After a few unexpected delays, the new sauna overlooking Swanage Bay in Dorset and ideally located for sea swimmers, is now operational and taking bookings.
It had been hoped that the new beach-side facility would open in time for summer 2024 but the discovery that the sauna required an upgraded electricity supply delayed the installation of the sauna on the terrace area, just off the closed part of Shore Road.
The sauna cabin is located between The Mowlem and the Swanage Information Centre, just off Shore Road
One of the first to say hello was the Swanage Information Centre team
Everyone welcome
However after much paperwork and digging up the road by the electricity company, Swanage Bay Sauna welcomed its first customers on Wednesday 15th January 2024.
As it is on Swanage Town Council land, the business is paying the council to operate from the location following a competitive tender process.
It’s open for everyone to use, either by booking or just turning up, with prices for individuals from £5 for 15 minutes.
A sauna room with a view
Swanage Bay Sauna owner Tracey Waters
“Exciting adventure”
Company owner Tracey Waters said:
“Obviously I’m relieved and excited to welcome everyone to try out the new sauna. It’s taken about a year to make it happen but it’s been an exciting adventure.
“Although it’s been difficult at times and a long process, it’s just the nature of things when you are trying to do something new. However, the massive support from the town council and local people has been amazing!”
Evening sauna sessions are available
One way glass reflects Ballard Down in the window
Two sauna rooms
The redwood cabin has huge one-way glass windows which means that those in the sauna can look out over the bay but people strolling along the seafront can’t see in.
The cabin has two sauna rooms – one for private hire for up to 10 people and a smaller sauna that has capacity for up to five people and is available for anyone turning up on the day.
It is operational seven days a week from 7 am to 7 pm, all year round, which means you can watch the sun rise over the bay, or enjoy an evening dip followed by a sauna session.
Watching a winter sunrise
Tracey Waters (right) with new recruit Alex Woodman (left) who will assist Tracey when he isn’t professionally competing or coaching triathlons
Sea dips and sauna sessions
While Tracey says that it’s down to personal preference how people use the sauna, there is evidence that having a dip in the sea and then going into the sauna and then back into the sea, is good for wellbeing.
Tracey added:
“There are brilliant benefits of having a sauna and combining it with dips in the sea. Not only can it be a great social experience if you do it with a group, it’s also very exhilarating. It makes you feel fantastic!
“Some people will be booking an hour-long session and nipping out of the sauna and into the water for about three or four sea dips. It’s recommended that you end the session on a cold sea dip for the best effect.
“However if anyone just wants to experience the sauna, then that’s fine too – it’s all down to personal choice. I just can’t wait to see everyone try the sauna out!
Sauna rules includes no nudity!
Further information
- More about Swanage Bay Sauna and how to book
- Follow Swanage Bay Sauna on Instagram for special offers
