Overview
Glasson, often called the Village of Roses, is a picturesque lakeside settlement in County Westmeath, Ireland. Set on the banks of Lough Ree and the River Tullaghan, the village offers a mix of natural beauty, historic ambience and modern leisure – from championship golf to luxury lakeside hotels.
History & Background
The name Glasán means “little green place”, reflecting the area’s verdant character. Oliver Goldsmith immortalised Glasson in his poem The Deserted Village, and today the moniker “Village of Roses” celebrates its floral heritage and warm hospitality. Nearby historic sites include the late‑medieval Portlick tower house and the 12th‑century Athlone Castle, adding depth to a settlement whose roots stretch back centuries.
What to See & Do
Glasson Golf Club
- Course: An 18‑hole, par‑71 parkland layout stretching 6,731 yd, designed by Ryder Cup player Christy O’Connor Jr. in 1993 and refreshed in 2021 by David Jones.
- Scenery: Every hole frames views of Lough Ree or Killinure Bay, with the water‑crossing par‑three 15th (sometimes listed as the 17th) serving as the signature challenge.
- Tee Sets: Four tee options cater to players from handicap 24 up to low‑handicap competitors.
- Tournaments: Host of televised European Challenge Tour events and regular national opens; IGTOA Golf Resort of the Year 2011.
- Facilities:
- Golf Academy with PGA‑qualified instructors
- TrackMan‑equipped golf simulator
- Driving range, short‑game area and putting green
- Pro shop and on‑request caddies
- Society & corporate golf packages
- Private jetty for arrivals by boat
Luxury Stays
| Property | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Glasson Lakehouse | 4‑star, 65 rooms, lake‑front rooms, Lakeview Bar, Killinure Restaurant with floor‑to‑ceiling windows, private jetty, spa, sauna, steam room |
| Wineport Lodge | Lakeview Rooms, Suites and a Champagne Suite with private balconies and complimentary bubbly |
| Glasson Stone Lodge | Family‑run B&B in the heart of the village, en‑suite rooms, personal hospitality |
| Carnakilla Cottages | Five timber‑built cabins on the shores of Lough Ree, ideal for self‑catering retreats |
Dining & Leisure
- Killinure Restaurant (Glasson Lakehouse) – fine‑dining with panoramic lake views.
- Bonnie’s – contemporary cuisine within the resort.
- Tom’s Fish and Tackle – an Irish‑style shebeen offering casual fare and a covered BBQ terrace.
- Local Pubs – award‑winning establishments within walking distance of the village centre.
Nearby Attractions
- Abbey Blooms Botanical Gardens – a short drive north, showcasing themed gardens and a historic walled garden.
- Killinure Lough – the bay and lake adjoining Glasson, popular for boating, fishing and lakeside walks.
- Athlone Castle – a 12th‑century fortress on the River Shannon, reachable in under 15 minutes by car.
Practical Information
- Location: Approximately 90 minutes west of Dublin, 60 minutes from Galway and an hour from Shannon Airport.
- Access: Reachable via the M6 motorway (exit for Athlone) then the R362 to Glasson. Signage for the Glasson Lakehouse resort and golf club is clear from the main road.
- Accommodation Booking: Direct bookings can be made through the Glasson Lakehouse website or the individual lodge sites.
- Golf Booking: Tee times, academy lessons and corporate packages are available online; the private jetty allows arrival by boat for a unique start to the round.
- Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early autumn offers the fullest rose displays, warm lake breezes and optimal golfing conditions.
- Contact: +353 90 123 4567 (Glasson Lakehouse), info@glassonlakehouse.ie.
Whether chasing a perfect swing, strolling among rose‑laden lanes or simply soaking in the tranquil waters of Lough Ree, Glasson delivers a compact yet richly varied Irish getaway.