With so many milestone birthdays in recent years, we knew we had to get creative for my Mum’s 60th. As fun as a family weekend abroad sounded, trying to coordinate everyone, plus dog sitters and a newborn, felt like unnecessary chaos. So we made the decision to keep the celebrations on the island.
We headed to Co. Cavan, Ireland, and checked in to Cabü By The Lakes. From the moment we arrived, it felt like we’d stepped into a little haven. Once you unload your luggage, cars are returned to the main car park, which makes the site feel peaceful and safe to wander free. With birdsong carrying through the trees, we unpacked quickly and settled into a slower rhythm of life.
Our cosy cabin by the lake
Our boathouse cabin was compact and bijou and although it really could have done with another armchair, it turned out to be perfectly comfortable for six adults, a dog, and a baby. Meg and I had a good laugh at us being in the bunk bed room… “And they were roommates.”
Making the most of Cabü
Mum was treated to a massage on the first morning, and after a slow start from the rest of us, we ventured out to get our bearings. Our first stop was Cabü Corner, the onsite shop fully stocked with quick meals, clothing, gifts, and any essentials we may have forgotten. It was one of those gorgeous, crisp autumn afternoons, so we wandered down to the Boathouse next. After weighing up all the adventure options – mountain biking, kayaking – we booked a boat trip on the lake for the next day.
Taking a plunge…
After an adrenaline-spiking dip in the lake, we made full use of the complimentary hot tub that evening, which quickly became a weekend highlight. Cocktails delivered to the tub, plenty of reminiscing, and a good old-fashioned game of chicken with the cold-plunge bucket.
… followed by a much needed pint
Whenever we had downtime, we found ourselves at the Sitooterie. One evening even saw us gathered there with pints of black and cigars, and honestly, if not at a 60th birthday celebration, when else?
Exploring the lakes and beyond
Our final morning began with a walk through Killykeen Forest Park to The Pig’s Tail coffee pod, where we tucked into sausage rolls and caramel squares. It was also Finn’s first proper outing in the baby sling, a huge success judging by the mega nap. We soaked up the lakeside views while Spice ran around living her best life… right up until she was led to the doggy shower and wrapped in her bathrobe. Why do spaniels prefer to be mucky?
Our last, and perhaps most idyllic, activity was the boat trip on Lough Oughter. I quickly took over the steering from Dad and loved cruising along the shoreline, gliding through still water. We visited Cabü at the perfect time of year – the leaves were a melting pot of golds and yellows, swans basked in the lingering sun, and the only thing missing was a little tipple for the journey.
I can only imagine how magical Cabü must be in the summer, but if you’re considering a mid-autumn break before the wild Irish winter takes hold, I couldn’t recommend it more.
Visit the website below to find out more about Cabü By The Lakes or explore their other sites!
Bobbing About 
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