It was a wet and windy Friday afternoon when we arrived at the four star Delphi Adventure Resort in Leenane, Connemara. We left our eldest teen at home and were looking forward to some adventures with our two sixteen year olds. We received an invite to come and stay for a few days and considering how much we love this part of Ireland, we were delighted to have the chance to return to Connemara.

For anyone who hasn’t been to Delphi before, it’s hard to describe just how majestic the mountains are that surround this luxury 300 acre resort. I’d recommend driving the extra 15 minutes through Doolough Valley on your way to Delphi to see the Wild Atlantic Way at its finest.

When we arrived, the car park was busy as it’s a very popular retreat for adventurous families and couples alike. There was a warm welcome in reception, from the staff and the surroundings. The fire was lit and people were relaxing in cosy armchairs with hot drinks and newspapers. Walking poles leaning against the armchairs gave away what they’d been doing for the afternoon.

At Delphi, you can leave the glad rags at home. Guests walk around in sports gear giving a nod to the adventure activities that available to visitors.

Our Bedroom

There are five different accommodation options when you stay at Delphi. We had a one-bedroom family suite (Room 15A) which was a large bedroom with an even larger bed and a set of bunk beds in the living room. The room, located in the Courtyard, felt large enough for four however there were only two glasses and two mugs so I suspect the room would usually cater for two.

There was no television in the room which is highlighted as a positive feature in the welcome letter and I agree. Delphi promote mindulfuness and total relaxation at the Resort. In fact there is no mobile phone network and a poor WiFi connection (0.6 Mbps download and 0 Mbps upload!). However this is part of the appeal. Teens (and adults) can’t scroll mindlessly on social media or even check email easily. There’s nothing to do except read, enjoy the views and get out and about in nature.

Our bedroom had air conditioning which is an added bonus however it kept resetting itself to 24 degrees. Perhaps I was setting it incorrectly. 

There was a large furnished balcony which would’ve been a lovely place to relax with the family on long summer evenings. Unfortunately the weather limited our use of the balcony on this visit.

HOSTEL

For larger families or groups, it’s worthwhile checking out the Wild Atlantic hostel next door the hotel. It’s modern, clean and affordable. I know of a few friends who took their kids there for a break over the summer and they raved about it afterwards.

Dinner at Delphi

Usually, guests have the option of enjoying dinner in the bar or the restaurant however, due to restrictions, all guests now eat in the 814 restaurant. They do, however, have then choice of the bar menu or the more expensive set menu.

For our first night we choose the bar menu and enjoyed a steak sandwich, two Hereford beef burgers and a fish and chips. The food was really tasty and filling however we still managed to squeeze in a shared Eton Mess for dessert.

There’s a kids menu for €12.50 which is fantastic value and for the grown-ups the set menu is 2 courses for €33 or 3 courses for €38.

On the second night, we went for the set menu and I enjoyed Tempura Prawns followed by the lamb followed apple and blackberry pudding. The lamb could’ve been more tender but the flavours were delicious. James and the kids all enjoyed their meals too. The service in the restaurant on both evenings was excellent. We had the same waitress at every meal and she couldn’t do enough for us. 

Remember to book all meals in advance on the Delphi Resort website to ensure you get the chance to dine at your preferred time.

Breakfast at Delphi

At Delphi, you have to order your cold breakfast items the night before and then order the hot food at the table. The first morning we were conscious of our planned activities so we went for pancakes and porridge which were all tasty. The coffee wasn’t great so the next morning, we asked for americanos and our server was more than happy to indulge our coffee request.

ADVENTURE 

If you are planning to do some activities during your stay, please note that all activities must be booked and paid for in advance. Delphi arranged for us to enjoy a half day activity during our stay. There are different activities scheduled on different days and that day we could choose between high ropes, archery or kayaking. We chose, well I chose, kayaking. 

We walked over to the Adventure Hub to meet Peter our instructor and were fitted for wetsuits. After changing we got our car and drove the three minutes to the kayaking base.

After getting our helmets and life jackets, Peter ran through the basic skills of kayaking and then we lifted our single kayaks into the water. It was very overcast and dull but the water was surprisingly warm. There were eight of us kayaking in the group and Peter recommended we play some games in the water to build up our confidence. Peter was a terrific instructor and very patient. We were lucky to have had him as an instructor.

The weather lifted a little as we paddled out into the Fjord. We stopped at a waterfall, beached the kayaks and Peter showed us how we could safely climb into the rushing water. I wasn’t sure if I would be brave enough to do it but I did and was glad afterwards that I did.

After changing into dry clothes at the car, we headed over to the, now famous, Misunderstood Heron for lunch. There was no queue which was a surprise considering it was a Saturday. We had beef, caramelised onions and black olives pasties and the special cake of the day while taking in the stunning views over Killary Fjord.

Spa

All adults staying at Delphi are entitled to a complimentary hour in the thermal suite. This hour must be booked in advance as there are restrictions on how many people can use the spa at one time. James and I booked an hour in the afternoon however I felt it was still a little too busy for me when we went. We were given a robe and slippers but weren’t given any towels so we ended up leaving after ten minutes. I have been to Delphi once before with friends (pre-Covid) and remember using the spa then and felt that it was a really lovely experience so it seems we were just unlucky this time.

Overall, we really enjoyed our two night stay at Delphi Adventure Resort in Connemara. It’s a wonderful way to get from it all with your teenagers and spend quality time together. Special offer family packages start from €416. To book your own adventure at Delphi, head over to the Delphi Adventure Resort website for more information.

Disclaimer :

We were guests at Delphi Adventure Resort for our two night stay. Please note that all photos and words are 100% honest and our own opinion.

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Boyne Valley has something to suit everyone and every family. Adventures awaits at ancient monuments and medieval castles, or the thrills of family adventures centres and theme parks. The region is also home to many tracks, trails and greenways and other outdoors activities for the whole family to enjoy,. After all that fresh air, why not treat yourself to some delicious Boyne Valley food and drink and relax in one of their many accommodation options.

The Boyne Valley, it’s time to enjoy…

Top things to do in the Boyne Valley with Teens

Battle of the Boyne Centre

Boyne Boats

White River Karting

Slane Castle

Top places to stay in the Boyne Valley with Teens

Glenside Hotel in Drogheda

Conyngham Arms Hotel Slane

Decoy Country Cottages

Discover Boyne Valley

To find out more about what there is to do in the area for families with teenagers, head to Discover Boyne Valley for even more information and holiday inspiration.

Disclaimer

We were enjoyed this press trip as guests of Discover Boyne Valley. All words and images are our own and 100% honest.

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We arrived at Decoy Country Cottages wet and weary after battling the inclement weather during our last day visiting the Boyne Valley with the kids. We couldn’t have asked for nicer accommodation for our last night. Just 30 minutes from Dublin, Decoy County Cottages are in Lismullin near Navan in Co. Meath and are the perfect place to stay if you like self-catering, which we do.

We met Paula, the owner of Decoy Country Cottages, who proudly told us all about their eco-friendly credentials and how she restored the stable mews a few years. Decoy Country Cottages have also won many awards including ‘Best Tourism Business in Meath’ and ‘Ireland’s Best Holiday Home’.

There are eight gorgeous cottages in this private gated accommodation ranging from one to four bedrooms. We were staying at ‘The Coach House’ and it was the perfect home away from home. We have booked and stayed in lots of self-catering accommodation in Ireland as a family over the years however this was by far the nicest. I was only in the door when I was looking up the booking engine for early next year to return with extended family.

