Home & Away with Robert Walshe
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Weekend Hotspot - Wineport Lodge Glasson Co Westmeath
Athlone in Co Westmeath is a major provincial town which enjoys a rich heritage, and a dramatic castle, which dominates the town centre, dating back to the 12th century. Its visitor centre is a major tourist attraction for the town and has been recently renovated. Athlone is one of 21 Irish walled towns and is steeped in history. It is one of the fastest growing inland urban areas undergoing
significant changes and developments over the last twenty years. The old world ambiance of the town combined with modern conveniences makes Athlone a delight to shop in. The Golden Island Shopping Centre, Athlone Towncentre the Left Bank Mall & Burgess of Athlone Department Store are a must see. Athlone’s position on the River Shannon at the foot of Lough Ree has ensured a consistent influx of water enthusiasts including those who participate in sailing, cruising, wind surfing and canoeing. Angling
n Wineport Lodge Glasson Co Westmeath
enthusiasts come to fish the Shannon and the many lakes located in the Lakelands Region. Quigley’s Marina is located right at the southern end of Lough Ree, eight miles outside offering 100 berthing spaces. The region is also renowned for the wide variety of hotels, restaurants and eateries catering for all tastes and budgets. Leading the way is Wineport Lodge situated in nearby Glasson village on the shores of Lough Ree. Glasson is one of those places that seem to offer it all. Overlooking one of Ireland’s most beautiful lakes this little place with a big heart is a centre for boating, fishing, walking, eating and sleeping in the greatest of comfort. Wineport’s magical setting also makes it an ideal spot for a luxury spa break. Just 90 minutes from Dublin it is easy to escape for a few days relaxation and pampering. Chill out in the outdoor hot tub before being pampered in the treatment suite with a choice of thera-
For our best deals call 0044 28 9038 1111 or visit www.mooneyhotelgroup.com pies and treatments while all bedrooms open to furnished balconies. The 29 guestrooms named after a wine region, such as Tuscany, Loire Valley and Burgundy all include minibars and safes. Guests can use the in-room complimentary wireless high-speed Internet access. Televisions are also equipped with DVD players. The restaurant at Wineport n The Restaurant Lodge is the setat Wineport Lo dge. ting for the RTÉ television show “The Restaurant” so expect fine takes about twenty minutes. dining in an intimate, con- There’s also a pier, so you vivial atmosphere. Glasson can arrive by boat from anyalso has plenty of places to where on the Shannon watereat and drink including Gro- ways. Wineport Lodge is a gans and The Fattened Calf leading member of Ireland’s so it is worth staying for a Blue Book a collection of Irish second or third night in the Country House Hotels, Manor village for this experience Houses, Castles and Restaualone. The Wineport Lodge rants located throughout is just off the Dublin-Galway the island of Ireland. These motorway, which means that charming and stylish hideait’s easily accessible from ways are the perfect choice most parts of the country. If for a midweek or weekend you don’t have a car you can break and those seeking a get a bus or train to Athlone romantic getaway. Activities and then hire a taxi, which vary from golf, fishing, spas
and cookery schools or just relaxing in warm and comfortable surroundings. You’ll feel the difference the moment you arrive. For best rates on Wineport Lodge visit www.irelandsbluebook.com Robert Walshe is a travel broadcaster with Q Radio in Northern Ireland and Travel Editor for River Media newspaper titles across the island of Ireland. www.robertwalshe. com