When everything gets too much and you're in desperate need of relaxation, it's hard to beat a long soak in the bath. But a Welsh company has gone one step further, offering an unusual bathing experience that not only clears the mind but also soothes the body at the same time.
Halen Môn salt company in Anglesey has started to offer traditional seaweed baths to its visitors, with customers able to relax in the 'hot tubs' with a difference while looking out at the stunning Welsh coastline. Get the latest What's On news and events sent straight to your inbox for free by signing up to our newsletter.
The baths are actually individual upcycled whiskey barrels, with customers getting to soak in the "wonderfully warm" 40C water filled with fresh, cleaned seaweed. They're also offered a stunning panoramic views of the Menai Strait with the bathing area looking directly out to sea.
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Seaweed baths are nothing new, however, with people swearing by them for centuries due to their mineral dense oils and nurturing and healing properties. They were most popular in Europe during the early 19th century, with Ireland in particular having around 300 traditional 'bathhouses', of which some are still standing today.
The salt company says its new offering not only provides "rich relaxation", but helps to "soothe tired muscles" while "encouraging escape from the everyday". The whole process is also completely sustainable, with seaweed not requiring soil, fertiliser or even fresh water to grow, while Halen Môn also uses pure distilled water, generated as a by-product of their sea salt harvesting process, for the baths.
Each bath lasts 45 minutes, with guests encouraged to turn up 15 minutes before their slot, which they can book online. Tickets for the unique experience cost £39.50 and you can make your booking here.
"It’s certainly one of our more unusual ideas," said Halen Môn co-founder David Lea-Wilson. "Some people I know think we’re a bit mad, but that’s probably a good thing. We’ve got a healthy waiting list already of people wanting to try them out. It makes a brilliant gift for someone looking for something local and a bit out of the ordinary."
Halen Môn’s brand director, Jess Lea-Wilson added: ‘’It’s such a beautiful spot here overlooking the Strait and Eryri, and I can tell you first hand that the oils the seaweed releases make your skin feel absolutely amazing.
"We’ve been talking about opening the barrels for a good five years, since I first read about some of the bath houses in Ireland. The team here have worked hard to make this idea come to life, and we’re really excited to open to the public.’’
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