Here's some great news that should keep you warm all winter long! Starting January 28th, the legendary Ground Control will host the first Outdoor Saunas and Community Baths in France. This concept, straight from our friends across the Channel, offers Parisians a new, authentic, affordable, and deeply social way to enjoy community sauna experiences!
From London to Paris
In recent years, the trend of community saunas has been on the rise in London. With 45 Community Sauna Bath locations in 2023, set to increase to 147 in 2024 (according to figures from the British Sauna Society), it's clear that Londoners are embracing this Scandinavian-style warmth. Following this model, Sauna et Bains Collectifs (the sister company of the British structure) is opening its very first French location at Ground Control, with plans to expand into several neighborhoods across the capital.
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The idea? Create a new living space and democratize the practice of urban sauna, distinguishing it from the individualistic practices of private spas. This national debut marks the emergence of a new network of accessible, inclusive outdoor collective saunas open to everyone. Henry de Montbazon, co-founder of Sauna et Bains Co.llectifs, asserts: “We want to create a sauna that is deeply accessible: fair pricing, collaborations with local associations, initiatives designed with the residents...”
The sauna: a blend of well-being and community
Why the sauna? First of all, for its physiological benefits. This practice, already embedded in everyday life in Scandinavia – and rapidly growing in the UK – falls under what we call “Contrast Therapy,” the controlled alternation between hot and cold. The benefits are numerous: reduced risk of cardiovascular diseases, decreased stress, enhanced mental well-being through the release of endorphins, muscle relaxation, relief from chronic pain, detoxification through sweating, respiratory support, bolstering the immune system...
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But in addition to its beneficial effects on both physical and mental health, practicing sauna also offers a space for total disconnection (away from screens), a chance for listening, and shared rituals… In short, it’s a new social space for city dwellers eager for healthy collective experiences, a wonderful alternative to bars and festive venues. The communal sauna is also about imagining new ways to be together in the city.
A Nordic Retreat at Ground Control
For over ten years, Ground Control, the iconic cultural, social, and festive venue in the 12th arrondissement, has proudly been a pioneer in creating new living spaces in France. So it’s no surprise that this Parisian spot is becoming the French gateway to a brand new network of collective solidarity saunas. A new chapter for the institution, which is always finding innovative ways to “create community.”
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On site, you’ll find a 100 m² outdoor area, designed as an open-air Nordic retreat, complete with three saunas (including a unique room crafted and made on-site), several cold water pools (shaped by a blacksmith from Île-de-France) with continuously filtered and purified water, as well as a relaxation area, showers, and changing rooms. Opening on January 28, 2026, the saunas will be available from Wednesday to Sunday from 7 AM to 10 PM, all year round!
Saunas and Collective Baths
Ground Control
81, rue du Charolais – 12th
Starting January 28, 2026
More info