Rostrevor Holidays

A holiday with Grandparents

2012-02-07T06:50:00.000-08:00

I have been lucky enough to be blessed with a niece in the past year, and with that, my parents became first time Grandparents. The joy that the little girl brings to all in her extended family makes us wonder how we ever survived without her!

One of the best things about being a grandparent is having the benefit of interacting on a level that is once removed from the day-to-day responsibilities of being a parent. I know many Grandparents who relish the opportunity to share the things that they are passionate about with a new audience. Quite often, the grandchild brings a new way of seeing the world to their grandparents, through their younger eyes. Grand-parenting is an opportunity to play all those old games, to love someone new, to appreciate the developing mind, and to really feel needed by someone again.

A fantastic way to spend quality time with a grandchild is to get outside and enjoy nature. Whether that be by taking a walk with the pram along the Fairy Glen river, and reciting the folklore stories that you heard when growing up of fairy rings and castles. Or by taking a trip to Murlough Sand Dunes, to throw stones into the waves as they splash onto the beach. Children really enjoy the simple activities of exploring outdoors, and more importantly, having an adult that has the time to let them do so.

Taking a holiday with your grandchildren is another great idea. If you don't want to have the pressure of looking after them all by yourself, why not bring their parents along too? Rent somewhere big enough to give you all your own space, then take turns getting to spend fun holiday time with the children. The best thing about being away from home is the chance to be free of all the usual chores and commitments. Make sure the place is child-friendly, and provides essentials such as cots and highchairs, to make your holiday as stress free as possible.

An Irish Citizenship Test

2012-02-04T15:54:00.001-08:00

I received this in an email during the week. It made me laugh, so thought I'd share it here. Anyone know all the correct answers? Or perhaps if your parents were Irish you'll know some of these sayings.

An Irish citizenship test (think it's more of a culchie test!

1)You are told that someone is "going spare," should you
(a) Find him a job
(b) Find him a girlfriend
(c) Avoid him

2)Do your parents ever start conversations with "Do you know who's dead?"

3)Ming the Merciless is
(a) A comic book character
(b) A TD and Mayor from Co. Roscommon

4)What is a holy show?
(a) Religious programming
(b) Something garish worn without the wearer knowing the impact

5)Do you live in immortal fear of leaving the immersion on?

6)Someone says "I like your top." Your response is
(a) Thanks
(b) Penneys!

7)If a feature on the RTE news reports that an incident took place at tea time what time did the incident occur?

8)"Story horse!" translates as
(a) A child's toy
(b) A greeting between friends

9)"Bleedin rappih" means
(a) It's very fast
(b) It's very good

10)If someone was a 'gas man', would they
(a) work for the gas company
(b) be really funny

11)You'll get "some land" means
(a) you're about to become the owner of some property
(b) you're about to be surprised

12)Do you have an ineradicable belief in the restorative powers of flat 7up?

13)When you're telling someone a great yarn and they implore you to "Stop," do you
(a) stop
(b) keep going with gusto

(14)If someone offers to "put you in the pot", should you
(a) flee from the cannibals
(b) accept their kind offer of dinner

It takes a long time to grow an old friend.

2012-01-10T13:19:00.000-08:00

Ah January - it's good to see you again. The month to feel gloomy and to pile the guilt on oneself when the annual resolutions get rolled out again. Going to grow a six pack, train for a marathon, learn Mandarin... The more years I get through, the shorter the resolution attempts last! This year is different though. This year I am trying something positive. A resolution that not only is fun in the process, but brings a positive outcome. The plan is to make more time for friends and family.

As the saying goes, it takes a long time to grow an old friend, and there is nothing as relaxing as just hanging out with those you know best. Perhaps you've moved away from Ireland and have raised a family elsewhere, how about coming back to rediscover where you grew up? Lots has changed here, and there is a wealth of new activities and opportunities to find out. Discover Northern Ireland is full of ideas to give you inspiration. Quite often when a person lives in an area, they miss out on the new attractions, so how about planning a trip up to the Titanic Belfast which opens on the 31st March. If you're more into the outdoors, have a look on Outdoor NI's website. You might even think of signing up for 26Extreme's Mourne Way Marathon in June.

So throw out the negative resolutions, and break out the box of chocolates, and email a friend or family member and organise a trip home. Just make sure to pack a camera to capture the memories you make.

