It’s the middle of August, meaning summer has nearly come to an end.
It seems to have gone by extremely fast this year, making it harder to say goodbye. But don’t pack away the suncream just yet, there are still a couple of weeks left, and it’s about time we made the most of them.
Whether you’re looking to rest before school starts again, or simply looking to give the long evenings a proper send off, a little holiday is perfect for the end of the season.
And luckily you won’t have to travel a million miles for an unforgettable experience, as our own little emerald isles has some truly unique hidden gems just waiting for your visit.
Finn Lough Forest Hideaway
If you’re looking for a truly unique getaway, then Finn Lough Forest Hideaway in Fermanagh is the perfect option.
Focused on bringing people back to nature they offer three types of sleeping experiences. With suites, lakeside villas, and their unique Forest Domes.
Tucked away in a private forest, these transparent domes sleeps two adults and gives you uninterrupted views so you can immerse yourself in nature and sleep beneath the starry skies.
Their Premium Domes offer more spacious interiors and lots of luxurious extras including a roll top bath overlooking the forest.
They also have a spa on sight to really make sure you’re rejuvenated after your stay.
Ard Nahoo Eco Retreat
Hidden in the peaceful countryside of Leitrim, Ard Nahoo’s wooden Eco Cabins are the perfect place to escape the world. Built with eco principles in mind throughout, they are painted with muted natural paints, furnished with antique finds and heated by cosy wood pellet stoves.
All Eco Cabins have fully equipped kitchens, and amazing views out to the green hills and mountains from a private deck.
There are just three Eco Cabins at Ard Nahoo, so guests feel they have their own little piece of natural heaven.
Plus there is plenty to do during your stay from exploring the country side, to some on-site yoga, or even a BBQ as some of the cabins are even equipped with outdoor grills.
Barge At Titanic
Sure there are plenty of lovely spots to stay on land, but taking to the sea is a pretty unique way to finish up your summer.
Moored in central Belfast, Barge At Titanic, is the perfect spot for a city break-but with a little extra charm. They have two barges: The Harland for those who love stunning views! Comprised of a living room (with projector for reruns of The Titanic movie of course!) Outdoor Deck, Master Bedroom, Full Bathroom with ‘onshore’ style toilets and shower, Bunk Room and Kitchenette.
or The Wolff for those who want to be able to reach out and touch the water! Comprised of living room, outdoor sitting area, Kitchenette, Master Bedroom, and Bunkroom.
Both comfortably accommodate four and are perfect for those looking for a high seas adventure but still need some modern conveniences like WIFI, tv, and toilets.
Castle Leslie Estate
If you’re looking for some old world glamour and sophistication for the end of summer, then a stay in Monaghan’s Castle Leslie is a must.
With its authentic interiors and old-style hospitality, the Castle at Castle Leslie Estate exudes old world grandeur and offers complete respite from the world. The Castle is not a typical hotel experience – you won’t find televisions, radios, or minibars in the Castle bedrooms. (Don’t panic they still provide WiFi!)
But what really sets a stay in the Castle a part from others, are the rooms. Each one has a different theme based on the history of the house. So be it a stay in The Nursery Heritage Room, which features a life-sized doll house for a bathroom, or Aggie’s Heritage Room which is full of old Hollywood glamour based on the life of actress Agnes Barnelle, you’re in for an experience not to be found anywhere else.
There is also plenty to do during your stay, with a spa, equestrian centre, luscious grounds and some fine dining options.
Rock Farm Slane Glamping
The ultimate summer staycation has got to be a good old camping session, but if you’re going to camp nowadays, do so in style with a luxurious glamping trip.
Rock Farm Slane Glamping offers all the fun of classic camping but with a bit more luxury. From April to October they have 5 yurts (sleeping 4-6 people), 2 shepherd huts (sleeping up to 2 people) and the Swallow’s Nest (sleeping 8 couples).
Yes you’ll be getting back to nature, but with plenty of comfort as well. On-site they offer hot showers, a deck area for hairdrying, self-catering kitchen facilities, a large wood burning stove, an Ipad docking station, an outdoor wood burning hot-tub, bbq facilities, an outdoor clay oven for pizza, a private river access for wild swimming, and electric bike hire & tours.
So fairly different from those childhood summer garden camping sessions!