Hit Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands, A 3-Day Idyllic Irish Itinerary at Glasson Lakehouse
A serene rustic oasis, surrounded by the tranquil Lough Ree, Glasson Lakehouse is the perfect destination break located halfway between Dublin and Galway. Offering the perfect blend of adventure, exploration and relaxation, it is simply a must visit if you are yearning to have the full Irish experience. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway or an Irish vacation with friends or family, this luxurious stay in Ireland promises an eye opening and unforgettable experience. Here’s the perfect 3-day itinerary to make the most of your time exploring the centre of Ireland.
Day One - Check in to Glasson Lakehouse & Explore Athlone
You will be greeted with a warm Irish welcome upon your arrival to the stunning Glasson Lakehouse. Check in and chill out by the roaring open fire in the lobby, or enjoy a welcome drink in Glasson’s very own shebeen; Tom’s Fish & Tackle.
If you are travelling by car, you can enjoy complimentary parking and EV charging, or if you are taking the scenic route by rail, grab a short taxi ride to the hotel. Settle in to your Lakeview Deluxe room and take in the views over Lough Ree.
Discover Athlone Town
Spend the afternoon adventuring around the beautiful Athlone Town, just a short drive from Glasson Lakehouse. Soak in the history of the bustling town with a guided walking tour. Travel around iconic sites such as Athlone Castle, uncover hidden gems and hear tales of famous residents.
Carol Rooney Art Gallery & Bastion Gallery
Upon completion of your tour, Carol Rooneys’ Art Gallery makes for the perfect stop. Carol Rooney is a professional artist who creates paintings of historical buildings in a working studio at the back of her shop. See the sights from your tour being brought to life on canvas and be sure to grab a postcard of your favourite one! This is the perfect location to secure gifts that will forever remind you of your trip to Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands.
Sean’s Bar
Exploring makes for thirsty work and no better place to quench your thirst than in Europe’s oldest pub. Sean’s Bar has been around since 900AD, and so has had the time to absolutely perfect the Guinness pint. It would be a sin to travel all this way and not pop in for one (or a couple…).
Dinner With A View In Bonnie’s
Head back to Glasson Lakehouse for dinner in Bonnie’s, boasting amazing dishes created by Executive Chef Dee Adamson, who was previously awarded Best Chef in Leinster at the Irish Restaurant Awards.
After dinner, why not unwind before bed with a drink by the blazing open-fire, or catch some traditional Irish music in Tom’s Fish & Tackle before settling down for a nights sleep, leaving you well rested for another day of exploring.
Day Two - Explore Glasson Lakehouse
Kickstart the day with a leisurely breakfast in Bonnie’s restaurant before making the most of the many amenities at Glasson Lakehouse.
Glasson Lakehouse offers so many different activities to get you up and moving in the morning. Check out Power Gym for an elite workout session, followed by a dip in the heated outdoor pool. Or you may find yourself being lured to the lough, if so, why don’t you take out a paddle board, kayak or even try your hand at fishing? For a more laidback experience, take a stroll along the lakeshore and soak in the peaceful atmosphere. Golf enthusiasts will be delighted with the award winning 18 hole Glasson Golf Course, offering picturesque views of the lake as you play.
After an active morning, nab yourself a spot in our outdoor hot tubs and take a dip in the heated outdoor pool before grabbing a mid morning coffee and treat.
Lunch at Fiona Egan’s Cooking School
Take the opportunity to have the ultimate lunching experience whilst quite literally getting a taste of Irish culture with a call to Fiona Egan’s Cooking School. You can design your visit to cater to your preferences with an array of varying classes to choose from. Ranging from a workshop on a nearby farm, cultivating ingredients from Fiona’s Garden to creating amazing dishes with homegrown local ingredients and baking mouthwatering desserts, you won’t go hungry!
Tour of Kilbeggan Distillery
If you can pack more in to your day, a tour of an Irish whisky distillery is a truly special experience. Kilbeggan Distillery is Ireland’s oldest distillery and is well-worth a visit. Experience the passion of the workers and the pride they take in their craft on a guided tour of the distillery. After learning the whiskey making process, you also have the opportunity to fill your own bottle of whiskey from the casket.
Unwind at Brooks & Co Spa
Arrive back to your base at Glasson Lakehouse in time for a relaxing session at Brooks & Co onsite boutique spa. Choose one of their available rejuvenating treatments from their extensive menu. Afterwards, take some time for yourself to take in the views from the hot tub before getting ready for another amazing dinner at Bonnie’s.
Day Three - Heritage & History
Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, especially when exploring. Be sure to have a hearty feed in Bonnie’s before tackling the day.
Head to the Marina and take a boat tour (Hidden Heartlands Tours) and follow the route paved by St. Ciaran over 2000 years before. Learn the history of the monastery of Clonmacnoise, whilst simultaneously immersing yourself in the Irish flora and fauna both on and off land. Traverse the ancient ruins of the monastery, visit the Clonmacnoise pottery and even partake in a pottery class.
Lunch at Dead Centre Brewing Company
Upon arrival back to the marina, take a stroll down the street to the Dead Centre Brewing Company and take a tour of the craft beer brewery. Enjoy a pint of Irish craft beer and a gourmet pizza for your lunch.
Drum Heritage Centre
After lunch you’ll be refuelled and ready for more ramblings. Less than a 15 minute drive away is the Drum Heritage Centre and St. Brigid’s Well. The heritage centre houses old folklore, Gaelic prose and poetry of those who travelled through Drum, including the famous works of Sean and Tadgh O’Neachtain.
Further delve into Irish history and read the letters of emigrants taken from the Boston Pilot Newspaper publications 1831-1850 and uncover some sad revelations about the men and women of Drum during the Great Famine.
Derryglad Folk & Heritage Museum
For those who wish to continue their historic journey into ancient Ireland, take a quick 10 minute drive to Derryglad Folk and Heritage Museum. Travel back in time to 19th century rural Ireland. Journey through school rooms, farmyards and kitchens and learn the folklore and traditions of the past through artefacts and storytelling.
Farewell Dinner & Drinks
After a long day of site seeing, return to Glasson Lakehouse and relax in the hot tub or heated pool before a delicious dinner. Your final evening at Glasson Lakehouse calls for a special farewell dinner. Indulge in the chef’s specialty dishes as you finish your stay off with one last pint in Tom’s Pub and reminisce about your time spent exploring Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands.
This is just a few of the options of the many things to do in Westmeath. The adventures to be had in Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands are endless and we hope you have the most amazing time making memories throughout your stay at Glasson Lakehouse.
