Wood Fired Saunas in Ireland

What is a wood fired sauna?

A wood fired sauna is heated by a wood burning stove inside the sauna room. The stove warms a basket of sauna stones, and you ladle water over them to make steam, called löyly in Finnish. This wood fired sauna Ireland guide covers the main styles, prices and what to think about before you buy.

The heat from a wood stove feels softer and more even than many electric heaters. In addition, there is the smell of birch, the crackle of the fire and no need for any power supply. That makes a wood burning sauna ideal for rural sites, islands, sea swimming spots and holiday lets.

Wood fired vs electric saunas

If you want to switch on and go, an electric heater wins. However, if you love the ritual of lighting a fire, or you have no power at the end of the garden, a wood stove is the better choice. Many of our barrel saunas can be fitted with either.

Wood fired sauna prices in Ireland

A two to four person wood fired barrel sauna typically costs from around €5,000. Larger cabin saunas with a changing room usually cost €8,000 to €15,000. Price depends on the timber, such as spruce, thermowood or cedar, as well as the stove brand and extras like a glass front or a porch. Delivery, a level base and a proper flue are the main extra costs.

Portable saunas

Portable saunas are the lowest cost way to try sauna life. A sauna tent with a small wood stove can be set up on a beach, a campsite or a back garden in under an hour. They typically cost from around €300 to €1,500. However, they lose heat faster than a timber sauna and are not built to stay outdoors all year. For a permanent garden setup, a timber wood fired sauna is far better value over time.

Safety and siting

Place your wood fired sauna on a firm, level, non combustible base, well away from trees, fences and the house. The chimney must have the correct clearance and a spark arrestor. Also, always keep the stove door shut while the sauna is in use, and never leave a lit stove unattended with children nearby. For general guidance on using wood stoves safely, see the SEAI, which also covers how to burn wood efficiently.

Wood fired saunas delivered across Ireland

We supply wood fired saunas to all 32 counties, including coastal and rural sites with no power. Tell us about your space and how many people will use it. We will then send honest options and a delivered price within 24 hours. Prefer a lower temperature? Compare our infrared saunas or see all outdoor saunas.