Cultural weekends, family-friendly deals and tennis treats to enjoy Wimbledon …
Equine tourism is one of the rising mindful travel trends, from trekking to bring-your-own horse adventures; it’s something for which Castle Leslie in Co Monaghan has always been known. This summer, the Castle has opened its newly renovated Old Stable Mews, which offers spacious accommodation in a picturesque courtyard in a quiet corner of the estate. It’s lowkey yet luxurious – with outdoor patios and it’s pet-friendly too – ideal for your special Ireland’s Blue Book vouchers. @castleleslie
Lough Eske Castle has a new Discover Donegal package to sample the best of the region, available for one or two nights. Included is accommodation in a courtyard or deluxe guestroom with breakfast and dinner for two on one evening in Cedars Restaurant. Complimentary bikes to explore the estate, and access to the indoor pool and Cara spa are included, as are plenty of other treats including locally-made Donegal Man Chocolates. Guests can also take part in a daily history tour of the castle in the morning. Discounts at Sliabh Liag Distillery in Ardara and shopping vouchers for Magee 1866 are other authentic local touches. @lougheskecastle
Whiskey tourism is on the rise: Titanic Hotel Belfast‘s latest offer allows guests to experience the city’s maritime history and visit Titanic Distillers in the former Pumphouse at Thompson Dock, where RMS Titanic stood for fitting out prior to her maiden voyage. An overnight stay in a nautical-themed bedroom evokes the Golden Age of ocean travel. A must-visit is the Titanic Experience next-door to see the fashionable Northern Threads exhibition. Also for the diary – local stylist Cathy Martin is hosting a pre-loved fashion event on July 26 onboard SS Nomadic.
The Spencer Hotel Dublin‘s balcony rooms offer some of the best views of the capital’s changing skyscape. It currently offers an enticing family break with kids staying for free! The overnight break in a deluxe room or family suite includes access to the 18m swimming pool, part of the newly launched Energise Fitness and Leisure Club. @thespencerhotel
For theatre fans who have not yet seen Oscar Wilde’s An Ideal Husband, check out the Night At The Gate offer at The Croke Park. This includes a three-course pre-theatre dinner in The Sideline that’s always a highlight, with breakfast the next morning. Offers include a family pass to the GAA Museum and stadium tour or Dublin Zoo, which is just a 15-minute drive from the hotel. @crokeparkhotel
It’s always good to get some insider tips for a weekend away. Author Louise O’Neill’s “Curated Weekend” is a love letter to Cork in all its forms – the city famous for its energy and dynamism, the countryside for its expanse and stillness. From her base at The River Lee, her 48-hour itinerary guides guests to Cork institutions like the English Market, Glucksman Gallery and to some of her favourite restaurants. Back at the hotel, she recommends KINS, the advanced facial treatment suite by Dr Louise Smyth, has drinks with friends in The River Club and dinner in The Grill Room. @oneilllou
For a holiday setting that feels worlds away, but is less than 30 minutes from Cork city, Fota Island Resort has it all. Blue Flag beaches nearby, adventure playgrounds, a championship golf course, and lots of scenic walking and fairy trails. Stay in one of the family lodges where there’s a three-night retreat in a family room, starting from €1,122. @fotaislandresort
For tennis fans who want to channel Wimbledon glamour, there are some elegant events happening. The Wimbledon Summer Afternoon Brunch at The Montenotte in Cork takes place on Men’s Final Day on July 12 in the resort’s stunning Panorama restaurant from 2pm-4pm. Afterwards, guests can watch the final in a private screening in the hotel’s Cameo cinema. Seats are expected to go quicker than those at Centre Court, so get ahead of the game and book soon to avoid disappointment.
At The Old Inn in Crawfordsburn, Co Down, its Wimbledon Afternoon Tea on July 12 is served in timeless surroundings. Guests will be welcomed with a glass of Pimm’s before settling in to enjoy a selection of sweet and savoury treats, all while the final unfolds live on the big screen.
There’s also a Wimbledon Weekend Experience on July 11 and 12 in Galgorm, Co Antrim. Overlooking the River Maine, The Conservatory provides a relaxed yet refined setting where guests can immerse themselves in the action.
