I had the pleasure of staying in the Mullingar Park Hotel on Bank holiday Monday. My daughter chose the hotel as a surprise for me. I had known about this hotel for a long time and it’s one of those places that  you keep meaning to visit but somehow never get around to. So I was excited to see what the hotel had to offer. Located just off the N4 and only an hour from Dublin this really is the midlands. Surrounded by lush green land and trees.

On arrival, I was  greeted by smiling and  polite reception staff. The foyer is large , bright and dominated by a beautiful chandelier and a huge display of fresh flowers. Immediately you can feel yourself relaxing in the calm atmosphere of the hotel. My check – in was quick but professional with all the information I needed. The room, on the first floor was a good size, pristine and had everything a traveller would need. As well as a good sized flat screen TV and the usual room amenities, there was an iron and ironing board,  lovely bathroom toiletries including soap by Paul Costello and of course free WiFi.

I had a reflexology treatment booked for 3:30 , so after  a quick look around I headed to the Leisure Centre. While I was filling out the health check form I had a quick glance around the pool area. Beautiful pool with Jacuzzi and also a sauna and steam room are open everyday for residents and non-residents alike. My treatment was with Linda , who was super friendly and explained what the procedure was as she brought me up to the treatment room. Forty five minutes later I left the treatment room walking on clouds and with a full body exfoliating treatment booked for the next day.

It is better to book a treatment in advance.  There are lots of them to choose from and  Linda  can be contacted via the hotel.

There are  fresh flower arrangements all around the hotel with beautiful orchids and lilies, bringing the outside in. Tall glass cabinets displaying local designers works are available for sale and showcase the talent of the area.

After a short rest in my room and a quick clothes change I went down to the Terrace Restaurant for dinner. There was a fixed 3 course menu and also an A la Carte menu to choose from. I went for the fixed menu, and there was three choices for starter and main course. The dessert of the day and tea or coffee is all included in the 37.50 € price. I had a delicious chicken Caesar salad with house dressing with a selection of fresh breads. The main course for me  was spinach and ricotta ravioli served with mash and vegetables(which seemed a bit strange), but delicious none the less, a glass of house sauvignon blanc was just the right compliment to the pasta. I almost didn’t have dessert, until, that is, I saw the pear frangipane with cream and ice cream on the dessert menu. With my wine  finished and dessert gone there was nothing left but to sit back and enjoy a fluffy latte while my food digested. Dinner is served till 9:30pm. The Courtyard Lounge or the Horse Shoe Bar are ideal for light lunches or  relaxing  with  after dinner drinks.

I had a wonderful nights sleep in a comfy queen bed with crisp white linen and luxurious duvet and pillows. Breakfast, also served in the Terrace restaurant is an open buffet. There is something for everyone from cereals, to fresh fruit salad with yoghurt to a delicious full Irish, with toast and real Irish butter. For those of us with a sweet tooth there is creamy porridge with honey or muffins, croissants and scones. A selection of teas, coffees, juices and water is also on offer.

At 10:30, I made my way to the Leisure centre for my exfoliating treatment. I was so excited to have this, as having travelled for the last 6 months in various temperatures my skin really needed some TLC.  The package includes the full body exfoliation and  head and shoulder massage. It was Heaven,  and a treatment everybody should have as often as possible, not just for good body health but for the feel good factor that it evokes.

Overall this 4 star hotel offers great value for money, with excellent knowledgeable staff, pristine rooms and fresh, tidy  general areas, good food, nice atmosphere and beautiful location. It really is an oasis in the Midlands.