Perfect Travel Escapes

Summer is here and our beautiful island is ready for adventure, action and fun. We’ve put together some of our favourite places to suit whatever takes your fancy from luxurious pampering in elegant estates to action packed adventure on land and water. Here are our 22 perfect spots.

Fáilte Ireland celebrated the reopening of tourism and hospitality with this eye-catching piece of sand artwork. Measuring wider than the height of Dublin’s Liberty Hall, at 120ft in height and 200 ft wide, the unique piece of art, by environmental artist Sean Corcoran, was created by hand on Kilmurrin Cove in Co Waterford.

1. Wineport Lodge, Athlone

The Wineport Lodge, perched on the banks of Lough Ree, is a luxury experience for all. With outdoor hot tubs overlooking the lake, you can relax and reset in style while enjoying a breathtaking view. The VOYA spa is the perfect escape for some pampering with friends or to have a little ‘you’ time. You can enjoy a delicious dining experience in their restaurant, of which the lodge was built around, catching up with your nearest and dearest over some bubbly. Or if you’re celebrating a special occasion, Afternoon Tea is a great way to treat yourself and others. Visit wineport.ie.

Perfect for a girly getaway.

2. Tulfarris Hotel and Golf Resort, Wicklow

The four-star Tulfarris Hotel and Golf Resort is a great location for a much-needed break. It’s located just 45 minutes outside of Dublin so you can enjoy a scenic view of the tranquil Blessington Lakes. And while this hotel is perfect for relaxation and restoration, there is plenty to do if you prefer to keep busy. Take advantage of the stunning 18-hole championship golf course or stroll along the Blessington Greenway, taking in everything nature has to offer. After a long day of unwinding, you and your guests can indulge at the recently transformed Fia Rua restaurant. Why not try Executive Chef’s Eddie McDermott signature dish, a 12-hour pot-roasted feather blade of beef that is locally sourced. Visit tulfarrishotel.com

Perfect for golfing enthusiasts.

3. The Marker Hotel, Dublin

Famous for its panoramic views of Dublin, The Marker Hotel is the perfect spot to relax, sit back and re-engage with friends, family and colleagues this summer. With total urban luxury, enjoy some downtime in the Spa at the Marker, being pampered and massaged to your heart's content. The Rooftop Bar, with an amazing view of Dublin City, is a sophisticated and chic way to dine al fresco and enjoy a few speciality cocktails too. Warm blankets, hot water bottles and outdoor heaters can keep the evening breeze at bay while you enjoy your city break. Visit themarkerhoteldublin.com

Perfect for a city escape.

4. Hillgrove Hotel, Leisure and Spa, Monaghan

Set on the outskirts of Monaghan town, the four-star Hillgrove Hotel has fun for all the family. With 87 bedrooms, there’s no shortage to choose from. The interconnecting family rooms give parents and children the perfect amount of privacy while enjoying some family time. Upon arrival, kids receive a special activity pack that will keep them entertained throughout their stay and they can also sign up for the Explorer’s Kids Club for lots of fun and activities. For the guests that wish to unwind, the Lir Spa can offer some much-needed quiet throughout your stay. The spa offers an oasis of calm, with lots of things to help you de-stress such as the sauna, monsoon showers, a hydrotherapy pool, Rasul Treatment and a relaxation room. Refuel after a long day of relaxation at The Bistro, full of ambience and fresh Irish food. Visit hillgrovehotel.com

Perfect for a family trip.

