Athlone, Ireland (Review #4) –
Ireland is famously not the cheapest destination to go on holiday, especially what during peak season when even 3-star hotels see prices at over €200 a night. However, I was eager to find a deal in the Irish countryside, and was pleasantly surprised to report my luck in Athlone. Located almost in the exact middle between Dublin and Galway, Athlone town has seemingly attempted to capitalise on its location, making strides to develop local infrastructure to support more visitors and tourists. One such apparent move was through attracting big hotel chains such as the Radisson Blu, and yes, even the Sheraton, Ireland’s only Sheraton at that. While Sheraton has an image of being a more business-centric brand, this particular property looked as though it was attempting to capture far more than what one might consider its typical clientele. Believe it or not, my stay at this 4-star property during one of Ireland’s tourist-heavy months cost just €115 a night in their standard king room including breakfast, a genuine bargain, before even later realising how much more I was getting for my money when I was voluntarily upgraded to their deluxe king room. This hotel was rated 4.5 externally via Google at the time.
Arrival and Check-In
I arrived in Athlone on a sunny weekend afternoon, and as I made my way to this 167-key hotel, I recognised fairly quickly that it was actually part of (or at least directly connected to) the Athlone Town Centre mall. The lobby itself, whose modern interior was actually very well kept and nicely furnished (a surprise perhaps for those aware of Sheratons inthe US), was a long and narrow stretch led that the reception desks at the end of the hallway. Check-in was fairly swift and professionally handled, but what stood out was when the receptionist hinted strongly that I was in for a somewhat special stay. I wasn’t expecting anything out of the ordinary as a base level Marriott member, especially also noting that I personally do not ever disclose whether I am doing a review. The realisation came not long afterwards when I was directed to their tower (which houses the majority of the property’s premium rooms) and up to one of the higher floors.
The Room
Upon actually entering the room, something immediately felt different. I had seen photos of what a standard king room had looked like and this room was certainly not it. After a bit of investigating, it became apparent that I was upgraded to their corner deluxe king room with a city view, which was appreciated. The accommodation was very spacious and contemporary, and the views overlooking the River Shannon really added to the first impressions. Included as part of the furnishings was a king size bed with 4 large and soft pillows, a good-size flatscreen TV, a work desk and chair, and a comfy armchair and side table overlooking the river, not to mention the plentiful closet and shelf space. The room also featured a Nespresso machine, bathrobes and slippers, a hairdryer, a safe, a minifridge, an iron and ironing board, and a full-size mirror. The bathroom was equally roomy, with a separate bath tub and shower with regular showerhead, and toiletries from Gilchrist & Soames and Prija. I further noticed a speaker inside the room, which I imagined was for the TV, but was unfortunately unable to get it to work. To me, however, it is the small touches that truly make a stay feel special, and was delightfully surprised to see a handwritten note from the general manager, placed strategically by complimentary bottles of water and chocolate truffles courtesy of the hotel. Although the WiFi speed could have been better (7.5mbps) as well as the channel selection of just a few dozen British and Irish options, it is safe to say that I had definitely received far more value than I could have imagined for what I had paid.
Amenities and Dining
There are an assortment of dining options at the hotel, including a brasserie, a bar, and a café. Breakfast was served on the grounds of their brasserie, with a decent selection of Irish breakfast items such as sausages, bacon, eggs, mushrooms, bread on displaye, alongside the more international offerings of cereals, pancakes, and pastries, paired with a variety of coffee, tea, and juice offerings. The amenities of this Sheraton, however, were what truly served as the highlight by far. The property gives complimentary access to guests of its large and well-equipped gym, but also more prominently to its very immaculate indoor pool area with a good-size pool containing hydrojet massaging features, as well as an adjacent hot tub, steam room, and sauna (photos are not allowed inside and so I would recommend checking online for a preview!). All of this collectively make for an incredible staycation experience and for facilities that I ensured to frequent more than once during my visit.
Trip Conclusion
Being so central in Athlone gave me plenty of opportunities to not just enjoy the hotel but also the town, and it wasn’t long before it was time for me to check-out and depart the Sheraton. While check-out was being accomplished just as efficiently and effortlessly handled as check-in, in that moment, I truthfully could not process how much I ended up enjoying what I thought would be an otherwise conventional property. Somehow, this business-friendly hotel left me with a sentiment of calm and relaxation, and with an unexpected yearning to return.
Overall Assessment
Hotels rated by Getaways Guide are judged across 5 key criteria: namely: Room, Soft Product, Food, Amenities, and Price. The room was well-furnished and had ample area for a European property to stretch out and relax, not to mention take advantage of the incredible views of the town and nature, 4.5/5 stars. The soft product through their service was very professional and helpful, with the added small touches not typically expected for a hotel brand of this level very much appreciated, 5/5 stars. The breakfast was standard for an international chain, though great in terms of variety, 4/5 stars. Amenities stood out plain and simple, and delivered far more value than imagined, 5/5. Finally, the price of €115 per night even excluding the upgrade, is definitely worth it for Ireland in general and is a better value proposition than what is usually afforded for this amount, 5/5. Overall, the Sheraton Athlone is perhaps one of Ireland’s most underrated hidden gems, perfect for a staycation or a brief respite as one goes about their travels around the island.
4.5 Stars (Getaways Guide Highly Recommended)
Added Insights
Athlone, while small, features a number of local landmarks and attractions worth seeing, including Athlone Castle, the Parish of Sts. Peter and Paul, and the Luan Gallery. My personal recommendation, especially for something more easygoing, is a stop at Burgess Park, which is right on the riverbanks of the River Shannon, where one can simply take in the natural beauty and greenery of Ireland at its finest.
