Wineport Lodge shimmers on Lough Ree

In Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands a divine hotel, The Wineport Lodge, @Wineport_Lodge sits right on the edge of Lough Ree, part of the River Shannon’s network of glassy lakes. What sets The Wineport apart from other accommodation providers is the quality of excellence of the build. Plenty of natural timber has been employed in a building which has been enhanced several times with extensions. The building breathes in nature and envelops guests with its hypnotic characteristics and location; not least of which are the swaying corn coloured reeds on nearby shores.

From the moment you step from the car you are entering a stress free zone as you stroll along the timber decking to the entrance, located centrally and acting as a hub from which various social spaces are located all around, one such being The Bollinger Bar. Moreover, there are sneaky views into the Wineport Lodge’s cosmopolitan restaurant with attracts diners from far and wide.

I have stayed many times in The Wineport over the past number of years and have never been disappointed. It is a nice touch that all the rooms have names instead of numbers. Furthermore, I love that the names are associated with differing wines. We were allocated the Beaujolais and as a fan of this wine this suited me well. When these first rooms were built they were very much cutting edge; they have stood the test of time. All the fitted furniture is bespoke with inlays; porthole shaped interior windows and mirrors giving a maritime feel – exactly what was intended. Bathrooms are generous with separate bath tub and shower and underfloor heating – spoiling my toes.

We were served a delicious evening meal. My main course of Milenese Chicken with root vegetables was a perfect combination. Thankfully their chef is conscious of serving seasonable vegetables and these fresh veggies had a light footfall to make it to my plate.

The views across Lough Ree are out of this world and the sunset that evening we were there was as good as you would get in the most exotic parts of the globe. Those enjoying fresh air (even in October) can enjoy a little aperitif/digestif under the gazebo with the soft lapping of the surrounding lake water.