Wales’ first ever floating sauna is set to launch at Penarth Marina this month, offering locals and visitors an immersive wellness experience unlike anything else in the country.
Sauna Flô will offer an electric sauna and ice bath experience onboard a floating venue moored directly on the water. Founded by Welsh entrepreneur and former Team GB skier Rory Heslop, the project promises to establish Penarth Marina as a destination for relaxation, recovery and wellbeing.
Sauna Flô is fully equipped, allowing precise temperature changes to tailor the experience to relaxation, recovery or performance. Comfortably accommodating up to eight people, the sauna will offer both communal sessions and private hire sessions.
Guests can also experience contrast therapy in the professional-grade ice baths located on the pontoon, alongside an outdoor cold shower.
The sauna will also offer guided sessions including breathwork, contrast therapy and mindfulness-led experiences, which will also be available in Welsh, reflecting the business’ Welsh family-run roots. With plans to collaborate with local wellness groups and host a range of wellbeing events, Sauna Flô aims to become a social hub that celebrates the region’s rich culture while giving back to the community.
The floating element is central to the experience, combining heat, cold, water and panoramic views across Penarth Marina to create a uniquely calming setting.
Guests will also have access to a dedicated changing area, as well as the marina’s on-site facilities including toilets, changing rooms and warm showers.
The concept was born from Heslop’s experiences as an elite athlete and his desire to introduce a more authentic sauna culture to his home country.
“Sauna has been part of my life from a young age, starting from training with Team GB and competing in MMA to becoming a staple of family life,” says Heslop. “This project is a natural extension of that, creating a welcoming, inclusive space grounded in genuine wellbeing, not just following a trend”.
