Family breaks in Ireland

Travel

10 Family Breaks for Easter Holidays – 2 Night Stays from €438

Mulranny Park Hotel, Mayo

From Mayo to Meath, Clare to the Causeway Coast, I’ve got 10 great family breaks for Easter holidays to tempt you.

Whether you want hotels or holiday homes, Ireland’s Ancient East or the Wild Atlantic Way, this post has family breaks for Easter to suit all tastes and budgets. All accommodation listed is family friendly and recommended on TripAdvisor. 

Instagram

I have priced these family breaks for Easter on various dates during the holiday period, but dates and durations can be changed, simply click on the links below, and edit the dates to suit your requirements. If you are looking to travel overseas for Easter weekend – check out this post:

Read: 12 breaks over Easter weekend, flights & hotels included

Some of these family breaks for Easter include my affiliate links – where I receive a small commission if a booking is made, but at no additional cost to you.
 

 

 

1. Mulranny Park Hotel Mayo: 2 Bedroom Apartment B&B, 3 Nights, €800

family breaks for Easter at Mulranny Park Hotel

Enjoy the benefits of self catering accommodation with the superb family friendly facilities at the Mulranny Park Hotel. Two-bedroom apartments sleep up to six, and there is a wide range of activities available over Easter holidays.
 

 

 
Choose from a Kids Club, Movie Nights ( there is a cinema room onsite ) a Seashore Safari, Animal Hunt and Fairy Trail, as well as full use of the Leisure Centre with kids pool. Adults are not overlooked either, with a choice of Spa treatments available, including seaweed baths

pool at Mulranny Park Hotel

And as well as plenty to do on site, Mulranny Beach and the Great Western Greenway are on your doorstep! Take time to visit Achill Island too and explore the film locations from the Banshees of Inisherin. If you prefer to take an organised tour, Achill Coaches have day trips available and will pick you up from the hotel too.

 

 
 
 
 
 
View this post on Instagram
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 

A post shared by Sarah Slattery – Travel Expert (@the_travel_expert)


Three-night breaks area available from €800 including breakfast, staying in a two-bedroom apartment that can accommodate 2 adults and 4 children. Family breaks are available throughout Easter holidays, but availability is limited from 7th – 10th of April.

See more here
 

 

 

2. Riverside Park Hotel, Wexford: 2-Night Break B&B, 1 Dinner + Attraction Pass from €464

Family breaks in Wexford at Riverside Park Hotel at Easter

The Riverside Park Hotel in Wexford always offers great value family breaks for Easter holidays, and this year is no exception. We stayed here a few years ago and enjoyed its spacious rooms and family friendly facilities.
 

 

 
Prices are available from €464 for 2 adults and 2 children and include breakfast, a 4-Course meal for all the family on the evening of your choice, a family activity pass to one of Wexford’s top attractions, and lots more.

Read:  Top 10 things to do in Wexford with kids

See more here
 

 

 

3. Midlands Park Hotel, Laois: 2-Night Break B&B, 1 Dinner + Attraction Pass from €507

 

 
 
 
 
 
View this post on Instagram
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 

A post shared by Sarah Slattery – Travel Expert (@the_travel_expert)


Enjoy a two-night family break at the highly rated Midlands Park Hotel this Easter from €507 for a family of four, or €578 for a family of five. We stayed here last year and were very impressed with its great dining options.
 

 

 
Price includes breakfast each day, a 4-course evening meal on the night of your choice, a family activity pass to one of the nearby top attractions, an Easter egg for the kids on arrival, and full access to the Leisure Centre.

Read: Family breaks at Midlands Park Hotel

See more here
 

 

 

4. 5-star Intercontinental Hotel, Dublin: 1-Night from €480 Inc Champagne & €50 credit

family breaks at the Intercontinental Hotel, Dublin

The five-star Intercontinental Hotel is one of Dublin’s best 5-Star Resort hotels, so if you want to treat yourself and your family to a luxury break for Easter holidays, look no further. We had the pleasure of staying here last year and loved it spacious rooms and super service.
 

