Hotel review: Westmeath's Glasson Lakehouse redefines the resort experience

Location

Down a long driveway atop a hill with sweeping vistas, Glasson Lakehouse enjoys beautiful views of Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands and Lough Ree’s tranquil inner lakes. 

20 minutes from Athlone and just 90 from Dublin, Glasson may be a sleepy Westmeath village best known as home to the Blue Book’s Wineport Lodge, but guests will find plenty to entertain them at this newer and noteworthy waterside location.

9/10

Style and design

Press Up Group spotted the potential in this once non-descript golf hotel, snapping up an uninspiring property and transforming it into a cool, laidback, and stylish destination.

Rustic log cabin vibes, with a roaring fire, slouchy sofas, maximalist fabric prints, reclaimed floorboards and colourful artwork inject character into the lively lobby. 

This distinctive, vibrant design theme runs throughout the whole property creating a comfy and contemporary laid-back escape.

9.5/10

Service

A trainee alone on check-in (when the hotel is full) seems like a false start but her can-do attitude shows initiative. (A senior colleague is temporarily busy with guests but does return). 

The majority of staff are quite young and while eager to please, seem a little over-stretched.

Service at lunch is patchy though dinner is efficient and always friendly. At breakfast, cappuccinos arrive in cups without saucers and refills take forever to come. 

Everyone is pleasant and trying hard but could do with more hands on deck.

7/10

Activities and amenities

Glasson Lakehouse does more than tick boxes — it creates boxes you didn’t even know you needed. The outdoor pool, heated to 33 degrees, is a real boon and year-round draw.

Lake boats, paddleboards, and kayaks can all be hired to make the most of the lake setting.

Dog-friendly rooms, a two-storey Power gym with great views, charming Brooks & Co Spa and trio of hot tubs (€40 for an hour), a driving range, golf lessons, bicycles (kids and adults), a playroom, and board games in the lobby cover all weather basis.

This really is a versatile destination for a girls’ get-together, golf break, family time, or couple’s retreat.

10/10

Guest rooms

Spacious, cosy, and stylishly tricked out, Press Up’s interiors have always been their strong suit. 

Eclectic and attractive, expect teal panelling, ceilings clad in rough wood, quirky art, retro furniture, and smartly tiled bathrooms with brass accents.

King-size beds are comfy, there’s good lighting, plenty of practical storage, multiple USB points, and comfy seating areas. 

Family rooms come with cool in-built bunks and free-standing baths too.

9.5/10

In-room perks

Press Up’s in-room offering has always been top class. 

Record players, in-room vinyl and mini Marshall amps allow you play your own music while mini Smeg fridges are packed with wine, bubbly, beer and soft drinks. 

Premium spirits and a cocktail shaker sit alongside tea and coffee options.

Signature Munchie trays include sweets, Skelligs chocolates, Tayto, toiletries, and free condoms.

For a four-star hotel, this selection is impressive.

9.5/10

On the menu

Bonnie’s is the hotel’s main dining space, serving breakfast to 10.30am, late lunches, and dinner that starts early for families. 

With ski lodge vibes and a cool central bar, it’s very comfy, with cosy booths, large tables for groups and bright views. (Those with doggy companions can eat in the lovely lobby.)

Breakfast is a la carte, with interesting choices. Parsimonious Hollandaise renders Eggs Benedict a bit dry, though everything else is good. At lunch, the kids’ pasta is a hit and Caesar salad generous but nachos turn soggy beneath a cloying salsa.

Dinner is the biggest success, with stand-out hake and steaks. In summer the large outdoor terrace is the place to dine, while a cute shebeen-style bar, Tom’s Fish & Tackle, serves food too.

7/10

Need to know

• Value for money: Bed and breakfast in a King Room starts from €190 per room based on two sharing.
• Room to improve? Check-in at 4pm is very late: We arrive early to have lunch and end up hanging around awaiting a call that never comes to say we can access our room. All our party get early access to their rooms but ours isn’t ready until 4pm.
• Access for guests with disabilities? Accessible rooms, public areas and parking.
• Family-friendly? A top choice with kids and teens. Boardgames, the outdoor pool, large playground, driving range and affordable kids menu are all hits.
• Dogs welcome? Dogs love it here, and will meet other four-legged pals. Expect special beds with a fluffy throw, bowls and ample grounds for walkies.