The Year of the Sauna at Kip Hideaways
Saunas are having their moment this year and it’s no surprise why. In the UK, we’ve finally cottoned on to what the Finnish have known for centuries – that sweating it out makes you feel good – and with the continued rise of wellness-focused travel, 2025 is set to be the year of the sauna.
· From the UK's growing obsession with saunas (Google searches for ‘home sauna’ spiked 84% in early 2024) to upcoming events like the British Sauna Championships and Arc’s sauna parties.
· The number of public saunas in Britain has even doubled between early 2023 and 2024, according to the British Sauna Society.
Kip Hideaways – the masters of self-catering – have noticed the trend too: “Bookings for properties with saunas are up 40%, reflecting the growing demand for wellness-focused escapes” says co-founder Liz Simpson.
To meet this demand, Kip has even launched a dedicated sauna collection, and we’ve picked our five favourite sauna stays below – perfect for embracing this hot new trend away from the crowds.
The Forager’s Cabin, Wales
The dreamiest spot for a re-set, this luxe eco-cabin is hidden away in a world of green, deep within the enchanting Welsh countryside. With endless birdsong and 10 acres of private woodland to explore – this back to nature escape is perfect for a restorative stay – there’s even a woodland sauna, alfresco hot tub and aromatherapy massages on offer.
From £185/night. Sleeps 2+2 kids.
Inverlonan, Oban
The west coast of Scotland is famously spectacular, and a 15-minute drive from Oban lies a wilderness paradise that’s free from any tourists: simply acres of private farmland, cut through by the serene Loch Nell. Choose from 3 cabins surrounded by total silence, with a luxe minimalist style, huge windows, a kitchen crafted from native ash, and complete with a lochside sauna. Spend the days exploring the loch on SUPs and kayaks or wild swimming with white-tailed sea eagles soaring overhead.
From £200/night. Each sleeps 2
Lanrick Estate, Perthshire, Scotland
On the banks of the River Teith, this pair of woodland hideaways provides a welcome reset
from today’s rush-around world. A couple’s retreat for two can be found towering 20 feet off the ground, or in a nearby clearing, a traditional Scottish bothy makes for wholesome family holidays. There’s no WiFi, and the satnav won’t help with directions. Instead, explore the idyllic Trossachs National Park, take moonlit bath on the private deck, or find peace, heat and quiet in the magical woodland sauna.
From £210/night. Sleeps 2 + 4
www.kiphideaways.com/hideaways/bothy-pipin-treehouses-at-lanrick/
Bungalow Palm Bay, Margate
This mid-century bungalow in Margate’s Palm Bay has sprawling open-plan spaces, 4 airy rooms, a spa-like sauna and a seamless flow to the garden and sea beyond, perfect for family living. Spend your days exploring the artistic heart of the town, strolling on the beach or hiking along the Viking coastal trail, then retreat for sunset views and drinks around the firepit.
From £275/night (2-night min). Sleeps 6 + 4 kids
LAKE LODGES AT BLYTH RISE STAYS, SUFFOLK
Ten acres, 2,000 trees and one lake: it’s hard to imagine a more enchanting setting for this peaceful retreat. Beautiful lodges are spread around the lake, each with 2 king-sized bedrooms and their own ensuites. Stargaze around the firepit out on the terrace, take yoga classes taught by the owners’ daughter, or relax in the two sauna huts hidden amongst the trees.
From £205/night. Each sleeps 2-4.