 

 
The Intercontinental’s Easter breaks include breakfast, a bottle of champagne for adults and luxury Easter eggs for kids, plus €50 credit to spend during your stay, access to the swimming pool, and complimentary car parking. Price for an overnight stay for 2 adults and 2 children is €480.

See more here
 

 

 

5. Hotel Kilkenny: 1 Night break, B&B + Dinner from €235, 2-night breaks from €470 

Castlecomer Discovery Park, Kilkenny

Children under 12 stay for free and can enjoy free dining on all Easter breaks at Hotel Kilkenny. Facilities include a Leisure Club with family swimming facilities and play areas, as well as a Kids Club with Lego building challenge, disco/karaoke nights and lots more.
 

 

 
Kilkenny has some super attractions for all the family including the fabulous Castlecomer Discovery Park, home to Ireland’s longest zipline. 

Read: Top 10 things to do in Kilkenny with kids

Price of €235 is based on an overnight stay for a family of four ( children under 12), with breakfast and dinner in the Pure Bar. Two-night breaks are available from €470 and three night breaks from €705.

See more here
 

 

 

6. Kilashee Hotel, Kildare: 2 Night Stays B&B from €440

family breaks for Easter at Killashee Hotel

The newly refurbished 4-star Kilashee Hotel is situated on a 55 acre estate with fairy forest trail, Butterfly Garden, and a playground with a zipline. The leisure centre boasts a 25 metre swimming pool, sauna, steam room and jacuzzi, as well as a children’s pool.
 

 

 
The hotel also has a playroom filled with toys and board games, and a family movie night will show different classic children’s movie each night over the Easter break.

Price from €440 based on a family of four, which includes a two-night stay with breakfast.

View offer here
 

 

 

7. Further Space Glamping Pods Glenarm, Causeway Coast: 2 Nights from €476

 

 
 
 
 
 
View this post on Instagram
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 

A post shared by Sarah Slattery – Travel Expert (@the_travel_expert)

Luxury glamping company Further Space has fabulous glamping pods in the grounds of Glenarm Castle on the Causeway Coastal Route. If that isn’t enough to tempt you, they also have the advantage of having stunning sea views. 

As well as a wonderful location, you have the added benefits of the facilities on the Castle’s grounds, including a walled garden, Shop, and a choice of dining options. Children will enjoy the Mini Land Rover Experience and being able to toast marshmallows on your own camp fire.
 

 

 
Each pod can sleep up to four, and comes with a double bed, and bunkbeds for children (under 15). You will also find an ensuite with shower, mini kitchentte, electricity and USB charging points, and a private fire pit. Breakfast and camp fire packs can also be supplied – extra charge.

View offer here
 

 

8. Newgrange Hotel, Meath: 1-Night stay, B&B + Dinner from €259

 

 
 
 
 
 
View this post on Instagram
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 

A post shared by Sarah Slattery – Travel Expert (@the_travel_expert)


For families looking for a low cost night away with plenty of things to do nearby, this deal from the Newgrange Hotel should tick all boxes.

We took the kids to visit Newgrange last year would I can highly recommend it. A boat trip from Boyne Boats is another great day out, and let’s not forget Emerald Park – you may wish to stay longer!
 

 

 
Prices from €259.00 are based on a family of four for one night and include breakfast and dinner. Two-night stays are available from €445.

See more here
 

 

 

9. Clayton Hotel & Leisure Club Sligo, Two-bedroom Family Room: 2 Nights from €464

 

 
 
 
 
 
View this post on Instagram
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 

A post shared by Sarah Slattery – Travel Expert (@the_travel_expert)


Set on beautiful grounds and within walking distance of Sligo Town centre, the 4-star Clayton Sligo ticks all boxes for a family holiday in Ireland. The leisure centre has a separate kids pool, and two bedroom family suites sleep two adults and three children. We enjoyed a family stay here last year and loved exploring Sligo’s coastline.

