These tried and tested properties are the perfect ‘dog-cation’ getaways
Ireland is home to a magnitude of incredible pet-friendly hotels, and below are three properties that got the paw of approval from my dogs, Walter and Ralph.
Glasson Lakehouse, Athlone
Glasson Lakehouse is a vibrant ranch-style countryside retreat set across 180 acres equipped with wooden hot tubs, a heated outdoor pool, a gym & spa, plus a golf course. The best part this unassuming resort is it’s dog friendly and is literally a haven for animal lovers.
Not only are the grounds spectacular, but the resort itself is effortlessly cool and the bedrooms are really spacious. The floors are wooden, no carpet - perfect if there were to be any doggie accidents.
Walter and Ralph immediately made themselves right at home, having a good sniff around the lobby area on arrival and overindulging in one too many welcome treats from the friendly staff.
The only place where dogs aren’t permitted is in the restaurant area Bonnie’s – you can leave your dog in the room while eating or have dinner outside in the heated terrace area or in the cosy lobby area.
Email reservations@glassonlakehouse.ie to book now.
Cabu by the Lakes, Cavan
Cabü by the Lakes is a tranquil oasis located deep within the woods of Killykeen Forest Park. This unique hideaway was perfect for myself, my parents and our two dogs given our love for the great outdoors and the fact that it’s dog friendly.
With 28 open plan cabins scattered amongst the woodland, 13 of the cabins are dog-friendly and come with floor cushions, dog treats and water bowls incase you were to forget any of these essentials.
We definitely found ourselves ‘at one with nature’ in Cabu with the beautiful woodland walks and we even brought the dogs out on a boat ride – although it did prove hard getting a life jacket to fit Walter because of his shape, but a few laughs later and we got there in the end.
The resort is very laid-back and completely dog-friendly. We could bring the boys anywhere with us if we didn’t want to leave them in the cabin. Activities on site include bike rides, kayaking and paddle-boarding as well as the nature spa which includes hot tubs and a sauna for the ultimate relaxing getaway.
Call 049) 489 4027 for more information
Cliff at Lyons, Kildare
Taking pride in all of its guests, including dogs, The Cliff at Lyons hotel is set in acres of blissful Kildare countryside and is overloaded with wonderful walks for dogs and their owners to explore for hours on end.
On arrival, there were homemade dog treats, beds and bowls in the bedroom for the pooches and prosecco for the adults. The quaint and decorative bedroom resembled a setting similar to that of Bridgeton, much like the property grounds itself, and had a back garden too for the dogs to wonder around. The stay was faultless and our only regret was not booking a second night.
To book a stay with the dogs visit www.cliffatlyons.ie or call 01 630 3500