Read Time: 11 mins

 

 

If you run a glamping site, you’ll already know that today’s guests aren’t just looking for a cosy bed and a nice view. They’re looking for an experience, the kind that leaves them feeling refreshed, recharged, and maybe even a little transformed. In fact, nearly 80% of travellers say they feel healthier or more replenished after a UK holiday, according to VisitEngland’s Social Value of Tourism study (VisitBritain). That’s a huge signal: people are travelling not just to escape, but to invest in their own wellbeing.

And this is exactly where outdoor saunas, hot tubs, and cold-plunge tubs come in. These aren’t “extras” anymore. They’re the kinds of amenities that make your site stand out on Airbnb, justify higher nightly rates, and keep guests coming back year after year. Cold-water dips, steamy saunas, and wood-fired hot tubs have exploded in popularity across the UK in recent years, and glamping sites are perfectly positioned to ride that wave.

In this guide, I’ll show you how to expand your glampsite with wellness features that actually boost your business. We’ll cover the essentials, from choosing the right products and navigating permissions to managing energy efficiency and understanding costs. Along the way, I’ll share insider tips and point out a few GlampLaunch favourites that are already helping site owners across the UK and Ireland, creating spa-style escapes in the great outdoors.

 

Why Wellness Amenities Matter for Glamping

Wellness tourism is on the rise, and travellers are actively seeking stays that go beyond a bed for the night. A sauna, hot tub, or plunge tub can transform a standard glamping break into a restorative escape, giving your site a clear edge over competitors.

These features also resonate with the growing interest in off-grid living. Wood-fired or solar-powered systems allow you to offer spa-style indulgence without full grid reliance, appealing to guests curious about sustainable, self-sufficient lifestyles.

From a business perspective, wellness amenities help you earn more per booking and attract guests year-round. They’re especially valuable in shoulder seasons, when a warm tub or sauna can turn a quiet weekend into a sell-out.

 

 

Outdoor Saunas

The Health Benefits

Saunas aren’t just a trendy add-on. They come with real, research-backed wellness benefits. High heat (usually 70–100°C) boosts circulation, eases muscle tension, lowers stress, and can even improve sleep and cardiovascular health. For glamping guests, the ritual of heating up and then cooling down (especially when paired with a plunge tub) creates a memorable, almost addictive experience that feels worlds away from everyday life.

 

Popular Sauna Styles

Picking the right sauna comes down to two things: the vibe you want your site to have, and the kind of guest experience you’re trying to create. Here are the main styles glamping operators are leaning toward:

• Barrel Saunas: Rustic, efficient, and surprisingly quick to heat. Their curved design not only looks great but also circulates heat evenly. GlampLaunch’s barrel models often feature panoramic glass so guests can enjoy woodland or riverside views, like The Infinity Glass Luxury 10-Person Barrel Sauna, which combines scale with stunning outlooks.

• Pod or Curved Saunas: With their hobbit-house shape and snug insulation, pod saunas blend into natural landscapes while offering a quirky, intimate feel. Options like The Hobbit Pod Sauna (6-seater) or The larger Halfmoon Pod Sauna (12-seater) are ideal for families or groups who want something a little different.

• Cube / Panoramic Saunas: Sleek and modern, these saunas are all about maximising the view. Floor-to-ceiling glass makes guests feel like they’re in a high-end spa dropped into the middle of nature. GlampLaunch’s Aurora range is a standout here: The Aurora Luxury 6-Person Outdoor Sauna is perfect for smaller sites, while The Aurora Luxury 6-Person with Changing Room adds convenience and privacy without compromising on those sweeping glass-wall views.

• Traditional Cabin Saunas: Built from solid timber and inspired by classic Finnish design, cabin saunas create a more permanent spa-lodge atmosphere. They’re especially suited to larger sites with the space for extras like changing rooms, porches, or showers. For inspiration, check out GlampLaunch's Rustic 6-Person Traditional Outdoor Sauna Cabin.

 

Heating Options

How you heat a sauna will shape both running costs and guest experience:

• Wood-fired: Perfect for off-grid sites. Guests love the crackling fire and authentic smell. They take a little longer to heat (about an hour) but add to the ritual.

• Electric: Quick, convenient, and easy for guests to use with thermostats and timers. Best for grid-connected sites.

• Gas/LPG: A flexible choice if you don’t have strong electrics but still want fast heat.

• Hybrid solar + wood: For sites going fully off-grid, solar panels and batteries can power fans or small heaters, while wood does the heavy lifting.