View offer here
 

 

 

10. Doolin Village Lodges, Clare: 2 Night stay from €438

 

 
 
 
 
 
View this post on Instagram
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 

A post shared by Sarah Slattery – Travel Expert (@the_travel_expert)

Located in Doolin Village, these three-bedroom lodges are ideal for families who want to explore Clare’s stunning coastline and top attractions. Lodges can sleep up to six but availability is limited. Alternative dates are available during Easter holidays.

View offer here
 

 

 
I hope this post on family breaks for Easter holidays will help you plan a family getaway. Prices and facilities are correct at the time of issue but are subject to change.

These family breaks in Ireland were researched independently. Some have links direct to the hotels websites, while others have my affiliate links attached to third party websites, where I receive a small commission if a booking is made, but at no additional cost to you.
 

Travel

10 Family Staycations Over Halloween Break, 2 Night Stays from €278!

family halloween breaks

Thinking about some family staycations over the October mid term break? I’ve got family friendly Irish hotels and self catering apartments and houses to suit all tastes and budgets.

If you are planning some family staycations over the October mid term break, you better act fast! I understand that some of you are looking for cheap hotel deals, others might want a bit of luxury, and many are looking for self catering accommodation with hotel facilities. I have tried to cater for everyone and have plenty of variety below.

Instagram

All family staycations are based on a two-night family stay, but if you want to stay for longer, or just want an overnight escape, simply click on the links below and edit the search dates accordingly. I selected various dates throughout the mid term below but dates can be changed to suit your requirements.  

While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, facilities and activities are subject to change. This post contains affiliate links where I receive a referral commission if a booking is made, but at no additional cost to you.
 

 

 

1. Talbot Suites at Stonebridge, Wexford: 2-bedroom €460, 3-bedroom €600

irish hotel deals for families in wexford

The luxurious Talbot Suites at Stonebridge is a super choice for families looking for large apartments in the heart of Wexford Town. There are 69 apartments on-site with fully equipped kitchen, balcony or patio and TV’s in all living areas and bedrooms. Three-bedroom apartments also boast floor-to-ceiling windows.
 

 

 
Guests have access to the swimming pool and Talbot Quay Leisure Centre and the bar and restaurant at the Talbot Hotel which is just 100 metres away.

Read: Top 10 things to do in Wexford with kids

View offer here
 

 

 

2. Ballyseede Castle, Tralee, Kerry: The Lodge Family Room B&B, €400

Ballyseede Castle

All kids want to stay in a castle, right? Kerry’s only authentic castle hotel is surrounded by 30 acres of private gardens and woodland and is steeped in history. Ballyseede Castle is also known for its traditional Irish cuisine and fine dining, as well as its much loved resident, an Irish Wolfhound.  

 

 
The Lodge family room has two double beds and offers great value for a family castle stay in Ireland. You are also ideally placed to explore the Ring of Kerry and the Wild Atlantic Way.
 
View offer here
 

 

 

3. Quilty Holiday Cottages, Clare: 3 bedroom home (Sleeps 6) €434 

airbnbs with swimming pools in Ireland

The traditional Quilty Holiday Cottages are located on Clare’s coast and offer panoramic views on the Atlantic Ocean. Imagine walking the Cliffs of Moher, and returning to an open fire in your cottage – bliss! These three-bedroom homes sleep up to six and offer complimentary access to the indoor swimming pool and tennis courts. 

View offer here Type A

View offer here Type B
 

 

 

4. Bunratty Holiday Homes, Clare:  3-bedroom house €429

Family staycations in Bunratty Holiday Homes.

