As highlighted in our 2025 Glamping Market Report, the wellness trend has been rapidly growing, with travellers increasingly seeking experiences that promote relaxation and enhance wellbeing. For glamping site owners, this presents an opportunity to attract more guests by offering amenities that align with their desires.  

One feature that has seen a rise in popularity in recent years is the sauna. It’s an investment but installing one could tap into a new segment of health-conscious travellers, while enhancing the overall guest experience at your space, helping to set you apart from competitors. In this article we’ll explore why a sauna might be a valuable addition, and what practical considerations you should keep in mind.

The Benefits of Installing a Sauna

1. Attracting an increasingly broader audience

Adding a sauna makes your space more appealing to a broader range of guests, particularly those who are wellness-focused or simply looking for an extra touch of luxury. A sauna attracts a diverse audience including couples on a romantic getaway, individuals on a health retreat, and groups seeking a relaxing communal experience. 

2. Enhance the Guest Experience

Combining a sauna with other wellness features, such as a wild swimming lake, a plunge pool, or even a simple cold bucket shower creates a complete wellness ritual. This hot-and-cold experience is a hallmark of many traditional sauna cultures and will make your site feel like an authentic escape from the pressures of daily life.

3. Stand Out in a Competitive Market

The glamping industry is competitive and constantly evolving, with many sites offering similar space types and amenities. Installing a sauna helps set you apart for the years ahead. By incorporating a sauna, especially alongside other nature-based wellness experiences, you give potential guests more reason to choose your site over others.

4. Boost Guest Satisfaction and Reviews

Happy guests lead to positive reviews, which in turn leads to more bookings. A sauna adds an extra level of luxury and relaxation, which will improve guest satisfaction. When guests feel that they’ve had a special experience they’re more likely to leave glowing reviews, recommend your site to friends, and return for future visits.

Practical Considerations for Building a Sauna

While the benefits of installing a sauna are compelling, there are several practical factors to think about before moving forward. These considerations will help ensure that your sauna is a good fit for your site and provide maximum value to your guests.

1. Space and Placement

The location of your sauna is key. Ideally, it should be placed in a secluded area, offering privacy and tranquillity. If your site features stunning views or natural water sources, such as a river or lake, consider positioning the sauna to make the most of these elements. Offering a hot sauna followed by a cold plunge into a wild swimming lake or a quick cool-down under a bucket shower or plunge pool, enhances the experience and helps create a natural spa-like feel.

2. Private or Communal Sauna?

You’ll need to decide whether the sauna will be private to an individual space, or a communal facility shared by multiple guests and spaces. A private sauna attached to a cabin can add an extra level of luxury and exclusivity, while a communal sauna could become a social hub for guests or just a more practical choice if you have multiple spaces. Keep in mind that communal saunas might require more upkeep and logistical management, but could also serve more guests, making them a more cost-effective option for larger sites.

3. Heating Options

You’ll need to choose between a traditional wood-burning sauna or an electric one. Wood-burning saunas are often more atmospheric and align well with a rustic, off-grid aesthetic. However, they require regular upkeep and a supply of firewood. Electric saunas are easier to maintain and operate but may not feel as “authentic” to some guests. Whichever option you choose, ensure that it’s appropriate for your location and the level of maintenance you’re willing to commit to.

4. Materials and Design

Try to make the look and feel of the sauna blend with your site’s overall design. If you are building your own, consider using natural materials like wood that complement the environment, such as cedar, spruce, or larch, which are common choices for saunas. The design can range from a rustic, cabin-like structure to a sleek, modern aesthetic, depending on the vibe of your site.

You can also purchase simple barrel saunas directly from an increasing number of suppliers (Canopy & Stars owners can get a discount with Naked Flame). Just remember to take into consideration whether an off-the-shelf option achieves everything you want it to for guests within the unique setting of your site.

We have a special owner discount with Out of the Valley who build beautiful bespoke wood-fired saunas - please reach out to your Account Manager on owners@canopyandstars.co.uk for more info.

5. Sustainability 

When it comes to choosing a holiday, guests are increasingly environmentally conscious, so it’s essential to consider the sustainability of your sauna. Where you can, use eco-friendly materials, opt for the most energy-efficient heating solutions, and think about how water usage and waste will be managed. A wood-burning sauna, for example, can be an eco-friendlier option if you are able to source your firewood sustainably. Alternatively, an electric sauna may be the more sustainable option depending on how green your energy supplier is. 

6. Insurance and Health & Safety 

You’ll also need to ensure any new sauna is included in your site’s risk assessment and that your insurance policy covers its use. This may require additional coverage for guest use and operational risks. Additionally, it’s important to develop clear terms and conditions for its use. Include details on safety protocols, any health restrictions, and the proper use of the sauna. Requiring guests to acknowledge and agree to these terms when booking the sauna can help protect both your business and your guests.

Pricing and ROI 

The financial return from a sauna will depend on various factors. If you are struggling for bookings, a sauna may just help attract more guests and get booking levels back on track. However, for well performing spaces, the addition of a private sauna could allow you to add an extra £10 to £25 per night, depending on the level of exclusivity and luxury. Communal saunas, which are shared among guests, may warrant a smaller nightly charge but offer higher capacity, allowing more guests to enjoy the amenity.  

While the initial cost of installing a sauna can be daunting, many owners find that the added value to their site is well worth it in the long term.  

Conclusion 

For some owners, installing a sauna is a smart way to tap into the growing wellness trend in travel. By offering guests the chance to relax in a sauna—perhaps paired with a wild swimming lake or a cold plunge—you can elevate their experience, improve satisfaction, and stand out in the competitive glamping market. With thoughtful design, a well-considered pricing strategy, and a focus on sustainability, a sauna could be a valuable addition that boosts both your guest appeal and your overall revenue. 

For more advice on saunas, please do not hesitate to get in touch with your Account Manager (owners@canopyandstars.co.uk) for some bespoke advice.