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30th September 2015
08:00am BST
Fota Island, 20 minutes from Cork City
Why you'll love it: I have always loved this place. When you can see beautiful animals running free (no, not in Copper Face Jacks) in green pastures and not a claustrophobic city zoo, you are winning. You know what else is refreshing? The list of activities in Fota Island to keep the little rugrats preoccupied while you enjoy the view. If you have pain in your shoulders from carrying the baby, visit the healing 'walking river'- it will ease away joint pain in no time. Bliss.
Why the kids will love it: Did we mention the wildlife park? 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. 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).
2. Inchydoney Island Lodge and Spa
Inchydoney Island, Clonakilty, West Cork
Why you'll love it: Grab a hot port from the bar, a novel from the in-house library and a comfy armchair -you'll feel removed from the hustle and bustle of city life in no time. The spa is a whole other story you need to read into.
Why the kids will love it: The Giant Connect Four game can keep the smallies happy all day and will be so cool for family Whatsapp snap shares. The children's lounge has everything. It's full of games, toys, and an Xbox to fulfill the inevitable screen-time quota. Should you wish, ponchos and beach toys are available at reception for some fun by the sea.
Moolah: The current deal is three nights in an ocean view self-catering apartment with two separate bedrooms to host a family of five. Housekeeping visit twice a week and a grocery delivery can be arranged. Prices start at €116 per night with a deposit of €150 required to hold the apartment. So brill.
3. Kelly's Hotel Resort and Spa
Kelly's Hotel, Rosslare, Wexford
Why you'll love it: This luxury escape is ranked in the top four-star luxury hotels in our fair isle. Take the kids here for their back-door beach, fabulous food and the famed century of good service (no joke). The outdoor Canadian hot-tub makes this spot the definition of a 'getaway'. Eh, and there is complimentary child-minding in the playroom from 7pm to 9pm. Yes, wow.
Why the kids will love it? The awesome Pirate and Starfish Kids's Club makes is the perfect destination for families. Kids can do fun stuff all day from 9.30am to 9pm for three euro per hour. The activities include drama and dressing-up, play-dough and painting all while Mum is in the resident hair dressers getting her hurr did. Swish.
Moolah: Family rooms need to be booked in advance. The current deal is full-board; breakfast, lunch and afternoon tea, for €143 per night, including free mid-week food demonstrations by celebrity guests. Cool.
4. Westport Woods Hotel and Spa
Westport Woods Hotel, on the outskirts of Westport town, Mayo
Why you'll love it: You could accuse me of being biased: I'm from Mayo and spent my childhood surfing outside Westport. I've even climbed Croagh Patrick over 25 times, but you'll understand why I love this place when you visit. Feel inspired by the stunning 365 islands in Clew Bay or go for a walk through the playgrounds in Westport House.
Why the kids will love it: The GoKids! club is set in Ireland's 'wild west'. The area is right in the middle of an area with six blue flag beaches, three adventure centres and a whole host of activity based day-trips. If that doesn't do it, the free activities club in the hotel will. Toddlers and teens camps run morning and evening.
Moolah: The current deal for families is a three-day bed and breakfast stay with two evening meals for €500.
If you'd like a hotel recommendation in your part of the country, mail karen.forde@herfamily.ie.
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