Destinations for Irish Summer Getaways full of Adventures, Sunset Kayaking, Summer Picnics or Pure Relaxation
Do you want to enjoy a hot tub with spectacular views, have fun with a range of water sports, explore the bustling cities and towns or spend the weekend in award winning spas, without having to book a flight? You can. There are plenty of hotels to choose from in Ireland, put these on your Summer getaway list –
Dromoland Castle, Co Clare
Nestled in County Clare, this fairytale haven is an ideal base to explore the region’s wonders, from the rugged coastlines to the mystical Burren. Within its magical surroundings, you can explore 500 acres of woodland through self-guided walks or cycle rides. Enjoy activities like archery, falconry, paddleboarding, fishing, forest foraging, tennis and Pickleball, or take a serene evening stroll as the sun sets over the ancient castle walls. The ‘Luxury Stays & Summer Days’ package offers a perfect two-night retreat, ideal for a long weekend. It includes a 25-minute Oskia facial, a back, neck, and shoulder massage for each guest at the luxurious Castle Spa, a full Irish breakfast each morning, and blissful accommodations. in a hotel renowned for providing the World’s Best Sleep, according to Tripadvisor. Dromoland Castle is a dream destination, perfect for a luxurious summer stay or a quick, rejuvenating escape. www.dromoland.ie
Wineport Lodge, Athlone
Whether it’s a weekday or weekend, head to Athlone for a glorious summer stay. This luxury lakeshore retreat offers the perfect setting to unwind with a bottle of fine wine amid breathtaking scenery. The one-night ‘Dine and Delight’ experience now features a bottle of exclusive Chateau Ray-Jane wine. Enjoy a romantic dinner for two, paired with your choice of organic Red, White, or Rosé Var Country Wines. The shimmering Lough Ree and the soothing sounds of the shoreline create an idyllic backdrop for a relaxed summer evening.
Wineport Lodge offers water sports, a hot tub pontoon and an award-winning spa, all without needing to book a flight. Feel at home with luxurious rooms, breathtaking lake views and dedicated staff. Enjoy the fresh air with activities like Whaly boating, paddleboarding, kayaking or indulging in a detox bath at the Cedarwood Spa with a glass of bubbles. Prices start from €300 for B&B. www.wineport.ie
Killarney Plaza Hotel & Spa, Co Kerry
The Killarney Plaza Hotel & Spa in Co. Kerry is ideally located opposite Killarney National Park. Fancy a summer picnic in Muckross national park, or why not take a jaunting carriage with your picnic! I highly recommend www.killarneyhorseandcarriagetours.com This four-star hotel offers an exquisite picnic package and includes an overnight stay in luxurious accommodations, a freshly prepared picnic spread, a picnic blanket and complimentary bike hire.
Find a serene spot amidst the lush greenery to enjoy sweet and savoury treats and maybe even spot some native red deer. Upgrade your picnic with bubbles or a cocktail for an added touch of luxury. The Killarney Plaza Hotel & Spa Picnic Package starts at €249 per night for two people sharing and includes overnight accommodation, a picnic for two, complimentary bike hire and breakfast the following morning. www.killarneyplaza.com
The K Club, Co Kildare
Get ready for non-stop family fun and adventure at The K Club in Kildare. This summer, explore the 550-acre country estate with activities for all ages. The Big Little Adventure Club offers remote-controlled boat races, kite flying and the Junior Einsteins Science Club for young explorers. Or you can enjoy the outdoors with 6km of trails for walking or biking, horseback riding, archery, bird of prey encounters and paddle boarding on the Liffey. Indoor activities include the tranquil K Spa, historic wine cellars and a variety of restaurants. Interconnecting family rooms and five-star service ensure everyone finds their happy place. Enjoy 2 or 3 nights B&B with dinner in the relaxed and lively South Bar & Restaurant on the evening of your choice, full access to Big Little Adventure Club Programme and 15% off additional activities. Prices start from €520 per night for 2 adults and 2 children sharing in interconnecting family rooms (2 nights minimum booking) www.kclub.ie
The Galmont Hotel & Spa, Galway
Enjoy city stays, beach days, and festival adventures at The Galmont Hotel & Spa in Galway. Located in the heart of Galway City, this hotel offers access to quaint streets, chic boutiques, vibrant nightlife, and stress-free sightseeing. Drive along the Wild Atlantic Way to explore coastal sites and sandy beaches.
Nearby attractions include Connemara National Park, Coole Park, Kylemore Abbey, and Rinville Park. Explore the city on an open-top bus, swim at Salthill, or take a Galway Bay Boat Tour or Aran Island & Cliffs of Moher Cruise.
