We want to visit them all.
Summer is in full swing, and we're all in need of a little break.
Whether you're looking for fun in the sun, or a cultural experience, we're here for you!
Here are my top three child-friendly destinations that you should try and visit this summer:
Sligo
Don't fancy sitting on a plane for a few hours with the little ones? I don't blame you.
Sometimes, the best vacations are STAYcations, and we have so many amazing places on this little Island.
One place that deserves all the love in the world? Sligo, baby!
I practically grew up in this fine county, spending summers there every year in my grandparent's home.
There are so many amazing things to do with the kids, with the gals, or with the hubby.
Go to the beach.
Sligo is renowned for its beautiful beaches. If you fancy making sandcastles or having a dip, you'll want to head to Rosses Point. If you fancy some surfing then you absolutely must visit Strandhill! Oh, and while you;'re there, grab an ice-cream in Mammy Johnstons. You won't regret it!
Visit the fairies (yes, really!)
Okay, the kids are going to LOSE it when they walk into
Gillighan's World. It's a fairy forest, equipped with forts, flowers and picnic tables. Magical.
Go horse riding.
One of my favourite things to do on a sunny day in the Yeats county. Trot along the beaches, or trek up to the Gleniff Horseshoe. Best place to get sorted for a horsey adventure?
Island View Riding School.
Sligo is one of those places that instantly feels like home. Enjoy every second of it.
Edinburgh
Slightly further afield, but not a million miles away, is the wonderful city of Edinburgh.
Bursting with history, culture and amazing cuisine, this Scottish city is one of my favourite places to visit!
It actually is the city that inspired J.K Rowling to write Harry Potter, fun fact.
There's plenty to see and do in this city, from castle hopping to dungeon diving!
Edinburgh Castle.
Located in the heart of the Scottish Capital is Edinburgh Castle. Wander around the rooms where generations of royals have lived. The Queen of England's crown jewels are on display in the castle, and yes, they are very impressive.
A brilliant day out for the whole family, with a cracking view of the city.
Camera Obscura.
Camera Obscura and World of Illusions is a major tourist attraction in the Old Town, Edinburgh. Venture into five floors full of things you’ve probably never seen before.
A swirling light vortex that can sweep you off your feet. A maze made of mirrors. A chance to swap noses with a friend. Weird and wonderful.
Edinburgh Dungeons.
Fun, a bit gimmicky and actually quite interesting!
You will be brought underground to experience an 80 minute tour through 1000 years of Scottish history. You hop on two underground rides and 11 live shows. Not to be missed.
Biarritz
Two words: absolutely divine.
I actually just got back from a week in this beautiful French town, and let me tell you, it was amazing.
Biarritz has everything you look for in a family destination - lovely beaches, delicious (and reasonably priced) food, and a lovely aquarium.
Plus, you can fly direct in less than three hours; ideal.
La Grand Plage.
This sandy haven has been voted the third best beach in Europe - and it is fairly obvious why.
The water is warm(ish), the waves are crashing and the sun is shining. What's not to love?
The Aquarium.
See sharks and rays, coral-reef fish, a Caribbean lagoon and seal feeding all in the one place.
You may even spot a few familiar faces, in the form of Nemo and Dory!
They'll flip (excuse the pun).
Chocolate Museum.
Sweet tooth? Then you will absolutely want to pay this museum a visit.
Just 25 minutes from the centre of Biarritz, there Retrace the fabulous history of chocolate with l'Atelier de Chocolat, a Bayonne chocolate maker with shops all over France.
Delicious!
Wherever you end up going - have a blast!
