Shannon Oaks Hotel - Portumna, Ireland     

Just returned from a week staying at the Lodges. We found them to be surprisingly clean and comfortable. (Suprisingly because we had read some of the other reviews) We shared with relatives so there were 4 adults and 5 children (all under the age of five) in total. The way the accommodation is designed we never felt in each other's way. One family used the downstairs bedrooms and shower room, and the other used the upstairs.The whole area is very quiet and ideal for relaxing. The decking gates can be bolted to allow the children to run in and out safely. The hotel bar has a good carvery daily for the days when you don't feel like cooking and the swimming pool was a Godsend on the rainy days. The local golf club has a beautiful course and does an excellent steak. There are also plenty of other eateries in and near the village. There is lots to do, we found the Turoe Pet Farm a great hit with our kids as it had everything for them, they especially loved the inflatable city. Galway and all its amenities is only a 45min drive where we visited the National Aquarium, Leisureland and the Omniplex to complete a great day out. So all in all the lodges were perfect for a relaxing holiday free from the hassle of airports, transfer coaches and suncream. Between two families it proved to be excellent value for money.

My family stayed in 1 of the apartments here at Easter 2008. The apartment was fantastic - 2 large bedrooms & bathrooms, good kitchen, lovely living area. However, be warned that you'll be asked to pay electricity and gas charges at check out. This was not mentioned at booking or at checking in stages. Also, you have to pay to get towels at the very tired and very, very busy leisure centre. The hotel staff were unfriendly and unhelpful - it proved to be impossible to get as little as a sandwich or bowl of soup at lunchtime. The leisure centre is too small to cater for the hotel, the apartments and the lodges. There is nothing to do in Portumna except go into the fantastic forest park. I would recommend the apartments but only if you don't intend eating in the hotel or anywhere locally. Bring your own towels!