Lucinda O'Sullivan's Ireland

About The Hotel

Tucked away, just two miles from Galway City is the fabulous five-star Glenlo Abbey Hotel & Estate, with grounds spanning 138 acres of rich, lush scenery on the banks of Lough Corrib. The Abbey is the ancestral home to one of Galway’s famous tribes, the Ffrench family, who first arrived in Galway in the early fifteenth century. The five bay, two-story Glenlo Abbey House was built in 1740, with the abbey itself being constructed in the 1790’s as a private church for the family. In the 1980’s, the house and estate were bought, restored and converted - transforming it into a remarkable hotel, while still retaining the history of its walls.

Arriving through the doors of the reception area was like stepping back through glorious time. There was a real air of 19th Century grandeur from the beautiful gold wallpaper, to the finely polished wooden furniture and floors, to the twinkle of the chandelier overhead, not to mention the open fireplace making the room toasty and inviting as we entered.

Our room at the Glenlo was very spacious and really quite wonderful with a breathtaking view over the Lough and the grounds of the estate. The room itself was beautifully furnished with a soft crème and gold décor that perfectly matched the antique furnishings. But don’t worry, all modern facilities were there also with a 40 inch TV, DVD player, WiFi, mini-bar, and an Italian marble en-suite bathroom complete with power shower. I have to say, I had one of the best sleeps I’ve had in a long time whilst staying at Glenlo Abbey. If you’re looking for an extra hit of grandeur, try one of their suites; which are enormous and many feature separate living and dining areas not to mention four-poster beds.

One of the biggest attractions of the Glenlo Abbey Hotel & Estate for my other half is their lakeside golf course and driving range. Their 9-hole parkland golf course, which was designed by Jeff Howes and then redesigned by Christy O’Connor Jr, boasts seven holes that feature water hazards along with a stunning, signature Par 3 fourth hole with an island green sitting out on the Corrib. Before hitting the links, be sure to practice your swing at their top class 21 bay driving range.

Fishing is also a popular activity at Glenlo Abbey. Being located on the edge of Lough Corrib puts patrons only a stone’s throw away from a profusion of trout, salmon, pike, perch and bream making it ideal for eager anglers. The Hotel is more than happy to assist its guests with planning their excursions and even offer an accommodation package which include a two night stay in a superior room along with a half day fishing with their award winning gilley. Upon returning to the hotel, your catch will be finely prepared, in whatever manner you should wish, by the hotel’s chef. The deal also includes breakfast on both mornings of your stay at their River Room Restaurant.

Food and drink in general at Glenlo Abbey is excellent and a visit to their Pullman Restaurant is truly unforgettable, as the dining room is comprised of two original train carriages from the famous Orient Express. Their Oak Cellar Bar is really good as well, with a very casual atmosphere in what was once the estate’s kitchen. They serve great bar food during the day, with all major sports events being televised for their patrons. To read more about wining and dining at Glenlo Abbey, visit the restaurant side of my site.

The Glenlo Abbey Hotel & Estate is truly a fantastic place to be. Its beauty and luxury are the perfect blend for restoring the soul from the drains of everyday life, not to mention the ideal spot for high-end weddings or meetings. If it’s activity you yearn for Galway City, Connemara and the Wild Atlantic Way are right at your door.

It’s just a wonderful place to be.

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