In the midst of an ash dieback crisis that threatened the family’s beef farm in Cork, 25-year-old Harry Smyth saw an opportunity. The surplus wood from the infected forest could be repurposed into a unique venture: a wood-fired sauna on the family land. The Hidden Sauna, unveiled just three weeks ago, now stands as a picturesque retreat in scenic east Cork.
“We farm over 100 acres here at Bridgefield near Castlemartyr. We have a pedigree Aberdeen Angus herd. I have some of my own and we also show them,” explained Harry, a Technological University Dublin (TUD) food innovation graduate with a passion for entrepreneurship. The ash dieback disease had silently crept into their 20-acre forest, causing trees to wither and die from the inside out. Harry recalled, “Dad planted the trees back in 2006, envisioning them as valuable resources for construction and hurley ash. But by 2018, the disease had taken hold.”
The spark of inspiration for the sauna project ignited during Harry’s childhood days spent tending to the forest. “I used to go down in the summers and trim the branches to help the trees grow better. When the idea struck me, my dad was fully supportive,” Harry shared. Extensive planning and collaboration with skilled tradespeople brought the vision to life. From the carpentry work of Mark Foley to Harry’s own hands-on contributions, the Hidden Sauna began to take shape.
The sauna complex now boasts an 85m2 woodland studio, a tiled changing area with a veranda for privacy, a 12-person wood-fired sauna, a cold plunge pool, an outdoor shower, and a coffee caravan serving Bell Lane Coffee. Harry expressed gratitude to Gail for her barista guidance, a departure from his usual farm duties. Despite the challenges posed by Ireland’s unpredictable weather, Harry remains focused on expanding the business into a holistic outdoor spa retreat.
His vision includes creating a sanctuary where guests can disconnect from technology and immerse themselves in the serene surroundings of the native Irish forest. Inspired by the Japanese concept of ‘Shinrin-yoku’ or forest bathing, Harry aims to offer a premium wellness experience with hot tubs, saunas, and solar-powered amenities. By adopting sustainable practices like using dying timber for construction and planting native trees, he hopes to contribute to a circular economy and combat Ireland’s low forest cover.
Reflecting on the broader impact of the ash dieback epidemic, Harry highlighted the need for greater support for farmers affected by the disease. With forests across the country facing devastation, he emphasized the importance of fair compensation and incentives for sustainable forestry practices. As he navigates the challenges of running a business in a changing climate, Harry remains committed to his vision of creating a haven where nature and relaxation intertwine.
