{"id":528762,"date":"2026-07-02T04:46:11","date_gmt":"2026-07-02T04:46:11","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ie\/528762\/"},"modified":"2026-07-02T04:46:11","modified_gmt":"2026-07-02T04:46:11","slug":"twelve-family-escapes-around-ireland-from-beach-resorts-to-woodland-hideaways-the-irish-times","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ie\/528762\/","title":{"rendered":"Twelve family escapes around Ireland from beach resorts to woodland hideaways \u2013 The Irish Times"},"content":{"rendered":"

Dromquinna Manor<\/p>\n

There\u2019s a growing shift towards quieter, slower forms of luxury travel: less noise, less overstimulation and more meaningful connection to place. Dromquinna Manor, in Co Kerry, has been ahead of this trend. A stay at this 16-hectare estate is guaranteed to bring joy to guests of all ages, not only because of its glorious coastal setting but also the calibre of accommodation, range of activities and excellent dining at The Boathouse Bistro. <\/p>\n

Use Blue Book vouchers to book a family stay in one of the pristine garden-inspired Potting Sheds, which sleep four with children in bunk beds. Alternatively there are safari-style tents kitted out with wilderness beds, king-size mattresses, crisp linens, goose-down duvets, plump pillows and separate rooms. <\/p>\n

There is no sense of roughing it. A breakfast hamper is delivered each morning, setting the tone for the day. On the agenda might be a game of boules or table tennis, a swim, boat or kayak trip in Kenmare Bay, or skimming some pebbles from the shore. Pony trekking is available too, while a games room and library provide further inspiration. There\u2019s an art to nailing simple pleasures such as these; Dromquinna Manor delivers on quietly luxurious experiences with finesse. dromquinnamanor.com<\/a><\/p>\n

Cab\u00fc by the Lakes<\/p>\n

Pack binoculars and Don Conroy\u2019s excellent book Drawn to Nature, Encounters with Irish Wildlife for a stay at Cab\u00fc by the Lakes; the woodland cabin retreat is located in a Special Area of Conservation in Co Cavan that is home to 47 species of bird and nine species of bat. <\/p>\n

For families, its one- to three-bedroom, self-catering cabins are open plan, with floor-to-ceiling windows and a private terrace. The new, light-filled Barnhouse, with its own hot tub, is the standout property, sleeping six. <\/p>\n

Days here are spent exploring the forest trails and lake \u2013 boats, kayaks and paddle boards can be hired from the Boathouse, where the Bothy also serves snacks and sundowners. There are bikes for all levels \u2013 from tag-alongs to kids\u2019 mountain bikes, with helmets provided. <\/p>\n

The communal chill-out area, The Sitooterie, has a central wood burner and griddle tables for toasting marshmallows. Groceries and Badger & Dodo coffee can be purchased from Cab\u00fc Corner, which also stocks kids\u2019 activity packs, toys, treats and an inspired selection of gifts (Armor Lux sweaters, Grown Alchemist products and excellent coffee-table books). Adults can unwind further in the Nature Spa with Japanese baths while the Cabin Club Bar is a stylish spot for drinks and snacks. cabu.ie<\/a>.<\/p>\n

\"CabüCab\u00fc by the Lakes, Co Cavan \"TheThe Beach House at Kelly\u2019s Resort Hotel & Spa, Co Wexford Kelly\u2019s Resort Hotel & Spa<\/p>\n

Nowhere does multigenerational holidays quite like Kelly\u2019s Resort Hotel & Spa in Co Wexford, whose setting on Rosslare Strand is a huge part of its appeal. Younger guests are well catered for through supervised children\u2019s programmes, while older children and adults can take part in the daily programme of events or simply enjoy tennis, swimming, cycling, beach walks and full access to the Aqua Club and spa facilities. It\u2019s this balance of structured activity and free time that makes for such a relaxed, unhurried holiday experience. <\/p>\n

For families staying on a half-board basis, there\u2019s a separate children\u2019s tea in the evening. The resort also offers a supervised movie night for children over the age of four, allowing parents the opportunity to enjoy a relaxed evening. New this summer is The Beach House at Kelly\u2019s, adjacent to the hotel, which sleeps 11. Guests can choose between a self-catering stay or half-board package offering flexibility and convenience. kellys.ie<\/a><\/p>\n

