Why Everyone’s Talking About Wild Saunas — And Where to Try Them in Wales

The best sauna and plunge experiences in the Cambrian Mountains and Brecon Beacons

A New Welsh Wellness Trend

Last year’s breakout wellness trend was the wild sauna. Across Wales, saunas have been popping up beside rivers, in woodlands, and on remote beaches — pairing the deep heat of the stove with the shock of cold water.

It’s no surprise that our part of Wales, off the beaten  track, with its rivers, lakes, and open skies, has embraced this ritual beautifully.

These saunas bring together craftsmanship, nature, and the kind of slow, soulful living that this region does so well.

Penpont — Riverside Serenity on the Usk

Perched just above the river, overlooking the glorious sandstone bridge over the River Usk, the sauna at Penpont is full of candles and good vibes.

When I visited in January at dusk it was 100 degrees in the sauna and the river was breathtakingly cold.

The way down to the river was lit by lamps and incredibly romantic. You can float down the rapids or sit quietly at the edge, letting the sound of the current wash over you.

I went to a communal session for women only, but you can also choose the mixed session. Solo use can be booked for £120 for 90 minutes. Not to be missed.

Penpont’s sauna perfectly captures what makes this region special — natural luxury, a touch of wildness, and a deep connection to place.

Location: Penpont Estate, near Brecon, Powys
Sessions: Women-only, and mixed communal sessions £15pp Private hire is available (£120 for 90 mins)
Plunge: Cold immersion in the River Usk

Welsh Lavender — Sauna with a View

During December 2025 we went to Welsh Lavender, who have a swimming pond to die for and last year built a sauna.

This gorgeous place has all the attention to detail and a rustic luxe design ethos that we love.

The sauna sits 1,100 feet up in the Welsh hills, with a rolling valley view, a beautiful cold shower complete with copper shower head, and a glorious pond to plunge into and cool down.

When I visited in December, the sauna was a steamy 80 degrees, and it was a quick ten-second schlep up to the swimming pond, which was a toe-tingling two degrees. My friend and I indulged in a solo session for £120 and had it all to ourselves. Shared sessions are £20 per person.

Welsh Lavender’s The Point Sauna is open on weekends and available for private hire. It’s the perfect mix of rural calm and contemporary design — a truly restorative spot in the Cambrian Mountains.

Location: Welsh Lavender Farm, Maesmynis, Builth Wells, Powys
Sessions: Private hire from £120/hour or shared £20pp
Plunge: Wild swimming pond (2°C in winter!)

Why We Love the Wild Sauna Ritual

There’s something elemental about the rhythm of hot, cold, rest, repeat. Standing in your towel on a winter evening, steam rising into the dusk, heart racing from the river, you feel completely alive.

In Mid Wales, the wild sauna movement connects perfectly with the landscape — the steam, the mist, the rivers, and the stars. It’s nature therapy at its best.

Plan Your Sauna Escape

Whether you’re chasing winter warmth or summer sunset plunges, both Penpont and Welsh Lavender offer unforgettable ways to reconnect with nature.

👉 Explore more local experiences here
👉 Book your stay at Cambrian Escapes

👉Check our guide to wild swimming and unlock more of our favourite spots when you book at stay

Quick Facts

• 🧖‍♀️ Penpont Sauna — Riverside heat and cold plunge in the River Usk
• 🌿 Welsh Lavender Sauna — Nordic-style sauna beside a wild swimming pond