They have thought of everything from the welcome basket (full of useful things like bread, eggs, marmalade, butter and more) to the stocked stove in the living room. Usually when we stay in self-catering we bring bits and pieces from the kitchen for cooking however everything was supplied here, from olive oil to spices to kitchen roll to bin bags. There was even an apron!

There’s a separate space called ‘The Den’ which is the playroom/pool room/gym. It has DVDs, games and a playstation. My two 16 year olds disappeared off there for a couple of hours in the evenings. There’s also a fab outside space with playground, BBQ and seating area that would be a lovely place to hang out with friends on a warm summer evening.

There’s solar panels on all the roofs, underfloor heating and even a charging point which came in very handy.

This level of superior self-catering doesn’t come cheap however I noticed that the longer you book, the cheaper it is per night. For example, three nights in The Coach House in mid July 2022 would cost €941 however seven nights would cost €1391. You can book with the flexibility of an excellent cancellation policy too. The website states that “You can cancel up to 14 days before the check-in date”.

Discover Boyne Valley

To find out more about what there is to do in the area for families with teenagers, read our ’48 hours in the Boyne Valley with teenagers’ guide or head to Discover Boyne Valley for even more information and holiday inspiration.

Disclaimer

We stayed at Decoy Country Cottages as guests of Discover Boyne Valley. Our words and images are our own and 100% honest.

The post Discovering Boyne Valley with Teens – A stay at Decoy Country Cottages appeared first on Saucepan Kids.

Going to a gig in Slane Castle seems to have been a rite of passage for some people growing up in Ireland. It’s amazing to think that this year marks the 40th anniversary of the first Slane gig with Thin Lizzy in 1981.

I was never lucky enough to get to Slane until now. It wasn’t an actual concert but at least it was a chance for my family and I to finally see this historical landmark castle.

After parking the car in the free car park, we strolled around the new Summer Walking Trail that is due to open fully soon. It takes you through a previously private of the 1,500 acre estate behind the castle out into the Concert field, allowing you to take in the stunning scenery of the castle grounds and River Boyne.

There was such an amazing buzz about the place with families collecting their kids from Fairy School Camp and visitors wandering around the grounds. Despite the bad weather there were lots of people visiting the Slane distillery gift shop (we may have made some purchases there ourselves!).

We got a hot drink from the lovely guys at food truck which is open on site from Wednesdays to Sundays 10am-4pm). 

Outdoor Dining

James and I promised ourselves that we would come back and spend an evening enjoying the outdoor dining in the Courtyard. They have transformed the area into a cocktail bar and taqueria serving Mexican tacos and small plates under the giant marquee. I’d love to try one of Gillian Boyle’s award-winning cocktails too. Tickets have to be pre-booked in advance.

Alternatively, you can book tickets to the Alta Summer House for an extra special dinner. Dubliners will already know about Alta Wine Bar who have relocated to The Boat House Field near the Castle. Make the experience even more special by staying over night in Slane Castle (limited room availability) or glamping at Rock Farm. Prices start from €95 per person. Tickets must be booked in advance.

We were hoping to pop over the visit nearby Rock Farm Slane, known for it’s glamping, ecotourism, activities and organic farm, but the weather had other plans so we’ve planned a return trip where we hope to try out the popular glamping for the first time. o

Castle Tours

If you make to Slane Castle be sure to book in advance for one of their 45 minute guided historical tours around the Castle. It’s so beautiful inside, it’s a must for anyone visiting. Tickets cost €14 per adult and €8.40 per child.

To find out more about Slane Castle, head to their website SlaneCastle.ie

Discover Boyne Valley

To find out more about what there is to do in the area for families with teenagers, read our ’48 hours in the Boyne Valley with teenagers’ guide or head to Discover Boyne Valley for even more information and holiday inspiration.

Disclaimer

We visited Slane Castle as guests of Discover Boyne Valley. All photos and words are 100% honest and our own.

The post Discovering the Boyne Valley with Teens – A visit to Slane Castle appeared first on Saucepan Kids.

We woke up to a very wet and windy morning in Boyne Valley and we were due to go karting with White River Park in Collon, Co. Louth, Ireland’s premier outdoor karting facility. A quick call to them confirmed that it could still go ahead and that there were no issues around safety even in the rain.

When we got there, the girls and I chickened out however that didn’t stop the boys who practically ran into White River when we arrived.

First things first, paperwork, as James was karting with a minor, he had to fill out paperwork for him too. They also had to choose what kind of race they wanted to do Club or International. After brief discussion, they settled on the Club circuit.

After getting suited up, they were both taken for a lengthy safety briefing about the what was safe and what wasn’t and what each of the flags meant. I joined them and couldn’t get over how much there was to remember.

After the briefing they were taken out to get comfortable in their Birel Art karts and had an intro lap behind the ‘safety kart’. They there off… Their speed was obviously affected by the rain but they still had a blast.

I was able to watch from the comfort of the safety viewing area upstairs and I’ll be honest there were a few moments I wish I’d been braver and joined them.

After racing for what seemed like ages, they came back into the pits happy and tired.

Tickets can be booked online and prices for karting on the Club circuit start from €25 per person.

This is an activity that really is suitable for all ages. All equipment is provided. Please note that height restrictions (of 152cm min) do apply for the senior circuits.

Discover Boyne Valley

To find out more about what there is to do in the area for families with teenagers, read our ’48 hours in the Boyne Valley with teenagers’ guide ‘ or head to Discover Boyne Valley for even more information and holiday inspiration.

Disclaimer

We visited White River Park as guests of Discover Boyne Valley. All photos and words are our own and 100% honest.

The post Discovering the Boyne Valley with Teens – a visit to White River Karting appeared first on Saucepan Kids.

We arrived into the historic village of Slane, weary after a fun day exploring Boyne Valley with the kids. We were booked into the Conyngham Arms Hotel which is located right in the centre of the village, in fact if you didn’t know it was there you could drive straight past it. It’s in an excellent location, 30 minutes from Dublin Airport and the World Heritage Site, Newgrange and the Battle of the Boyne Site are just minutes away.

After parking in the free car park behind the hotel, we checked in. We were lucky enough to have two rooms so there was plenty of space for everyone. It’s worth noting that there’s no lift in this hotel so if you have lots of luggage you might be carrying your bags up two flights of stairs.

Bedrooms

There 15 bedrooms in the hotel, 4 luxury four poster bed suites and 11 standard rooms and they are just beautifully decorated. From Nespresso machines and quality waffle robes to artisan handmade soaps and Voya bathrooms products, there’s a real attention to detail in the rooms. I was also delighted to see that water was available in a large glass bottle in the room, no plastic waste here.

Food

There is a lounge area in the hotel called the Library, however it was closed while we were there. There’s a relatively large restaurant in the hotel however I would recommend booking in advance to be sure of a table.

The evening dinner menu was limited but the food we ordered was excellent. My son and I had the buttermilk chicken burger and we both agreed it was the best we’d ever tasted. Everyone else around the table was happy with what they’d ordered.

After all our fresh air that day we all had an early night however there was loud music being played in a nearby beer garden which delayed our sleep.

In the morning, we headed downstairs for breakfast. There was a lovely breakfast menu and the food was definitely freshly cooked. The coffee was the best I’d tasted in a hotel in a long time and again we were delighted to be asked if we wanted toast instead of just bringing it to the table.

I also really liked the mini breakfast idea (pictured below) which was a smaller version of the full Irish and was the perfect portion for an early breakfast.

To book your Slane escape, head to the Conyngham Arms Hotel website.

