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STYLISH STAYCATIONS
Wondering where the best places to travel in Ireland are this summer? Most of us are now set to rediscover our home turf all over again this year. Whether you are a lover of fine dining, elegant interiors, the great outdoors or the beauty of our most scenic spots, we are here to share 3 staycation destinations from our Encore Partners that will add more than a little touch of magic to your summer.
SAIL AWAY TO CORK
A slice of seaside heaven fringed by the River Bandon, Kinsale is the gateway to West Cork. A dapper town, Kinsale is one of the gourmet capitals of Ireland, with cinematic seascapes and scenery to enjoy at every turn.
Stay at: Hayfield Manor, a boutique hotel in Cork City that pulls out all the stops. Set on two acres of manicured gardens, the Georgian-style manor house works elegant décor and features a popular outdoor dining experience, a spa and heated indoor pool.
Highlights include: A visit to Desmond Castle Wine Museum is a must for wine-lovers, find out about the Irish Winegeese who fled and began vineyards in France and Spain in the 17th century.
Dine at: The Supper Club is listed as one of Sunday Times 100 Best Restaurants in Ireland, don’t miss their Oysterhaven mussels or West Cork burger with Baltimore black bacon.
Get a different view by: Taking a scenic cruise around the bay aboard Kinsale Irish Cruises and people watching from the town’s many foodie establishments.
Swim at: Jarlay's Cove, Kinsale.
If you bring home one thing: Bring the scent of the sea home with you thanks to this West Cork Chandlery La Bougie, and let the memories live on.
WHAT TO WEAR TO CORK...
GO SURF IN SLIGO
Pack up your car and head to one of the most scenic places in Ireland. Yes, it’s another surf spot, but where waves happen there is also gorgeous scenery and plenty to do. Normal People has put many of Sligo’s beauty spots on the map including the beach where Marianne and Connell's secret romance played out, Streedagh Strand on Sligo's windswept northern coast.
Stay at: Coopershill House, the long drive to the house winds through beautiful parkland and is worth the warm welcome you will receive when you finally reach the gracious front door. Ancestors, antlers and antiques compete for attention, with four-course dinners available from a daily changing, seasonal menu, and often offering award-winning venison from their estate.
Highlights include: Voya, a beachside spa (and bodycare brand) dedicated to the detoxifying ritual of seaweed bathing. Take a dip in an old-fashioned roll-top bath filled with seaweed and leave feeling thoroughly revitalised.
Get a different view by: Learning to surf in Strandhill or climbing to the top of Knocknarea for breath-taking views.
Swim at: Streedagh beach.
If you bring home one thing: Continue the benefits of sea swims long after you return home thanks to Sligo-made seaweed enriched skincare from Voya.
WHAT TO WEAR TO SLIGO...
FALL IN LOVE WITH WEXFORD
Wexford is another classic staycation destination and it’s on Dublin’s doorstep, from beautiful coastline and haunted houses the Hook Peninsula is rich with heart-stopping activities for lovers of good food, the sea and Irish history.
Stay at: Dunbrody House, an elegant Georgian pile that has been converted into a relaxed luxury hotel with stylish contemporary updates. With a gourmet restaurant, pub, gardens and spa it will be easy to make yourself at home.
Highlights include: The Hook head Lighthouse is an icon at the tip of the peninsula, it’s well worth a visit not only for its history but for its amazing location, a visit is equally beautiful on sunny or stormy days.
Get a different view by: Sea Cave Kayaking by Hook Head Adventures is a truly unique and exhilarating way to explore this magical coastline. The visually stunning natural area around The Hook Peninsula is steeped in jaw dropping historical stories with a rich heritage and diverse wildlife. Wetsuits and picnics provided.
Swim at: Baginbun beach.
If you bring home one thing: The sweetest thing you can choose to buy in Wexford is Bean & Goose chocolate. Be warned you may eat all your gifts before you hand them out to loved ones.
WHAT TO WEAR TO WEXFORD...
BROWN THOMAS ENCORE REWARDS PARTNERS
Looking for more staycation inspiration see more details of beautiful hotel stays across Ireland with our Encore Partners here.
Souvenirs from your Staycation
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