Experience summer festivals like Trad on the Prom, The Galway Sessions, Galway Film Fleadh, Galway International Arts Festival, and the Galway Races. If you’ve never experienced Summer Time in Galway, make 2024 the year with The Galmont’s Stay Longer & Save package which can reduce your nightly rates by up to 17 per cent. Prices start from €204 per night and include complimentary access to the leisure centre with swimming pool, gym, sauna, jacuzzi and outdoor hot tub. www.thegalmont.com
Farnham Estate, Co Cavan
Looking for a summer break for golf groups, girlie getaways or family gatherings with the flexibility of self-catering plus luxurious hotel perks? Farnham Estate Resort Houses offer the perfect solution. Located on the lush grounds of Farnham Estate Spa & Golf Resort, these bright and airy two, three and four-bedroom houses provide an elegant base to explore the 1,300-acre estate’s ancient forests, green meadows and pristine lake lands. Positioned around quiet courtyards just steps from the main hotel, each Resort House features an open living room, large kitchen/dining area, utility room and all necessary amenities, including linen, towels and bathroom essentials. Guests also enjoy full access to hotel facilities, including restaurants, bars, an 18-hole Jeff Howes-designed golf course and the award-winning 40,000 sq. ft. Farnham Estate Health Spa with an indoor/outdoor Infinity Pool and Watermint Thermal Suite (over 16s only).Rates start from €720 for a two bedroom resort house, €1,026 for three-bedrooms (minimum stay of two nights required) www.farnhamestate.ie
Dunboyne Castle Hotel & Spa, Co Meath
Dunboyne Castle Hotel & Spa, set on 21 lush acres just 18km from Dublin, offers a rejuvenated spa with a new Thermal Suite and nail salon. The “Step into Summer” package provides a luxurious experience. Enjoy a 45-minute treatment of your choice in The Spa, including options like a Spa Manicure, Pedicure, Sugar Scrub with full-body massage, or a customised Comfort Zone facial and head massage.
Relax in the new Thermal Suite, featuring an Infrared Sauna, Himalayan Salt Room, Herb Sauna, Steam Room, Cold Bucket Shower, and Shower Experience. Then, unwind in your contemporary room. The package includes four-star overnight accommodation, a 45-minute spa treatment, 90 minutes in the Thermal Suite and a full Irish breakfast. Those fancying a spot of retail therapy will also benefit from Dunboyne’s hotel residents 10 per cent discount at Avoca Dunboyne (excluding food). Rates start from €320 based on two people sharing. www.dunboynecastlehotel.com
Lawlor’s of Naas, Co Kildare
Experience the allure of the newly revamped Lawlor’s Hotel, where tradition meets modern luxury in the heart of Naas. This iconic establishment now features Vi’s Restaurant, a captivating round cocktail bar named after Violette Lawlor, and a charming private garden for summer cocktails. With 138 bedrooms and a new underground car park for 120 cars, Lawlor’s redefines hospitality in Naas.
Naas offers a variety of attractions, from boutique shopping to cultural landmarks. Explore bustling streets, enjoy local cuisine or relax by the Grand Canal Basin—all just moments from Lawlor’s Hotel. For info on packages for Girly Getaways, In-House concerts, Spring/Summer Specials, Race & Stay and lots more, use promo code IDM10 (10% discount) valid for bookings on stays from 1 June to 30 September 2024.The family package is from €294. Check out all the packages here – www.lawlors.ie
The Chancery, Co Dublin
The Chancery is a new independent, Irish-owned hotel with 150 luxurious bedrooms, adding a fresh touch to Dublin’s 4-star hotel scene. Rooted in the creativity and history of its neighbourhood, The Chancery features locally reclaimed stone and bespoke art, telling Dublin’s story. The Fawn Restaurant offers seasonal dishes inspired by the area’s Italian heritage, and biophilic design with local foliage creates a lush city retreat. With Phillipe Starck furniture and reclaimed Connemara marble, the hotel promises a stylish stay. Bedrooms are crafted for comfort with natural, sustainable materials, offering guests a serene sanctuary. Skyline rooms and suites provide stunning views of Dublin, including Dublin Castle, immersing guests in the city’s vibrant culture.
The Bar at The Chancery offers a warm and cosy setting. Guests will be transported back to the old Dublin of the 1800’s as they look out on the lamplit, old cobble streets of Ship Street Great. The hotel offers guests a serene space to relax with a hammam steam room, sauna and a state of the art gym. Rooms and suites start at €280. www.thechanceryhotel.ie
The Park Hotel, Dungarvan, Waterford
The Park Hotel is the perfect family destination and gateway to exploring Waterford. Part of the Flynn Hotel Collection, it’s renowned for outstanding hospitality and family-friendly amenities, including a swimming pool and leisure centre. Enjoy activities like cycling the Waterford Greenway with bike hire available at the hotel and easy access to Dungarvan town and the Waterford region. The hotel hosts family-oriented events such as outdoor movie nights, family yoga sessions and craft workshops. Choose between deluxe family rooms or self-catering houses. Nearby, Dungarvan offers playgrounds, a skate park, a cinema and a shopping centre. Clonea beach is a short drive from the hotel and is a long, sandy beach with fantastic views and scenic walks.
Prices for a 2-night break, including breakfast each morning, dinner on an evening of your choice, and bike hire to explore the Waterford Greenway, start from €205 per night. www.parkhoteldungarvan.com
Plan your greenways, family activities, spa facilities in each county and visit them all this Summer, one weekend at a time.