New York’s First Public Floating Sauna Opens on Saratoga Lake

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Ice-cold waters surrounded the KOS floating sauna on Saratoga Lake, threatening to cool its steamy inner core. But the chilly foes were fought off by KOS’ interior temperatures, which can reach as high as a sizzling 230 degrees.

KOS (pronounced “cozy” without the y) is a Norwegian word defined as a feeling of comfort, warmth, and togetherness. It is an apt description of New York State’s first public floating sauna, which was filled with local politicos and well-wishers on Wednesday afternoon at a ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrating the Finnish-style sauna’s recent opening.

The 15-person sauna is open year-round and offers everything from communal sessions to private rentals to annual memberships to classes and rituals.

A visit includes access to the sauna, roof terrace, and changing rooms, as well as an invigorating plunge into the lake (in winter, this experience may be for only the boldest of Saratogians). Water served at the sauna is sourced straight from the Spa City’s famed mineral springs. Saratoga’s ancient, mineral-rich agua was the primary reason KOS creator/owner Kate Butchart decided to open up shop here, she said at the ribbon cutting.

KOS is located at the marina near Lago by Druthers, at 550 Union Avenue. It’s open Wednesday through Sunday, from 7 a.m. until 10 p.m., with reservation slots available at 90-minute increments.