Sweat and Soak Sauna : Loch Ard, Aberfoyle

K
3 days ago
2 min read

Tucked away on the banks of Loch Ard, the wild Sweat & Soak sauna feels wonderfully remote and peaceful. To get there, you travel along a single-track road winding through the Trossachs, with glimpses of the loch opening up and, on clear days, stunning views of Ben Lomond in the distance. The journey sets the tone perfectly, giving you a sense of escape before you even step inside.

A wooden sauna stands by a calm lake under a cloudy sky. The setting is natural and serene, with trees and subtle greenery around. — Sweat & Soak Sauna

Our Wild Sauna Visit

We visited this wild sauna on an even wilder March morning. Through the sun, hailstones, wind and rain, we discovered a new favourite lochside sauna. For a moment, we even considered keeping it to ourselves, but a place this special, deserves to be shared.

Guide to Facilities

Parking

This wild sauna can only be reached by car along the winding single tracked road to Stonachlachar from Aberfoyle. Parking is across the road within the Forest Hills Hotel grounds meaning a short walk downhill to the sauna (note that means uphill on the way back).

Changing

There are 3 changing tents situated outside the sauna and several large containers to store your belongings. Additionally there are a couple of clothes/towel hooks just inside the main door of the sauna by the warmth of the wood-fired stove.

Host

Our host was welcoming and approachable, giving us the freedom to relax at our own pace while also being available to answer any questions. Towards the end of our session, she gave us a thoughtful 15-minute heads-up by offering fresh orange slices and inviting us to enjoy lemon and ginger tea once we stepped out.

The Hot Bit

This purpose built wood-fired sauna seats 6 on generously deep two-tiered benches facing the picture window out to Loch Ard. The full length glass door perfectly frames Ben Lomond to the west. A Himalyan salt brick wall purifies the air and adds to the overall sense of wellbeing. Sauna hats are provided.

The Cold Bit

The cold, clean waters of Loch Ard are only a few steps away from the door of this wild sauna. There is an easy slope to get in and out. Shoes are recommended for the stones.

Food/Drinks Nearby

There’s refreshing cucumber and mint water, as well as fresh birch sap tapped from local trees by the hosts themselves. Rich in minerals and electrolytes, it’s perfect for replenishing what you lose in the sauna. We enjoyed our lemon and ginger tea with honey served in sustainable, biodegradable cups, adding a thoughtful, eco-friendly touch. For something more substantial, Forest Hills Hotel where you park your car serves food or nearby Aberfoyle has several options including St Mocha's at the Station.

Good to Know

The road to the sauna is narrow and winding, with sections that run very close to the water, so it’s best to take care and enjoy the slow, scenic drive.