Back in July 2017, we decided to do something a little different for our summer break. Rather than travel abroad, we opted for a staycation with a little more adventure, booking a night in one of the bubble domes at Finn Lough in County Fermanagh.
Discovering Finn Lough
Set among woodland beside Lough Erne, Finn Lough is a peaceful retreat with a variety of accommodation. What particularly appealed to me was the chance to stay in a bubble dome: a transparent structure that lets you experience the outdoors while enjoying the comforts of a hotel. Glamping, and then some!
We arrived on Sunday afternoon, spending our first night in one of the suites. With our room ready early, we unpacked and headed out to explore.
We were lucky with the weather. The sun was shining, temperatures were in the low twenties, and it was a joy to wander beside the lake, taking in the glistening water and lush greenery that slopes towards the water’s edge. It was a lovely spot simply to slow down and enjoy the fresh air.
Scenes from our walk around Finn Lough
Time for a sundowner
With the weather so good, we asked whether it might be possible to arrange a sundowner by the lake. We’d left it rather late to book, but the staff were happy to accommodate us.
Within minutes, we were back at the water’s edge with a bottle of chilled wine and a firepit, watching the sun sink behind the hills. With just the two of us for company, it was one of those simple, unhurried evenings that make a holiday memorable. We stayed until late, reluctant to leave.
The bubble dome at Finn Lough
The following day, it was time for the highlight of our stay. We collected a picnic from reception, loaded our luggage onto a buggy and headed into the forest, where the bubble domes are tucked away from the main buildings.
Each dome has its own secluded setting, giving you a little pocket of privacy among the trees. I’d never stayed anywhere quite like it.
Inside, ours was surprisingly spacious, with a large double bed, comfortable armchairs, a coffee machine and an ensuite bathroom. It felt rather like having our own little space pod in the forest.
Photographs of our bubble dome
The weather was still lovely, so we sat outside with our picnic, enjoying the sunshine and the views. Our dome looked out towards the lake on one side and a sunlit meadow on the other.
As the evening cooled, we headed back indoors. Gradually, the light faded and the forest grew quiet. Looking out at the surrounding trees, I became aware of just how small we are in the natural world. For a little while, it felt as though the forest had reclaimed its own space.
Later, we climbed into bed and gazed up through the transparent roof. With so little light pollution, the stars slowly appeared overhead, one after another. I must have drifted off watching them.
A memorable stay
Our night in the Finn Lough bubble dome was a truly memorable experience. We left feeling relaxed, refreshed and glad we’d tried something a little different.
We were fortunate to have such beautiful weather, but I imagine the experience would be special in any season. I’d love to return one day, perhaps in the depths of winter, when the forest is dusted with snow and the setting takes on a completely different character.
For more information, visit Finn Lough’s website.
Thanks for stopping by
Paula
I have looked at these domes a few times online but don’t know anyone who has stayed there. Thanks for the review, it looks fantastic. Love the photo of the damsel/dragonfly, it’s stunning.
Oh book yourself a treat. We loved it 😊
What a fantastic treat. I would love it. Thanks for sharing.:) x
Yes..a real treat. I am very lucky 😊
Sounds like a perfect getaway xx
Oh it was bliss x
What an amazing place! I showed my husband your blog post and this bubble dome thing was promptly added to our bucket list. Oh, and your photos, as always, are so beautiful!
Yes it was amazing. Glad u liked the photos 😊
You had me at the hot tub. I’m a sucker for a spa..I’ve yet to be a hot tub this natural. Oh I wonder if my partners mum’s count (a blow up one in the back garden?!)
Those bubble some are so unusual. I take it’s rural enough so you have your ‘privacy?’ Looks sensational .
I’m sucker for a staycation.
Great post.
Aw..thank you. Yes each bubble has its own patch and locked gate and they are spaced well apart so yes very private 😊
This is so cool! I love the idea of falling asleep under the stars… And Fermanagh is such a beautiful part of the world. We used to spend the Hallowe’en half-term holiday down there when I was in school, so your post brought back some happy memories!
Ah..glad it brought back some nice memories. Fermanagh is lovely 😊