Local Business Spotlight: Podumna Glamping Village, Portumna

It's never been more important to shine a light on small businesses in our localities. The hardworking people behind them provide our communities with more than just a product or service — they inject life, laughter and conversation into our days, something big city chains just can't seem to replicate. 

Local Business Spotlight aims to uncover what makes these businesses so special by speaking to those who know them best. This week, we caught up with Dick Ridge, owner of Podumna Glamping Village, to find out what inspired the creation of this gorgeous retreat...

Podumna is a truly unique spot in East Galway. What inspired you to create this glamping village right in the heart of Portumna?

At the time, glamping was still a very new concept, we checked out what was on offer in Ireland. The UK, the rest of Europe and all the others were in remote places. So we thought why not bring glamping into a town so guests could have the best of both worlds. 

What are the advantages of ‘Pod’ lodging compared to traditional camping or a hotel stay?

You have all the fun of camping with the home comforts without any of the hassle or hardship. Podumna is like a small community and that's why we called it a village. 

As a family-run business, how challenging is it to manage all of the moving parts while still being great hosts?

I suppose you have to love it, and we do, it's a great satisfaction to have created something with your family that's given such pleasure to others. We are very proud of what we have created and work well as a team. 

In your opinion, what is the key to building a successful local business?

Believe in your business, listen to your customers, don't be afraid to take chances and learn from your mistakes. What we have today has been a work in progress for the past eight years. We always strive to improve the visitor experience and put ourselves in their shoes. 

How has Covid-19 affected your business overall?

Like so many other businesses especially in the hospitality industry, we have been hit hard. It has given us time to reflect. We will rebuild, explore new opportunities and prepare, plan for when we do open our gates again. 

In better times, what’s your favourite local spot to have a bite, grab a pint, or just sit and watch the world go by?

That is a hard question to answer as Portumna has so much to offer, with amazing historical buildings, 1500 acre Coilte forest Park with wildlife, nature trails and bike trails, the River Shannon. But for me it has to be the Swimming Recreational Park, open swimming on Lough Derg with fabulous views, lovely place for a BBQ or picnic, or a stroll along the Shannon banks. Safe, clean and breathtaking. 

What are you most looking forward to doing after the pandemic?

Getting back to work, doing what we do best, welcoming guests and promoting and showing off Portumna.

Check out http://podumnavillage.ie/ for more!