It’s one of those funny things, considering we have just come out of almost two years of lockdown, but, we had been craving an escape where we would be fully immersed in nature. The sights, the sounds, the scent of being in the middle of an outdoor oasis. You know the kind, where the days can just idly pass by with not much more than leisurely walks, hours spent relaxing by a log fire and maybe the odd pint or cocktail for good measure.
Cabü by the Lakes had come to our attention last summer and then late last year we were actually invited down for a press event but unfortunately it was not possible to get away at the time.
Truthfully one of the contributing factors that saw us holding off booking a trip to Cabü was the price, it is not cheap and also, and this was probably the biggest reason, there is no on site dining. For us, food is pretty much everything! If we rewind back to over two years ago, I would hazard a guess that we would never have chosen self catering holidays but we have been on a few now and actually really, really enjoy the freedom of them.
It was a sort of divine timing when we finally got around to booking. We were in the process of a massive career transition and honestly never needed a break more.
Located within the wonderous woodlands of Killykeen Forest Park. This unique hideaway sits directly on the shores of Lough Oughter in the centre of Ireland’s lake district; County Cavan.
There are a variety of cabins and lake-houses to choose from. We chose one of the small log cabins suitable for two people. Number 23 is nestled to the rear of the park. The grounds are a car free zone, apart from when you are unloading and reloading, in those instances you can drive relatively close to your cabin. Cabin’s are pet friendly and the amount of beautiful dogs on holiday with their owners added even more character to this magical place.
Check-in was incredibly smooth and the staff were an absolute joy to interact with right from the get go.
Opening the door into our little home for the weekend, we were immediately smitten with our little bijou beauty. The most beautifully designed micro kitchen complete with dining table and chairs. The open plan design leading through to a comfortable seating area with a wood burning stove all set to be lit. Double doors opening out on to our back veranda which had two seating areas, one at each end of the cabin. Our view of the lake was obscured by the trees but the woodland in itself makes for a very beautiful view.
The bedroom, easily the type of bedroom we would absolutely adore to have at home. A super kingsize brass framed bed dressed in crisp white linen. A bathtub in the bedroom is something we absolutely love, and the large slipper bath on offer here was the absolute dream.
Double doors opening out onto the back veranda means waking up to the freshest air and birdsong. Just outside the bedroom door we had a lovely picnic bench, ideal for enjoying that first precious coffee of the day.
It is definitely worth noting that the only things that were included in the kitchen were a small number of sachets of instant coffee, tea bags and some sachets of salt and pepper. From other self catering accommodations that we have stayed in things like olive oil and other condiments have always been included, but not here. For the price paid, Something along the lines of a small welcome pack would be a great idea – especially for anyone that may be arriving late in the evening with children etc.
The onsite shop, Cabü Corner, stocks a good range of condiments, fresh and frozen food as well as wine, treats and some country chic style clothing and soft furnishings.
The Sitooterie is a fantastic sheltered outdoor space with a massive log burner at the heart of it. The perfect spot to sit back and indulge in a great glass of wine and cheese board and it is at its most cosy and beautiful self at night time.
The Bar is a stunning open plan American style design with lots of large oversized leather chairs and sofas as well as widow side tables and chairs overlooking the sitooterie. The only menu on offer is bar snacks and nibbles which includes a fab cheeseboard that we ordered a couple of times during our stay. A selection of crisps and nuts are also available. The Guinness was phenomenal, cocktails were great, especially the Old Fashioned and the wine list was very nice indeed.
If some leisurely lakeside activities tickle your fancy you can book fishing lessons or avail of onsite boat and bike hire. If something a little more relaxing is to your liking you can take in some forest bathing in the Japanese Baths or soak your stress away in the outdoor hot tubs.
For us this trip was all about switching off, so lots of long walks with pitstops along the way to just soak up the naturally stunning surroundings and of course the odd cheeseboard and cocktail!
We would definitely like to return but driving to Cavan town or cooking each night is not really ideal so an onsite restaurant, or even just meals available in the existing bar would be an amazing asset that would see us return without hesitation.