Mulled apple juice at Rostrevor Holidays

2011-12-19T12:36:00.000-08:00

It's all so festive, the lights are sparkling, the music is playing... but I have to remind myself it is only a Monday night! So to help me along with my Christmas decorating at Rostrevor Holidays, I made some warm mulled apple juice this evening. It is so nice, that I thought I had to share it with you! Our neighbouring county of Armagh is the Orchard of Ireland afterall... so we may as well make the most of it!

(Sorry - no exact measures, as I'm not great at cooking that way!)

Apple Juice (I used a litre of cloudy apple juice)
3 Star Anise
1 Cinnamon Stick
6 All Spice Berries
6 Cloves
6 Cardamom Pods
Stem Ginger in Syrup
1 Orange.

Put the spices into a piece of muslin cloth, break up the cinnamon stick slightly, and tie with some string - I used a new j-cloth as I didn't have any other muslin cloth to hand. Pour the apple juice into a saucepan and put over a gentle heat, add the spice bouquet. Take the zest off the orange in strips with a vegetable peeler, and add to the apple juice. Cut the orange into wedges and add to pan. Finally, take a couple of pieces of stem ginger and roughly chop, and add to the pan, with some of the syrup.

Let the mixture heat, and the flavours infuse for about 5 minutes. I used a wooden spoon to stir and press the flavours out.

Serve in a mug and enjoy! Preferably in front of an open fire.

Open Fireplace at Owenabwee, Rostrevor Holidays

A Day out in Rostrevor on a Budget

2011-12-07T05:10:00.000-08:00

Descent from Slieve Martin

It's great to get away on holidays, a chance to leave everything stressful behind, and just relax - whether relaxation for you means getting out on your bike to hit some trails, or enjoying the art at a local gallery. One thing that can stay, is the stress of money - especially if you're taking the family away - a brood of children isn't cheap! So I thought I would give some ideas on what I like to do with groups, whilst keeping the costs down!

Picnic Time

Woodland Treats!

First things first - pack a picnic! That doesn't mean some soggy sambos and bruised fruit - why not take the opportunity to live like a local? I recommend getting some nice fresh bread - Warrenpoint has 2 great bakeries, O'Hares and The Corn Dolly - My recommendation for O'Hares are the yummy crusty rolls, or the lodgers loaf. If going to The Corn Dolly - don't forget to pick up some fantastic local traybakes... from rice krispie squares to fifteens - there is too much choice, so perhaps just ask for a mixture! Eurospar in Warrenpoint is a shop that never fails to surprise me with what they have in stock, and have a pretty good stock of fruit and vegetables too. Head around to John Magee's Butcher on Church Street for your deli counter options.

Stay Local

Picking Woodland Sorrel

Kilbroney Park is a beautiful forest park with almost 100 acres of scenic parkland. Free entry and parking keeps the cost down. My favourite walk is to start at the Forestry Office (red building on right as you enter park), and follow the trail up through the Oak Forest to Fiddlers' Green. From here, follow the steep path up to Clough Mor, (or The Big Stone), which both adults and children alike will enjoy climbing.

Climbing CloughMor

After a stop for some energy refuelling (a good time for the traybakes perhaps?!) follow the path that loops up and around the curve of the mountain towards Slieve Martin. The last part up the steep grass slopes is tough, but the views from the top are well worth it! If it isn't too windy, take your lunch here, or perhaps head back down towards the shelter of the trees.

View on path across to Slieve Martin

Follow the path down the trees (or the zig zags as they're known locally), then continue down the Forest Drive towards the bridge. From here you can take the river path back down to the playground at Kilbroney Park.

River Trail Alongside Forest Drive

During the winter we like to finish our day with a nice hot chocolate back at Rostrevor Holidays - topped with cream and marshmallows of course! Whilst during the summer it's a trip into The Genoa at Warrenpoint for their unmissable home-made ice-cream.

View across to Cranfield on Slieve Martin

Santa's Cottage

2011-12-01T13:29:00.000-08:00

It's that time of the year again, when the lights sparkle, and spending time with friends and family is a great excuse to relax in front of an open fire and eat all the food that comes along! If you need some Christmas Cheer this year, look no further than Santa's cottage near Rostrevor Holidays.

You will find the official Irish residence of Santa deep in the heart of the countryside of the Mournes. An absence of buildings and lights for the last several miles of the journey along the road to Santa's Cottage adds to the magic. Children love the experience of a visit, but I know quite a few adults who will use any excuse to visit! Don't forget to keep a look out for Rudolph...