Set in the village of Bunratty, these spacious three-bedroomed homes have bright modern interiors, and a patio area. The village has a host of craft shops and restaurants, with Bunratty Castle and Folk Park just 200 metres away. The coast is just 15 minutes away, and the beaches at Lahinch or Kilkee are an hour’s drive away.

View offer here
 

 

 

5. Clayton Hotel & Leisure Club, Sligo:  2-bedroom Family Room €488

 

 
 
 
 
 
View this post on Instagram
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 

A post shared by Sarah Slattery – Travel Expert (@the_travel_expert)


Set on expansive grounds, yet within walking distance of Sligo Town centre, the 4-star Clayton Sligo ticks all boxes for a family holiday in Ireland. We enjoyed a family staycation here recently and loved it.
 

 

 
The leisure centre has a separate kids pool, and there is a mini golf course, games room and sensory room on-site. 

View offer here
 

 

 

6. Millpark Hotel, Donegal, Family Room: €436

swimming pool at the Millpark Hotel Donegal.

Located close to Donegal town, with some of Ireland’s best beaches and the Wild Atlantic Way on your doorstep, this is a great choice for a family holiday in Ireland. There is a swimming pool, children’s pool, sauna, and state-of-the-art gym onsite, as well as a choice of dining options.

View offer here
 

 

 

7. Kenmare Bay Holiday Homes, Kerry: 3 Bedroom Home, €598

Kenmare Bay Hotel

The Kenmare Bay holiday homes are always highly sought after, not only because of their ideal location, but they offer free access to the Leisure Centre and hotel facilities. They have availability in three-bedroom lodges, which are perfect for large families or group getaways.
 

 

 
Price for a two-night stay in a 3-bedroom lodge is €598 on various dates throughout the mid term break. I have selected the 1st of November, but if you prefer to change dates or stay longer, simply edit the dates via the link below.

View offer here
 

 

 

8. Ocean Sands Hotel, Enniscrone, Family Room €278

Enniscrone Beach.

The Ocean Sands Hotel is located in the heart of Enniscrone, overlooking one of Ireland’s best beaches, the location couldn’t be better. Children will love Waterpoint Aqua Park too, which is only a few minutes walk away. Price for a two-night stay on the 1st  of November is only €278 per family.

View offer here
 

 

 

9. Staycity Apartments Dublin City: 1 bedroom apartment €555

dublin hotel deals in the city centre

Staycity Aparthotels offer all the benefits of self-catering with the advantages of a restaurant, 24-hour reception and free WiFi. You can expect hotel room facilities such as air conditioning, flat screen TV, hair dryer and toiletries, as well as a fully equipped kitchenette with microwave and dishwasher.

Located in the heart of the capital, this is a great choice for a family stay in Dublin city.

View offer here
 

 

 

10. Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel, Dublin: Family Room (1 Night stay) €194

fitzpatrick castle hotel is a great hotel for a family holiday in Dublin

Overlooking Dublin Bay, I love the location of this hotel. I enjoy walking the family friendly Killiney Hill Walk regularly. Of course you can also take a short Dart ride to Dublin city, or simply relax and enjoy the pool – this is a great choice for an overnight escape in Dublin.

View offer here
 

 

 
I hope this post on family staycations will help you plan a nice family trip in Ireland over the Halloween break.  These Irish hotel deals were researched across various hotel booking sites. When you make a booking you do so via a third party website. Prices are correct at the time of publishing but may change. Some of the links in this post contain affiliate links where I receive a small commission if a booking is made, but at no additional cost to you.  Read more in my privacy policy.

 

 

Like this post? You might like:

25 Holiday homes beside the sea available for the October mid term break

Travel

10 Family Breaks in Ireland Over St Patricks Weekend – 2 Night Stays From €357

waterford family

With St Patricks Day falling on a Friday this year, why not plan a staycation? I’ve got 10 family breaks in Ireland to tempt you. 

