, or even a forest, the design makes you feel immersed in nature while still enjoying the warmth within.

One thing you'd love about this sauna is its size. Despite its compact shape, it's spacious enough to stretch out, and also cozy to maintain an intimate sauna atmosphere. You can spend time with friends, family, or your loved one! 

The Auroom Mira L comes as a DIY kit, and this means you'll get two big pallets delivered to your yard. It takes approximately 8 hours for two people to put the entire sauna together. 

Key Specs:

• Capacity: 4 People 
• Construction: Satin-smooth thermo-aspen interior and black thermo spruce exterior 
• Weight: ~2,900 lbs assembled
• Electrical: 240V amp service, depending on heater selection
• Ventilation: Engineered intake/exhaust system with adjustable controls

Pros:

• Exceptional thermal retention 
• Modular design allows configuration flexibility
• Superior finish quality with hand-selected interior wood
• Advanced ventilation system with user controls
• Comprehensive technical support and documentation

Cons:

• Heater sold separately 
• Requires a substantial foundation due to weight and size

Who it's for: 

Customers who prioritize thermal performance and build quality, and are willing to invest in premium laminated construction for superior outdoor durability. Check out more from the Auroom Outdoor Saunas range.

Score: 9.0/10

3. SaunaLife G6 Preassembled Outdoor Home Sauna 

The SaunaLife G6 has earned recognition in my installations as a well-balanced luxury outdoor kit that delivers premium features at a more accessible price point than some ultra-premium alternatives. Having assembled multiple G6 units across different climate zones, this model consistently demonstrates solid construction quality and thoughtful engineering details that enhance the outdoor sauna experience.

The kit features Nordic Spruce construction that provides good thermal retention while keeping weight manageable for most foundation requirements. Also, the walls are 7 inches thick, with double-pane windows and doors, which makes it very quiet, even if you live close to the city or have a lot of noisy activities going on outside. 

What's even better about the SaunaLife G6 is its built-in rainwater management system on the roof that keeps water from staying on the roof during winter. It also has another built-in water drainage system on the inside that drains water from the saina room. Just like the Auroom Mira L, the interiors are constructed with no visible fasteners for a professional and finished look, thanks to its Alder finish. 

Check it out: 

Thermo-Aspen bench systems offer superior comfort and durability compared to standard cedar alternatives. In contrast, the engineered ventilation system maintains optimal air circulation without the complexity that intimidates first-time sauna owners.

The SaunaLife G6 comes fully assembled; all you need to do is hire an electrician for electrical installation, and you're all set.

Key Specs:

• Capacity: 4-5 people comfortably
• Construction: Sawn Spruce walls, Thermo-alder benches
• Weight: ~2756 lbs assembled
• Electrical: 240V, single phase circuit 
• Features: LED lighting package, engineered ventilation, bronze-tinted windows

Pros:

• Balanced price-to-performance ratio for luxury features
• Quality Nordic Spruce construction with good thermal retention
• Comprehensive hardware and documentation package
• Flexible heater options for various electrical configurations
• Proven reliability across diverse climate conditions

Cons:

• Requires a professional for electrical installation 
• Delivery costs may add to the overall cost and ramp up the cost price 

Who it's for: 

Customers seeking luxury outdoor sauna features without breaking the bank 

Score: 8.5/10

4. SaunaLife CL5G Luxury 4 Person Sauna

If you have a small space in your backyard but want a luxury sauna in your home, the SaunaLife CL5G is your best bet. In fact, it's one of our customers' all-time favorites because why not! 

This sauna welcomes you with a beautiful thermo-spruce exterior and a full glass front that gives it a sleek Scandinavian look. Step inside, and you'll notice how the clever design makes the space feel bigger than it actually is. The interior is thoughtfully laid out with ergonomic benches and backrests made with thermo-aspen.  

Despite its compact footprint, the CL5G doesn't compromise on the sauna experience. As I mentioned earlier, the benches are made of thermo-aspen because of its smooth surface and low thermal conductivity. This means even when it's pretty hot, the benches won't scorch your skin. 

The CL5G also prioritizes insulation and airflow. Its thick walls and precision joinery effectively trap heat, so you don't waste energy running the heater longer than necessary. At the same time, built-in ventilation channels ensure fresh oxygen circulates and prevent the stuffy feeling that's common in poorly designed compact saunas.

Key Specs:

• Capacity: 3-4 people
• Construction: Thermo-Spruce exterior  
• Electrical: 240V, 1 phase for the sauna heater
• Features: Bronze-tinted door glass, adjustable ventilation, LED lighting

Pros:

• Compact footprint suitable for smaller outdoor spaces
• Fast heating due to reduced interior volume
• Traditional barrel construction provides structural strength
• DIY-friendly assembly with comprehensive documentation
• Lower foundation requirements due to reduced weight

Cons:

• Limited interior space may feel cramped for larger users
• Curved interior reduces bench configuration options
• Less thermal mass results in faster temperature cycling
• Barrel design limits window placement and natural light

Who it's for: Customers with space constraints seeking luxury features in compact outdoor sauna design, comfortable with traditional barrel aesthetics.

Score: 8.2/10

Conclusion

Through my experience with over thousands sauna projects, I have found that investing in quality construction, proper installation, and ongoing maintenance delivers decades of reliable performance and enhanced wellness benefits.

If you're ready to take the next step, explore our curated collection of outdoor sauna kits or book a consultation with one of our sauna experts. We'll help you find the perfect fit for your space, lifestyle, and budget—so you can start enjoying your very own spa experience at home. To compare these luxury options with other top-rated models across different price points, consult our comprehensive guide to the best outdoor sauna kits available in today's market.

FAQs

How long does it take to install a sauna kit?

For luxury outdoor kits, expect 1 week total time, including site preparation, foundation work, electrical installation, and sauna assembly.  

Are outdoor saunas energy-efficient?

Yes, modern luxury outdoor saunas are energy-efficient, thanks to their thick insulated walls, precision-engineered ventilation, and advanced heating controls.  

Do I need a building permit for an outdoor sauna?

Well…it depends. Some jurisdictions require building permits for permanent outdoor structures exceeding certain size thresholds or requiring electrical service. Consult your local building departments early to know if such things exist in your location. 

How much does a high-end sauna kit cost in total (kit + install)?

Total investment for luxury outdoor sauna installations ranges from $25,000-$65,000, including kit, site preparation, foundation, electrical installation, and professional assembly.