The hotel offers good value two night family packages which include afternoon tea and 4 passes and all access wristbands to nearby Tayto Park and a family pass to Newgrange. Family package prices start from €450.

Discover Boyne Valley

To find out more about what there is to do in the area for families with teenagers, read our ’48 hours in the Boyne Valley with teenagers’ guide or head to Discover Boyne Valley for even more information and holiday inspiration.

Disclaimer

We stayed at the Conyngham Arms Hotel as guests of Discover Boyne Valley. All opinions and photos are our own and 100% honest.

The post Discovering the Boyne Valley with Teens – A stay at the Conyngham Arms Hotel in Slane appeared first on Saucepan Kids.

The family run and family oriented Glenside Hotel is located only 2km from the busy town of Drogheda. As it’s only 20 minutes away from Dublin Airport, it’s a handy base for exploring the Boyne Valley.

It’s a lovely small 3-star hotel with only 17 bedrooms. You can check in from 2pm which is earlier than most hotels which is so handy if you and your family are tired from sightseeing. There’s plenty of parking so when we arrived in the rain, we didn’t have far to run with our bags.

When we checked in, I admired the decor and the receptionist proudly told me that the hotel has recently renovated the area. There was a lovely homely feel to the place and I instantly felt relaxed.

There’s no leisure facilities but if you and the kids would like a swim, you can pop over to Funtasia Waterpark which is only ten minutes away. Talking of family -friendly things to do nearby, Tayto Park is only 25 minutes away and Dublin Zoo is 35 minutes by car.

Bedrooms

The hotel has a number of family rooms which have a double bed, single bed and a camp bed or cot. Perfect for a family of four. The bedrooms are comfy and nicely decorated. The bathrooms were a little dated but they were clean and functional and the shower was excellent.

Dinner at Glenside

We headed into Henry’s restaurant which had lovely seating outside but the weather was cold and wet so we chose to sit inside. The restaurant was pretty busy with families who weren’t staying but were there to enjoy the food.

There was a wide selection of dishes available and the meals we ordered were tasty and excellent value.

Breakfast at Glenside

A continental breakfast is served Monday to Friday. Hot breakfasts are only served on Saturday and Sunday mornings from 8am.

I liked the fact that when we ordered, we were asked if we wanted toast. On that occasion we didn’t so it meant that there was no food wasted. You can order fruit and a selection of pastries to the table. A few of us ordered pancakes which were freshly cooked and they tasted just like we’d made them ourselves at home.

If you’re interested in finding out more about Glenside, head over to their website https://www.glensidehotel.ie

Discover Boyne Valley

To find out more about what there is to do in the area for families with teenagers, read our ’48 hours in the Boyne Valley with teenagers’ guide or head to Discover Boyne Valley for even more information and holiday inspiration.

Disclaimer

We stayed at Glenside Hotel as guests of Discover Boyne Valley. All photos and words are our own and 100% honest.

The post Discovering the Boyne Valley with Teens – A stay at Glenside Hotel in Drogheda appeared first on Saucepan Kids.

What better way to experience the history of the Boyne Valley than from a hand-crafted Irish traditional currach on the canal.

On our first afternoon, we had the privilege of meeting Ross Kenny who proudly runs Boyne Boats which has won the Best Boyne Valley Tourism Experience.

Ross told us in advance of our visit to park at The Battle of the Boyne Visitor Centre and walk the 10-15 mins to meet him at the lock house for the Boyne Boats paddling tour.

Before even getting in the boat, Ross spent a few minutes talking about the important topics of hygiene and safety. We all had to sanitise our hands before putting on our life vests.

The boat can comfortably accommodate between six and eight people. Once we were all safely installed on board, Ross handed us all a traditional wooden paddle to use. There were lighter aluminium ones paddles available for those who found the wooden a little too heavy to use.

Ross told us how this beautiful handcrafted traditional Kerry Naomhog currach boat had starred in in the famous Game of Thrones TV series. He also starred in the series himself and told us the fascinating story of how this incredible opportunity came about.

I loved hearing all the history of the area including how the canal system was used by horse drawn boats travelling between Navan, Slane and the port of Drogheda. The paddling led us out on the river where Ross took over powering the boat. We were so lucky with the weather.

Ross runs the tours three times a day. Naturally they are weather dependant and may have to be cancelled if there is strong wind or rain. Tickets must be pre-booked online at Boyne Boats.

Tickets cost €25 or €79 for a family of four which is great value.

We all (including the teens) really enjoyed the mix of paddling and history and would love to come back to do the Boyne Boat 2.5 hour Ancient Boyne river and artisan food experience tour.

Discover Boyne Valley

To find out more about what there is to do in the area for families with teenagers, read our ’48 hours in Boyne Valley with Teens’ guide for even more information and holiday inspiration.

The Boyne Valley, it’s time to enjoy…

Disclaimer

We enjoyed our Boyne Boats experience as guests of Discover Boyne Valley. All photos and words are our own and 100% honest.

The post Discovering the Boyne Valley with Teens – An Adventure with Boyne Boats appeared first on Saucepan Kids.

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This popular family-friendly hotel is located in Dundalk, halfway between Dublin and Belfast. It’s just off a busy road however the hotel has been recently renovated so when you’re inside, you’d never know it.

There’s free outdoor parking for 250 cars and there’s even a Supervalu and chemist next door if you run out of any essential toiletries during your stay.

Bedrooms

The hotel has 113 bedrooms and suites and can cater for families with children of all ages. Families with younger children can book rooms with bunk beds if they’re available. We have three teenagers so we were lucky enough to have two bedrooms which meant that everyone had their own space.

Our bedroom had a double bed and the kids had a double bed and two single beds. Our eldest naturally claimed the bigger bed as she walked into the room first!

As I mentioned, the hotel has recently been renovated and the bedrooms and bathrooms feel ultra modern inside. From rainfall showers to thick luxurious towels, it feels more like a five star hotel. I loved the decor, in fact it reminded me a hotel we’d stayed in America a few years ago.

The bedroom doors were heavy and did make a loud slam when left to close. There were a couple of kids in a nearby room who discovered this fact and found it very entertaining! Luckily it was during the day and not at night or that would’ve become frustrating.

We woke up well rested after our first (and second) night’s stay, helped by the heavy blackout curtains. It was quite warm in the room overnight as there was no air-conditioning however we opened the window and took the duvet out of the cover and that helped keep us cool during the night. Our room had plenty of space to move around and the table and two comfy chairs were handy for relaxing with a coffee while writing blog posts!

Things to do nearby

When we checked in, Elena at reception was so lovely and immediately suggested lots of teen-friendly activities nearby from a stroll around nearby Blackrock village to an activity filled visit to Tayto Park.

There is a really useful section on the ‘Discover Dundalk’ page on the hotel’s website outlining things to do. There are itineraries outlining what couples and families can do if they are staying in the area for 48 or 72 hours.

Only 30 minutes down the road from Fairways Hotel is the popular town of Carlingford. After breakfast, we headed there for the day. You can read all about our Carlingford Adventures here.

Top things to do in Carlingford with teenagers

Food at Fairways Hotel

That evening, after a long (and fun) day exploring the area, we headed back to the Fairways Hotel for dinner. You can dine in The Brasserie restaurant if you’re a resident or you can dine in one of their ten outdoor pods. They’re incredibly clever as they comes with their own lighting and heating system and can comfortably sit six people. We sat in a pod on both evenings and found them ideal even in the rain.

