Richmond Sauna

Tucked into the woods off Dingley Road in Richmond, Maine, the Richmond Sauna has been welcoming a diverse mix of guests since 1976. Founded by Richard Jarvi — a Finnish-heritage engineer who built the concrete block bathhouse by hand, crafting his own wood stoves from scrap metal — the property has evolved from a pure Finnish sauna tradition into a clothing-optional retreat that pairs authentic wood-fired heat with a heated indoor pool, a large outdoor hot tub, and a sunning lawn available seasonally from May through November. Management has passed to founder's son Donald in recent years, and a 2025 TripAdvisor reviewer noted the new ownership has made "dramatic changes, all for the better," with updated rooms and a noticeably cleaner property. The schedule runs Wednesday through Sunday, with evening sauna and hot tub access from 6pm to 10pm year-round, and daytime pool and lawn access Tuesday through Sunday from 10am to 4pm during the warmer season. Guests choose between a community sauna at $40 per person or a semi-private sauna at $50; advance reservations are recommended for semi-private rooms. The 1800s colonial house on the property offers six guest rooms — including an efficiency apartment with a private entrance and kitchenette — with sauna access included in the overnight rate. Rooms are equipped with A/C and WiFi. The vibe is firmly clothing-optional rather than nudist in the traditional sense: reviewers describe it as laid-back and welcoming, with a loyal crowd of regulars alongside curious newcomers. The property functions as a neutral meeting ground for open-minded couples visiting the area, with the atmosphere more rustic Maine retreat than polished resort. Its location just over 20 minutes from Augusta and 40 minutes from Portland makes it one of the most accessible clothing-optional destinations in New England.