The Gamekeeper\u2019s Lodge<\/p>\n

The Gamekeeper\u2019s Lodge, in Co Down, is a new addition to the National Trust\u2019s portfolio of interesting historic lodgings (another, Bishop\u2019s Gate Lodge, in Co Derry, is near several Blue Flag beaches). This pretty Victorian lodge is in a tucked-away part of the extensive Castle Ward estate, on the shores of Strangford Lough, which is criss-crossed by walking and cycling trails. <\/p>\n

Castle Ward itself is an unusual mansion. Game of Thrones fans will recognise its clock tower and historic farmyard, used in the series \u2013 much of which was filmed here and elsewhere in counties Down and Antrim \u2013 as Winterfell. <\/p>\n

Picturesque Strangford village, where there are several family-friendly pubs and restaurants (try The Cuan) is a 10-minute bike ride away. Catch the ferry from there to Portaferry for sandy beaches and some seal sightings, or stop off in the village of Greyabbey, noted for its antiques and close to Mount Stewart, another National Trust property worth a visit. Guests at the lodge have free entry to Castle Ward and other National Trust places during their stay, which is quite a saving. nationaltrust.org.uk<\/a> <\/p>\n

Castlemartyr Resort<\/p>\n

At Castlemartyr Resort, in Co Cork, choose between The Orchard and The Gate House residences. Refreshed interiors and new decking and landscaping, together with private outdoor areas and barbecue facilities, provide a sophisticated home-from-home atmosphere. Guests have complimentary access to the Spa, an 18-hole golf course and driving range, tennis courts, walking and cycling trails and activities such as archery and clay shooting. <\/p>\n

There\u2019s a Kid\u2019s Club programme too; its Animal Roadshow every Tuesday and Friday is a highlight during the summer, as is Children\u2019s Afternoon Tea in the Manor House. With some advance notice, babysitting can be arranged, allowing adults to enjoy dining in one of the restaurants, from Canopy Brasserie & Bar to the Michelin-starred Terre. Beyond the estate, local attractions include Leahy\u2019s Open Farm and the stunning Ballycotton Cliff Walk. Also of note is Gormley\u2019s Art + Soul, which will see more than 100 sculptures displayed on the grounds of Castlemartyr Resort until June 28th. castlemartyrresort.ie<\/a> <\/p>\n

\"TheThe Orchard house at Castlemartyr Resort, Co Cork \"StSt John\u2019s Point Lighthouse, Co Down Ballyeriston House<\/p>\n

Maggie O\u2019Farrell\u2019s new novel, Land, is a fascinating insight into the compilation of the Ordnance Survey map of Ireland after the Famine. The oldest section of Ballyeriston House, in Co Donegal, features on Ordnance Survey maps dating from the 17th century. This posh, pet-friendly home from home sleeps 10 people across five comfortable rooms. There are a couple of grand reception and diningrooms too, but the house\u2019s most notable element is the beach, stretching for miles, a two-minute stroll away. <\/p>\n

For golfers in the family, Narin and Portnoo golf links is close by. However, most guests prefer to make the most of the elegant house, where owner Mark McNeill spent childhood holidays. This is a place to slow down, curl up with a book from its extensive library, and enjoy the sounds of the waves crashing in the distance. ballyeristonhouse.com<\/a> <\/p>\n

St John\u2019s Point Lighthouse<\/p>\n

Lighthouses are among the Irish Landmark Trust\u2019s most popular holiday rentals, a big attraction for anyone seeking a unique coastal stay. (Many host open days during National Heritage Week, from August 15th-23rd). St John\u2019s Point Lighthouse, in Co Down, is particularly striking because of its distinctive bands of vibrant yellow and black (its \u201cdaymark\u201d). There are two self-catering light-keepers\u2019 cottages, Ketch and Sloop, available to book separately or together. Each sleeps four guests, with a double and two single beds. They offer views to the Isle of Man and the Mourne Mountains. It\u2019s a great base for walking, discovering Strangford Lough and the Co Down coast or staying put \u2013 the cottages come stocked with board and card games. irishlandmark.com<\/a><\/p>\n

