We booked Caitlin's home for one-night stopover in Athlone. It worked perfectly for our family of five. My wife and I took the master bedroom ensuite upstairs while our two teenagers took the double room across the hall, also ensuite. My mother-in-law preferred more privacy, and so took the sleeper in the dining room, which gave her access to the kitchen and downstairs bath. We didn't stay long enough to take advantage of the country walks that Caitlin suggested, but we did have fun playing snooker (billiards)! The handbook that Caitlin sent us included instructions along with lots of other useful information about the house and area. Since Caitlin was away, her neighbor gave us the keys and helped us get settled.

Athlone is charming town with some good restaurants (my wife and I enjoyed a nice dinner at the Fatted Calf). Athlone Castle is a worth a visit. It includes interactive exhibitions that highlight the significant history of the region and offers nice views of the River Shannon. We regretted not having time to stop in the art gallery nearby, but we did visit the Franciscan Friary, the design and decor of which was inspired the Irish Arts & Crafts Movement.

The countryside is lovely. We saw lots of cyclers. Stop at a roadside food stand for some Wexford strawberries!