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13th December 2017
04:50pm GMT
1. Inchydoney Island Lodge and Spa
Clonakilty, West Cork
Why you'll love it: Grab a coffee from the bar, a book from the in-house library and a seat facing the ocean -you'll feel removed from all of life's little stresses. The island is home to a blue flag beach, Ireland's first seawater spa and they host regular culinary evenings with seven-course offerings any foodie would die for. Whoop.
Why the kids will love it: The Giant Connect Four game is a blast for adults too, but the littlies will adore it. There is a snooker room and a children's lounge full of toys, games and a Xbox. Buckets, spades and beach toys are available at reception for some fun in the nearby sand dunes too. Un. Real.
Moolah: The current deal is three nights in an ocean view self-catering apartment with two separate bedrooms to host a family of five, with housekeeping visits twice a week and a grocery delivery if you wish. Fab. Prices start at €116 per night.
2. Mulranny Park Hotel and Spa
On the cusp of Achill Island, Mayo
Why you'll love it: It's just a stone's throw from Ireland's biggest activity-led island, Achill, and an idyllic setting in it's own right. Far from the bustle of a busy town setting, the sunsets of the peaceful west coast need to be experienced and banked because they are a sight to behold. There is a spa, hot tub, plunge pool and a cool hipster bar –'nuf said.
Why the kids will love it: For toddlers the Wild Woolies Kids Club means your little smurfs can while away the time with cake decorating, magic shows, beach craft, Nintendo Wii games, pool sports or take a boat tour with you in Clew Bay. Sure it's only massive.
Moolah: The current deal is three nights, inclusive of brekkie, two evening meals in an apartment with two separate bedrooms and a living area at the hotel, for €219pps. Regular prices vary from month to month. Kids under five are complimentary, over fives are €25 per night.
3. Rathmullan Hotel
In Rathmullan, Donegal
Why you'll love it: This place is amazingly beautiful, but still a haven for families searching for a getaway that has it all and in safe, secluded environment. Golf courses, lakelands and forest trails are dotted around nearby and upcoming events include paddle-boarding and sailing trials on August 31 and a garden trail in October. There are so many cool options for the little ones (and the big ones). Fact.
Why the kids will love it: It's tranquil. It will calm the little loveable rugrats with all the free space to run amok. Families can visit the local Fanad Lighthouse for the wow factor or take a tour to any of the top spots in the area.
Moolah: The current deal is a suite for three nights starting at €230 per family, per night. Babysitters are available with prior notice. Slick.
4. Ferricarrig Hotel and Leisure Club
3km from Wexford town
Why you'll love it: Ferricarrig is probably one of the best-known family resorts in the entire nation, but half of the fams I know have never visited. Don't be one of those peeps - find out what all the fuss is about. When you experience the Dermalogica wellness suite you'll understand. They also have a famous Technogym (if you're into that sort of thing) and a great indoor reception space for chilling with the children.
Why the kids will love it: The Crazy Clubbers kids club rocks. With dancing, drawing, football on the lawn and even a clown (a jovial non-scary one) this hotel is simply choc full of creative activities for the smallies (from 10am - 6pm).
Moolah: The current deal is three nights for €415 in a room overlooking the River Slaney with breakfast included.
5. Derrynane Hotel and Spa
In the famous Ring of Kerry
Why you'll love it: It's essentially 'nature's own spa' with walks, trails and golden beaches. The scenery is the best bit, with breathtaking views overlooking Kenmare Beach. If that doesn't do it for you there's an outdoor heated pool, a sauna, tennis courts and romantic horse riding lessons along the beach. Book me in please.
Why the kids will love it: The kids can explore and play endlessly in the huge playroom. If they are a little older they could try a beginners art class with resident artist, Helen Richmond. Culture and fun, eh?
Moolah: A four-night self-catering spa break is €375. Loving it.
6. Hodson Bay Hotel and Spa
Athlone, County Westmeath
Why you'll love it: Waste the hours just relaxing... or indulge in a Rasaul Mud steam followed by a Marine Discovery facial in the spa. Hell, yes.
Why the kids will love it: The viking boat cruise at the Hodson is brilliant. Water-trampolining is the most adventurous thing to do and should be attempted, wile the kid's club – for four to twelve year-olds – is amazing and your little VIPs will be supervised by the on-site leaders. They can expect quizzes, games, arts and craft and other fun stuff. Yay.
Moolah: A two-night break with dinner, bed and breakfast is €495. This also includes a complimentary activity voucher for you or the kids to spend on treatments in the spa or water-sports in the nearby bay.
7. Fota Island resort
Fota Island, Cork
Why you'll love it: The penultimate hotel on the list is awesome too, obvs. Nothing rivals this spot in terms of entertainment or activity, but the spa there is the best bit. It is the only hotel with a healing 'walking river'. There are also eighteen spa rooms and amazing treatments to choose from. You are guaranteed a perfect balance of both worlds.
Why the kids will love it: Did I mention the wildlife park? No other hotel can say that Giraffes and Cheetahs and Rhinos roam freely as you enjoy your latté. This place is in Ireland's top ten visitor attractions nationwide, too. Use up that kiddie energy in the hotel swimming pool, outdoor playground, massive playroom or tennis courts. Phew.
Moolah: A two-night break is €388. When you book the overnight stay you get complimentary tickets to the Wildlife park. In a word: savage. The hotel can tailor activities and wellness packages to suit your stay if you call in advance, (advisable for mid-term breaks and other holidays).
8. Kelly's Hotel and Spa
Rosslare, Wexford
Why you'll love it: Described as 'the jewel in Irish tourism', this hotel has a century of good service and has been reviewed positively everywhere from Trip Advisor to the Sunday Independent, and by many foreign travel bloggers. The beach is on the doorstep, the famed 'SeaSpa' is something very special, and the atmosphere in the bar and lobby is perhaps too comfortable for a glass or two of vino.
Why the kids will love it: There are celeb guest foodie events at the hotel where your kideens can join in on the fun with cookery workshops that are the best fun. You will ultimately have your own little personal chef to bring home after this mini-break - what a happy medium, eh? If that's not enough, there is activity-led 'Pirate and Starfish Kiddies Club' from 9.30am to 9pm and two swimming pools on site. Awesome.
Moolah: The current deal is three nights for €330 per family, when booking an Autumn deal anytime in November.
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