Coolbawn Quay Lakeshore Spa

Spas and retreats have been appearing all over Ireland in recent years, but few could rival the beauty of this magic place. This unique resort on the eastern shores of Lough Derg is modelled on an 19th century Irish village with quietly luxurious accommodation in suites and rooms scattered throughout the cottages in the village - with hotel style service throughout, should you require it.



This wedding venues shoreside situation is truly lovely and there is a sense of being very close to the changing moods of nature. There is a choice of churches nearby but Terryglass church, which is only 10 minutes away, is a lovely old stone church in a picturesque village location near the water, and it is possible for the bridal couple to arrive by boat from the church in Terryglass - the boat can pull right up to the deck by the water’s edge, where the guests will be gathered for the drinks reception.



Now, just how romantic is that? (At the time of going to press there are also plans to hold wedding blessings on the deck.) The reception is held in a lovely lakeshore marquee with windows overlooking the water, and couples can personalise it with their own extra decorations; menus offer table service for starters and desserts, with main courses served buffet style. Marquee weddings are only possible between April and October but smaller weddings, up to 60 guests, are welcome in the cosy Schoolhouse restaurant all year round.



For weekend weddings, all 48 rooms must be filled on the night of the wedding, but most wedding parties actually stay for two or three days - the night before the wedding, private dining can be arranged for the family groups in the Garden Relaxation Room (attached to the on-site spa), and a barbecue is very popular the day after, perhaps after an outing on a Shannon cruiser (with bar) which can be hired for 53 guests.



Guest rooms are simple in style but furnished with everything you could wish for, including sound systems and - a very nice touch this - suites have a turf-burning stove which is set up in advance, with matches at the ready, so you can have your own real fire whenever you like.



Midweek reductions are available for both marquee hire and accommodation rates; various guest discounts on accommodation include a further reduction for each night stayed - and no supplement for suite.



There is a small but luxurious spa on site with counter-current pool, sauna and steam rooms; body and beauty therapies and make-up are offered, and a local hairdresser will come to Coolbawn Quay - this place really has everything.

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