🇮🇪 The Hot Barrel Sauna

The Hot Barrel Sauna operates from two spectacular locations on Donegal's Fanad Peninsula — a classic wood-fired barrel sauna above Portsalon Beach (one of Ireland's most celebrated strands, with turquoise Atlantic water, golden dunes, and views back across Lough Swilly) and a second spot at Kerrykeel Pier on the sheltered, hill-ringed waters of Mulroy Bay. Both settings offer a cold sea swim as part of the experience, with the contrast between a roasting barrel sauna and Donegal's bracing Atlantic or bay water being particularly sharp. Operated by Brian on Saturday and Sunday mornings from 8am — book via Instagram (@the_hot_barrel) as sessions fill up, especially through the summer months. The drive out to Portsalon on the Fanad Peninsula is scenic in itself, passing the Fanad Lighthouse (one of Ireland's most photographed) and wild headland views.