Former boxer turns passion for saunas into community hub

Former boxer Karl Hodgers has transformed his passion for saunas into a social hub that is becoming a local favourite at Lough Derravaragh.

The sauna was a personal tool for recovery during his time as a top level fighter, said Karl.

“I started with a sauna back home in County Louth. I’d been using saunas during my boxing career, but it wasn’t until Covid that I realised how much others might benefit from it too.”

During the pandemic, as more people turned to outdoor activities, Karl spent time at local swimming spots. It was there that inspiration struck. “I remember going for a swim in the freezing cold and thinking how great it would be to have a sauna nearby. That’s when the idea really started to form.”

What began as something for cold-weather swimmers has evolved into something deeper, and as Karl explored the possibilities of his sauna, he realised that it was about more than just warmth.

“The biggest draw for me became the sense of community. If you don’t want to go to the pub or a bar, the sauna gives you a place to relax with friends, meet new people, and just enjoy some good conversations. It’s a new kind of social gathering.”

Karl’s Hot House Sauna quickly became popular in its first year at Salterstown Pier and Templetown Beach, as people embraced the combination of relaxation and socialising. Encouraged by the response, Karl sought to expand. “I was driving through Westmeath and saw some beautiful lakes, and I thought, ‘This could be the perfect place for a sauna.’ I was fortunate to get the opportunity to set up here at Lough Derravaragh.”

Karl launched the new outlet at Derravaragh over the weekend of September 7-8, and the 10-person sauna offers features including showers, toilets, a coffee shop, lake access, and a car park, within easy reach.

Visitors the Westmeath Examiner spoke to on Saturday week last described their experience as “amazing and incredibly relaxing” after taking a dip in the Lake.