Stadtoase VGZ Zürich — Sauna

The Stadtoase is located on the Zürichberg not far from the zoo, on the extensive historic grounds of the «Verein für Volksgesundheit Zürich» (VGZ) — a non-profit organisation that emerged from the life reform movement (Lebensreform) around 1900. The sauna is set within the sun bath laid out in 1905, long known in Zurich as «LU-SO-BA» (air and sun bath).

The operator describes it as the Zurich sauna with the largest sauna garden: among trees and meadows stand three outdoor saunas, including a wood-fired arbour sauna, along with covered wooden arbours and loungers in sun and shade. From May to early October, the naturist sun bath is added, a lawn for relaxing that is separated by gender on most days. The Stadtoase is a member of the Freiluftsauna Verband Schweiz.

Right by the sauna entrance is the bistro, serving mostly vegetarian and vegan soups, stews and cakes, with an outdoor terrace in summer. Massages ranging from classic to foot reflexology, Esalen and Ayurveda can be booked additionally from Wednesday to Sunday, at a reduced price for sauna guests. Regular visitors can become members of the association (CHF 100 per year) — with cheaper passes and the members’ Monday.