Mount Congreve<\/p>\n

From the peaks of the Comeragh and Knockmealdown mountains to the coastline of the Copper Coast Unesco Global Geopark, Co Waterford\u2019s natural assets provide endless scope for explorers of all ages. As a base, book Maple, Fern or Beech, one of the Forest Eco Cabins on the Mount Congreve estate, which has launched a two-night Free-Range Family Escape. This experience includes accommodation for two adults and two children under 16, a welcome hamper, admission to Mount Congreve\u2019s 30 hectares of gardens and the estate\u2019s playground, with its tunnel slides, hammocks, swings, seesaws and climbing frames. <\/p>\n

Families can also enjoy a scenic journey aboard the Waterford Suir Valley Railway and direct access to the 46km Waterford Greenway. Complimentary adult bike hire, private outdoor hot tubs and garden activity sheets for children are also included. Not to be missed is The Stables Caf\u00e9, serving breakfast, lunch and sweet treats. mountcongreve.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n

\"PlayPlay area at Mount Congreve estate, Co Waterford \"BallygallyBallygally Castle The Heritage<\/p>\n

There\u2019s space for everyone to unwind in comfort at The Heritage, in Co Laois, where plush suites and self-catering apartments are designed for relaxed stays. Families can spend time exploring the hotel\u2019s 5km walking trail, enjoying a game on the tennis court, or taking advantage of the newest addition to the resort \u2013 complimentary bikes. Children are particularly fond of movie nights in the in-house cinema and splashing in the pool, while parents can indulge in spa treatments, a round of golf or long lunches on the terrace. theheritage.com<\/a> <\/p>\n

Redcastle Oceanfront Golf and Spa Hotel<\/p>\n

Redcastle Oceanfront Golf and Spa Hotel, in Co Donegal, is one of north Donegal\u2019s best-kept secrets, offering value, style and comfort. The current Family Getaway package includes an overnight stay with breakfast and complimentary access to the hotel\u2019s indoor pool and leisure facilities, plus \u20ac20 credit towards a choice of local experiences, from alpaca walks and horse riding to ferry trips, pottery painting and visits to Wild Ireland or Doagh Famine Village. redcastlehoteldonegal.com<\/a><\/p>\n

Ballygally Castle<\/p>\n

There\u2019s a beach directly opposite Ballygally Castle, in Co Antrim, that is ideal for paddling, rock pooling and walks. As one of Northern Ireland\u2019s most historic hotels, which has just celebrated its 400th anniversary, it serves as a great base for exploring the Causeway Coast \u2013 the hotel even supplies picnics for families heading out on day trips. <\/p>\n

Nearby attractions include Carnfunnock Country Park, with adventure playgrounds, a maze, mini-golf and woodland walks. There\u2019s also the Giant\u2019s Causeway, Glenarm Castle\u2019s Mini Land Rover Experience and Glenariff Forest Park waterfall trails. For teens, the Gobbins cliff path experience is one to consider, as is the dramatic Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge. Back at the hotel, one its most intriguing aspects is its famous friendly resident ghost, Lady Isabella. ballygallycastlehotel.com<\/a><\/p>\n

Killashee<\/p>\n

Picnics, a fairy forest, butterfly trail and a bug hunt are some of the elements of Teddy\u2019s Big Adventure, an action-packed two-night stay at Killashee, Co Kildare. Families can enjoy a mix of indoor and outdoor activities on the extensive grounds and in the leisure centre, and visit local attractions \u2013 the Kildare Maze, Lullymore Heritage and Discovery Park, Russborough House and the Irish National Stud & Gardens. Discounted family tickets to Clonfert Pet Farm are part of the adventure, and at dinner time there are specially designed children\u2019s menus. killasheehotel.com<\/a> <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"Dromquinna Manor There\u2019s a growing shift towards quieter, slower forms of luxury travel: less noise, less overstimulation and…\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":528763,"comment_status":"","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[2],"tags":[61,60,225096,43],"class_list":["post-528762","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","category-ireland","tag-ie","tag-ireland","tag-it-s-summer-special-report","tag-news"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ie\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/528762","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ie\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ie\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ie\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ie\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=528762"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ie\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/528762\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ie\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/528763"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ie\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=528762"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ie\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=528762"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ie\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=528762"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}