Experiencing a murmuration of starlings overhead on a winter evening is a wondrous thing. Looking upwards as the last of the day’s sunshine retreats westward and the open sky grades from pink to navy blue, this is when their social gatherings begin. As dusk deepens, flocks of starlings join from every direction, building momentum as their number swells until thousands of wingbeats join in an enormous, breathtaking synchronised flight. This aerial phenomenon is one of the most awe-inspiring of natural wonders to occur in this part of the world, and planning a trip to Bloomfield House Hotel, Leisure Club & Spa, on the shores of Lough Ennell, Westmeath to witness this shapeshifting mass of movement is an experience not to be missed.

The Murmuration Experience Package at Bloomfield House Hotel, Leisure Club & Spa includes:

• 2 Nights Bed & Full Irish Breakfast
• One Carvery Lunch & Tea or Coffee
• Signed "Murmurations" Book by award winning Photographer James Crombie
• Souvenir Printed Murmuration Photograph
• Complimentary Hot Chocolate to sip by the lake

Starling murmurations occur across Lough Ennell right through the winter months, and it is during February and March when the number of birds involved in the murmurations tends to peak. Even the sound alone is worth witnessing, with so many synchronised wingbeats swooshing low overhead, a powerful display of wild sound. We invite guests to stay with us during this period to experience it for themselves. Stroll to the lake before dusk, with your complimentary Hot Chocolate in hand, and enjoy the suspense of watching a few small flocks gathering, building in momentum until the cacophony of blankets of birds speeding in waves overhead makes the heart almost miss a few beats. The mass swerves and rises, before pulsing in an instantaneous change of direction, then descending at speed across the evening sky, appearing both spontaneous and perfectly choreographed. After sunset, it's back to the Hotel to enjoy all the comforts on offer.

Hotel Highlights:

• Choose from our range of newly refurbed Bedrooms & Suites
• Hotel Spa to relax & unwind
• Swimming Pool, Sauna, Steamroom & Jacuzzi
• Newly Upgraded Gym
• Lakewalk & Jetty on Hotel Grounds
• Greenway Nearby
• Golf Course next door
• Lots of local Attractions & Activities
• Complimentary Parking & Wifi

As with any natural wonder, we cannot guarantee that a murmuration will occur on the Hotel grounds during your stay, however, there are various spots nearby to grab a vantage point, all within 15 minutes drive from the Hotel. The midlands also has plenty to offer on your visit to Bloomfield House Hotel. Belvedere House, Gardens & Park is only 2 minutes away and Mullingar Golf Club is adjacent to the Hotel while the Hill of Uisneach, Kilbeggan Distillery Experience, Fore Abbey and the Old Rail Trail and Greenway Cycling & Walking routes are all easily accessible from the Hotel.

Book your Package now or buy as a Gift Package!