All GlampLaunch saunas are crafted from thermally modified timber for durability and can be customised with different layouts, glass options, and finishes. Most models can be fitted with either wood-burning or electric heating, and the team can also advise on renewable integrations for sites going off-grid.

 

 

Hot Tubs

Hot tubs aren’t just about bubbles and romance. They’re proven to support wellbeing. The Cleveland Clinic notes that soaking in 37–40°C water can ease muscle tension, lower blood pressure, and improve sleep quality (Cleveland Clinic). For guests, slipping into a steaming tub under the stars feels indulgent, but for operators, it’s a powerful marketing tool: hot tubs turn a simple stay into a wellness experience.

 

Hot Tub Types for Glamping Sites

• Wood-Fired Tubs: Made from spruce and heated by a log-burning stove. They’re silent, eco-friendly, and fit beautifully into natural landscapes. Perfect for off-grid retreats where guests value simplicity and authenticity.

• Electric Tubs: Feature heaters, jets, and lighting for a more spa-like experience. They offer precise control and are easy for guests to use, but require a strong grid connection and regular maintenance.

• Hybrid / Dual-Fuel Tubs: Combine wood-burning ambience with electric backup. They heat faster, reduce wood consumption, and appeal to both eco-conscious and convenience-driven travellers.

 

Staying Compliant: HSG282

If you’re running hot tubs commercially in the UK, you’ll need to follow HSG282, the Health & Safety Executive’s guidance on spa pools (HSE). Here are the essentials:

• Water hygiene: Change the water after each rental or at least once a week. Use inline chemical feeders (chlorine or bromine) rather than manual dosing.

• Cleaning: Drain and disinfect between hires, including jets and filters.

• Risk assessment: Record regular water quality checks to control Legionella risk.

• Guest info: Provide clear instructions (safe soak time, alcohol warnings, pregnancy guidance).

 

Product Options from GlampLaunch

• Luxury Ofuro 5–8 Person Finnish Hot Tub: A spacious, Japanese-inspired design with a fibreglass interior and spruce exterior, perfect for groups or family stays.

• Luxury Ofuro 2 Person Hot Tub: A compact deep-soak model ideal for couples’ retreats and smaller glamping setups.

• 6–8 Person Traditional Finnish Hot Tub: A classic wood-fired option crafted from Norwegian spruce, built for atmosphere and durability.

 

Cold-Plunge Tubs

Cold-plunge therapy, immersing in water around 10–15°C, has gone from niche athlete recovery to mainstream wellness, thanks to everyone from Olympians to wellness influencers. Guests love the rush: plunges stimulate circulation, boost mood, and may even strengthen immunity. Paired with a sauna or hot tub, they deliver the classic Nordic “contrast therapy” experience.

 

Health Benefits for Guests

• Immune boost & reduced inflammation: Cold water can increase white blood cell activity and help the body fight off illness.

• Faster recovery: Ideal after long hikes, plunging eases muscle soreness and flushes waste from the body.

• Mood & resilience: Brief cold exposure triggers endorphins and dopamine, leaving guests energised and refreshed.

 

Safe Use Guidelines

Like saunas and hot tubs, cold-plunge tubs need clear signage and simple instructions:

• Start small. 30–60 seconds is enough for beginners, working up to 2–5 minutes.

• Keep water between 10–15°C and refresh every few days (or use an ozone/chiller system).

• Always warm up afterwards, a sauna, a towel, or a hot drink works perfectly.

• Avoid use after alcohol, and advise guests with heart conditions, high blood pressure, or pregnancy to check with their doctor first.

 

Product Options from GlampLaunch

• Oval Cold-Plunge Tub: Lightweight, insulated, and portable, easy to move between pitches or store in winter. Fits 1–2 people.

• Round Cold-Plunge Tub: With built-in seating, curved steps, and low-maintenance design, it’s the perfect add-on for glamping sites offering authentic cold-water therapy.

For the ultimate wellness circuit, pair a plunge tub with the Hobbit Pod Sauna or Serenity Sauna. The hot-cold contrast is an experience guests won’t forget.

 

Regulations and Setup Essentials

Adding wellness amenities isn’t just about picking the right model. You’ll also need to think about compliance, site design, and day-to-day upkeep. Here’s what every glamping site operator should know before adding saunas, hot tubs, or plunge tubs:

 

Building Regulations & Safety

• Saunas & Hot Tubs: Install on a stable, fire-safe base with proper ventilation. Wood burners should always have a safe flue and a carbon monoxide detector nearby. Post signage reminding guests not to use after drinking alcohol, during pregnancy, or for more than 15–20 minutes at a time (Cleveland Clinic).

