January is almost over – huzzah! Soon we’ll all be talking about the ‘grand stretch in the evening’, Valentine’s love will be in the air and Spring will generally be springing.
There are few places better than Ireland for a cheap and cheerful family weekend. Whether you and your family are obsessed with water sports, or totally crazy for horse riding, there are endless opportunities to get out there and create incredible memories for life (without blowing the budget).
Here are eight awesome ways to celebrate the extra bit of daylight this weekend…
1. Lakelands Adventures
Ziplining, paddle-boarding and speed-boating, oh my! Ireland’s Lakelands Adventures region is packed full of awesome outdoor activities – both on and off the water. Stop in at Lough Key Forest Adventure Park to get an adrenalin rush, or try your hand at paddle-boarding at Leitrim Surf. For lots more info on the region click here.
2. Every activity imaginable at Carlingford Lough
Carlingford Adventure Centre in Co. Louth is jam-packed full of great adventure activities for the whole family. From water trampolining (we NEED to try this) and laser combat, to abseiling and rock-climbing, there’s no end to the fun in Carlingford.
3. Whale-watching in west Cork
Some of the most impressive creatures in the world, including Minke, Humpback and Fin whales, can be found swimming in the waters off the Irish coast. Getting up close and personal with some of these incredible animals is an adventure the whole family will take with them through life. West Cork is the best place in the country for whale-spotting – book a trip with a company like Whale Of A Time, and you’ll be taking straight to the heart of the action. Excursions take about three or four hours and are fully guided by experts – guaranteed to make for unforgettable family memories!
5. Dive into The Burren
Bring all of their Little Mermaid dreams to life and take a trip to The Burren for a weekend of diving in the magical waters of West Clare. The Atlantic Diving School in Doolin offers all levels of scuba diving training courses under the guidance of professional instructors. The school also offers a variety of under water activities for kids including speciality diving and snorkelling. Grab your wetsuits and go!
6. Horse riding in Westport
Giddy up and go to Westport for a fun-filled break in the west. Head to the nearby Go Trekking Riding Centre for riding classes, or to take a guided trek along the stunning beaches of Murrisk and Berta. With Croagh Patrick and Clew Bay as a backdrop, it doesn’t get more stunning. We’re feeling more relaxed just thinking about it.
7. Take a cruise along the Shannon
What’s more fun than a family adventure? You’ve guessed it; a family adventure on a boat. Put on your boat shoes, pack the life jackets and set sail down the longest river in Europe. Your little ones will love the novelty of living on a boat for a few days, and you’ll find all of your cares slipping away as you soak in the gorgeous sights of the Lakelands towns of Killaloe/Ballina, Portumna and so many more.
8. Go for a stroll around Russborough House, Blessington, Co. Wicklow
Another favourite, even the drive to Russborough through the beautiful Wicklow countryside is picturesque. This historic house has everything you could want in a walk. Choose from the two-kilometre wildlife trail and habitat, the woodland and rhododendron trail, or do both if you have older children or are feeling energetic. Information boards are dotted along the way with nature facts and figures to keep the little ones interested. The Greenway is a much longer trail running along the shores of the Blessington Lakes and through areas of forest and natural woodland. Finish your walk with a look around The National Bird of Prey Centre and a hot cuppa in the cosy tearooms.
Get €150 back when you switch your gas and electricity to Bord Gáis Energy. Switching to Bord Gáis Energy will also get you 12% off your electricity and 10% off your gas. With some great offers and flexible options for you to choose from Bord Gáis will provide you with the best value every day. PLUS you’ll have access to Ireland’s biggest and best energy Rewards Club.