The food at Fairways was really excellent. The chicken wings starter was delicious, the best I’d ever had. The burgers were tasty and our youngest daughter recommended the rare sirloin steak. There was a large dessert menu so we shared a couple of dishes. I found the macrons a bit heavy but loved the pavloa.

I like the fact that the hotel states on the menu ‘We are proudly supporting the Boyne Valley Food Producers’. There are some incredible food producers in the area and I was pleased to see that the hotel was supporting them.

It was pretty busy in the hotel but the service was faultless. I actually got the impression that the staff were happy and enjoyed working there.

When we finished dinner we would like to have sat down in the bar playing cards with the kids however there was no dedicated bar area. There were high tables and stools in one corner however people were eating there. There were plenty of tables free in the lobby so we settled on relaxing there for an hour or so.

For breakfast, a selection of fruit, toast, pastries and yogurts are brought out on a stand to every table. I understand that is necessary with Covid however I feel it encourages food waste as no-one at our table had any toast or pastries. There is a wide choice of hot dishes available to order too, like full traditional and pancakes which were all very tasty.

Covid Safety

The hotel have implemented a new #CaringForYou guest programme to ensure that all guests are kept safe and happy during their stay. In fact it’s so safe, the hotel is being used as a vaccination centre for the local area.

Overall we really enjoyed our stay at Fairways Hotel. I would definitely recommend it as a base to families who are interested in exploring the area. To book your own family adventure at the Fairways Hotel Dundalk, head to their website https://www.fairwayshotel.ie

Disclaimer:

Our stay, and activities, at Fairways Hotel Dundalk were organised by iNUA collection in exchange for our honest review.

All photos are ours (unless otherwise stated) and our opinions are 100% our own.

The post A Stay with Teens in Fairways Hotel Dundalk with iNUA Collection – A Review appeared first on Saucepan Kids.

Carlingford Skypark

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After breakfast at Fairways Hotel, we headed to nearby Carlingford Skypark. A twenty-five minute drive away, this is the perfect family-friendly activity centre as it caters for children of all ages. There’s plenty of parking and the car park is close to the action.

We were booked in for the aerial adventures which involved different lives of high ropes and ziplines. We were exhausted after only three hours.

It’s a lovely spot with plenty of picnic tables, benches and space to relax. There is a shop where you can buy cold drinks and snacks and a cafe on site too that sells food. The only let down were the toilets which were not clean at all even at that early stage of the day. I was however really impressed with the emphasis on safety. Getting fitted for harnesses took time and there was a lengthy safety briefing followed by a circuit on the training ropes.

To book your own aerial adventure, book tickets online at Carlingford Skypark

Picnic Lunch

When we headed off from the hotel that morning, we knew we would be out all day so we brought a picnic from The Brasserie restaurant which kept us going. There was a selection of sandwiches and wraps with lots of fruit and cakes for dessert.

Carlingford is a really pretty village that was very busy that day with visitors. Luckily we managed to secure a parking space and charge our electric car in the car park beside the playground. We then had time to to enjoy our picnic overlooking the lough.

Carlingford Boat Tours

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In the afternoon, we drove to Carlingford Marina to enjoy a boat tour with Carlingford Lough Sea Tours. Be sure to drive beyond the castle to the Marina and don’t park at the harbour. There’s plenty of parking at the Marina and a restaurant and clean public toilets there too.

You need to prebook tickets online from their website or contact them through their Facebook page or Instagram profile.

When it was time to board, Alan arrived and took us down to the Discovery Catamaran. There was plenty of seating and even some undercover in case of rain.

Paddy, the owner and skipper, is a wealth of knowledge and is clearly passionate about sharing the beauty of Carlingford Lough with visitors. Alan, his colleague, regaled us with stories about the history of the area and the water. We even saw Carlingford’s most famous local, Finn the Dolphin who happily swam alongside the boat.

If you’re looking for somewhere to stay with your family while you’re exploring Carlingford, head to the iNUA Collection 4-Star Fairways Hotel which is only 30 minutes away near Dundalk.

Disclaimer :

We were guests of Fairways Hotel and iNUA Collection in exchange for this honest review. All photos and words are 100% honest and our own.

The post Top Things to do with Teens in Carlingford appeared first on Saucepan Kids.

As you drive up the sweeping driveway to Oldbridge House, you can’t fail to be impressed with the grandeur of this recently renovated 18th century building.

This is the site of The Battle of the Boyne Visitor Centre which helps visitors understand what happened during the famous battle between King William III (William of Orange) and his father-in-law, the exiled, King James II in July 1690. The centre has significant historical importance and is definitely worth a visit alongside other locations like Knowth and Newgrange.

When you’re visiting the centre, there is plenty of free parking and access to public toilets. The entrance to car park closes at 5pm during the summer but the exit stays open till 7pm so there’s no rush.

Like all OPW sites, The Battle of the Boyne Visitor Centre is free to enter until the end of the year however it’s essential to prebook tickets on their website. Due to Covid, all tours are self guided and allow you to roam around the detailed displays and historical reenactments. There’s a particularly interesting laser battlefield model which explained how the battle progressed.

There is a 13 minute audiovisual video which is a little graphic for younger kids. Afterwards, we wandered around outside looking at the original and replica 17th Century weaponry displays.

After 35-40 minutes, we left the centre and wandered through the stunning grounds. It was so nice to see families playing ball games on the grass in between the showers.

Around the corner we had a tasty lunch at Brambles Cafe before enjoying a stroll around the gardens. If you have more time, I would recommend walking along the Boyne Greenway from the Visitor Centre all the way into Drogheda. I’ve heard it a fabulous walking trail.

Overall, it was a lovely way to spend the morning. If you would like to visit The Battle of the Boyne Visitor Centre then don’t forget to prebook your tickets online.

Discover Boyne Valley

To find out more about what there is to do in the area for families with teenagers, read our ’48 hours in the Boyne Valley with teenagers’ guide or head to Discover Boyne Valley for even more information and holiday inspiration.

The Boyne Valley, it’s time to enjoy…

Disclaimer

We visited Battle of the Boyne Visitor Centre as guests of Discover Boyne Valley. All words and photos are our own and 100% honest.

The post Discovering the Boyne Valley with Teens – A visit to the Battle of the Boyne Centre appeared first on Saucepan Kids.

The Canary Islands has always been one of the UK and Ireland’s top family holiday destinations, and it’s easy to see why.

The Archipelago has everything that little ones (and parents!) need to have a great time: water parks, theme parks, outdoor activities, comfortable beaches and year-round great weather.

Need more convincing? Read on to find out why the Canary Islands should be your next family holiday destination…

Water Parks

Make memories to last a lifetime with a visit to Siam Park, the largest water park in Europe. Voted the Best Water Park in the World by TripAdvisor, a trip to Siam Park is the perfect day out for families visiting Tenerife. Float through the Lazy River, explore the Lost City or Sawasdee – a real water jungle with four different attractions, have a family competition on the Naga Racer or relax and enjoy some down-time on Coco Beach.

Located in Costa Adeje to the south of Tenerife, Aqualand is another family-friendly water park, boasting incredible pools and slides, suitable for kids both big and small. Visitors can also experience the park’s dolphin show, voted the best in the world by the International Marine Animal Trainers Association (IMATA).

Travelling to Lanzarote? Aquapark Costa Teguise, the largest water park on the island, is the perfect family fun day out. With water slides, paintball for children and adults, kids’ go-karts, different camps, playgrounds and more, Aquapark Costa Teguise has plenty to offer kids of all ages.