Whether you want hotels or holiday homes, this post has family breaks in Ireland to suit all tastes and budgets. All hotels listed are family friendly and all are recommended on TripAdvisor. I have priced these family breaks in Ireland for two-night stays over Patrick’s Weekend, but dates and durations can be changed, simply click on the links below, and edit the dates to suit your requirements.

Instagram

If you are looking for break away without kids – check out my adult breaks here:

Read: 10 hotel deals over St Patrick’s weekend from €80pp

Most of these family breaks in Ireland include my affiliate links – where I receive a small commission if a booking is made, but at no additional cost to you.
 

 

 

1. Garryvoe Beach Homes, Cork : 3 bedroom Home €690

Garryvoe beach homes

The Garryvoe Beach Homes are newly built homes with modern interiors, stunning views and a private garden to take advantage of them.

As the name suggests they are situated just two minutes walk from the Blue Flag Garryvoe Beach, however you can also avail of the leisure centre and swimming pool at the nearby Garryvoe Hotel, for a nominal daily charge. 

View offer here
 

 

 

2. Lahinch Coast Hotel & Suites, Clare: 2 bedroom suite €628

 

 
 
 
 
 
View this post on Instagram
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 

A post shared by Sarah Slattery – Travel Expert (@the_travel_expert)

Close to Lahinch beach, with the Cliffs of Moher just a 10-minute drive away, this is a great choice if you want to  explore Clare’s gorgeous coastline, without breaking the bank. 
 

 

 
There is a Leisure Centre on-site too, with 17 metre pool, sauna, steam room and Jacuzzi – the perfect place to relax after exploring the Wild Atlantic Way. 

View offer here  

 

 

 

3. Further Space Glamping, Wexford, €380

glamping in Wexford at Further Space

Luxury Glamping company Further Space has recently opened in Wexford, following on from their success across Northern Ireland and Scotland. 

Located in Forth Mountain, just a short drive from Wexford Town these glamping pods offer mountain views close to popular hiking trails.
 

 

 
Each pod can sleep up to four, and comes with a double bed, and bunkbeds for children ( under 15). You will also find an ensuite with shower, mini kitchentte, electricity and USB charging points, and a private fire pit. Breakfast and camp fire packs can also be supplied – extra charge. This glamping site is pet-friendly too!

Read: Top 10 things to do in Wexford with kids

View offer here
 

 

 

4. Westlodge Hotel & Leisure Centre, Cork: Deluxe Family Room €398

mizen head, cork.
Mizen Head

Set in 30 acres of gardens, yet close to Bantry town, The Westlodge Hotel is a super choice for families wishing to explore West Cork and the Wild Atlantic Way. The leisure centre, games room and pitch and putt course are a big hit with families, and they also larger deluxe family suites that can accommodate a family of five.  

View offer here
 

 

 

5. Kenmare Bay Hotel, Kerry: 2 bedroom lodge, €648

kenmare bay hotel deals for families

The Kenmare Bay holiday homes are always highly sought after, not only because of their ideal location, but they offer free access to the Leisure Centre and hotel facilities. They have availability over St Patrick’s weekend in two-bedroom lodges that sleep up to five.

View offer here
 

 

 

6. Breaffy House Hotel, Mayo: Family Rooms €588 (6)

 

 
 
 
 
 
View this post on Instagram
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 

A post shared by Sarah Slattery – Travel Expert (@the_travel_expert)


We stayed in Breaffy House Hotel on a few occasions, and love it family atmosphere and superb facilities. It is situated on 101 acres and there is a spa and swimming pool on site. It is also a great base to discover to some of Mayo’s top attractions, including Westport, Achill, Croagh Patrick and DownPatrick Head.
 

 

 
I fell in love with Mayo’s beaches, and if you fancy cycling, the Great Western Greenway is only a 30 minute drive away. 