5. The Heritage, Laois

The Heritage is ideal for those who love adventure. Enjoy an adrenaline-fueled break in Laois this summer with their new mountain biking package. With the self-guided 3-hour mountain biking tour included, you will get to explore some of the most beautiful parts of Ireland’s gorgeous midlands, including the Kinnity Castle and the Slieve Bloom Mountains. There are other activities like golf, tennis and a 5km walking trail that will appeal to those who want to keep active. Take the short drive to Kildare Village for a spot of shopping or explore the stunning sights of Emo Court & Gardens, the National Stud & Japanese Gardens. For those who wish to unwind after a busy day of activities, the Heritage Spa is the place for you. Indulge in a range of rejuvenating treatments that will have you feeling well-rested in no time. Followed by a dinner at the hotel’s restaurant, Blake’s, for a delicious dinner followed by an after-dinner tipple at the Seven Bar. Visit theheritage.com

Perfect for adventure-seekers.

6. The Cliff House Hotel, Waterford

With its breath-taking location, innovatively carved into a Cliff in West Waterford, this 5-star luxury hotel is a must-do experience. Enjoy the stunning views over Ardmore Bay and brave the Irish sea for a swim, followed by a dip in the hotel’s outdoor hot tub to warm up again. There is so much to do from invigorating cliff walks, exploring Ardmore town and cycling the Waterford Greenway but for those who prefer their trips to be full of relaxing, there’s plenty of that too! The Well at Cliff is home to some fabulous treatments that will certainly nourish you, your body and your soul. Relax and allow your feet to soak in warm seaweed harvested from the south coast of Ireland, while your massage therapist releases tension from your arms, shoulders, neck and scalp. Finish off your day with a meal at an oceanside Michelin-starred Irish restaurant, House Restaurant, for the perfect day. Visit cliffhousehotel.ie.

Perfect for those who want a slice of luxury.

7. Lough Rynn Castle Estate and Gardens, Co Leitrim

Lough Rynn is a beautiful Irish castle on the banks of a scenic lough which was the ancestral home of the Clements family and the legendary Lord Leitrim. The stately hotel blends old world elegance and modern luxury. The main house is full of history and charm with imposing entrances, walled gardens for romantic walks and over 300 acres of scenic land. Enjoy drinks at the Dungeon Bar, relax at the Baronial Hall or the John McGahern Library. Afternoon tea is served in the Drawing Rooms and the 2AA Rosette Award Sandstone Restaurant serving fine dining. Lough Rynn is currently offering discounts on longer stays and midweek breaks. Visit loughrynn.com.

Perfect for a beautiful escape in a stunning setting.

8. The Clew Bay Hotel, Westport. Co Mayo

The Clew Bay Hotel is right in the heart of Westport and a great base for an activity holiday with some stunning scenery on its doorstep. This long standing family hotel is run by Darren and Maria Madden who set the tone for wonderful service from the local staff.

Westport is a haven for outdoor activities from great walking trails, to coastal cycles along the Great Western Greenway. Take an exhilarating hike on Croagh Patrick or dive into the Atlantic at Westport Point for some wild swimming. Stand Up Paddle Boarding is available at Old Head beach or enjoy a sea cruise of Clew Bay, dotted with incredible islands with basking seals. A visit to the historical Westport House in the heart of the town is a great family day out. The Clew Bay is hosting cocktail classes for €25 per person including a glass of bubbly prosecco on arrival, a cocktail demonstration, and 2 tasty cocktails. Dining outdoors and indoors available at Madden's Bar & Bistro. Currently offering deals on midweek stays and June reopening. Visit clewbayhotel.com.

Perfect for an activity based escape.

9. The Killarney Park Hotel, Kerry

The five-star hotel is right on the doorstep of Killarney’s town centre, perfect for perusing the shops and local restaurants. Situated beside Killarney National Park, where you can enjoy great walks and cycle paths, nature is conveniently planted at your feet. The surrounding gardens are perfect for a family picnic or just to sit and watch the world go by. Killarney House is just across the road and offers an interesting interpretive centre too. An oasis of calm, the Spa at Killarney Park is a great way to relax and revive after a busy week. The Park restaurant offers a relaxed yet elegant dining experience, serving food from local suppliers. Visit killarneyparkhotel.ie

Perfect for those looking for understated elegance.

