Luxury glamping site planned for County Roscommon

A high-end glamping site offering “contemporary, luxury holiday accommodation to visitors both internationally and regionally” is being planned for South Roscommon.

The proposals for 15 glamping pods, six camper van pitches and a bog bathing area at a site at Raghrabeg, Shannonbridge, County Roscommon have been lodged with Roscommon County Council.

The applicants describe the development as “an exciting new alternative, offering guests a secluded retreat in nature and high-quality, modern glamping accommodation”.

The site will be be in operation year-round, “making it an excellent option for visitors to retreat and access everything the area has to offer in all seasons”.

The plans include associated decking, footpaths, permeable track, a parking and turning area, secure bicycle storage and recycling/refuse storage. The intention is to also carry out minor landscaping of the site, plant native species trees, hedgerows, shrubbery, and meadow grass with wildflowers throughout the site.

All pods will be connected to an appropriately sized water treatment plant and soakaway.

In the planning documents, the applicants said the site location will be easily accessible from across the country, and the proposal supports sustainable travel by including EV charging points, secure bicycle storage and bike hire.

“The small-scale, sustainable development will provide subtle and discreet countryside holiday accommodation for tourists visiting the area on short breaks and weekend stays.

“Glamping guests tend to be looking for a peaceful getaway in nature where they can relax, rejuvenate, and escape their everyday lives. The proposed site will successfully deliver this expectation while also providing social benefits and economic support to the surrounding area.

“Glamping goes hand in hand with the countryside and allows tourists to explore the natural surroundings and other well-established attractions,” the documents state.

The proposed site is situated in Raghrabeg, approximately seven miles southeast of Ballinasloe and thirteen miles south of Athlone, which will provide a range of amenities and activities for guests.

The developers believe this type of attraction and holiday accommodation will encourage tourists to stay within the area to explore the Roscommon area primarily, but also offer short distances to Offaly, Westmeath and Galway. Shannonbridge village in County Offaly is just a 900 metre walk from the proposed site.

County planners are due to make a decision on the development by December 15th.