A community sauna has made its return to the Smuggler’s Cove boatyard near Aberdyfi, offering visitors an opportunity to enjoy breathtaking views over the Dyfi Estuary. Previously located on the grounds of the historic Plas Dolguog, the converted horse-box sauna and plunge pool are now back at the boatyard, enhancing the area’s appeal for both locals and tourists.
The initiative, run by residents of Machynlleth, operates as a non-profit organization, providing affordable access to sauna and cold immersion experiences. Sawna Dyfi co-director Rob Key expressed enthusiasm about the relocation, stating, “We’re happy to be back on the shores of the Dyfi, now facing westward down towards the sea at Smuggler’s Cove Boatyard.”
Experience Relaxation Amid Nature
Key highlighted the unique atmosphere of the new location, describing it as “a wild sort of place where you can forget the rest of the world for a while.” The sauna’s setting within a working boatyard, which also offers a variety of accommodations such as glamping boat-stays and holiday cottages, invites visitors to unwind and connect with nature.
At the site, patrons can find two plunge pools and a shower that overlook both the Dyfi and the picturesque RSPB Ynyshir nature reserve, along with the Ynyslas Dunes to the south of the estuary. The sauna provides both 50 and 80-minute communal private sessions, structured as ‘pay what you feel’ opportunities. This model allows users to enjoy the sauna experience for a donation or even for free, promoting accessibility for all.
Sessions are available from 11:00 to 19:00 every Friday through Sunday, with plans to expand to include Thursday evenings in the near future. The team at Sawna Dyfi aims to attract a broader audience to their new venue, emphasizing their commitment to making sauna and cold immersion practices sociable and enjoyable.
For those interested in experiencing this unique offering, further information and booking options can be found on their website. The return of the community sauna not only enhances the local landscape but also fosters a culture of health and well-being among residents and visitors alike.
