The Horse Float Project

Sauna culture is a cherished tradition in Denmark, and it’s becoming increasingly popular in Australia.

First believed to have originated in Finland in 2000 BC as a means of cleansing, saunas are now common across the world as a reliable form of rest and relaxation with proven health benefits. People are either splashing the cash to own their own or driving to gyms and spas for the experience.

But Phillip Island Sauna is doing it differently.

Co-owners Ben and Tanja have transformed a horse float so that they could bring a shared sauna experience to people in stunning, scenic locations throughout the island.

Ben said his background as a chef taught him the importance of health and nutrition, while working in mental health and support services gave him the chance to help people in meaningful ways. Phillip Island Sauna was the perfect way to merge his passions, creating a unique space for wellness, relaxation and connection.

Tanja, a schoolteacher originally from Denmark, said she loved how communal saunas brought people together.

‘Together, we wanted to offer a space where people could recharge, connect with nature, and experience the powerful sense of community that comes from a shared sauna session,’ Tanja said. ‘Phillip Island Sauna is truly a blend of our backgrounds and passions, and we’re so excited to share this experience with others.’

Besides creating an opportunity for people to meet and connect, saunas have a huge range of health benefits. Ben and Tanja said that physically, saunas can be incredibly helpful for muscle recovery, as the heat helps to relax muscles, relieve tension, and improve circulation. Increased blood flow aids in healing and muscle recovery, which is why athletes use it to recover faster. Saunas also support immune function and can help flush out toxins, aiding in detoxification.

Mentally, a sauna session can be transformative; it provides a much-needed break from technology and daily stressors, allowing people to truly relax and focus on their wellbeing.

‘Many people also report feeling a mood boost after a sauna session, thanks to the release of endorphins. On Phillip Island, we’re lucky to be able to place our sauna in beautiful outdoor locations, so people can disconnect and immerse themselves in nature. It’s an experience that lets people reset, recharge, and leave feeling revitalized,’ Ben said.

The feedback from sauna guests has been overwhelming positive, with people expressing their appreciation of the unique experience of a session in such scenic surroundings.

‘The communal aspect has been a highlight, with many guests mentioning how much they enjoy meeting new people and sharing a unique experience. For some, the sauna has become a regular wellness ritual, and it’s wonderful to see the impact it has on people’s health, mood, and sense of community,’ Ben said.

‘There’s a unique camaraderie that comes from sharing a sauna, and it’s something we see each time people come together to enjoy the experience. Guests often tell us that the shared moments in the sauna lead to real conversations and new friendships.

‘For us, it’s more than just a relaxing experience; it’s about fostering a sense of belonging and creating a welcoming space where people can connect with others and feel part of a community. Phillip Island Sauna is a place where people can unwind, leave their stresses behind, and maybe even walk away with a few new friends.’

As with any wellness practice, there are safety precautions. People are advised to stay well-hydrated before, during, and after a sauna session, as the heat causes the body to sweat and lose fluids. Certain health conditions, like heart issues, may be affected by high heat, so it is recommended that anyone with heart concerns, respiratory conditions, or who is pregnant, consult their healthcare provider before using the sauna.

People are also encouraged to listen to their bodies—if someone feels dizzy or unwell, it’s best to step out of the sauna and cool down.

Phillip Island Sauna has a trained team member on-site at all times to make sure guests are comfortable, safe, and able to enjoy their experience to the fullest.

For more information, or to book, visit www.phillipislandsauna.com.au