Zoos and Aquariums

The Canary Islands have a number of zoos and aquariums, the perfect place for children to discover all kinds of exotic wildlife up close and personal.

Loro Parque, Tenerife, is one of the most popular zoos in the Canary Islands. This park hosts a unique orca show, attracting tourists from all over the world. It is also home to the largest collection of parrots in the world and a penguinarium, which recreates the natural habitat of these fascinating seabirds.

The Poema del Mar Aquarium, Gran Canaria, hosts a Deep Sea Exhibit, which features the world’s largest glass window, giving visitors of all ages a first-hand look deep into the ocean. Pay a visit to Palmitos Park, Gran Canaria, where the little ones will be fascinated by the botanical garden.

Oasis Wildlife is the perfect choice for families travelling to Fuerteventura. Here, experience adventure among elephants, crocodiles, beautiful giraffes and sea lions.

Beautiful Beaches

Spending a day near the sea makes any child happy. With calm waters, shallow rock pools, lifeguards and a family-friendly atmosphere, there are a number of beaches in the Canary Islands that are perfect for your family holiday.

Visiting Tenerife? There’s no shortage of family-friendly beaches to choose from. The beach at Las Teresitas is one of the best-loved family beaches on the island. Located in the north-east of Tenerife, close to the centre of Santa Cruz, this 1.5km long beach benefits from a breakwater that protects against currents and creates water so calm that it resembles a pool. Little ones can play on the shore safely and learn to swim next to their parents as they enjoy the large shallow areas where they can stand up safely.

Las Canteras in Gran Canaria is a popular choice for families in Las Palmas looking to spend time by the sea. This 3km long beach is protected by a natural reef called La Barra, allowing visitors to swim and splash in calm waters. Las Canteras is known for providing a safe sandy environment for families and is simply a great place to relax in the sunshine.

Caletón Blanco in Lanzarote is a great beach for adults and children alike. Some areas of this beach are ideal for children as they are sheltered by the rocks, while others are deeper, and more suited to swimming in the cool open seas. This beaches turquoise waters, tranquility, the quality of the natural sand and the almost guaranteed sunshine are guaranteed to please every member of the family.

If you want your kids to never forget the sea, take them to La Graciosa. Caleta de Sebo, the capital of La Graciosa, is one of the most peaceful places in the Canary Islands. Near Caleta de Sebo is a beach called La Francesa and a little further on is La Cocina beach. With its calm crystal-clear waters and fine white sand, this is the perfect place to relax with the family.

The dunes of Corralejo, in the Natural Park of Corralejo, Fuerteventura, are a must for families visiting Fuerteventura. Enjoy walks through the soft, rolling dunes, and spend time at some of the best beaches in the island located in this area.

In La Plama, the natural pools of La Fajana are one of the safest places to take a dip with the family. The beach of La Restinga in El Hierro is known a diving lovers paradise. This beach boasts calm glistening waters, with hardly any waves, ideal for children. In La Gomera, Vueltas, La Caleta or La Calera, all offer calm waters and all the services to enjoy a wonderful day of fun and relaxation.

Nature Trails

Children love to be in contact with nature, explore the landscape and discover new trees, plants and wildlife, and there’s no better place to do this than Garajonay National Park, La Gomera. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the most important natural treasures in the world and makes for a fun-filled day of exploration for all the family.

If your little ones like adventure, the island of La Palma is the ideal place to go. The island has been declared a Starlight Reserve, with unique constellations and fascinating stars making it the perfect place for stargazing

Make memories to last a lifetime and get on one of the many boats departing the south coast of Tenerife, for a whale watching experience to see whales and dolphins in their natural habitat. The perfect choice for adventurers and an exciting activity for any animal lover.

Take a trip to Timanfaya National Park, Lanzarote, not only to experience its spectacular volcanic landscape, but to also attend the famous demonstrations showing the high volcanic temperatures that reach a few meters above the surface – a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for all the family.

Visiting Gran Canaria? A walk to the base of Roque Nublo is an experience no one should miss. This child-friendly trail climbs through the pines to reveal an incredible view of Roque Nublo, Gran Canaria’s most famous landscape feature.

For more information on visiting the Canary Islands with kids please visit www.hellocanaryislands.com

The post Why the Canary Islands Should be Your Next Family Holiday Destination appeared first on Saucepan Kids.

When you think about a ‘staycation’ in Ireland, what comes to mind? Sandcastle building on the beach with the kids in Kerry, maybe family strolls along the wild Atlantic coastline in Galway?

I love a relaxing seaside family holiday as much as the next person however as a parent to three teenagers, I’m often looking for a staycation that offers a little more. Ideally I’m looking for a destination that offers a mix of culture, food, music, adventure and history to keep everyone in the family entertained. We found all of these and much much more on a recent family staycation in the Republic of Ireland’s capital city, Dublin.

Dublin is a modern and cosmopolitan city with a rich history and vibrant social scene. The city’s reputation for friendly locals and charming attractions are the reason millions of tourists travel from all around the world every year to visit Dublin. I’ve been to the city many times in the past but it’s usually just for the day for work meetings or flying from Dublin Airport. I’ve rarely spent any quality time in the city with my own family.

Having recently spent two nights in Baile Átha Cliath, I’m delighted to share with you all the incredible things we got up to in this fair city. Here are our top family-friendly recommendations :

DAY 1 of our Dublin Staycation

Exploring Phoenix Park on Segways

Phoenix Park in Dublin is the largest enclosed public park in any European capital city and I imagine that most Irish people have driven through or visited it at some stage in the their lives. We’ve found the coolest way to explore the park, on Segways.

We arrived at the Park Gate Street Entrance on Chesterfield Avenue where the guys from Phoenix Park Bikes would get us set up. We were told that all helmets and Segways were sanitised after each use and that no experience was necessary.

Even though we’d done it once before in Costa Brava, I felt like a total beginner again! We had a chance to ‘master’ the basic skills on a test area before we were taken into Phoenix Park by our guide.

We didn’t have to wear a face covering as we were outside however our instructor did keep his mask on and even managed to keep us physical distanced from the other couple in the group.

During our tour we saw the abandoned military fort and the magnificent Papal Cross that was erected in 1979 for the visit of Pope John Paul. We saw Deerpark Lodge the residence to the American Ambassador as well as Áras an Uachtaráin. We didn’t spot any of wild fallow deer who call Phoenix Park home however we heard that early morning is the best time to see them.

The hour long tour costs €40pp and is suitable for 12+ year. It was such an interesting and memorable way to explore Phoenix Park, a definitely thumbs up from our teens.

Sampling the freshest food in Phoenix Cafe

After adrenaline rush of Segways, it was time to refuel so we headed to the other end of the park to Phoenix Cafe which is located beside the historic Ashdown Castle.

We quickly realised that this was a very popular place for lunch, people were queuing for the free parking and then queuing again to get into the cafe itself.

They had a strict limit on how many people could be inside ordering at any one time but it wasn’t an issue, we were happy to wait patiently as the smells coming from inside made us realise that it would be worth the wait. Luckily it was a nice day so lots of families were making the most of the sunshine and enjoying the popular Phoenix Cafe picnic on the grass by the playground.

We met Helen, the owner, who proudly told us all about the philosophy of Phoenix Cafe. Everything that is available is homemade and sustainability is important to them so they work closely with local butchers, fish mongers and suppliers to source the best produce and ingredients available.

Once inside we chose fresh salads and plump slices of quiche. Two of the teens opted for the homemade lasagne and quickly decided that it was the best they’d ever tasted, praise indeed. There was no room for dessert so Helen kindly gave us a selection of cakes to take away which were enjoyed later in the afternoon.

