It all began in 2001, with cousin Aidan’s years of experience in Alaska and California sparking a dream. Inspired by traditional sweat lodges, he took the lead in building a communal space for relaxation and connection.
Our first sweat lodge was a team effort, constructed in just half a day. Foraging through the woods, we gathered willows and hazel branches to create a sturdy structure. Blue tarpaulin and plastic covers replaced the traditional skins used by the Native American of the Great Plains.
Outside, we heated rocks in the barbecue and precariously carried them in a metal bucket in the centre of the structure. Water thrown on the hot stones generated steam. It was basic but we loved the sense of conviviality that came with our makeshift sauna, and the idea of creating something more permanent started to take root.
Inspiration from Irish History
As we dreamed of a more enduring structure, we turned to the past, studying the Irish Sweat Houses. These ancient spaces were scattered across the poorest parts of counties like Fermanagh, Leitrim, and Cavan.
Irish Sweat Houses were small, beehive-shaped stone structures with “creep” entrances, often blocked with peat-turf or clothing to retain heat. Built against banks or rising ground, they could accommodate only three or four people at a time. Turf fires burned inside for up to 24 hours, heating the stones thoroughly.
Though we admired the history of sweat houses, recreating one felt daunting. Lacking the necessary skills and resources, we shifted focus to something both practical and inspired.
Lockdown and a Blossoming Dream
Fast forward to 2020: the world was at a standstill. For us, however, this unexpected pause allowed a long-held dream to bloom. We wanted a sauna that reflected the spirit of Irish Sweat Houses while embracing ecological and Nordic influences.
We cleared a small area by the lake facing the Spring & Autumn setting sun.
With no electricity near the lake and a commitment to sustainability, we gravitated toward wood-fired saunas. Nordic countries, known for building saunas in wilderness landscapes, inspired us. The idea of a sauna nestled in our forest on the shores of Lough Macnean, fueled by wood from our land, was irresistible.
Still, I had my doubts. Traditional saunas had always felt claustrophobic to me—dim, cramped, and stifling. But then, we stumbled upon a Lithuanian company offering beehive-shaped, wood-fired saunas with panoramic windows. That was the moment everything clicked.
The Arrival of Our Sauna
In February 2020, just weeks before the lockdown, our sauna arrived and we set down to work.
It was everything we’d envisioned: a cocoon-like sanctuary with a view of Lough Macnean and Thur Mountain in County Leitrim.
Today, sitting inside, I feel a profound sense of peace. The panoramic window frames the ever-changing lake, from serene stillness to stormy drama. The heat envelopes me as I soak in the landscape, punctuating the experience with invigorating dips in the lake.
The sauna feels especially magical during storms, when the contrast between the cosy warmth inside and the raging elements outside is electrifying. Every visit brings a renewed sense of awe, and our customers feel the same way.
Health Benefits of a sauna
Saunas are enjoying a surge in popularity these days, especially along the coast and near lakes, where new ones seem to be popping up all the time. Not only are their health benefits well known, but saunas are also becoming a favourite way for people to relax and connect socially. Here are just a few of the health benefits they offer:
- Stress relief: Saunas help reduce stress and enhance overall well-being.
- Better circulation: The heat from saunas increases heart rate, promoting improved circulation.
- Healthier skin: Regular sauna use can leave your skin feeling softer and more hydrated.
- Muscle relaxation: Saunas are effective for easing muscle tension and promoting relaxation.
- And much more…
For additional details, visit: Sauna Health Benefits.
A Sauna Like No Other
What started as a communal sweat lodge has become a unique, cherished space that combines history, nature, and sustainability. Our sauna is more than just a place to relax—it’s a way to reconnect with the landscape, with tradition, and with ourselves in a very private setting.
Book your Nordic Sauna here
If you ever find yourself on the shores of Lough Macnean, come experience it for yourself. We promise: you will not be disappointed as this customer testified recently.
OUR LATEST REVIEW: JANUARY 2025
“The BEST SAUNA EXPERIENCE I’ve had in Ireland! And I’ve been to PLENTY of saunas.
What sets Corralea apart is the view, privacy, pine forest Lough-side location, not to mention the genuine and friendly family staff, cleanliness of the facilities and generous supply of wood.
If you do the maths, it’s actually MUCH better value than a 45minute sauna shared with multiple strangers…plus no having your chilled buzz interrupted after trying to get changed whilst others are coming and going all at the same time.
Do your physical and mental health a favour and treat yourself and those you love spending time with to this healing nature experience.”