• Hot Tubs: Follow HSG282 rules for commercial hot tub operation, including water changes after each hire (or weekly at minimum), inline chemical dosing, daily water testing, and keeping detailed logs (HSE). Fit a lockable cover to prevent unsupervised use by children.

• Electrical & Plumbing: Always use qualified professionals. Electrical connections must comply with BS 7671 Wiring Regulations (Institution of Engineering and Technology), while water systems should follow UK Water Regulations. For off-grid systems, make sure solar panels and battery banks are correctly sized.

 

Installation & Site Design

• Foundations: Heavy tubs (several tonnes when full) need reinforced decking, concrete pads, or steel frames. Barrel saunas or plunge tubs may only need gravel pads with paving slabs.

• Drainage: Good drainage prevents rot and puddling. Plan where hot tub water will be discharged,  never into natural streams or rivers.

• Layout & Flow: Create a logical circuit: rinse → sauna → plunge → relaxation → hot tub. Keep elements within a few metres, and add hooks for towels, robes, and subtle lighting for evening use. Planting grasses, birch, or willow screens adds both privacy and atmosphere.

 

Renewable Energy Integration

• Solar PV + Battery: Powers pumps, lights, and small heaters for true off-grid setups.

• Solar Thermal: Can pre-heat hot water, reducing the load on your main heater.

• Air-Source Heat Pumps: Efficient for hot tubs, but require grid power or large batteries.

• Wood Fuel: Stick to kiln-dried logs from sustainable forestry. Estimate annual needs and source from a reliable local supplier.

 

Maintenance & Guest Care

• Weekly Checks: Inspect heaters, flues, pumps, and seals; replace gaskets and clean filters.

• Water Chemistry: Test daily for hot tubs (pH 7.2–7.6, chlorine/bromine within safe range) and log results. Change plunge tub water regularly or fit an ozone/filtration system.

• Housekeeping: Keep pathways clean, provide towels/robes, and ensure anti-slip mats are in place during winter.

• Guest Education: Provide clear instructions on safe use. A QR-linked video works well. Always remind guests to shower before use, stick to time limits, and check health conditions first.

 

Financial Considerations and ROI

Upfront Costs

Wellness amenities bring real business value, but it’s smart to know the numbers. At GlampLaunch, a Hobbit Pod Sauna (6-person with changing room) runs £15,995. Hot tub options start more affordably: the 6–8 Person Traditional Finnish Hot Tub is about £3,995, while the compact Luxury Ofuro 2 Person Hot Tub is priced at £4,995.

Cold-plunge tubs are lower-cost still, generally £1,500–£3,000. Installation (foundations, plumbing, electrics, delivery) typically adds 10–20% on top. And if you’re going off-grid with solar or batteries, expect additional expenses, but remember to check for rural diversification or eco-tourism grants to help offset them.

 

Long-Term Value & ROI

These wellness features aren’t just beautiful. They’re lucrative. Many glamping sites add £30–£60 extra per night for amenities like saunas or hot tubs. With just 100 bookings a year, that’s £3,000–£6,000 extra annually from a single feature. Add in the popularity of wellness travel and rising glamping demand, and payback can happen in as little as two seasons (note: external market growth figures sourced previously).

With the right care, these timber-built saunas and hot tubs can last well over 20 years. Adding renewable options like solar or heat pumps doesn’t just lower running costs, it also strengthens your sustainability credentials, something today’s eco-conscious travellers actively look for. To make the numbers clear, GlampLaunch offers both a Sauna ROI Calculator and a Glamping Pod ROI Calculator, helping you forecast revenue uplift, occupancy rates, and long-term maintenance with ease.

 

Why Partner with GlampLaunch

GlampLaunch isn’t just a supplier. We’re a partner in your glamping journey. From design to installation and beyond, here’s how we help site owners across the UK and Ireland succeed:

• Bespoke design & durable products: Our pods, saunas, hot tubs, and cold-plunge tubs are built from premium timber and composites to last decades. From compact barrel saunas to panoramic glass cabins, every model is customisable, with layouts, cladding, heaters, glazing, and finishes, so your wellness space reflects your brand and budget.

• Planning & feasibility expertise: Navigating planning permission can be daunting. We provide feasibility studies, site layout proposals, and step-by-step guidance, even liaising with local authorities where needed.

• Turn-key installation & aftercare: We don’t just deliver; we install, commission, and support. From maintenance contracts and replacement parts to staff training on HSG282 compliance and water chemistry, we make sure your investment runs smoothly.