If you pay a visit to Santa's cottage this weekend, there are a couple of other ideas to get you on your festive way...

YWAM are having a Christmas Fayre this weekend, Friday 2nd from 6-10pm and Saturday 3rd December from 10am-6pm. You will be greeted in from the cold with some festive mulled punch on the Friday evening and on Saturday there will be free facepainting for the kids. There will be a variety of handcrafted goods for sale as well as a cafe selling homebaked treats and fairtrade tea and coffee. FREE ADMISSION. Hope to see you there (An Cuan, 44 Shore Road, Rostrevor).

Christmas begins in Warrenpoint with the Yuletide Fayre on Sunday 4th December. There will be approximately 40 stalls selling local based products for Christmas. There will be a carol service, school choirs and local brass band all taking part in the event.

Entertainment will run from 12.00 noon - 6.00 pm in Warrenpoint Park
Free admission

Blackrock Secret Garden Market

2011-11-11T09:06:00.000-08:00

If you fancy doing something a bit different this weekend, why not head over to the Blackrock Secret Garden Market, in County Louth. Running from 10 am until 4pm, this recently started market, is held in a secret, pretty courtyard behind the Cross Cause Charity Shop, on the Main Street of Blackrock.

A couple of weeks ago I was in Blackrock at the Cross Cause Charity Shop, and was shown around the area where the market happens. It really is a different place, so I took some quick photos on my phone to give you an idea.

The Alley leading into the secret garden has been redesigned as an old shop with antique panels and fittings.

The various sheds used for stalls are painted pretty colours. Check out the ornate swing seat in the left of the picture.

At the back of the garden is an old style shop. Unfortunately the ice-cream sign wasn't lit for my visit, but I'm amazed at the collection of old cereal, tea, and other grocery boxes.

With exhibitors including MayRose Cakes, Scentsy Wickless Candles, Curry Sauce.ie, Forever Living, Gerry Fey, Dunleer based jeweller, Soul Bakery, and much more including local jam producers. Part of the income from the market goes to the Cross Cause Charity which helps orphans in Romania - so why not go treat yourself to something nice on a Saturday, safe in the knowledge you are doing something good at the same time! Cross Cause Charity Information

www.rostrevorholidays.com

Cranfield Beach

2011-11-08T12:52:00.000-08:00

Whilst out for a walk on Cranfield beach with my friend and my dog the other day , I was stopped by a lady carrying out a questionnaire. Stricter controls on coastal quality are to be brought in over the next couple of years, and the Government is trying to assess what value people in Northern Ireland put on the use of the beaches and their environment. As someone who values the local area highly, both out of personal usage, and for the importance of its beauty for my work, I am pleased to see that the Government recognises some its shortcomings in not only protecting the area, but also in educating people visiting the area.

Amongst the questions presented, was a list of pictures of sea birds and animals. The respondent was asked to name each one. I am ashamed to say, that although I recognised each one straight away, many of the names eluded me. It got me wondering, however, if such knowledge is important in order to benefit from the nature of these animals? I enjoy taking my walk along Cranfield beach, and admiring the various birds swooping and diving over the waves, or the little ones that run quickly inwards as the tide rushes towards them, only to follow it back again. However, I think it would be interesting if I was able to identify species... I would then know what they are searching for, or whether they are moving off to warmer climes soon. Or in fact, have they arrived here as we have a warmer clime?

We continued our walk around the beach from Cranfield, under the old wooden pier at Greencastle, and perched ourselves at the end and admired the view down the Lough, with the Cooleys on the left and the Mourne Mountains on our left. We both commented that sometimes it isn't that we don't value the area around us, it's just that we are blessed to live in an area with such beauty that it is hard to remember it all!

What to do on a Rainy Day?

2011-11-03T06:21:00.000-07:00

Well let's face it - we don't have the 40 shades of green here without some rainfall! Of course there are the various types of rainy days, and they have a different impact of how your day might go. Whilst out in Rostrevor's Kilbroney Park with a group of German guests, it began to rain but one of them announced there was no need to head home, sure it was only "dry rain". Obviously he had spent too long in Northern Ireland and had learnt the difference! On the other side is what we call "Scotch Mist", one of those days when the climate is what seems to be a misty day, but in reality is very fine (but of the soaking variety) steady drizzle. The joke being that only the Scots and the Irish would dismiss it as "mist"! Unfortunately today we're facing what can only be described as torrential rain, so as the outside gets a good cleaning, what is there to do indoors?

