Taking the plunge at Bective sauna

What started as a Covid project at Bective has blossomed into a popular local attraction. A self built, wood-fired, authentic Finnish Sauna and wood fired hot tub perched on the bank of the River Boyne at Bective Mill House opened in June and has been very busy since, particularly as a Covid-safe experience being out doors and 80+ degrees inside the sauna.

It was founded by Liam Irwin from Navan, with Dan O'Connor from Templeogue and Luke Williams from Ranelagh and their friends Fiona Brady, Cavan and Emily Hartnett, Naas. Luke, Liam and Dan set up this business after realising they wanted nothing to do with an office and wanted to build a future with their own hands.

Liam says: "We met this winter solstice to mark the shortest day of the year and start the darkest morning with a calming sauna and freezing dip in the boyne. Marking the half way point of the solar year and six months since we opened our doors. On a day most people find depressing, we wanted to celebrate the lengthening of days. Our ancestors were conscious of the turn of the year and we share this fascination. A piping hot sauna is a cleansing experience and a plunge in the freezing river really clears the head."

They cater for men and women of all ages and demographics, from 18 to 80+ years old.

"We have had the All-Ireland winning Meath ladies GAA team as well as plenty of local clubs and we cater to couples, families and groups of friends seven days a week," Liam says. "Our sauna caters for up to 12 people at a time."

"We have a plunge area with steps into the river Boyne so our guests can plunge safely. Changing facilities and a cosy little office shed have been added since our opening. We are currently building sauna number two for a secret location on Ireland's wild north west coast."