NOW spring has finally sprung it’s time to say goodbye to the winter blues and get out and enjoy Scotland’s glorious coasts and cracking countryside.
But why not take your adventure up a notch by visiting an outdoor sauna?
Yes you read that right. Forget hotel spas and health clubs and take in amazing views while you treat yourself to a steamy session in the great outdoors.
There’s even some right on the beach or overlooking lochs where you can take a cold dip afterwards – if you’re brave enough!
After all, it’s proven to work; from relieving symptoms of stress to boosting your immune system and easing muscle tension, the rush of adrenaline from hot and cold is more than invigorating.
Visit Scotland has a roundup of the best to be found around the country including Saltbox Sauna in Stornoway, where you can calm your mind, body and soul.
Saltbox Sauna Stornoway[/caption]
The wood-fired mobile sauna tours around the island bringing a relaxing wellness experience to visitors and locals.
Coorie in and be treated to panoramic ocean views from the half-moon window of the sauna which comfortably fits up to six people. Afterwards cool down in the sea and with a swim session with their sister company, Immerse Hebrides.
Watershed Sauna on to the shores of Moray Firth in Findhorn, is built in a vintage horseshoe box. Get cosy by the crackling wood-fired stove as you listen to the gentle lapping of the sea.
Watershed Sauna Findhorn[/caption]
For an extra bit of fun, Watershed Sauna has bingo with a difference. If you manage to spot all nine wildlife species listed on the card, you’ll win the grand prize of a one-hour private session.
If you like to be beside the seaside, you’ll love the added bonus of the outdoor sauna experience at Elie Seaside Sauna, with the choice of not one but two saunas, both boasting incredible views across the beach and water.
Elie Seaside Sauna Fife[/caption]
The Dune Sauna has floor to ceiling glass windows , while, the Shore Sauna is tucked behind a low-level sand dune, with a cosier and darker ambience, perfect for those seeking a more gentle and less intense heat.
You might be familiar with Portobello’s sandy beach, long promenade and pretty shopfronts, but it’s also home to Edinburgh’s first mobile sauna.
Soul Water Sauna Portobello, Edinburgh[/caption]
Open Thursday evenings and all day Friday, Saturday and Sunday, enjoy the views and recharge before heading for a cold plunge in the sea.
Wild Scottish Sauna in Kingsbarns, Fife offers a wellness experience with a 90 minute hot and cold sauna and sea experience, or splash out on the luxury experience where you’re greeted with a hot drink on arrival before taking the plunge in the North Sea.
Wild Scottish Sauna Kingsbarns, Fife[/caption]
You’ll be guided with lots of helpful breathing techniques when you’re in before seeking warmth in the sauna. Refuel your energy levels with a delicious breakfast or lunch after your session.
West Coast Wellness is a warm oasis with unbeatable views overlooking Loch Fyne. Kick back and hit the reset button as you watch the changes in weather through the windows.
West Coast Wellness Loch Fyne[/caption]
You can book it privately for special occasions, it fits up to ten people and gives you up to three hours to chill out. Keep your eyes peeled for seasonal offers including hot and cold therapy at the Lochside Sauna, yoga, meditation, walks and more.
Step inside the Hotbox at Taymouth Marina on Loch Tay and warm yourself in front of the giant crackling wood burner as you soak in the panoramic views across the loch.
The Hotbox Taymouth Marina, Loch Tay[/caption]
After your sauna session, get ready for the ultimate wake up call with a cold plunge, or feel like a big kid again and make a splash down the slide. Other highlights include the steam room and the outdoor hot pool.
Nothing is more calming than being by the sea, especially when you’re all cosy. Cocoon yourself in the warm heat at Cellardyke Seaside Sauna in Scotland’s fabulous East Neuk of Fife and admire the sea views from the full-length glass windows.
Cellardyke Seaside Sauna East Neuk[/caption]
And make sure to take a dip in the newly renovated Cellardyke Tidal Pool to add some cold water therapy to your wellness experience.
The peace and tranquillity of the Shetland islands makes it the perfect destination for a relaxing getaway.
Haar Sauna is an authentic wood-fired on St Ninian’s Beach where you can embrace Scandinavian life with hot and cold therapy. They’ve also got a sister location in Orkney.
Haar Sauna Shetland The Ebb sauna on St Ninian’s beach[/caption]
Making its new home at Edinburgh’s Lost Shore Surf Resort, Spear Sauna is about soaking up the heat in style. Open Monday to Friday, embrace the cold while riding the waves on a surfing lesson before your hot ticket inside the sauna.
Spear Sauna – Newbridge, Edinburgh[/caption]
It doesn’t get any more remote than an outdoor sauna in the forest. Situated at Newton Mearns near Glasgow, Eastwood Forest Sauna is the perfect opportunity to reconnect with nature.
Once you arrive, head to the ice water barrel but don’t worry, you won’t be cold for long as you step inside the sauna where you’ll sit and watch the world go by in 90 degree heat.
Eastwood Forest Sauna Newton Mearns, near Glasgow[/caption]
If you’re into yoga, it’s a great place to meditate and release all those toxins in your body.
