If you’ve got a little mini break with the fam in your sights, we think we might just have stumbled upon the coolest cottage EVER, and it ticks every box for parents and kids alike.
WHAT: Cliff cottage in the grounds of Cliff House Hotel.
WHERE: Ardmore, Waterford, overlooking the stunning beach and bay, with eye-watering views of the ocean.
THE LOWDOWN: Think of one of the most stunning views in the whole of Ireland, and you’ve got that on your doorstep. The cottage at Cliff House Hotel is up a set of steps, moments from the bay, and its breathtaking beach and cliffs.
THE COTTAGE: The vibe inside the seaside cottage is pure cosy-comfort: beautiful, homely dècor, deep, plush beds, two living rooms, a huge kitchen, and an inviting stove fireplace for post-cliff or beach days. The minute you walk through the door, your shoulders drop, and relaxation is taken to another level. Yes, even with the kids in tow. It’s exactly how a cottage by the sea should be, but pimped-up with every mod-con and accessory you could ever need on a family beachside hol; you name it, they have it in a cupboard – spare blankets, picnic stuff, toys for the beach, toys and DVDs for rainy-days, and a brilliantly stocked kitchen for group entertaining. There’s even a welcome basket on arrival full of local artisan products. You are instantly lured into the idea that this is your homely seaside cottage, and you never, ever want to leave.
PERFECT FOR: Family reunions or gatherings. The grown-ups can dine at the award-winning Michelin-star restaurant to sample star chef, Martijn Kajuiter‘s infamous cuisine, or chose to dine with the children in the more relaxed bar-restaurant with equally as stunning sea views. Days can be spent rambling around the cliff walks, or on the huge beach with the kids.
ACCOMMODATION: There are three double rooms, one room with bunk beds and a cot, plus an additional fold-up bed, so in theory, can sleep four adults, five children, and a baby.
HIGHLIGHTS: The hotel can create beach picnics for you to enjoy within a short walk from the hotel. If you want a pretty cove for swimming, Goat Island is highly recommended just a ten-minute drive away. Best of all, though, has to be the fact that guests at the cottage have access to the stunning hotel spa and pool, and there’s no time restriction for family pool time either. Bonus. It would also be rude not to book in for a spa treatment while you’re there!
THE COST: Hire of Cliff Cottage starts at €450 per night for the house, with a two-night minimum stay. It is worth every cent and perfect if you’re sharing the cost with another family too. This spot has everything a family needs – just bring your wellies, your walking shoes, and your appetite, and be prepares fo the fact that you just won’t want to leave.
CONTACT: Cliff House Hotel, for brilliant spring and Easter break deals.
