Steam with a View: Sauna Wanna in Orkney

Tucked between sweeping coastlines, rolling seas, and windswept skies, Orkney offers a landscape that restores the soul. Now, imagine stepping from that wild beauty straight into the soothing embrace of a wood-fired sauna. Sauna Wanna brings exactly that, a mobile sauna experience that blends the ancient tradition of heat bathing with the raw, elemental charm of Orkney. Whether you’re plunging into icy waters after a session or simply soaking up the views through the steam, Sauna Wanna invites locals and visitors alike to slow down, reconnect, and discover wellness in its most natural setting.

There are numerous health benefits from Sauna use, but let just talk about the incredible sensation that comes with being in the sauna and then jumping into the cold Orcadian Sea.

We spoke to Marty, who along with his partner Judy, set up ‘Sauna Wanna’ a mobile Sauna in Orkney.

Q. What inspired you to start a mobile sauna business?
A. This whole project started as a bit of a joke during a date night. Over dinner and a few drinks, Judy showed me a video of a guy who had converted an Ifor Williams horse trailer into a sauna. Knowing my background in property development, she asked me if I thought I could build one. I casually said, “Probably,” not giving it another thought.

Two weeks later, an old horse trailer was delivered to our door. Judy grinned at me and said, “Off you go.” That’s when I realized she had taken the challenge seriously!

We were both looking for a project to take our minds off our demanding jobs in healthcare. We never planned for it to become a full-blown business; we just wanted a place to relax and thought we would just occasionally rent it out to people who wanted to use it by the slip. Once we had finished the build, we had a lot of the locals and swimmers who kindly came and tested it and gave us some great constructive feedback which has undoubtedly helped it to be what it is now. However, once the sauna was parked on Ness Slip, the interest was phenomenal. It wasn’t long before we needed a website and a proper booking system.

Q. What are the most common reasons customers seek out an outdoor sauna?
A. While the individual health benefits are great and we all know about the benefits of hot cold therapy, many of our customers appear to be drawn to the social aspect. In a world that’s often dominated by screens and isolation, our sauna provides a space for people to gather, connect, and enjoy quality time together – whether they are families or complete strangers. The allure of the location, having the beautiful setting of Stromness harbour adds another layer to the experience. Also the positioning of the Sauna provides easy access to the sea via the slip which is a little over 10 steps away.

Q. Are there any wellbeing trends that have influenced the design or features of your saunas?
A. Honestly. when we designed the sauna we were aware of the wellbeing trends but this did not really influence the design, after all how do you put a Sauna into a Horse Trailer? We based the design as best we could on Finnish sauna standards, who else knows best? With nearly one sauna for every two people and an ever increasing life expectancy, they got something right? We did a lot of research in construction, insulation, airflow, stove, all aimed to achieve Löyly – The term löyly is central to Finnish sauna culture. While it technically means the steam that rises from the hot stones when you pour water on them, its meaning is much deeper. It refers to the spirit or essence of the sauna – the feeling of the steam enveloping you, a warmth that is both intense and gentle. A good löyly is not just a hot burst; it’s a soft, pleasant wave of heat that descends and purifies the body and mind.

Q. During which seasons do you find it most beneficial?
A. We have only been opened since May – however we’ve been overwhelmed by the incredible support from both locals and tourists since we launched Saunawanna this summer. As a new business, we’re so grateful for the warm welcome and are truly optimistic about the upcoming winter season.

We think the experience of a sauna in the colder months at our location will be magical. With the wood burner and LED lights, we believe our cozy, inviting space will offer the perfect escape from the long, dark nights. Thank you for making our first summer a wonderful success!

Q. Did you face any challenges when thinking about the location of the Sauna?
A. We feel incredibly fortunate to be where we are. The location, right on the slip, couldn’t be more perfect – everything just fell into place. The bright orange colour of the Sauna should mean everyone can see us from the port side of Northlink Ferry MV Hamnavoe as it comes into Stromness Harbour. Tag us with pics from the boat!

Q. What are the health benefits from using the sauna?
A. There are numerous health benefits from Sauna use, but let just talk about the incredible sensation that comes with being in the sauna and then jumping into the cold Orcadian Sea.

Stepping out of the sauna, you’re enveloped in a state of deep warmth and relaxation. The heat has worked its magic, releasing muscle tension and quieting your mind.

The initial shock of the cold is an invigorating jolt to the system. The icy Orcadian water feels like it’s awakening every nerve ending, and your body instinctively reacts with a gasp. But that initial shock quickly gives way to a rush of pure adrenaline and clarity. The cold water against your heated skin creates a thrilling sensation – it’s a moment where you feel intensely alive.

When you emerge, the warmth returns to your body with a powerful, tingling sensation. You’re left feeling not just refreshed, but completely renewed, with a sharp mind and a calm spirit. It’s a primal experience that connects you to nature in a way that nothing else can.

Q. Do you have any recommendations for first-time sauna users?
A. Just go for it, how many people can say they had a sauna in a horse trailer overlooking Stromness Harbour watching the boats go by?

Q. How do people usually respond to the mobile sauna experience compared to a traditional spa or gym sauna?
A. We can only think of 3 reasons:

1. The visuals of a stunning harbor.
2. The sounds of the sea and crackling fire.
3. The sensation of intense heat followed by the invigorating cold of the ocean.

Q. How do I book?
A. You can find us on:

Website – www.Saunawanna.co.uk

Facebook – Facebook

Public Saunas Scotland & Northern Ireland — British Sauna Society

Q. What should I bring?
A. You, friends, towels and water. We have a changing room in guess what?….another horse trailer!

The changing room is open for the community to use, so even if your not using the Sauna your welcome to use the changing room. There is also a Local Business board for tourists to be able to see what is available in Stromness and Orkney, feel free to pop by and add your business card to the board.

My husband and I were lucky enough to experience a visit to Sauna Wanna for ourselves recently, having never used a mobile sauna, nor braved the sea in September in the UK, I can honestly say it was an exhilarating and very enjoyable afternoon! Warming up in the sauna after a refreshing dip in the sea was the best feeling ever!

By Victoria Dixon
Orkney and Shetland fanatic, likes to capture life through a lens, loves creating, eclectic taste in music, enjoys being a Mum; would secretly love to be a star of the West End!

Pin it!