A Musical afternoon at Windmill Lane Recording Studios

After lunch we had something a little different planned, we were booked in for a tour of Windmill Lane Recording Studios in the city centre. 

We’ve always been music fans in our house. We play the odd instrument (all self-taught) and we’ll often miss the doorbell as there’s usually music blaring from somewhere in the house.

Based on Ringsend road in Dublin, this iconic Art Deco building houses three working recording studios and has seen many well known artists record there including Kate Bush, U2, The Cranberries, The Rolling Stones, Hozier, Lady Gaga & Westlife any many many more.

When you book onto a tour, you are required to fill out an online ‘Visitors Cover-19 Pre Screening Form’ with contact and medical information and also your movements over the previous fortnight. On arrival at Windmill Lane, our temperature was taken at reception and then Niall, the studio manager, took us on the ‘Visitor Experience’ tour. You are required to wear a mask at all times.

It was a fascinating insight into how the recording process works and you get to spend time in each of the three studios as well as the behind the scenes parts of the studios like the green room. Our son, Fraser (15) got to try his hand at a real recording desk and his twin sister Anna got the chance to play the actual Steinway piano in Studio One which artists like David Bowie and Burt Bacharach have played in the past.

If you’re a music fan, then this is well worth a visit. Remember to book well in advance as their tour numbers are reduced due to current restrictions. Tours for a family of four cost €58 and last an hour.

Wakeboarding on Grand Canal Dock in Dublin

In a house with three teenagers, we know that kids that age love adrenalin fuelled activities so James and I are used to taking part in activities outside our own comfort zones. We’ve found the ultimate adventure activity, it’s called WakeBoarding. We’d never done it before and it honestly doesn’t get cooler than this.

When we arrived at Grand Canal Dock, the team at Wakedock gave us our sanitised wetsuits and lifejackets and we waited for them to bring us over to the pontoon. When there, Brendan told us how WakeBoarding worked and some hints and tips to get the most out of it. We had 15 minutes each which doesn’t sound like much time but when you’re out there in the water, it feels alot longer. 

It’s harder than it looks but is so much fun and they cater for total beginners as well as more advanced riders. A 15 minute set on the water costs €30 for an adult and €20 for a child at the weekend. Discounts are available for Monday to Friday bookings.

Trinity City Hotel – The perfect family-friendly luxury hotel in Dublin city centre

The tagline for the Trinity City Hotel Dublin should be location, location, location. This has got to be one of the most central hotels in Dublin. It’s on Pearse Street, right across from Trinity College which means that you can easily walk pretty much everywhere in Dublin city centre.

Due to its central location, there is no car park but the hotel does provide a valet parking service which we availed of when we arrived.

When we walked into the lobby, we were surprised at just how stylish this four star hotel was. You know how some hotels are clearly ‘Celtic Tiger’ hotels and have no real soul? Well you couldn’t say that about Trinity City Hotel Dublin, it’s full of personality. 

We checked in with ease and noticed the presence of hand sanitisers at the entrance and sneeze guards at reception. Any staff member walking around the hotel was wearing a mask which was reassuring to see.

We were lucky enough to have interconnecting bedrooms which meant that everyone had plenty of space. As a family of five, we often find hotel rooms to be a little cramped but not here. The high ceilings and large windows gave each bedroom a feeling of space and luxury. The kids had robes, slippers and Lily O’Brien chocolates so they straight away felt like VIP guests.

The hotel wasn’t too busy so we didn’t need to reserve for breakfast. A cold buffet of fruits, cereal, cold meats and cheese (all wrapped or covered) were available and a selection of hot food dishes could be ordered from your table. A quick check on Tripadvisor shows that I’m not alone in raving about this particular Dublin City centre hotel.

Evening Dinner at The Woollen Mills

We strolled through Dublin city centre, crossing the River Liffey to have dinner at the Woollen Mills restaurant which is right beside the famous Ha’penny bridge. 

We had a table booked for five inside however the warm breeze of the late summer evening meant that there lots of couples sitting outside. On reflection, we should’ve considered joining them outside so we could indulge in some people-watching.

The food was a little hit and miss. The sardine starter was really delicious but the beetroot patty burger was a little bland and the chips weren’t nice at all. However the staff were really friendly and we had a lovely evening there.

DAY 2 of our Dublin Staycation

A Bird’s Eye View over Dublin in the Mecca of Gaelic Football – Croke Park

Croke Park is a very special place, it’s been the heart of sporting life here in Ireland for over 100 years. Did you know that you can do a skyline tour around the top of Europe’s third largest stadium?

We arrived for our Skyline Tour at the start of our second day of our Dublin staycation. It was drizzling but the the inclement weather didn’t deter from the magical atmosphere, I can only imagine what it’s like on match days!

There’s free parking on-site which is so handy. You have to book online for tours in advance and they have reduced the numbers of people they can accommodate on each tour however this means that it feels more personal and it’s easier to have a chat with the tour guide. Cian, our tour guide, was fantastic. He was so knowledgeable about Dublin history and his enthusiasm was infectious. 

I’m not the best with heights however even though we were 17 storeys high, I didn’t have a wobble at all. It felt so safe and the views are incredible. Talking of safe, our guide wore his mask for the duration of our tour and there was hand sanitiser at the entry and exit points of the skyline.

After the Skyline Tour, we were free to explore the GAA museum at our own pace. This is a must for any die hard GAA fans. I think that even if you’re not a fan of GAA, the Skyline Tour of Croke Park should be near the top of your list for things to do in Dublin, whether you’re visiting the city or a local resident.

Croke Park Skyline Tours last about 1.5 hours and cost €54 for a family based on two adults and two children. Don’t forget that price entitles you to entry into the GAA museum too. 

‘Living History’ experience at Dalkey Castle and Heritage Centre

A recent visit to Dalkey Castle and Heritage Centre, in the seaside town of Dalkey on the south side of Dublin, demonstrated how well the ‘living history’ concept works. The tour of Dalkey Castle is brought to live with different costumed actors who engage with the children and help describe what life was really like at that time. It felt like we were in the middle of a ‘Horrible Histories’ story, it was really enjoyable.

After climbing up to the battlements (some uneven stone steps) the guided tour continues to a bright, modern exhibition centre that easily caters for physical distancing.

Tours must be pre-booked as their numbers are reduced due to Government restrictions. A family ticket (2 adults and 2 children) costs €29.50.

Exploring Dublin Bay and meeting the friendly Dalkey seals with Kayaking.ie

If you’re looking for a super family-friendly water activity to do together, kayaking ticks all the boxes. It’s not too strenuous therefore it’s perfect for beginners, you can take younger kids in a double kayak and it’s something you can do regardless of the weather.

While we were in Dalkey, we were booked in for a Sunset Kayak Tour. We met Clara and Ciaran from Kayaking.ie at Bullock Harbour (there’s plenty of free parking available) where we were given heavily sanitised wetsuits and lifejackets. After a safety briefing, we were allocated our kayaks and let loose into Dublin Bay with our guides.

It was a particularly wet and windy evening which meant that we couldn’t kayak all the way out to Dalkey Island but that didn’t spoil the fun. The guides took us around the Bay and then inland a little to meet the wild seals. There were five or six in the colony who came up remarkably close to our kayaks to say hello.

Kayaking.ie are running reduced numbers for their tours so be sure to book well in advance. The Sunset Kayak Tour runs everyday at 6:30pm, lasts three hours and cost €59 each. 

