The quality system - which is comparable to the familiar star rating for hotels - consists of three categories: Classic, Selection and Premium. "The categories should not be viewed hierarchically. Instead, they build on each other and are each linked to a precisely defined offer. This means that small, medium-sized and large facilities can be recognised without being directly compared with each other," explains Rolf-A. Pieper, Managing Director of the German Sauna Association in Bielefeld, explains the basic idea behind the system.
The sauna facilities at the Bad Aibling thermal spa also belong to the group of award winners. An independent inspector from the responsible quality committee of the German Sauna Association visited the sauna facility anonymously. He checked all the specified quality criteria and the operational management. Only after this successful mystery check did the quality committee decide to award the premium certificate. Dieter Gronbach, Chairman of the Committee for the Certification of Sauna Facilities and Vice President of the German Sauna Association, commented: "The effort for the individual spa is considerable and the criteria are strict. There is no automatism between submitting an application and being awarded the quality label. Rejections also happen."
In concrete terms, the Premium quality mark means that the sauna facilities must be so varied that they invite visitors to linger for a long time. Several sauna and hot-air rooms as well as at least one sauna in the outdoor area must be available. Various cooling facilities and a bathing pool must be available. Numerous wellness services, such as different types of massage and/or beauty care or exercise classes, are also part of the premium offer.
The infusions must be health-orientated and presented with good waving technique. A restaurant with a varied menu should cater for your physical well-being. Hygiene is also an important quality criterion. For example, the water quality of the bathing and plunge pools must be tested regularly. All sauna rooms and sanitary facilities must be cleaned and disinfected regularly. All recognised sauna establishments must also employ trained specialist staff.
