I’m a huge fan of Vermont’s growing sauna culture, particularly when the experience involves beautiful scenery, fresh air and the opportunity to warm up after spending time outdoors. But many of the state’s sauna experiences come with a pretty substantial price tag.
That’s why East Burke Sauna Club Local favorite: East Burke Sauna Club caught my attention.
Tucked into the backyard of The Village Inn Local favorite: The Village Inn in East Burke, this little outdoor sauna overlooks Dish Mill Brook, with beautiful views of the rushing water through its large windows. And with private sessions starting at just $25 for 30 minutes (or $40 for 60) for 1-2 guests, it’s one of the most affordable sauna experiences I’ve found in Vermont.
Even better? You don’t have to be staying at the inn to book it.
Located just minutes from Burke Mountain Local favorite: Burke Mountain and practically on top of Kingdom Trails Local favorite: Kingdom Trails, East Burke Sauna Club is a wonderful addition to a day exploring Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom.
A Riverside Sauna in the Heart of East Burke
The setting is a big part of the appeal of this particular sauna.
Behind The Village Inn, a short path leads toward Dish Mill Brook, where a small, freestanding sauna sits overlooking the water. Two walls of windows provide views of the brook and surrounding landscape, making it particularly beautiful when the ground is covered in snow.
The sauna was made in Estonia and assembled in East Burke, with a traditional Finnish Harvia heater and two levels of wooden benches. The upper benches are warmer, while the lower benches offer a slightly gentler experience.
There’s also a bucket and ladle for pouring water over the heated rocks to create steam.
The sauna comfortably accommodates four adults, and the sessions are private, so you can book it for yourself or bring a few friends.
I love the simplicity of the setup. There’s no elaborate spa circuit or expensive resort package required. Just a sauna, beautiful views and the sound of the brook outside. You don’t even have to check in.
One of Vermont’s Best Sauna Deals
What makes East Burke Sauna Club particularly appealing is the price.
A private 30-minute session starts at $25, while a full hour starts at $40. That’s for the private session, not a per-person admission, making it a fantastic value if you’re visiting with friends.
The club also offers discounted multi-visit passes for regular visitors, and guests staying at The Village Inn receive preferred rates.
During your session, you can alternate between warming up inside and cooling off outdoors. Adirondack chairs provide somewhere to relax beside the brook, and during winter, you might even be tempted to make a snow angel between sauna rounds.
An hour (or two) would be my choice.
After a Day at Kingdom Trails or Burke Mountain
East Burke Sauna Club couldn’t be better positioned for outdoor enthusiasts.
The Village Inn is located right in East Burke Village, with Kingdom Trails accessible practically from its backyard. The trail network is one of Vermont’s premier mountain biking destinations, attracting riders from around the country during warmer months.
Burke Mountain is just a few minutes away, making the sauna equally appealing after a day of skiing or snowboarding.
And if you’re like me and prefer enjoying Vermont’s ski towns without actually skiing, booking a sauna session is a pretty wonderful way to spend a winter afternoon.
You can also make an evening of your visit by grabbing a Vermont craft beer at Hazel’s Tap Room or dinner at Tomassoni’s Bistro, both located nearby.
What to Know Before You Go
- Location
- East Burke Sauna Club is located behind The Village Inn in East Burke
- Price
- Private 30-minute sessions start at $25, and 60-minute sessions start at $40. Rates vary for inn guests and pass holders.
- Capacity
- Up to four adults per private session.
- Reservations
- Required in advance through the online booking system. Sessions are generally released six weeks ahead.
- Age Requirement
- Adults 18 and older only.
- What to Bring
- A swimsuit without metal fasteners, towels, a nonmetal water bottle and warm clothes for getting to and from the sauna.
- Parking
- Park behind The Village Inn or in the designated lot near Hazel’s Tap Room and Tomassoni’s Bistro. Follow the path toward the brook.
- Restrooms
- A restroom is available inside The Village Inn.
- Hot Tub
- The inn’s hot tub is reserved for overnight guests and is not included with public sauna bookings.
Nearby Attractions: Kingdom Trails, Burke Mountain, East Burke Village and Lake Willoughby.
Phone: 802-626-3161
The East Burke Sauna Club is a wonderful reminder that you don’t need to spend hundreds of dollars to enjoy a memorable wellness experience in Vermont.
I love the beautiful riverside setting, the affordable private sessions and the fact that it’s accessible to anyone visiting the Northeast Kingdom, not just overnight resort guests.
And I can’t think of many better ways to end a chilly day in East Burke than sitting in a warm sauna, looking out over a snow-covered brook.
The places in this guide, on the map
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Directions to East Burke Sauna Club (opens in a new tab)
Wellness or spa · Burke, VT
With sauna experiences for up to four people, this is one of the most inexpensive wellness experiences in the state. The setting…
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Directions to The Village Inn (opens in a new tab)
Inn · Burke, VT
Don't miss the private sauna, hot tub, and bar on site! Sessions are for 1-2 guests, with views of Dish Mill Brook…
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Directions to Burke Mountain (opens in a new tab)
Ski area · Burke, VT
A gem to visit in the Northeast Kingdom, where you'll find more locals than crowds.
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Directions to Kingdom Trails (opens in a new tab)
Hike or trail · Lyndon, VT
Talk with locals
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