Overview
Glasson – sometimes referred to as the “Village of Roses” – is a charming lakeside settlement in County Westmeath, Ireland. Set on the banks of Lough Ree and the River Tullaghan, the village offers a blend of natural beauty, historic ambience and modern leisure facilities. Whether you are a golfer chasing a world‑class parkland course, a foodie hunting award‑winning cuisine, or simply looking for a peaceful retreat by the water, Glasson provides a compact yet richly varied experience.
History & Background
The settlement’s roots stretch back centuries. The name “Glasson” is an Anglicisation of the Irish Glasán, meaning “little green place”. The village earned literary fame when Oliver Goldsmith referenced it in his poem “The Deserted Village”. Today, the moniker “Village of Roses” reflects both its floral heritage and the warm hospitality that locals extend to visitors. Historic landmarks such as the late‑medieval Portlick tower house and the 12th‑century Athlone Castle (a short drive away) add depth to the area’s story.
What to See & Do
Golf – Glasson Golf Club
Designed by Christy O’Connor Jr. in 1993 and refreshed in 2021 by David Jones, Glasson Golf Club is recognised as one of Ireland’s premier parkland courses. The 18‑hole layout hugs the shoreline of Lough Ree and Killenure Bay, offering panoramic water views on many holes. The celebrated par‑three 17th (sometimes listed as the 15th in older guides) requires a full carry over Killenure Bay – a true test of precision. The club has hosted televised European Challenge Tour events and continues to attract both elite tournaments and family outings.
Luxury Stays
Glasson Lakehouse
A family‑owned 4‑star resort less than 90 minutes from Dublin, Galway and Shannon airports. The 65‑room property boasts lake‑front rooms, a Lakeview Bar, Killinure Restaurant with floor‑to‑ceiling windows, a private jetty for cruises, a Christy O’Connor Jr. golf course, sauna, steam room and on‑site spa treatments.
| Room Type | Key Features |
|---|---|
| Lakeview Rooms | Goose‑down duvets, private balcony, lake views |
| Lakeview Suites | King‑size bed, spacious layout, large windows |
| Champagne Suite | Twin beds, armchair, complimentary champagne |
Wineport Lodge (Lakeview Rooms, Suites, Champagne Suite)
Located within the Glasson estate, Wineport Lodge offers stylish décor, Lough Ree vistas and private balconies. The Lakeview Rooms and Suites provide plush bedding and modern comforts, while the Champagne Suite adds a celebratory touch with a bottle of bubbly.
Glasson Stone Lodge
Set in the heart of Glasson Village, this B&B features en‑suite rooms, easy walking distance to award‑winning pubs and the golf club. Hosts Mr & Mrs Oliver and Carmel O’Neill welcome guests with a personal touch, and the lodge serves as an ideal base for exploring the surrounding countryside.
Carnakilla Cottages
Five timber‑built cabins on the shores of Lough Ree, each with three bedrooms, a large living/dining area and a private deck. A refurbished thatch barn provides a communal space for larger groups, and a small marina allows boat owners to berth overnight.
Food & Drink
Grogan’s of Glasson – Established in 1750, this family‑run pub and restaurant is famed for its open fires, brass furnishings and a menu that balances steaks, seafood and local produce. Traditional céilí music fills the air on Friday evenings, creating a lively yet intimate atmosphere. Contact: +353 906 485 158.
The Villager – Another award‑winning venue within walking distance, offering indoor and outdoor dining, a curated wine list and a perfect pint of Guinness.
Water Activities
Killinure Point Marina, situated on the south‑eastern tip of Lough Ree, provides 100 berths, boat hire, pump‑out facilities, showers, laundry and a public jetty. The marina’s location in the townland of Glassan (Glasson) makes it a convenient launch point for sailing, fishing or a leisurely cruise across the lake.
Walking & Nature
The village is surrounded by scenic bog walks, notably the Walderstown nature trail, and the lakeshore offers ample opportunities for bird‑watching and wild‑flower spotting. The nearby Portlick Woodland walks add a woodland contrast to the lakeside scenery.
Practical Information
Getting There
Glasson lies on the N55, roughly 15 km north of Athlone. It is about a 90‑minute drive from Dublin Airport, Galway Airport and Shannon Airport, making it easily accessible by car. Public transport options include Bus Éireann services to Athlone, where onward taxis or rental cars can reach Glasson.
Accommodation Booking
- Glasson Lakehouse – bookings via the Discover Ireland page: https://www.discoverireland.ie/accommodation/glasson-lakehouse
- Wineport Lodge – direct booking links on each room page (Lakeview Rooms, Lakeview Suites, Champagne Suite) via https://www.wineport.ie
- Glasson Stone Lodge – website https://glassonstonelodge.com
- Carnakilla Cottages – https://www.discoverireland.ie/accommodation/carnakilla-cottages
Golf & Marina
The golf club operates year‑round; tee times can be arranged by contacting the club directly through its Discover Ireland page: https://www.discoverireland.ie/westmeath/glasson-golf-club. The marina accepts visitors and offers boat rentals; facilities are open daily, and a reception desk is available for enquiries.
Contact Details
- Grogan’s of Glasson – Phone: +353 906 485 158 – https://www.facebook.com/grogansofglasson
- Glasson Stone Lodge – Website: https://glassonstonelodge.com
- Killinure Point Marina – Reception area on site (no public phone listed).
Accessibility
Most of the lodges and the golf club provide level access to reception areas and dining rooms. The marina’s jetty and shower facilities are wheelchair‑friendly, though individual berths may vary. For specific accessibility requirements, it is advisable to contact the accommodation or marina directly before arrival.
Seasonal Highlights
- Spring – Wild‑flower blooms along the lakeshore and in the surrounding bogs.
- Summer – Long daylight hours for golf, sailing and lakeside picnics.
- Autumn – Vibrant foliage framing the water, ideal for photography.
- Winter – The lake’s misty ambience creates a romantic backdrop for a cosy stay in one of the village’s boutique lodges.
Glasson may be small, but its combination of natural splendour, historic charm and world‑class leisure facilities makes it a standout destination in the Irish Midlands. Whether you are teeing off on a championship course, sampling locally sourced cuisine, or simply soaking in the tranquil lake views, Glasson offers a memorable slice of Irish hospitality.