Tasting the best of Italy in Ireland at Benito’s 

We take Italian food very seriously in our house. Every weekend we try to have our two favourite meals, homemade sausage ragù and homemade pizza. We love when we find a really good Italian restaurant as it gives us a chance to compare and contrast

After our fantastic kayaking experience in Dalkey, we headed to the popular Benito’s Restaurant on Castle Street for dinner.

As soon as we walked in we were asked by the maître d’ to use the hand sanitiser and then led to our table. I noticed quickly that there was plenty of spacing between tables with perspex screens to protect the diners. I was impressed to see that they were taking the COVID-19 Safety Charter guidelines so seriously. 

Choosing our food was easy, we ordered a few portions of Calamari to share for starters. Anna ordered the tagliatelle al ragù and everyone else chose different artisan wood fired pizzas.

There was no menu envy, we were all pleased with our choices. The ragù was great (nearly as good as ours!) & we decided we definitely need a wood-fired oven for our pizzas at home!

We didn’t get to try anything from the dessert menu as we were full to the brim. We’ll definitely return when we’re next in Dalkey and make the effort to sample something from that dessert menu.

Day 3 of our Dublin Staycation

Stepping back in time at 14. Henrietta Street

The last stop on our recent Dublin Staycation was a visit to the historic 14 Henrietta Street Dublin. It’s a unique museum in the centre of Dublin which captures 300 years of city life under one roof. 

It beautifully demonstrates the incredible story of how one house which was built as a stunning Georgian townhouse for Dublin’s most wealthy families became a tenement building housing hundreds of people. Dublin City Council bought the building in 2000 and spent ten years restoring this stunning 18th century townhouse.

The tour at 14. Henrietta Street is a clever mix of audio-visual content and accurate recreations. Our tour guide Joe was such a lovely man who was clearly passionate and knowledgable about the house and the history of the city.

We felt (Covid) safe from start to finish. We wore our face coverings for the duration of the tour and all the windows were kept open to keep the house well-ventilated, remember to bring your jackets.

The tour lasts 75 minutes and is a fascinating and immersive experience, a real insight into Dublin’s history over the last 300 years. It’s a must for anyone interested in Irish social history.

A guided tour costs €9 for an adult and €6 for a child.

The best coffee and cake at Blas Cafe 

Before we left Dublin, we all fancied a quick coffee and cake stop and we popped along to the nearby Blas Cafe which had been recommended to us. There’s a really cool vibe in this open industrial space with lots of tables. There is modern artwork on display which you can buy. The coffee and cake was delicious and good value and we’ll definitely be back to sample their breakfast/brunch menu next time we’re in this part of Dublin.

Cultural lunch at Hugh Lane Gallery

We think we’ve found one the quirkiest and cosiest lunch spots in Dublin. It’s called Hatch & Sons and it’s in Hugh Lane Gallery. 

After a casual stroll around the art gallery, we popped downstairs to the cafe. Even though it’s technically in the basement, it’s very bright and a lovely place to meet a friend for lunch. It’s small though so I imagine that it could get busy on weekends. 

We ordered their family lunch offer which was a blaa (a blaa is a regional bread speciality from Co. Waterford), a coffee/homemade lemonade and a slice of cake for €50 for our family of five. The blaas were made fresh to order and were very tasty.

Overall, it’s was a lovely lunch and the perfect way to finish our Dublin staycation. 

Final Thoughts on our Dublin Staycation

Overall, we really loved our few days in Dublin. We didn’t worry about Coronavirus at all as we were reassured by the fact that all the hospitality businesses and activity providers that we met during our visit had applied for and successfully received the Covid–19 Safety Charter.

If you’re looking for a safe and relaxing Staycation destination with a difference, why not consider Dublin where there really is something for everyone.

To #MakeABreakForIt and plan your own Dublin adventure, head over to Discover Ireland to find out more about where you can stay and what you can do with your own family in Dublin.

Disclaimer : This trip was a paid partnership with Fáilte Ireland and it’s affiliated brands Visit Dublin and Discover Ireland. Our hotel, meals and activities were sponsored however our photos and reviews are 100% honest and our own.

The post Make A Break For Dublin – Family Staycation Fun With Teens appeared first on Saucepan Kids.

“I feel like I’m in an Enid Blyton book” my 15 year old daughter exclaims as we sit looking out at the still water in Ballinakill Bay.

Although we’re only over two hours from our home in Sligo, it feels like a world away. The weather may be unreliable but the scenery is breathtaking and every time I see the Twelve Bens mountain range in the distance, it looks like a movie backdrop.

After stocking up on our groceries in Letterfrack Country Shop, we arrive for our staycation in a quaint cottage at Ross Point in Moyard. We booked it through Love Connemara Cottages and we knew the cottage was close to the sea and that’s why we chose that particular location. We were over the moon to find that the cottage had it’s own rugged headland and sheltered beach.

Roundstone Market

Our first day in Connemara is a Sunday so we make the 30 minute windy drive to the tourist village of Roundstone. Sunday is market day in Roundstone and it seems very popular with the locals and visitors alike. 

After pursuing the stalls, we head to O’Dowd’s Seafood Bar for lunch. Friends had recommended it and we always like to follow up on a recommendation.

Hake was the fish of the day and even though people are dining inside, we felt uncomfortable about being in such an enclosed space with the physical distance restrictions in place. We decided to take it away and enjoy our seafood lunch as we walk back to the car. The fish is indeed beautifully cooked however we were a little disappointed with the chips.

With full tummies we drive out of Roundstone to find the famous Dog’s Bay. Unfortunately, the whole world and his wife seem to be trying to get there so driving down the single lane towards the bay, trying to find parking was a challenge. Note to self, if you’re planning a visit to Dog’s Bay, go early or go late to avoid the crowds.

Connemara National Park

No visit to Connemara is complete without a visit to Connemara National Park.  The park is home to 3,000 hectares of bog, mountains, grasslands and woodlands as well as Benbaun, Bencullagh, Benbrack and Muckanaght, all of which form part of the famous Twelve Bens mountain range.

Entrance into Connemara National Park is free and parking is plentiful. There’s even two spaces to recharge an electric car. Fingers crossed the next time we visit, we’ll have one of our own.

Due to Covid-19, there were strict precautions in place about how to explore the park. From the visitor centre, there are various walking trails signposted to follow from the simple stroll to the challenging climb to the summit of Diamond Hill.

Diamond Hill has its name due to the fact that the quartz in the rock glistens and sparkles in the sun. We decided this time, to attempt the full hill climb. Luckily we had sturdy walking boots and the weather on our side. It was a tough and rocky climb but so worth it for the breathtaking vistas from the top.

When you get to the top, take your time to take in the views.

On a clear day you can see as far as Inishbofin, Inishturk and Inishshark, as well as the majestic Kylemore Abbey.

If you do choose to climb Diamond Hill, be sure to check the weather before you do as the weather can change quickly in Connemara.

Also have plenty of water and suntan lotion with you.

Once we’d followed the one-way system down Diamond Hill and back to the visitor centre we were ready to dive into our flask of tea and sandwiches to refuel.

It was lovely seeing so many families spending time together. It’s a shame the playground was closed however there was plenty of physical distancing possible in the large picnic area.

Walk to Omey Island

One things we’d recommend adding to your Connemara itinerary is walking to Omey Island.

Hidden away under the Aughrus Peninsula is the magical island of Omey. It’s only possible to access it at low tide but it’s popular with visitors. We had to check it out for ourselves.