10. Powerscourt Hotel and Resort Spa, County Wicklow

In case you haven’t heard, the town of Enniskerry, County Wicklow, is being transformed into a Disney movie set complete with A-lister Amy Adams. The nearby Powerscourt Hotel is going all out to promote its brand of fairy tale living. The five star hotel is offering some seriously good deals this summer, so if luxury is your thing, check it out. Set in a magnificent estate with stunning vistas across the Wicklow mountains, Powerscourt boasts a 20m Swarovski crystal-lit swimming pool and a range of spa treatments. There’s plenty to do nearby from mountain walks, abseiling, mountain biking, golf and, of course, the village of Enniskerry. It’s a nice walk away or the hotel can organise complimentary bicycles. Not only is Enniskerry the next best thing to Hollywood this year, it’s also got good pubs and plenty of excellent restaurants. Visit powerscourthotel.com

Perfect for a bit of pampering.

11. Adare Manor, County Limerick

There are five star hotels and there’s Adare Manor. Beautifully renovated, a stay here is as close to living like royalty as most of us will ever get. It doesn’t come cheap (prices start at €3,340 based on two people sharing) but for pure indulgence it just doesn’t come better. Staff are at hand on every corner to cater to your every whim. The décor is superb, with soaring ceilings reminiscent of a medieval castle, but with central heating and all the other conveniences of modern living. The Michelin star restaurant, The Oak Room, is excellent. You can sample some of the 7,000 wines in the Manor’s cellar at a private wine tasting. Or why not ask your ‘picnic butler’ (wowzer) to arrange an ultraluxe picnic experience. Not sure even the Queen of England gets that type of service. Visit adaremanor.com

Perfect for a once in a lifetime celebration.

12. The Kingsley, Cork

Ireland’s Rebel City is set to be hopping this summer so it’s well worth putting it on your list of potential weekends away. The Kingsley hotel overlooks the River Lee and is offering a Reconnect at the Kingsley luxury package for four, staying in its two-story penthouse suite. This comes complete with its own dining room, a living room with an open fire, a bathroom which features a sauna and a freestanding bath. There’s also a private balcony overlooking the river. The package includes an afternoon tea with champagne, served in the penthouse. The tea sounds more like a three course meal with scones, finger sandwiches, tea cakes, pastries, black pudding and apple roll, leek and mushroom tartlet…the list goes on. There’s also an actual three-course dinner at Fairbanks Restaurant included in the price. A two-night stay for four people with all the extras starts at €1,274. Visit thekingsley.ie

Perfect for a getaway with the girls

13. The Station House, Kilmessan, County Meath

The Station House has undergone a recent refurbishment and is throwing open the doors of its new Signal Suite. The building dates from 1862 as the station house for the Meath-Westmeath train line. It was opened as a guest house in 1983 by Chris and Thelma Slattery. The couple have gone all out on the Signal Suite, which is converted from the former control room for the train tracks. It’s spread across two floors with a loft apex ceiling upstairs and the original 1800s staircase. It features Victoria and Albert stone baths and fabrics by William Morris. Kilmessan village is on the Boyne Valley Drive, so there are plenty of nearby attractions. The Station House is surrounded by 12 acres of gardens and woodlands which feature in the Boyne Valley Garden Trail. Visit stationhouse.ie

Perfect for getting away from it all

14. Straffan House, K Club, County Kildare

We can but dream. Straffan House is the K Club’s private residence modelled on a chateau at Louveciennes, west of Paris. It has 10 bedrooms, a 24-hour butler service, a private chef, a housekeeper and a concierge. One the lower ground floor there’s a private swimming pool with hand painted murals and a swim-up bar. There’s a gym, a private spa, a games room, a wine cellar and a movie theatre with digital screen and Bose surround sound. A stay includes full Irish breakfast, lunch, tea, coffee, homemade cookies and cakes, pre-dinner drinks and, of course, the gourmet dinner itself. Basically you don’t have to lift a finger. Free unlimited golf at the Palmer North and Palmer South golf courses is included in the price. A stay here costs €20,000 a night with a minimum of three night’s stay. Alcohol is charged on consumption. Visit kclub.ie