Read: Top 10 things to do in Mayo

View offer here

 

 

 

7. Clifden Station House, Galway: 2 bedroom apartment, €604

hotels with lodges in connemara

This unique hotel was once an old railway station. It has been beautifully restored and manages to combine the old brick and native oak with modern furnishings. Its location in the upmarket town of Clifden is ideal for anyone who wants shops, bars and restaurants close by, but also wants to get out and about and explore the rugged coastline of Connemara.
 

 

 
The two and three-bedroom apartments are a great choice for groups or families as guests get full use of the hotel facilities including the swimming pool and leisure facilities. The Railway Kids Club usually operates during holiday periods. 

View offer here
 

 

 

8. Clayton Hotel & Leisure Club Sligo, Two-bedroom Family Room: €578

 

 
 
 
 
 
View this post on Instagram
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 

A post shared by Sarah Slattery – Travel Expert (@the_travel_expert)


Set on beautiful grounds overlooking Benbulben Mountain, yet within walking distance of Sligo Town centre, the 4-star Clayton Sligo ticks all boxes for a family holiday in Ireland. The leisure centre has a separate kids pool, and two bedroom family suites sleep two adults and three children.

View offer here
 

 

 

9. Lough Rea Hotel, Galway: Family Room, €357

spas in Galway, Ireland - Lough Rea Hotel

The Lough Rea Hotel is not only popular with families, but the Spa boasts a Thermal Suite which is the perfect place to relax after a day exploring Galway’s top attractions.

View offer here
 

 

 

10. Hilton Belfast, 2-nights: Deluxe family Room €486

 
 
 
 
 
View this post on Instagram
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 

A post shared by Sarah Slattery – Travel Expert (@the_travel_expert)

The Hilton Belfast is located in the heart of Belfast and is a great option for a family stay. We enjoyed a weekend here a few years ago and loved it. Belfast is brimming with family attractions including indoor skydiving at Vertigo,

Ireland’s award-winning Science and Discovery Centre W5, and make sure you take a spin to Colin Glen Forest Park to enjoy their Gruffalo Trail, ziplines and alpine coaster.

Read: 20 things to do in Belfast with kids and teenagers

View offer here
 

 

 
I hope this post on family breaks in Ireland will help you plan a family getaway over Patricks weekend. These family breaks in Ireland were researched independently. Some have links direct to the hotels websites, while others have my affiliate links attached to third party websites, where I receive a small commission if a booking is made, but at no additional cost to you.
 

Holidays in Ireland

My Review of Fota Island Resort

fota

I’m a firm believer that the ultimate family staycation is one that combines a touch of luxury, with activities for children. Fota Island Resort has both in abundance.

When I was invited to write a review of Fota Island Resort – a five-star hotel with Fota Wildlife park nearby, I jumped at the chance. We have enjoyed a Dublin Zoo family pass for many years; we are animal lovers who also happen to be fond of nice hotels, this seemed like the perfect family staycation.

After a short two and a half hour drive from Dublin we arrived at ‘the island’. I had never really paid much attention to the name before but when we drove into the lavish grounds and arrived at Fota Island Resort, the penny suddenly dropped,  we were in fact on an island! The gardens are superb (more on that later) and first impressions were really good. I couldn’t help but notice the pretty bronzed sculptures throughout the gardens and my daughter Alex was quick to notice them too 😍

We stayed at one of the new Fuchsia lodges, which were outstanding. Just check out my video below and you will see what I mean! The three bedroom lodge (house being more accurate) has a ‘good room’, a massive living area with modern kitchen, and a perfect back garden for the kids to roam around.

Upstairs all three bedrooms are ensuite and two have walk in wardrobes! There is also a balcony off the master bedroom with views across the grounds. Rabbits were constantly bouncing around the garden so when the kids weren’t outside chasing them, the balcony was a great viewing point!