Once we’d checked the tide times (and the weather forecast), we parked in Claddaghduff Church and made our across the vast strand following the markers. Beware that cars and campers can drive across the sand so be vigilant in case the kids run ahead.

The markers lead you to follow the road onto the island however as we were following the guide written by archaeologist and walking guide Michael Gibbons we veered off the marked walk to the right of the island to find the former medieval church Teampall Féichín and then onto St Feichin’s Holy Well which proudly guards the bay.

It takes about 3 hours to complete the 8km stroll around the island and is well worth the stroll. Bring a picnic lunch and your camera as the waters are so clear your eyes will think you’re looking at the blue hues of the Caribbean sea.

Beaches

There are many many beaches to explore in Connemara and here are the ones that we visited and would recommend :

1. Renvyle – With stunning views of the Achill, Mweelrea and Croagh Patrick mountains, this secluded beach is popular with families.
2. Glassilaun beach  – This white sandy beach is nestled between Renvyle and Killary bay. The sea is so clear here it’s perfect for swimming and snorkelling and very popular with tourists in the summer months.

Note that parking is available yet limited at both beaches so I’d recommend getting there early to secure a space. 

Clifden

This town, often called the ‘capital of Connemara’, is popular with tourists all year around. There’s a lovely selection of boutique shops available to peruse and the best seafood restaurant I have to tell you about.

Mitchells is located on Market Street in the centre of Clifden. Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, we again decided against dining in house so we got hake and chips to take away. They were the best fish supper we’d ever had. Each portion came with it’s own tasty salad and refreshing pickled cucumber. When we were there, Mitchells were offering 10% off take aways from 12-6pm which made feeding our family of five more affordable.

Misunderstood Heron

If you’re in the Killary area we’d recommend stopping for some top quality lunch at the now famous ‘Misunderstood Heron‘. It’s a quirky food truck across the road from Killary Adventure Centre.

They open from 12-6pm and be prepared to queue. It’s worth the wait though as the food is high quality and excellent value.

Grab some pasties for the family and take time to enjoy your lunch while checking out the stunning view over Killary Fjord.

Things we’ll come back to do

We loved our staycation in Connemara. We were tempted to stay home in Sligo for our week off but James and I are so pleased that we booked the cottage and got away from it all.

Connemara reset our batteries, made us appreciate the true beauty of nature and reintroduced us to how enjoyable the simple things in life can be, hiking in the sunshine, board games when it’s raining, swimming in the freezing Atlantic and above all just being together.

We know in our heart of hearts there is more family fun to be had in Connemara however due to the current physical distancing restrictions, we didn’t feel comfortable going into Kylemore Abbey or squeezing alongside the other tourists on the Inishboffin ferry from Cleggan on this occasion.

However we do want to tick these places off our Connemara bucket list so a return to this stunning region of Galway is on the cards and we will update this blog post when we do.

Have you been to Connemara? What did you enjoy most about it?

Disclaimer : We paid for our travel, accommodation and all expenses ourselves.

The post Family Staycation in Connemara – A holiday in West Galway during Covid-19 appeared first on Saucepan Kids.

Hands up, who else is thinking about their 2021 holidays already? If, like us, you’re thinking of heading to the States then why not look at the different holiday options that our friends over at American Holidays recommend. Here are their top USA destinations for family travel in 2021, offering something for all kids – both big and small!

Boston

As one of America’s oldest cities, Boston offers the perfect combination of great history and vibrant culture. Visit Boston’s historic monuments and nature parks, walk the freedom trail or catch the Red Sox in Fenway Park. Why not explore the campus of one of the most prestigious universities in the world? Harvard is right on your doorstep and offer daily tours. Take a day trip to Salem, the site of the infamous 17th century witch trials. Located only 40 minutes from Boston, learn about Salem’s fascinating history, explore its beautiful seaside park and experience its delicious food!

Fancy a sightseeing break? Make a pit-stop and indulge in Massachusetts favourite dessert, Boston Cream Pie – you will not be disappointed.  Why not extend your family trip with 3 nights in the beautiful Cape Cod? As a true family-friendly destination, Cape Cod offers activities to entertain everyone. Cycle alongside the glistening Atlantic Ocean on the Shining Sea Bike Trail, search for treasure at the Pirate Museum, spend an afternoon sliding around the water park or take a tour to enjoy some of the best whale watching in the USA.

Take a trip to Boston and Cape Cod next Spring with American Holidays to discover all this and more, from € 1450pp.

Chicago

Located on the banks of Lake Michigan, Chicago is famous for many things, from its love of sport to its deep-dish pizza! Catch a game in Soldier Field or shop ’til you drop on the Magnificent Mile. Make the most of your trip to the Windy City and head to Navy Pier for a ride on the Ferris wheel before staying to see the weekly fireworks show. Explore the world’s oceans, lakes, rivers and reefs with the kids and meet Chicago’s underwater residents at the Shedd Aquarium, from rockhopper penguins to beluga whales. With something to offer every type of holidaymaker, Chicago is a perfect destination for your next family trip.

Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with the family in Chicago with American Holidays from €659pp.

The West Coast

There’s a reason they say the West Coast is the best coast! From the Golden Gate Bridge to the Space Needle, the West coast of America is home to countless bucket list attractions. Visit San Francisco to explore Fisherman’s Wharf and ride the cable car up the famous hilly city. Cycle over the Golden Gate Bridge and spend some time in the charming seaside town of Sausalito before catching a ferry back to the city. Why stop your holiday there? Seattle is the ideal destination to continue your stateside adventure. Experience the local food at Pike Place market, take the family to the Museum of Pop Culture or the Museum of Flight. Ditch the car and take a water taxi from downtown Seattle and enjoy the picturesque cityscape scenes. Then, top it all off with unforgettable view from the Space Needle in this beautiful waterfront city.

What are you waiting for? Tick off your family bucket list on a west coast adventure next Spring, from €1,699pp.

Orlando and Mexico

Known as the Theme Park Capital of the World, it’s no surprise Orlando makes for an unforgettable family holiday. From Walt Disney World to Universal Studios and everything in between, no kid is too big to enjoy this destination. What better way to end an Orlando adventure than relaxing by the crystal-clear shores of Cancun? Renowned for its family friendly beaches and restaurants as well as it’s vibrant culture, Cancun is a great family holiday destination. From snorkelling in the world’s second largest coral reef to visiting the Mayan pyramids and temples, Cancun has something for the whole family. Couple this with Orlando and it’s sure to be an unforgettable holiday.

Escape the dark winter days or make it a Christmas to remember with a family holiday to Orlando and Mexico with American Holidays from €1,850pp.

Toronto

Famous for its perfect combination of high-rise buildings and beautiful neighbourhoods, Toronto is an international hub of arts and culture. This stunning city is ideal for a family getaway, with waterfront walkways, plenty of museums and charming markets. From Kensington Market to Graffiti Alley, these classic ethnic enclaves have mixed with millennial revitalization to result in an exciting combination of gift shops, salons, cafés and restaurants! Drop into the Mashion Bakery in Chinatown, one of best and most unique bakeries Toronto has to offer. Or, why not hop on a ferry to the Toronto Islands? With perfect picnic spots and bike rentals available, it’s a guaranteed day of fun!

Take the family to Toronto for Easter with American Holidays from €899pp.

Remember, this is just a selection of what’s on offer!

Call American Holidays on (01) 901 4405 to avail of these offers or you can also drop into our office located on Exchequer Street, Dublin 2, where our expert staff will be on hand to help you create your dream holiday.

For more information visit www.americanholidays.com.

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