Perfect for a lottery win

15. The Ice House, Ballina, County Mayo

Like many establishments The Ice House has used the lockdowns to upgrade its facilities, in this case extending its Chill Spa to include an outdoor thermal extension, stretching out over the river beside the hotel. The extension includes a duo therapy pod with quartz treatment beds, a private outdoor hot tub for two, two new sunken outdoor hot tubs and four new two-person outside baths for ‘shared bathing rituals’. Alongside this, there’s a 360-degree glazed River Room with heated curved loungers. There are all sorts of new therapies available including ‘hot sand therapy’ and various Egyptian rituals. Try out the ice water bucket shower if you dare. The Ice House is already a much-loved destination hotel and the new additions sound fabulous. Packages are available. Visit icehouse.ie

Perfect for pampering with the one you love

16. The Harrison Chambers, Belfast

The Malone Road is one of Belfast’s most fashionable areas and the location of The Harrison Chambers of Distinction, an elegant period property with fabulous décor. With 16 (soundproofed!) rooms, each with four poster beds, chandeliers, free-standing bath tubs and eye-catching interiors, the Harrison has its own lounge and a full licenced restaurant on the ground floor. There are also in-house spa therapies on offer. Bear in mind that Northern Ireland is likely to open further sooner than the rest of us, the fully vaccinated get an opportunity to experience ‘normal life’ on a trip to Belfast. There’s plenty of excellent bars and restaurants in the city, along with great shopping. The Harrison has some good offers at the moment, which include champagne on arrival and breakfast in bed. Visit chambersofdistinction.com

Perfect for a taste of luxury

17. Lough Eske, Co Donegal

Discover why Donegal is the place to be this summer. Escape to Lough Eske Castle, a 43-acre estate at the foot of the spectacular Bluestack Mountains. Lough Eske Castle is only a 10-minute drive from Donegal Town and is an ideal base for seeing Donegal while relaxing in five-star luxury. Explore one of the 12 blue flag beaches along Donegal's Wild Atlantic Way for a well-deserved getaway and visit some of the county's most extraordinary sites, such as Oakfield Park and Glenveagh, to immerse yourself in authentic Donegal culture. As you arrive, take in the twisting shores of the lough before checking into a Deluxe Bedroom. Enjoy a relaxing plunge in the indoor swimming pool at the hotel's CARA Organic Beauty Spa. Wake up to breakfast each morning, then indulge in a culinary adventure with a three-course dinner at the hotel's award-winning 2 AA Rosette Cedar's Restaurant on a night of your choosing. Relax in the Castle Drawing Rooms by the open fires, unwind and reconnect with nature by enjoying refreshing walks, and use the castle's bicycles for free around the grounds. Perfect for a romantic weekend getaway. For bookings, visit lougheskecastle.com.

Perfect for a stately stay amid spectacular scenery

18. Glenlo Abbey Hotel and Estate, Co Galway

Ease your way to the West and stay in the 5-star Glenlo Abbey Hotel & Estate, Co Galway. During the lockdown, the Glenlo Abbey Hotel & Estate staff worked hard to complete renovations, including the refurbishing of The Tapestry, The French Room, and The Abbey. Along with various new improvements, such as Palmers Bar & Kitchen, a new diner, and contemporary guest rooms (now totalling 73 rooms, including six luxurious suites) and a lovely new boutique spa (Glo Spa & Wellness). Take a stroll through the grounds and gardens, including the beautiful golfing greens. Indulge in a night or two of pure luxury, or invest in one of the package experiences now available to book online. Relax and unwind with an overnight stay in luxurious accommodations and dinner in the historic Pullman Restaurant, where Executive Head Chef Dominique Majecki will dazzle you with his inventive, locally sourced Irish cuisine. Enjoy a cooked-to-order breakfast in The River Room, where you may relax, read the newspaper, and take in the uninterrupted estate views. This stay is perfect for those who need to switch off from their busy lives and unwind. Visit glenloabbeyhotel.ie for bookings.

