FAQ

Book your session online. It's super easy to do here. Last minute Sauna availability will be advertised via Instagram for those of you who can make a last minute spot. Occasionally, spontaneous drop-ins will be available for empty spots. There is a QR code at the sauna you can book into the next session using this on the day if there is space. Best to book your space in advance online to guarantee it, as we book up quick.

You should bring 2 towels: one towel for sitting on inside the sauna and a larger one for drying, some flip flops for walking to the sauna from your car and a bottle of water (not metal). You can wear your larger towel around you, flip flops and an outer coat walking to the sauna to protect you from the elements. Bring something cosy to wear afterwards.

Unfortunately no, for this reason we recommend you arrive wearing your swimwear under your clothing. Then you just need to remove your clothing, wrap yourself in your larger towel carrying your smaller towel for sitting in the sauna.

There is a small entry porch to place water bottles, keys and phones.

Dry bags and tubs are available to store your belongings, but if it is wet it is definitely easier to bring less stuff.

Hooks are available along the outside of the barrel to hang belongings.

The sauna can comfortably seat 8 adults. On scheduled Public or Private sessions there will 8 places. For larger groups please enquire directly as part of your group can alternate between the sauna and outdoor cooling.

Not currently.

No under 16’s allowed in the sauna as part of a social sauna or private hire.

For licensing reasons and restrictions, we are unable to allow children under the age of 16. All guests must be 16 or over and anyone under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

The sauna is accessed by steps for entry. There are no hand-rails. The door width is 600mm wide. The parking area is only a couple of minutes walk away. Top up your water bottles at the Scottish Water point in the overflow car park.

Arrive well hydrated, drink 2 glasses of water 30 mins before your sauna. Bring a bottle of water with you (not metal is best) and we can top this up if needed.

Only stay in the sauna for as long as feels comfortable.. We recommend building up slowly starting at a few minutes to no more than 15/20 minutes at a time. If you are new to it, start out with a few minutes before coming outside to cool off. Listen to your body. Longer durations of 15 mins in the sauna are not anymore beneficial and could put you at risk of collapse. Alternate between indoor and outdoor using the water buckets provided to cool off, a dip in the sea (at your own risk) or just enjoy the views sitting on the bench outside the sauna.

Drink lots of water throughout your session then again your session. Hydration is key.

Yes. During open to close, our sauna is manned by an attendant, who will keep the sauna hot, provide the steam and essential oil element, refill the stove, check you in for your sessions, and answer any questions you may have. We have a lovely sauna team and you will be well looked after.

If you have been immersed in cold water for more than 10 minutes (shorter for some) we advise that you do not enter the sauna right away as this could cause dizziness and even fainting. Longer swims require slow natural warming up and a sauna is not recommended straight away. A couple of minutes cold water immersion should be sufficient for the benefits of hot & cold therapy. Those who have undertaken a long swim prior to entering the sauna may be refused entry due to personal safety concerns especially in the winter months.

For scheduled communal sessions we only offer mixed sessions. The sauna can be booked privately if you wanted this option.

The sauna can produce temperatures up to 100 degrees celsius but we usually maintain it between 70 and 90 degrees. As it’s an outdoor sauna this can vary slightly according to wind direction and air temperature. 

A swimsuit or swim shorts should be worn inside the sauna. Hanging jewellery should be removed and avoid wearing anything with metal fasteners as this can burn your skin. No outdoor shoes are allowed in the sauna. You must sit on your towel in the sauna, this helps to keep space hygienic.

We recommend arriving 10 minutes before your booking time to give yourself time to park and walk along to us. 10 minutes of the session are included to give the sauna a quick clean, while you change and chat.

The entrance porch is cooler than the sauna provided the sauna door is closed quickly.

We have benches to sit on outside to cool off in the weather, chat and enjoy the views.

We have a cold shower at the sauna to use for a quick cool down in between hot rounds or if the sea is rough.

Evidence suggests that if you sauna for 30 mins, total 4-5 times per week it is the equivalent to medium-intensity cardiovascular activity. Build slowly and listen to your body.

A barrel sauna is an outdoor, wooden purpose-built sauna. We are wood fired, this creates our wonderful deep heat. We have a solar set up which allows us to host evening sessions at times with our under bench lighting. We do not rely on any power sources. Ours is mobile however we are based in this one site only, so our barrel will stay here at Cullen beach.

Coffee at the Kings serves the best premium barista coffee and hot chocolate and is located in the overflow car park at Cullen Beach 4 mins walk from the sauna. Get your self a gorgeous coffee and cake deal if you can. Coffee at the Kings trades generally Thursday- Sunday 10-4pm but will be open more in the school holidays, follow on face book for opening hours.

There is also a burger van next to the golf course serving tasty food. The golf course may be open for drinks. Cullen has wonderful places to visit and enjoy food and drink. The Rockpool café, The Yellow Deli, , Lily’s Kitchen (for the best Cullen Skink), The New Denver – vegan café, Sun honey Cafe away the antiques church, The Seafield Arms Hotel, The Cullen Bay Hotel, The Royal Oak.