What to do on a Rainy Day?
Film Watching. There is nothing better than a rainy day to have the excuse to head to the cinema, buy yourself some popcorn, and get lost in the story for a couple of hours. We have 3 cinemas within easy driving of Rostrevor. Newry Omniplex gives you the chance to do some shopping in the Quays. Don't forget to pick up your free parking coupon when paying. Further afield, Queens Film Theatre in Belfast shows a mixture of new and classic world cinema.

Newry Omniplex at The Quays, Newry (20 minute drive) ph: 028 3025 2233
Iveagh Movie Studio, Banbridge (30 minute drive) ph: 028 4066 2666
Eclipse Cinemas, Downpatrick (40 minute drive) ph: 028 4461 6777
Queens Film Theatre, Belfast (60 minute drive) ph: 028 9097 1097

A trip to the Museum

The range and diversity of themes is enormous - from maritime history and mythology to transport and trade; Irish language and Ulster linen to militaria and music; old schools and old mills to cutting-edge art and science.

Ulster Museum, Belfast

Come face to face with dinosaurs, meet an Egyptian Mummy and see modern masterpieces with a visit to the Ulster Museum. As Northern Ireland’s treasure house of the past and present, the museum is home to a rich collection of art, history and natural sciences and free to all visitors. From Ireland to the South Pacific, ancient relics to hands on activities, the museum offers something for everyone from the simply curious to the enthusiast. Museum opening times: Tuesday to Sunday 10am - 5pm, open bank holiday Mondays.

Saint Patrick's Trian Visitor Complex, Armagh

This visitor complex in the heart of Armagh City; it incorporates 3 exhibitions The Armagh Story, Patrick’s Testament and The Land of Lilliput. The Armagh Story which details Armagh’s historic Pagan monuments through to the coming of St Patrick. While Patrick’s Testament exhibition takes a more in depth look at St Patrick through ‘The Book of Armagh’. The third exhibition is The Land of Lilliput which is inspired by Jonathan Swift’s book Gulliver’s Travels.

Down County Museum

The museum is located in the historic buildings of the eighteenth century County Gaol of Down. In addition to walking through the restored complex complete with cells, visitors can learn more about 9000 years of human history in County Down in the newly launched exhibitions Down Through Time.

Armagh Planetarium, Armagh

How about a visit to a planetarium? The Armagh Planetarium offers a chance to explore the universe with hands on computers in the Hall of Astronomy. The multimedia Star show is a unique visitor experience

Water, water, everywhere...
Why not take lead from this example and head to a swimming pool or a spa? Or perhaps go to an aquarium.

Kilkeel Swimming Pool

Ozone pool (no chlorine) with Jacuzzi, Sauna, and Steam Room. The pool has a split level floor so can be a 25m pool, or a 18m pool with beginner pool. Friendly staff. It is advisable to ring for opening times. Mourne Esplanade, Kilkeel. From Kilkeel centre follow signposts. 028 4175 4666

Lagan Valley LeisurePlex, Lisburn

A really fun pool, with good slides. Opening times alternate, so it is worthwhile ringing to check when to visit. I would advise visiting when all water flumes and slides are open. Lots of fun for all ages! , Leisure (028) 9267 2121
There is plenty to do in the surrounding area as well, with a cinema, and plenty of places to eat. Could be an ideal option after a visit to Belfast, or a rainy day.
Peak Time prices are Child £5, Adult £6.50, with different prices and offers on.

Exploris Aquarium, Portaferry.

Exploris is Northern Ireland's public Aquarium and seal sanctuary. Discovery pool demonstrations, run by experienced guides at regular intervals throughout each day, give you the opportunity to interact with a variety of living marine animals.

You can see how Exploris rehabilitates Northern Ireland's sick, injured or orphaned seals back to health in the seal sanctuary. The Aquarium presents the wonders of the Irish Sea through an enjoyable and interactive experience.
If you wish to leave your car and go as a foot passenger, the aquarium is less than a 5 minute walk from the ferry. Phone: 028 4272 8062
Prices: Adult £7, Concession and children £4. Family (2A, 3Ch) £22. (1A, 3 Concessions) £19.50. Under 4s Free.
Opening Hours: Off Peak 10-5 Mon-Fri, 11-5 Sat, 1-5 Sun. Peak 10-6 Mon-Fri, 11-6 Sat, 12-6 Sun

Soak Seaweed Baths, Newcastle

A modern take on an old tradition, seaweed bathing has enriched the lives of the people on this island for more than a century. In Victorian times hot seawater baths were all the rage.