Perfect for a complete getaway for pampering and luxury

19. Redcastle Oceanfront, Golf & Spa Hotel, Co Donegal

The Redcastle Hotel is set in a tranquil, seaside environment with stunning views on the Inishowen Peninsula. Relax in one of the spacious guestrooms or luxury suites with views of the water or the countryside. Redcastle is an all in Donegal escape, with a 9-hole golf course, 2 AA Rosette restaurant, Thalassotherapy swimming pool, gym, and luxurious CARA Organic Beauty Spa. Plenty of gorgeous places to visit including one of the 12 blue flag beaches along Donegal's Wild Atlantic Way. Inish Adventures, a ten-minute drive from the hotel, offers water sports like sea kayaking and stand-up paddling. A visit to Wild Ireland in Burnfoot is well worth it to see Brown bears, wolves, lynx, and other animals native to Ireland at this 23-acre nature refuge. Currently when you book two nights, the third night is free. Visit redcastlehoteldonegal.com.

Perfect for all the family

20. Pembroke Kilkenny, Co Kilkenny

Kilkenny is a great choice for a staycation, whether you want to experience exceptional cuisine, arts, craft, culture, outdoor adventure, or hours strolling through ancient alleyways teeming with boutique shopping. Pembroke Kilkenny, the city's four-star boutique hotel, is strategically positioned within easy walking distance of historic attractions, shopping, café culture, arts, and more. This is the ideal destination for anyone looking for a mix of city buzz and pampering with the award-winning Mint Medispa on site. The hotel has removed all touchpoints from the property and now invites visitors to check-in using an App. Your smartphone is also used to access elevators and open doors. At Statham's restaurant, sample the finest of Kilkenny's "farm to fork'' produce. Wake up to the best of award-winning local fruit after a restful night's sleep. Bircher Muesli, salmon kedgeree, and hand-tied Kilkenny sausages will fuel your exploration of this magnificent medieval city. Visit pembrokekilkenny.com.

Perfect for a city break with all the trappings

21. Carton House, Co Kildare

Carton House is one of Ireland's finest Georgian estates and is reintroducing guests to this refined and beautiful country house after an extensive restoration. Enjoy the grandeur of the hotel this summer and customise your stay by adding on experiences to build your own personalised, one-of-a-kind vacation. There are lots of tempting options to choose from when you curate your stay including a tutored wine tasting, dinner in the cosy and atmospheric setting of Kathleen's Kitchen, or a delicious picnic to enjoy in the gardens. You can also avail of a Whiskey Lover's Experience with a guided tasting in the quaint book-lined Whiskey Library. Afternoon Tea is on offer in one of Carton House's wonderfully renovated rooms, such as the Gold Salon or the Drawing Room. The new Carton House Spa & Wellness has some new treatments and a thermal relaxation experience. Visit cartonhouse.com.

Perfect for luxury and grandeur

22. The Rabbit Hotel, Co Antrim

The soon to be opened Rabbit Hotel & Retreat is a newly refurbished 33-bedroom boutique hotel and spa (formerly the Templeton Hotel). This lakeside retreat is set in Templepatrick, a scenic Co Antrim hamlet the hotel is around 20 minutes from Belfast. Now owned by the Galgorm Collection, the Rabbit Hotel & Retreat boasts modern accommodations, onsite bar and restaurant and an exclusive-use events area for weddings and conferences. In addition, the hotel has an outdoor spa area with Swedish saunas, aromatherapy steam rooms, halotherapy salt chambers, and Roman-inspired pools and hot tubs that provides visitors with a peaceful lakeside spot for relaxation. The Rabbit has a few quirks like a lakeside beach with heated sand and a bar, a sunken lounge, and plush cabanas. Opening on June 18. Visit rabbithotel.com.

