For many people public nudity is still seen as something abnormal and reluctance to participate in a nudist lifestyle is widespread. However, around the globe you will find beaches, social spaces and other meeting places where you can be naked with total freedom.
Naturism has been practiced since ancient times and was sometimes linked to religious practices, but modern nudist culture was born in Germany. The Freikörperkultur Nacktkultur or “the culture of body release,” goes back to the early twentieth century. In general, for Nordic countries naturism has long been practiced in a very natural, matter of fact way. In Finland, for example, where the sauna is a well established tradition, it would be unthinkable to hang out in a sauna whose temperature ranges from 70 and 100 with a bathing suit, regardless if the sauna is unisex or mixed. The skin has to breathe to eliminate toxins through sweat, and Lycra fibre, the material swimsuits are normally made of doesn’t really let skin breathe.
The Finns are certainly not overly modest, however “official” nudism (as reflected by people registered with the Finnish Naturist Union) is not as widespread as you might imagine, at least in the open air. This may be due in part to the fact that Finland has very few really hot days compared to other countries such as Spain. The traditional race Nude Run of Finland, in Padasjoki, took place in June, and 82 people participated, but the movement is definitely growing…
There is no lack of spaces reserved for those who like to soak up the sun with nothing on. Near Helsinki, Pihlajasaari beach is a mixed nudist beach. It is very beautiful, but is rocky and not very suitable for bathing in the sea. Seurasaari is another nude beach with separate areas for men and women. We invite you to discover the fascinating Helsinki sauna culture and the Finnish naturism. Choose to stay in apartments in Helsinki, to rest and relax at the best price.