Sauna culture has definitely caught on in the South West, with sauna pods popping up in some of the most extraordinary locations – beside tidal rivers on Dartmoor, on cliffs above the Atlantic, on beaches that barely have a postcode. And around them, something unexpected has grown: community. Regulars who started coming for the wellness have stayed for the people. Members who book the same morning slot each week, familiar strangers who nod at each other with the quiet solidarity of cold-water converts. Most of these saunas offer both regular memberships for those who want to embed the ritual into their lives, and private hire for a group occasion that needs something memorable. Here are twelve that are doing it particularly well.
Wilder Sauna, Dartmoor
With two riverside sites, one at Dartmeet, one at Chagford, Wilder Sauna offers the extraordinary experience of a wood-fired sauna overlooking the River Dart, where herons and kingfishers pass the window and a cold plunge is quite literally steps from the door. Communal sessions, full moon ceremonies and guided sauna rituals with sound baths make this one of the most richly programmed spots on the list.
Jurassic Saunas, Branscombe
Perched on pebbly Branscombe Beach on the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site, this luxury wood-fired sauna sits within one of East Devon's most dramatic and ancient landscapes, with the sea directly available for those who want to take the cold-water plunge. The Sea Shanty café next door provides a convivial ending to any session.
Pure Hiki Sauna, Nr Exeter
Set nestled on the tree line, with rolling fields falling away down to the fishing lake, Pure Hiki Sauna is possibly the most idyllic rural spot to sauna. With a roll top bath turned cold plunge and Greendale Farm Shop next door to stock up on produce after your session, this is a truly Devon experience not to be missed.
You Can Sauna, Haldon Forest
Operating in partnership with Forestry England at Haldon Forest Park, You Can Sauna brings premium wood-fired sauna and cold plunge facilities into the trees, with communal sessions, private hire, a Sauna Club membership and guided rituals on offer.
Sauna on the Sand, Dartmouth
Located directly on Blackpool Sands, one of South Devon's most beautiful beaches just outside Dartmouth, this elegantly crafted wooden sauna from the team at Sea Kayak Devon combines panoramic sea views through large windows with a spring-fed cold shower, open and private sessions, and the sound of the surf a few metres away.
Sunnd Sauna, Bantham
A hand-crafted artisanal sauna built from British cedar, the only one in the area with a chilled and filtered cold plunge, Sunnd has settled at Outside in Bantham, South Devon, with views looking out over the moors and a name taken from the Gaelic for health, wellness and joy. Inspired by the Scottish landscape and rooted in slow, seasonal living, it is exactly as atmospheric as it sounds.
Saunas by the Sea, Padstow
Operating from Harlyn Bay near Padstow and Baby Bay in Polzeath, these eco-friendly black saunas sit right at the edge of the beach on the North Cornwall coast, with large viewing windows, cold water sea access immediately outside, and add-ons including salt scrubs and sauna infusions. A group of like-minded friends who combined their skills to bring something genuinely considered to this part of the coast.
Kiln, Falmouth
One of Cornwall's most established and beloved sauna communities, Kiln operates across multiple locations – Gylly Beach, Flushing and Helford Passage – with a new pavilion opening above Porthmeor Beach in St Ives this summer.
Soul Sweats, Truro
Run by Sam and Jana – a certified Wim Hof instructor and a trained yoga and breathwork guide – Soul Sweats operates from two cliffside locations near Porthtowan, combining wild saunas with breathwork, yin yoga, sound healing and ice baths in a holistic programme that goes well beyond a simple sweat session. Regular membership is available, and the eco park site in particular has been described by regulars as something approaching a sanctuary.
Olla Hiki Sauna, Newquay
A mobile wood-fired sauna with a proud community-first mission, Olla Hiki travels around South West Cornwall from spring to winter and is currently settled at Great Western Beach in Newquay, with plunge pools and sea access alongside a rich programme of special events including sauna rituals, sound baths and guided breath-work sessions. Membership tiers available, as well as private sauna ceremonies.