Perfect for something a little bit different

23. Dromoland Castle, Co Clare

This magnificent Castle and 450 - acre private country estate has a lovely warm family feel with exceptional service from the team. This time of year shows off Dromoland at its best - a playground of country pursuits with the gardens and lush greenery right on the doorstep. Activities include an 18-hole championship golf course, trout fishing, boating, archery, clay shooting and falconry - with resident hawks, falcons and owls. You can stay active with the swimming pool, tennis court, gym, sauna steam room, spa and go-karting for the kids. There are also beautiful nature walks with local wildlife - deer pheasants, squirrels and ducks. The grounds at Dromoland share the same designer as the gardens of Versailles and you can venture further afield with a guided culinary exploration of Ireland’s edible landscape through foraging walks. Dromoland Castle has a range of offers including four nights for three and special family rates. Visit dromoland.ie.

Connemara & The Islands

White sandy beaches and island sunsets galore in Connemara. Outdoor highlights include a multitude of adventure activity options, a trek in Joyce Geopark, sightseeing trips and island hopping. There are also immersive an Ghaeilge experiences throughout.

This is a region of great variety, both geographically and culturally, stretching from Galway Bay to Killary Fjord, taking in the Aran Islands and Inishbofin and lies at the heart of Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way.

Visit connemara.ie

Westport, County Mayo

Ever inventive, Westport has compiled a list of its own attractions which it claims rivals anything you might find overseas. For example, who needs to go all the way to Egypt to see the Great Pyramid of Giza when you can see the great pyramidal peak of Croagh Patrick? Spain’s Camino de Santiago has nothing on Tochar Phádraig, an ancient 35 km long pilgrim tour. Norway might have its fjords but it doesn’t have Killary, Ireland’s one and only natural fjord. And who needs Hollywood when you can pop into Gaynor’s Bar in Leenane, and pretend to be on the set of the iconic film adapted from John B. Keane’s play The Field?

The Maldives has beaches but the coastline around Westport has more beautiful strands than you can shake a sandy towel at. It goes on and, fair play, Westport is a cracking town with many great sights close by. Visit destinationwestport.com

Perfect for fun and frolics

Aran Island Ferries, Galway City to Inis Mór via the Cliffs of Moher

There’s a reason why people sing about Galway Bay. It is one of the most beautiful for an island that is blessed with spectacular coastlines. Aran Island Ferries is back in action this summer with a new route from Galway City Docks to the largest of the Aran Islands, Inis Mór, taking in the stunning Cliffs of Moher along the way. There’s a brand new ferry too, Saoirse na Farraige (Freedom of the Sea), a purpose built, 400-seater which will operate alongside five other vessels. The new 90-minute cruise heads out from Galway docks, in the city centre, and follows the coastline of Connemara before sailing to the Aran Islands and docking in Kilronan on Inis Mór. The return journey brings passengers directly to the Cliffs of Moher before heading back into Galway city. Prices start at €49 for adults. For more visit aranislandferries.com

Off the Beaten Track

Lonely Planet and Sony joined forces to capture the top lesser-known destinations from around Ireland

1. Mizen Head Cliffs, Co. Cork, Ireland*

2. Lackan Strand, Co Mayo, Ireland

3. Sky Garden, Russagh, Co. Cork, Ireland

4. Birr Castle, Co Offaly, Ireland

5. Garnish Island, Bantry Bay, Ireland

6. Slieve Bloom Mountains, Co Laois, Ireland

7. Sliabh Liag (Slieve League) Cliffs, Co Donegal

8. Cobh, Co. Cork, Ireland

Tom Hall from Lonely Planet, said: “The pandemic caused us all to pause and re-evaluate how we travel, and now is the perfect time to update that bucket list with some of these under-the-radar places you might have overlooked in the past.”