Wineport Lodge

This family-run inn is well-known in Ireland as a place to go for special occasions such as anniversaries, birthdays, or even a wedding. Its lakeside setting is peaceful and relaxing. Inside, public spaces are charming and welcoming, and there are plenty of cozy places to sit in front of a fire and take in the lake views. In nice weather, the lawns are a fine place to relax -- though so are the hot tubs -- and there are plenty of tables positioned along the lake that make a fine location for an afternoon picnic (or glass of wine). Hallways to guest rooms feature original local art, and photographs of activities on the lake also hang throughout the hotel. Overall, the atmosphere is laid back and relaxing, and the property especially appeals to couples. Groups and families also make their way here, and the events spaces even draw the odd corporate outing as well.

Wineport Lodge is located on the shores of the lovely Lough Ree, a few minutes outside the village of Glasson. It's accessed via a country road and is surrounded by farmland and the lake. The hotel is well-positioned for exploring many of the local attractions, such as Athlone Castle, Luan Art Gallery, Belvedere Gardens -- in fact, Athlone, the closest major town, is only a 10-minute drive from the hotel. Alternatively, the inland waterways that snake off from Lough Ree can be explored by boat from the hotel's own private jetty. Situated in County Westmeath in the center of Ireland, the hotel is 90 minutes west of Dublin and its airport, and about an hour from Galway by road. There's also a train station in Athlone town for easy trips to either of Ireland's coasts from here.

All 30 rooms at the lodge are different, but each has an outstanding view of the lake from a furnished balcony. Decor is tasteful and lovely, with Scandinavian-style wood furniture, and colorful modern art, lighting, and accessories. Bold shades of red or purple accent neutral backdrops of gray, and orchids add an elegant touch in many rooms. Soft furnishings -- like blankets on beds -- have just enough shimmer to give the rooms a romantic edge. To be clear, these are far sharper and more contemporary rooms than many hotels and inns in the Athlone region. Flat-screen TVs hang on the wall, and cabinets hide minibars, safes, and electric kettles for coffee and tea. All rooms have high-end electronics, include Bose sound systems or stereos with MP3 hookups. Deluxe Lakeview Rooms are compact, but they have sliding-glass doors to the balcony and lake beyond. Bathrooms in these units are also are small, but come with separate tubs and showers, above-counter sinks, heated flooring, and upscale toiletries. Suites add more space and seating, as well as bigger bathrooms and walk-in closets. The two-level Champagne Suite is the most high-end of the hotel's rooms, with views of the lake from the upper-level bedroom with a king-size. The walk-in shower is big enough for two, and there's a soaking tub as well. Downstairs, the seating area has a gas fireplace and leather sofas and chairs, with more views of the lake. Guests are welcomed to the suite with sparkling wine and chocolates. 

The day begins with a free Irish breakfast that's served in the restaurant or delivered to guest rooms -- in either case it garners enthusiastic reviews from most guests. The restaurant itself is a lovely space with loveseats and chairs ideally positioned to take in views of the lake. Lunch is served in the cozy Bollinger Lounge, with a wood floor, red pillows and ottomans paired with gray loveseats and chairs, large photographs of lake activities hanging on lavender walls, and a wood-burning fireplace. Outdoor space with wicker seating has gorgeous views of the lake. Afternoon tea is served daily in the Lakeshore Lounge, also with views of the lake. Dinner features several courses paired with wines. The hotel's well-known restaurant has been featured on a popular Irish reality show called The Restaurant Show in which celebrity chefs cook in the kitchen and are rated by food critics, other celebrities, and the public. Massages, facials, and body treatments are available in the hotel's small spa, and there's a relaxation area for use before or after treatments. A hot tub terrace is a nice place to relax and enjoy the lake views. Bicycles are available for guests to use, but there is no fitness center, which is somewhat surprising for a hotel of this caliber. The hotel is a popular venue for weddings and other celebrations, like birthdays, anniversaries, graduations, and christenings, as well as corporate and team-building events. A variety of packages are available. Wi-Fi and parking are both free.