New Year’s Eve wreaks absolute HAVOC on Dublin every single year. And while most of us enjoy the madness, some of you might be in search of something a little different to escape the chaos in town…
In that case it’s time to book a little last-min escape so you can escape but also still enjoy yourself.
From the shores of Wicklow to the sweeping golf course over in Portmarnock, these are the easiest, and loveliest, last-minute getaways within an hour’s drive of Dublin.
1. Avon Rí Lakshore Resort and Adventure Centre
Blessington, Co. Wicklow
If you’re hauling the kids with you for the night then this is the perfect spot.
They’ve a plethora of activities on offer to keep the entire fam occupied.
2. Heritage Golf and Spa
Portarlington, Co Laois
Amazing service, fantastic grounds and generally luxurious surrounds, this is as good a weekend break as you’ll get in this country.
It’s barely an hour outside the city on the M7, and better again it’s within a stone’s throw of the Portarlington train station – so you don’t even need a car.
Ideal, really.
3.Dunboyne Castle Hotel
Dunboyne, Co Meath
They don’t get much closer to the big shmoke than this – and yet, at the same time, you’ll feel like you’re a million miles from all your urban woes once you make the short trip to Co Meath.
Dunboyne is a treat, but you definitely deserve one.
4. Portmarnock Hotel & Golf Links
Portmarnock, Co. Dublin
This gorgeous hotel is a real escape from the city. And if you like golf then you’ll be in heaven.
With the beach right on your doorstep you can chill out, get a swim in and enjoy the remainder of the Bank Holiday in style.
Malahide is also within walking distance where you’ll find plenty to eat, see and buy.
5. Bridge House Hotel
Tullamore, Co Offaly
No grounds to speak of here, but smack bang in the centre of a town that’s great for pubs, great for whiskey and great for access – both the Galway and Westport trains serve Tullamore station, and it’s just over an hour from Heuston.
Perfect for a last-minute Bank Holiday getaway.
6. Seafield Golf and Spa Hotel
Ballymoney, Co Wexford
Another one that’s just an hour’s drive from Dublin, or within easy reach of Gorey train station on the main Dublin-Wexford line.
Ballymoney, known to many a Dub for its holiday homes, boasts some of the finest beaches in the country – and the Library Bar here is the most happening venue in the area since the Orphan Girl Disco was at its peak.
Nice.
7. The Merrion Hotel
Dublin 2
It may seem wasteful, as it’s right on the doorstep of the city, but knock yourself out with a lovely evening in The Merrion.
It never fails to delight and is as luxurious and elegant as it is slick and suave. You’ll sleep like a baby – it’s the epitome of comfort.
If not now, when?
Happy New Year <3
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