• ROI forecasting tools: Our online ROI calculators let you model occupancy, pricing, and payback for saunas and pods, giving you a clear picture of long-term profitability.

• Community & ongoing support: Join the GlampLaunch network and tap into webinars, case studies, and peer insights. You’ll be part of a community of operators who share best practices and marketing strategies.

 

Conclusion

Outdoor saunas, hot tubs, and cold-plunge tubs aren’t just nice-to-have extras anymore; they’re at the heart of what makes a modern glampsite thrive. By offering guests a full heat-and-cold wellness circuit, you create experiences that relieve stress, boost recovery, and leave a lasting impression. With the right planning and compliance, these features quickly pay for themselves while helping your site stand out in a crowded market.

Partnering with GlampLaunch means you’re never tackling this alone. From high-value, long-lasting products like the Hobbit Pod Sauna, Halfmoon Pod Sauna, Serenity Sauna, Hybrid Hot Tub, and Round Cold-Plunge Tub, to expert guidance on planning, installation, and maintenance, we make sure your investment delivers.

Wellness tourism is growing, and more travellers are seeking off-grid, sustainable escapes. Now is the time to invest in spa-style amenities that refresh your guests, strengthen your business, and align with the mindful travel movement. With GlampLaunch, turning your glamping vision into a profitable wellness destination is easier and more rewarding than ever.

 

Summary

• Wellness travel is booming, with 80% of UK holidaymakers saying trips improve health, making saunas, hot tubs, and plunge tubs essential glamping upgrades.

• Outdoor saunas boost circulation, ease stress, and create memorable guest rituals. Popular options include barrel, pod, panoramic glass, and traditional cabin designs, with wood-fired, electric, or hybrid heating.

• Hot tubs support wellbeing and are strong marketing tools. Operators must follow HSG282 rules on hygiene, cleaning, and guest safety. Wood-fired, electric, and hybrid tubs each suit different site setups.

• Cold-plunge tubs are trending for contrast therapy, offering immune and mood benefits. Safe use requires guidance on time limits, water temperature, and health warnings.

• Compliance is vital: fire-safe bases, proper drainage, water treatment, BS7671 electrical standards, and HSE hot tub rules.

• ROI potential is high: sites can charge £30–£60 extra per night, with features paying back in as little as two seasons. Long-term durability (20+ years) makes them strong investments.

• GlampLaunch provides premium, customisable wellness products, full installation and aftercare, ROI calculators, and planning support to help operators build profitable spa-style destinations.

• Adding a full wellness circuit (sauna + plunge + hot tub) makes glampsites stand out, extend booking seasons, and align with growing eco- and wellness-tourism demand.

 

FAQs

1. Why should glamping sites invest in outdoor saunas, hot tubs, and cold-plunge tubs?

Wellness amenities are no longer optional extras. They help glamping operators stand out on platforms like Airbnb, justify higher nightly rates, and attract repeat guests. With nearly 80% of UK travellers saying they feel healthier after a holiday (VisitBritain), features like saunas and hot tubs turn a simple stay into a restorative experience that boosts both occupancy and revenue.

 

2. What types of outdoor saunas are best for glamping sites?

The main sauna styles are:

• Barrel saunas: rustic and efficient, with panoramic glass options.

• Pod/curved saunas: quirky, insulated designs that blend into natural landscapes.

• Cube/panoramic saunas: sleek, modern glass-fronted designs that maximise views.

• Traditional cabin saunas: timber-built, permanent structures for larger or luxury sites.

Each style creates a different guest experience, from rustic retreats to high-end spa vibes.

 

3. What regulations apply to hot tubs and wellness amenities in the UK?

Hot tubs must comply with HSG282, the Health & Safety Executive’s guidance for spa pools. This includes water changes after each rental (or weekly), inline chemical dosing, daily testing, and maintaining safety logs.

Saunas and tubs must also be installed on safe bases with proper drainage, comply with UK electrical and water regulations, and include guest signage on safe usage, alcohol warnings, and time limits.

 

4. How much do wellness amenities cost, and what ROI can glamping owners expect?

Upfront costs vary: saunas start around £15,995, hot tubs from £3,995–£4,995, and cold-plunge tubs from £1,500–£3,000. Installation typically adds 10–20%.

In return, many sites add £30–£60 per night to bookings, with payback possible in as little as two seasons. With proper care, timber-built wellness features can last over 20 years, making them a long-term investment that enhances both guest satisfaction and profitability.o