Spa at Slieve Donard, Newcastle

The Spa at Slieve Donard rivals any other Spa in Europe today. Designed in conjunction with ESPA, the world’s leading Spa company, the Spa is situated over two floors, with stunning views across the Irish sea and the Mourne Mountains.

Some other ideas:

Climbing Wall at Tollymore Mountain Centre, Tollymore Forest.

Ring 028 4372 2158 for further details.

Ice Skating at Dundonald, Belfast 028 9080 9100

Olympic size ice rink. Public sessions throughout the week with DJ sessions at weekends and on holidays. Ring for details. Ten pin bowling and indoor Indiana Land playground (for ages up to 12) also on site. Ring for details on opening hours and prices. Outside is Pirates Adventure Golf, a 36 hole adventure golf course.

W5 Who What Where When Why, Belfast

With nearly 200 amazing interactive exhibits in four incredible exhibition areas, W5 provides a unique experience as well as fantastic fun for visitors of all ages. In addition to permanent exhibits, W5 also presents a changing programme of large and small scale temporary exhibitions and events. We have a daily programme of live science demonstrations and shows throughout the day.

W5’s location, on the bank of the River Lagan, at Odyssey, the Northern Ireland Landmark Millennium Project, provides spectacular views of Belfast and the River and is only a short walk from Belfast City Centre.

Advertised Opening Times (Please ring and check) Monday - Friday 10am - 5pm, last admission 4pm, Saturday 10am - 6pm, last admission 5pm, Sunday 12pm - 6pm, last admission 5pm

Directions: From M1 approaching Belfast cross straight onto Broadway and then straight onto the Westlink following signs for M3/City Airport. Once on the M3 take the first exit entitled ´Queen´s Island´. Turn left at the lights onto Sydenham Road, the Odyssey complex is situated on the right and carpark on the left. On site car parking (charged).

Prices: Adult £7.70, Child: £5.70 (3 – 16, U3s Free), Concessions £6.20, Family from £21 (1A, 3Ch).

Coco’s Indoor Playground

Main Promenade, Newcastle. www.cocosplayground.co.uk 028 4372 6226
Opening Hours:
Summer, July and August, 10am – 9pm daily
Bank Holidays 12.30pm – 8pm
Rest of the Year weekdays: 1.30pm – 8pm, Sat & Sun: 10am – 8pm
Disco every Friday, 7-10pm, 5yrs – 14 yrs, £3.50 admission.
Coco’s is situated opposite the Newcastle Centre just off the Main Street, Newcastle.
Normal Admission, 90mins, 3yrs and under £3.30, 4yrs and over £4.50, special needs, free.
Facilities include café, toilets, birthday parties, and group rates.

Sheepbridge Bowling and Cheeky Monkeys

028 3026 0000
10 pin bowling Price £4.50 per adult £4 per child, reduction of 50p on second game.
Cheeky Monkeys is an indoor playground for children up to the age of 12.

Directions. From Newry take the road sign posted Belfast. At roundabout before motorway, take the road signposted Sheepbridge. The bowling centre and cheeky monkeys building is on your right. Ring for opening times.

Changing Clocks

2011-10-30T10:40:00.000-07:00

So we got an extra hour of sleep this morning, but the pay off is the darker evenings. At this time of the year, I need to remind myself of the positives winter brings with it! The log fires are back on, and cadburys does well with the increase sales of drinking chocolate. All those movies I was too busy to watch during the summer, well it's time for a catch up! Food changes from the cold salads to warming soups, and the feeding at the bird tables brings the opportunity to sit and eat breakfast whilst watching robins, jays, wrens, and thrushes, eat the bread.

In Rostrevor I love the clear early mornings that Winter often brings. Down at sea level it may seem a dull day, but a cycle up Slieve Martin is like heading up in a plane - the sun is shining, and that cloud that seemed so dull only half an hour ago is now as pretty as fluffy cotton wool lining the lower mountain range. If you have the energy, a spin out over the back of Ballyedmond is a must on a clear day, if only for the views (and of course Fern Gully!)

For now though, it's time to light the fire and relax with a cup of hot chocolate - need to store up some energy for the mountain biking!

Top photo courtesy of Not the Sunday Run www.notthesundayrun.com View from above Cloc Mor
Second photo courtesy of Honcho Designs