Home & Away with Robert Walshe
www.robertwalshe.com
Weekend Hotspot – Radisson Blu Hotel Athlone
ATHLONE, in County Westmeath has a rich heritage, and its castle, which dominates the town centre, dates back to the 12th century. The facilities are being re-developed to bring the standards of interpretation and display in line with the visitor expectations of the twenty-first century. The Keep of the Castle will be used to tell the dramatic story of the famous Siege of Athlone while the other buildings will house a modern interpretative centre focusing on Athlone, the
■ Radisson Blu Suites Athlone
Castle and the periods both before and after the Siege. Athlone Castle Visitor Centre is a major tourist attraction for the town and has been reopened following a major renovation and restoration plan. Athlone (in Irish Ath Luain or the ford of Luan) is one of 21 Irish Walled towns and is steeped in history. It is one of the fastest growing inland urban areas and has undergone significant changes and developments during the last fifteen years. Athlone’s position on the River Shannon at the foot of Lough Ree has ensured a consistent influx of water enthusiasts including those who partici-
KEE’S HOTEL LEISURE & WELLNESS CENTRE
(074) 9131018
pate in sailing, cruising, wind surfing and canoeing. Angling enthusiasts come to fish the Shannon and the many lakes located in the Lakelands Region. Quigley’s Marina is located right ■ The Radisson Blu Spa & Pool Athlone at the southern end of Lough Ree, 8 modation options. ■ Athlone Marina miles outside Athlone offer- Leading the way the at night ing 100 berthing spaces. The Radisson Blu Hotel, old world ambiance of the overlooks the River Shantown combined with mod- non with magnificent views finest. Radissons signature ern conveniences makes of the marina and the his- “super breakfast buffet” is Athlone a delight to shop in. toric St Peter & Paul Cathe- also served here but rememThe Golden Island Shopping dral. Some of the 128 rooms ber to visit before the wedCentre, Athlone Towncentre & suites offer stunning views ding party from the night the Left Bank Mall & Bur- with a strong Scandinavian before arrive! Weather pergess of Athlone Department emphasis on modern flowing mitting the relaxing outdoor Store are a must visit. The themes. with bright colours. riverside terrace along the town is also renowned for a Elements Restaurant incorpo- marina is idyllic and rememwide variety of restaurants rates the elemental themes of ber you can also work off all and eateries catering for all water, fire, earth and air into the excess food & wine at tastes and budgets. Expect a its modern design to create the Synergy Health and Leivaried selection of amenities a relaxing atmosphere with sure Club with gym, steam and services within a 20 mile floor-to-ceiling windows and room and indoor swimming radius of the town including an open-plan layout. Here pool if the notion takes you. excellent hotels, Spas, B&B’s guests discover a menu with Radisson Blu Athlone are ofand self catering accom- contemporary cooking at its fering a 2 night special in a
www.keeshotel.ie
river view room from €238 per room including dinner for two on one evening , B+B and access to the leisure centre. For best rates visit www.radissonblu.ie Robert Walshe is a travel broadcaster with Citybeat & Q Radio Network in Northern Ireland. He is also Travel Editor for River Media newspaper titles across the island of Ireland. www.robertwalshe. com