A serene stay with a lakeside view …
VIBE: Shoreline sanctuary on the banks of Lough Ree, Athlone, known for its personal touches, Scandinavian-inspired interiors and focus on wine.
NEED TO KNOW: Originally a restaurant, the boutique property was founded in 1993 by Ray Byrne and Jane English.
ROOMS: All 34 rooms overlook the lake; some have private terraces, others balconies. Mine was spacious, comfortable and cosy with underfloor heating in the bathroom, Voya toiletries and local treats including Kilbeggan chocolate and Keogh’s crisps. Full Circle is a luxury 48ft, six-berth motor cruiser moored at the lodge which can be booked for overnight stays, offering a nifty yacht experience with access to all hotel facilities.
The Glasshouse Restaurant.
DINING: Breakfast is served in the Dining Room, which is also the setting for dinner where the menu includes local Glasson mushrooms, Lissadell mussels and Duncannon smoked salmon. The Grapevine Lounge is popular for lunches and afternoon teas; there are several spaces catering for private events.
DO: Ask restaurant manager Kash Caleecharrun for suggestions from the wine list. I tried an interesting Canadian chardonnay and an organic Croatian Veralda. Wine buffs will also appreciate the hotel’s special relationship with Provençal winery, Domaine Ray-Jane.
SEE MORE: Book A Lakeside Break At Wineport Lodge
View of Full Circle motor cruiser.
DO: Take your togs to the Cedarwood Spa which makes full use of its lakeside setting – there’s an infinity pool, four seaweed baths, plus a sauna and two hot tubs perched on the water’s edge, for residents only. Try the signature treatment – a hot oil massage and nourishing facial using Yon-Ka products.
DON’T: Miss the sunrise yoga sessions with resident yoga teacher, Sarah. Whaly boats, stand-up paddle boards and BMW bicycles are available too.
VERDICT: Retro and relaxing: a place to do everything or nothing, whatever the season.
BOOK: The Festive Bubble Break with dinner, sauna, a hot tub session, plus a bottle of bubbles and chocolate truffles. From €480 for two. www.wineportlodge.com.