I was conscious that there are only six of these available for rent so I made a point of looking at the Courtyard Lodges too. I was really impressed with these also and they also have the advantage of are also beside a great outdoor playground. I was thinking how handy it would be to relax in your lodge while the kids played happily beside you.

fota island resort

The Fota Island Resort hotel  has a warm cosy feel, with dark bog oak furniture in large lounge areas. Personally I preferred the bright modern décor of the lodges, but I couldn’t help but think that it would be fantastic at winter time, especially with the log fire blazing ❤.

I also investigated the hotel rooms and found them bright and spacious with modern decor. Fota Island Resort offers great facilities for children including a kids club and an indoor swimming pool. My kids loved the pool, however we didn’t have time to try the kids club on this occasion.

During school holidays the Fota Camp operates daily for children aged 4-12 and there is also an adrenaline adventure centre for children aged 8 and over. Children will love the obstacle course and can try kayaking, learn about bush craft and lots more. Budding golfers will love their golf camp – suffice to say there are camps to cater for all children.

We enjoyed tasty meals in the bar and Fota Restaurant, although perhaps not five star standard, but they offered an excellent kids menu. I noticed many groups of girls enjoying afternoon tea so I asked how they were getting on. They had booked a spa package which came with this incredible array of food. It seems Fota Island Resort is not just ideal for families!

fota island resort

I mentioned the lavish grounds earlier and thankfully on our last morning I look the opportunity to walk around them. There are numerous walking trails from 2.5km to 7km, each one was better than the next. You can walk through woods, along the golf course (did I mention there is a championship golf course here?) and along the waters edge.

I spotted wildlife at every turn, red squirrels, rabbits and exotic birds; along with, I was told, the finest collections of rare trees and shrubs to be found in Ireland. Children will love the new Fota fairy trail, that has over 20 magical Fairy Doors hidden throughout the woods. 

You can also choose to walk the 1.7km to the wildlife park, but with two young kids in tow, we decided to drive. After a few short minutes we were at Fota Wildlife Park.

fota island resort

We were only in the park a few minutes when my son spotted a peacock roaming around. This set the tone for the entire day. Everywhere we looked there were animals roaming free, it was so refreshing to see. My son was re christened ‘the spotter’ because he constantly spotted animals hiding in nearby hedges.

There were wallabies hopping through the parkland and lemurs scampering up trees. We planned our visit around the Cheetah’s feeding time and seeing them run at an incredible speed was quite special. My son, Luke (9) was mesmerised. 

After the cheetah ‘show’ we strolled pass the numerous giraffe and bison and arrived at the Asian sanctuary ,where lions and tigers were happy to meet us.

The 100 acre park is very easy to navigate and it wasn’t long before we were at the lakeshore. This was our highlight. We got up close and personal with kangaroos and lemurs as well as the hundreds of friendly birds, ducks and geese. They even have a food dispenser (50cent). The kids loved feeding the birds and geese, the odd peck added to the excitement.

The kangaroos are so used to visitors you can easily stand right beside them and get some amazing photographs. After a three hour visit we decided to hop on the train back to the entrance. It only costs a €1 so if you have tired children, this is a Godsend. We all loved the wildlife park, in fact I have already been asked when we are going back.

Fota Island Resort also has the luxury of being only minutes from the pretty Cork town of Cobh. Famous for being the Titanic’s last port of call in 1912, you can’t help but fall in love with this historic town.

Take a the Titanic experience tour or have lunch in the Titanic bar. There is also a heritage centre and museum. If you fancy a boat trip, take a trip to Spike Island and explore the fortress that held 2300 prisoners. The town itself is pretty with lots of shops, bars and restaurants and the colourful streets are an instagram favourite.

I would highly recommend Fota Island Resort for a family break away. The proximity to Cobh and the Fota Wildlife park combined with a luxurious family friendly hotel and excellent lodges, make for a truly memorable holiday.

 

For more information visit FotaIsland.ie

Like holidays in Ireland? Read more here.

 

Sarah

The Travel Expert

Pin It on Pinterest