Escape to the Sauna, Hayle
With year-round saunas at North Quay Beach in Hayle and a seasonal spot by the water at Falmouth's Greenbank Hotel, Escape to the Sauna offers a Finnish-inspired experience with cold plunge access, communal and private hire options, and membership for those who want to make it a regular fixture.
Rising Embers, Penzance
A wood-fired mobile sauna at Newlyn Green in Penzance, Rising Embers positions itself directly in the heart of one of Cornwall's most committed wild swimming communities — stepping out of the heat towards Mounts Bay is as natural here as it gets. Individual 30-minute sessions, private hire for up to eight people and special events make this far west outpost a quietly essential one.
FAQs: The Best Saunas in Devon and Cornwall
What are the health benefits of using a sauna pod?
Regular sauna use supports cardiovascular health, aids muscle recovery, improves sleep quality, and reduces cortisol levels. Research suggests sessions of 15–20 minutes at 80–100°C can trigger similar physiological benefits to moderate-intensity exercise, including improved circulation and endorphin release.
Where can I find an outdoor sauna in Devon?
Devon has a growing number of outdoor sauna experiences, including Wilder Sauna on Dartmoor, Pure Hiki Sauna near Exeter, Sunnd Sauna at Bantham, Sauna on the Sand at Dartmouth's Blackpool Sands, and You Can Sauna at Haldon Forest.
Where can I find a sauna in Cornwall?
Cornwall's best sauna experiences include Saunas by the Sea at Harlyn Bay near Padstow, Kiln in Falmouth, Soul Sweats in Truro, Ola Hiki Sauna in Newquay, Escape to the Sauna in Hayle, and Rising Embers in Penzance.
Can I combine wild swimming with a sauna in Devon or Cornwall?
Yes — many of the region's sauna pods are positioned specifically for a hot-cold contrast experience. Locations such as Wilder Sauna, Sunnd Sauna at Bantham, and several of the coastal Cornwall sites sit adjacent to sea or river swimming spots, making the hot-cold combination central to the experience.
What is the difference between sauna membership and private hire?
Most sauna pods in Devon and Cornwall offer both options. Membership typically provides regular access to scheduled community sessions, while private hire allows you to book exclusive use of the sauna — ideal for groups, hen parties, or a more personal wellness experience. Availability and pricing vary by venue.
Are Devon and Cornwall sauna pods suitable for beginners?
Yes. Most operators welcome first-timers and provide guidance on session length, hydration, and how to approach the hot-cold cycle safely. Starting with shorter sessions of around 10–15 minutes and cooling gradually is the recommended approach for those new to sauna bathing.
Why has the sauna pod trend grown so quickly in the South West?
The combination of Devon and Cornwall's dramatic coastal and moorland landscapes, existing wild swimming culture, and a post-pandemic appetite for accessible outdoor wellness has made the South West a natural home for the sauna pod movement. The community element — shared sessions, cold dips, and a growing ritual around heat therapy — has accelerated uptake significantly since 2023.
What should I bring to an outdoor sauna session?
Most venues recommend bringing a swimsuit or swimming shorts, a towel, water to stay hydrated, and flip-flops for walking between facilities. Some locations provide towels or robes — check with your chosen venue before booking.
Is sauna bathing safe for everyone?
Sauna bathing is generally safe for healthy adults, but those who are pregnant, have cardiovascular conditions, or are on certain medications should consult a GP before booking. Most responsible operators publish safety guidance on their websites and require guests to complete a short health disclaimer before their session.
Which Devon and Cornwall saunas offer the most scenic locations?
For dramatic settings, Wilder Sauna on Dartmoor, Sunnd Sauna overlooking Bantham beach, Sauna on the Sand at Blackpool Sands in Dartmouth, and Rising Embers near Penzance — with its views towards Land's End — are among the most visually spectacular options in the region.
