There has been plenty of conversation this year about the physical benefits of saunas, a brand new sauna overlooking the sea has just opened up in Porthcawl and is shining a light on how much good they can do for our sense of wellbeing as well. Hikitalo is Porthcawl’s newest wellness addition, with an outdoor shower and a hanging area for your belongings as well as panoramic mirrored windows offering stunning sea views of Sandy Bay.
Based at Sandy Bay in Hi-Tide’s Car Park next to Grow and Grind café, people may choose to take a dip in the sea or expose themselves in cold water during the visit, and then warm back up in the cosy sauna. The idea stems from the Nordic tradition of alternating between the heat of the sauna and the cold exposure all while being social connected to one another in these environments. This is thought to create a powerful ritual that enhances physical and mental wellbeing.
Adopting the Finnish approach of fostering deep connections, there is a huge focus on enjoying people’s company as well as doing something helpful for your body. Every session is described as an “opportunity to forge meaningful connections, sometimes without even needing to say a word” according to the founder who has been on his own journey when it comes to mental health. For the latest Bridgend news, sign up to our newsletter here.
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The founder of Hikitalo, William Jenkins was born in Wales and raised in Holland, with a love for adventure that has taken him all around the world. He spent 13 years living in Ireland and Germany, using his free time to explore new experiences and immerse himself in different cultures.
After experiencing a major breakdown, William decided to embark on a personal journey of inner healing -Credit:Felipe Sabbag
Some people may choose to take a dip in the sea between 15 minute sessions – the recommended amount of time to spend in the sauna at a time -Credit:Felipe Sabbag
There are some stunning sea views of Sandy Bay from the sauna in Porthcawl -Credit:Felipe Sabbag
But despite all of the freedom and excitement that came with travel, he faced ongoing challenges with his mental health throughout the years. Not too long ago, he experienced a major breakdown. William said: “Feeling completely stuck in life, unhappy with my career and unsure of my path, I decided it was time to hit the road again, this time with a focus on reflection and inner work – it worked!
“Like many people, my journey of healing started with cold exposure. Back in 2019, a friend introduced me to it and I was instantly hooked. But that was just the beginning. The cold opened a door to something even more transformative for me, saunas and heat.
“Through them, I found a sense of peace and, even more importantly, reconnected with myself and others which I now realise had been missing for a long time. For much of my life, I felt isolated, and I now realise how vital that human connection truly is.”
William has experienced different types of saunas all over the world, from sweat lodges in Latin America to Aufguss sessions in Germany. He recalled: “A pivotal moment came during my travels in Guatemala, where I met a passionate Finn. Together, we explored the local Temazcals, bonding over our shared love of saunas.
Outside the sauna, Hikitalo in Porthcawl -Credit:Felipe Sabbag
There is enough space at Hikitalo to accommodate up to 10 people -Credit:Felipe Sabbag
Hikitalo is based at Sandy Bay in Hi-Tide’s Car Park next to Grow and Grind café -Credit:Felipe Sabbag
“That connection became the spark for Hikitalo. When I eventually returned home to Porthcawl, I knew I wanted to create a space where people could relax, reconnect, and heal. My love for saunas evolved into a mission: to combat loneliness and promote mental well-being through the power of heat. Whether you’re a seasoned sauna enthusiast or completely new to it, Hikitalo is here for everyone.
“Someone once told me that a sauna is like a candle lighting another candle, and I couldn’t agree more. Every session at Hikitalo is an opportunity to spread warmth, light, and positivity. Together, we can create a community where each visit brings us closer to a healthier, happier self. Bring friends, or make new ones, and experience something far more meaningful than just a sauna.”
William’s sauna in Porthcawl can accommodate up to 10 guests, with 55 minute communal sauna sessions costing £15, and 30 minute sessions costing £9 per person. And a 55 minute private session for up to 10 guests costs £110. You can book here