Hodson Bay: A Lakeside Gem for Motorbike Tours
Nestled on the shores of Lough Ree, near Athlone in County Roscommon, Hodson Bay offers a tranquil escape and a perfect base for exploring Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands on your motorbike tour. This picturesque location boasts stunning lake views and a relaxed atmosphere, promising a refreshing break from the open road.
Sights to See:
- Lough Ree: As the second-largest lake on the River Shannon, Lough Ree is a sight in itself. Enjoy the panoramic views as you ride along the scenic roads surrounding the bay. Consider a boat trip from nearby Athlone to explore the lake’s many islands, including Inchcleraun (Quaker Island) with its ancient monastic site.
- Baysports: For the adventurous rider, just beside Hodson Bay Hotel, you’ll find Ireland’s largest inflatable waterpark. While you might not be able to take your motorbike on it, it’s a unique spectacle and a fun place to watch others take the plunge. You can also rent kayaks here for a more serene experience on the lake.
- Hodson’s Pillar: Located in the bay, this pillar marks a significant historical point and is a lovely spot for a photo opportunity with the lake as your backdrop.
- Athlone Town: A short ride away, Athlone offers historical attractions like Athlone Castle, a fascinating medieval fortress with interactive exhibits. You can also explore Sean’s Bar, claiming to be Ireland’s oldest pub, dating back to 900 AD.
- Old Rail Trail Greenway: If you fancy a break from the bike, this 42km dedicated cycle path from Athlone to Mullingar follows an old railway line, offering a peaceful route through the countryside.
Places to Eat:
- Hodson Bay Hotel: The hotel itself offers several dining options. The Waterfront Bar & Brasserie provides a relaxed setting with hearty meals and lake views. For a more refined experience, L’Escale Restaurant offers fine dining with locally sourced ingredients. They also have the outdoor 52 @ The Bay for seasonal culinary experiences by the water.
- Baycafé at Baysports: This airstream food truck offers casual eats like pizzas and chicken goujons, perfect after some lakeside activities.
- Athlone Restaurants: A short spin into Athlone will provide a wider variety of options, from traditional Irish pubs serving food to international cuisine. Consider Dead Centre Brewing for craft beers and tasty food in a unique brewery setting.
Hodson Bay’s tranquil setting and proximity to both natural beauty and historical sites make it a worthwhile stop on your Irish motorbike tour, offering relaxation and exploration in equal measure.
Hodson Bay: A Lakeside Gem for Motorbike Tours
Nestled on the shores of Lough Ree, near Athlone in County Roscommon, Hodson Bay offers a tranquil escape and a perfect base for exploring Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands on your motorbike tour. This picturesque location boasts stunning lake views and a relaxed atmosphere, promising a refreshing break from the open road.
Sights to See:
- Lough Ree: As the second-largest lake on the River Shannon, Lough Ree is a sight in itself. Enjoy the panoramic views as you ride along the scenic roads surrounding the bay. Consider a boat trip from nearby Athlone to explore the lake’s many islands, including Inchcleraun (Quaker Island) with its ancient monastic site.
- Baysports: For the adventurous rider, just beside Hodson Bay Hotel, you’ll find Ireland’s largest inflatable waterpark. While you might not be able to take your motorbike on it, it’s a unique spectacle and a fun place to watch others take the plunge. You can also rent kayaks here for a more serene experience on the lake.
- Hodson’s Pillar: Located in the bay, this pillar marks a significant historical point and is a lovely spot for a photo opportunity with the lake as your backdrop.
- Athlone Town: A short ride away, Athlone offers historical attractions like Athlone Castle, a fascinating medieval fortress with interactive exhibits. You can also explore Sean’s Bar, claiming to be Ireland’s oldest pub, dating back to 900 AD.
- Old Rail Trail Greenway: If you fancy a break from the bike, this 42km dedicated cycle path from Athlone to Mullingar follows an old railway line, offering a peaceful route through the countryside.
Places to Eat:
- Hodson Bay Hotel: The hotel itself offers several dining options. The Waterfront Bar & Brasserie provides a relaxed setting with hearty meals and lake views. For a more refined experience, L’Escale Restaurant offers fine dining with locally sourced ingredients. They also have the outdoor 52 @ The Bay for seasonal culinary experiences by the water.
- Baycafé at Baysports: This airstream food truck offers casual eats like pizzas and chicken goujons, perfect after some lakeside activities.
- Athlone Restaurants: A short spin into Athlone will provide a wider variety of options, from traditional Irish pubs serving food to international cuisine. Consider Dead Centre Brewing for craft beers and tasty food in a unique brewery setting.
Hodson Bay’s tranquil setting and proximity to both natural beauty and historical sites make it a worthwhile stop on your Irish motorbike tour, offering relaxation and exploration in equal measure.