Give the gift of travel this Christmas
AS the festive season approaches, we are beginning to look to those small moments with our family that will mean the most.
Sometimes a weekend away with that special someone or a long weekend with all the family can be the best Christmas gift as the memories you make will last a lifetime.
With no more travel restrictions, the world is your oyster, so you can pay a visit to some of Ireland’s hidden gems. If you are looking for some inspiration, look no further. Here is a list of some of the finest destinations close to Sligo to make this festive season one full of memories.
Starting out in Mayo, along the Wild Atlantic Way, there is plenty of adventures in store across the county. From visiting Achill Island’s Blue Flag beach at Keem Bay, to cycling along the greenway and hiking the famous Croagh Patrick, this will bring joy to your loved ones who love the outdoors.
After a long day of enjoying Irelands west coast, why not treat your loved one to dinner in Frankie Mallon’s multi-award-winning restaurant An Port Mór in Westport. Why not make Westport your home away from home for the weekend by staying in the family-run Knockranny House Hotel & Spa. If you think a stay in Belleek Castle Hotel, is more to your loved ones liking, then the iconic Irish country house hotel is less than an hour from Westport on the banks of the River Moy in Ballina, County Mayo. The 19th-century castle is home to the Michelin-listed Library Restaurant, giving you an excellent dining experience.
For an alternative, the four-star Ice House Hotel is located on the edge of the River Moy in County Mayo, just ten minutes from Belleek Castle. The award-winning Chill Spa with the riverside thermal garden is the perfect place to unwind after a day outdoors.
Moving into the midlands, on the banks of the River Shannon, Athlone is in the heart of the Hidden Heartlands. Whether you are taking a leisurely walk, through Athlone town, along the Shannon, by Athlone Castle, or taking in the scenic views of Lough Ree and Clonmacnoise, Athlone is a relaxing weekend away to make memories for a lifetime.
After an afternoon of taking in the historical sites of Athlone, treat yourself or your loved one to dinner in the Thyme Restaurant in Athlone town centre.
Finish your day where you started and sit back in relax in the Hudson Bay Hotel along the shores of Lough Ree.
Moving back to the north west, a voucher to restaurant or hotel in Donegal, will give your loved one the chance to take in the unspoilt
Derryveagh Mountains. views on Ireland’s rural landscape.
Make some time to take in the Derryveagh Mountains by exploring their walking trails and the shores of Lough Esk. With a little drive up the road, you could see one of Ireland’s best beaches, Portsalon Beach.
If your loved one is looking to really treat themselves this Christmas, a voucher to the Red Door Country House in Fahan will give a fantastic fine dining experience.
To settle down for the night, a stay in Havey’s Point will be the perfect gift for someone who is looking to pamper themselves amongst the beautiful surroundings of the nearby mountains and lakes.