Heat up in a wood-fired barrel sauna, then walk into a sandy plunge beside the River Avon for brisk cold-water immersion. This guided forest sauna and river swim in South Devon blends practical safety briefs with an old-school wood fire and restorative dips.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Steam presses out of the wooden barrel sauna like a slow exhale as the woods around the River Avon hold their breath. You arrive at a small bridge near Loddiswell, handed a quick briefing, then driven a short track into a shaded clearing where a Narvia-fired kiln heats a compact, timber-clad sauna while a sandy plunge pool waits at the river’s edge. The river teases with shallow riffles and a deeper, cold plunge beneath a low bank; currents nudge you back onto the bank when you need to rest.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2–2.5 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness—able to walk short uneven tracks, tolerate multiple sauna sessions and brief cold-water immersion.
Wildlife
History
Small mills and farmsteads historically used the River Avon for water and power; the surrounding lanes connect a network of traditional Devon hamlets.
Conservation
Keep to marked paths, carry out all litter, and avoid trampling riverbank vegetation—high water and bank erosion are local concerns, especially after heavy rain.
Reserve your spot on the Forest Wood Fired Sauna & Cold Water River Swim today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Layer up for after the plunge
Bring warm trousers and a dry top to change into immediately after cold immersion to prevent chill; a robe speeds recovery.
Footwear for forest approaches
Wear grippy, waterproof shoes for the short, potentially muddy walk to the riverbank and wood-fired sauna clearing.
Hydrate before and after
Sauna heat and cold immersion both affect hydration—drink water before you enter and rehydrate afterwards.
Follow the guided cycle
Adhere to the operator’s instructions about sauna duration and rest intervals; pacing reduces risk and improves the benefits.
Swimsuit
Required for sauna and river dips; quick-dry fabrics are best.
Warm change of clothes (robe or fleece)
Helps you recover body temperature quickly after plunges.
Waterproof trail shoes or sandals
Protects feet on muddy or sandy river approaches and shallow wading.
Reusable water bottle
Maintains hydration through heat cycles and cold immersion.