By Antoinette Redmond
Who knew what a Gem? One of the most wonderful things about a break at Cabü by the Lakes is the incredible abundance of flora and fauna that graces our stunning county.
A real treat for the senses at any time of the year, expect to make birdsong your morning alarm and relax under the stars without any interruptions from pesky devices. If you feel like getting back to nature, reconnecting with family, reducing your carbon footprint & simply reducing technology in your life – Cabü is the perfect setting for you.
Log cabins and lake houses are scattered amongst the woodland creating a calming oasis in which to unwind. Here, woodland walks, bike rides and forest bathing are the perfect respite for mind and body so you can unplug completely and recharge your own internal batteries.
Cabü by the Lakes lies deep within the woods of Killykeen Forest Park. This unique hideaway sits directly on the shores of Lough Oughter in the centre of Ireland’s lake district, County Cavan.
Its complex system of lakes and rivers offer fabulous fishing, boating and opportunities to explore this beautiful natural environment all accessible from our private jetty.
They have a fantastic range of beautifully designed cabins with luxury interiors to suit everyone.
All detached, they have generous one-bedroom cabins are in two styles, traditional log cabins and contemporary loft cabins. These are the perfect couple’s hideaway.
The two-bedroom lake cabins have a choice of sleeping arrangements from two double beds in the log cabins, a double and a bunk room or doubles and singles in the lake cabins. These are perfect for families or friends sharing.
Family sized three bed boathouses for up to six people are scattered around the forest and all with direct access to the lake. From your cabin you can hear the leaves whistling in the trees and the birds calling. It’s just tranquil.
They have a nature spa that offers a relaxing outdoor hot tub and sauna experience. They also have woodland relaxation rooms before forest bathing tubs.
The Sitooterie & the Bar area is the perfect place for al fresco dining and socialising.
Gather round the great fire or settle down at one of our unique griddle tables designed to keep you and your food warm. You can enjoy this space all year round whether wearing an artic coat or a T shirt!
This special place is perfect for socialising, barbecues and soaking up an authentic woodland experience.
What’s to do
You can use one of our Cabu bikes for a leisurely cycle along the forest path. We have access to Killykeen Forest Park with its nature walks, forest bathing and first-rate fishing.
They also offer kayaking, boating, fishing, and other exciting excursions.
For the Wildlife Enthusiasts
Cabü by the lakes is part of the Lough Oughter Complex which is a Special Protection Area (SPA) and is also a Special Area of Conservation (SAC).
The foreshore habitat and forest floor create a diverse and unique environment providing homes for small mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians and flora and fauna. Beyond the water’s edge lies some of the best fishing in Ireland with a wide range of species flourishing in the clean deep water. The reed beds and stony pockets are perfect spawning grounds and provide a rich natural home for the waterborne eco system.
The forest is alive with mammal activity from red squirrels, rabbits, voles, stoats, weasels and badgers. Don’t be surprised if you bump into a protected species such as pine martins on your walks. The rare sighting of otters is possible as they hunt along the water’s edge on the way to their secret dens.
They are also home to 47 sighted species of birds and can boast 9 different species of bats. Bat boxes are scattered amongst the trees to encourage them to stay. The forest floor is a living breathing eco system. As the leaves and the trees decay, ferns, scrub, and flowers flourish. As the insects carry on their daily life, they provide food for nesting birds and mammals. Plentiful fungal life including toadstools and mushrooms can be discovered.
We want to support the diverse insect life, especially the interaction of bees, butterflies, and moths, which are under threat. Our wildflowers and tree blossom are key.
The environment is constantly changing throughout the seasons and there is as much to discover in the winter as in summer while the forest is in bloom.
Adventuring Further a Field
If you feel like venturing further afield the options are by boat, bike or car.
By boat you can explore the uninhabited inch island or venture over to Clogh Oughter Castle.
Forest trails are available for long or short bike rides or walks throughout the forest park. Scenic cycle routes exist for all standards of enthusiast, the most notable a 30-mile route around Belturbet, Miltown and Killeshandra.
Marble arch caves are a global geo park and a miracle of nature, less than an hours drive by car. The Drumlane Monastery ruin can be found overlooking Lough Derrybrick.
The Cuilcagh mountain is 665m at its highest point. The Cuilcagh Board Walk Trail also named the stairway to heaven is located in neighbouring Co Fermanagh.
This was our first visit to Cabü by the lakes and it won’t be the last. Gorgeous, modern yet eco-friendly cabins nestled in tranquil surroundings. Perfect for couples, friends or families or intimate events to take your team away from it all. With the last 2 years that everyone has experienced with Covid-19 I think we have learned to appreciate time, family, nature & work life balance.
Cabü certainly did not disappoint. The staff love their place of work, and they are knowledgeable and friendly. There is no compromise on comfort, quality, and understated luxury. We had a one bed log cabin which had everything you would need for a relaxing and comfortable stay. Whilst the other family members share a 2 bedroomed cabin has the same experience. They are also a dog friendly resort which is great for those of us with our extended family pets.
The sitooterie was a great place to relax, read, have a coffee, toast marshmallows, play ping pong, giant Jenga, connect four – and enjoy the warm fire. We rented bikes and had a swim in the lake, and it was cold of course for the time of year but magical.
We look forward to visiting Cabü again has six new fans, and guaranteed return visitors with our family & friends and we would certainly look at it for small intimate events for the future!
Thank you to Shane Kelly, General Manager and all the team at Cabü for making our stay so magical & for helping us go off grid!