Location
Tucked away between Dunnet Bay and Castletown Harbour is this secluded bay, that is a perfect coastal sauna haven. Spectacular views of Dunnet Beach, Dunnet Head, and Orkney along with a high-tide swim in this corner of the coastline make it one of our favourite wild sauna spots.
CASTLETOWN BEACH
Directions: Google Maps
What3Words: ///gems.scornful.trailer
Instructions for your visit
WHAT TO BRING
Essential:
2 towels
(1 x big enough to sit on wrap under your feet)
(1 x for drying/changing)
Swimwear
Water bottle
(refills available)
Sliders, sandals, or flip-flops
Warm & easy clothes for changing
Optional:
Bag/rucksack
Changing robe/bath robe
(recommended, but not essential)
Sauna hat
FACILITIES & ENVIRONMENT
Clach Mara is a wild sauna, so changing takes place outdoors. A changing robe and all-weather clothing is highly recommended.
There are no toilets on site, although several facilities are available within a 5-minute drive (Castletown Public Toilets, Dunnet Bay Campsite, and Stannergill Distillery) so it's worth stopping on your way if needed.
The weather and sea conditions can change quickly, meaning a swim isn't always safe or possible. If a sea dip is important to you, please arrive with plenty of time to assess conditions yourself. We'll always do our best to offer guidance, and alternative cold-water options are always available.
If entering the ocean, please do so slowly and let your body & heart rate adapt before doing so. Keep cold dips short and within the limits of what your body is used to. A polite reminder that you enter the ocean at your own risk, and we always provide fresh water for an alternative way cool-down.
ETIQUETTE & SAUNA SAFETY
▪️Enter and exit the sauna carefully
▪️Sit on a towel that is big enough to sit on and wrap under your feet
▪️Leave all water bottles and electronic devices outside the sauna
▪️Remove footwear before entering
▪️We recommend 5–15 minutes of heat, followed by a cool-down
(dip, cold-bucket/shower, walk or sit in the outdoors & elements)
▪️Always listen to how your body is feeling and stay within your limits
▪️Please ask everyone before creating Loyly (steam)
▪️Swimwear must be worn at all times (nudity is not permitted)
If you choose to use the sea for cold water immersion, you do so at your own risk.
If you're unsure whether sauna use is suitable due to a medical condition, please consult your GP before attending (examples of medical conditions to be aware of can be found in our full T&C document).
By booking a sauna with us, you and your party accept and acknowledge all aspect of sauna safety & associated risks, please take a few minutes to read the full Terms & Conditions of Use before your visit.
Pop-Up Locations
We have simplified operations since the start, but from time to time we may announce pop-ups on our socials or check our booking page.
Staxigoe Harbour, Wick
Thurso Beach Esplanade
Portskerra Harbour, Melvich