Where to go on your Staycation

Travel 2 min read

30 Jul 2020

2020 is the year of staying at home. Holidays this year look a little different, and all for very good reason. Personally, we can’t see anywhere better than the island of Ireland for our 2020 summer holidays!

Although we’re at the start of August, there is still plenty of time to explore the hidden gems Ireland has to offer! In this blog we take you through some of Irelands most picturesque places that might be just perfect for your staycation of 2020.
 

1. Dingle Co. Kerry

One of the most picturesque counties on the island of Ireland, Dingle in Co. Kerry is a place to do before you die type of trip. For a small rural town, Dingle packs a punch. And if its Instagram’s you’re after, then this is the place for you. From Fungi, the national treasure to the Dingle Gin Distillery, to the picturesque landscape of the peninsula, Dingle in Co. Kerry has something for everyone. There’s attractions and activities on offer for all the family. Beautiful restaurant and tradition Irish pubs for you to enjoy. And most of all there’s an Irish welcome awaiting visitors. You can find all the activities on offer by visiting www.dingle-peninsula.ie/

 
 Dunquin Pier. Photo Cred wildatlanticway.com
 

Located in the North of Ireland, Antrim boasts an impressive offering for all. When you get there, there’s everything from the Giant’s Causeway, to the Carrick-A-Rede rope bridge and the Dark Hedges, the scene from Game of Thrones. And with City of Belfast at your disposal, what better way to discover Northern Ireland than to immerse yourself in all Co. Antrim has to offer. You’ll find out more of what Antrim has to offer here
 

3. County Clare

County Clare is a gem of the west of Ireland. There’s not one place we could pin point for this recommendation. Each spot is as breathtaking as the next. If surfing is what you’re looking for, Lahinch is the place for you. Surf board rentals are everywhere you turn and the waves await you. If a classic Irish country town is what you are after, Doolin is the place to go. The small Irish village boasts an abundance of character and plenty of craic! Of course the Cliffs of Moher and Burren can fill the cultural gap in your staycation in Co. Clare, and the only question left, how long do you have to stay?! You’ll find more about the lovely county of Clare here.
 

                   Cliffs of Moher. Photo cred. Clareisland.net
 

4. Kilkenny

A hurling stronghold for generations, Kilkenny has more than just sports stars to show off. Known as Ireland’s Ancient East, Kilkenny offers a range of activities for its visitors. The main street is a hive of activity with restaurants around every corner. Kilkenny castle will fill history lovers with joy and the stunning surrounds are perfect for a family day out in the sun. If you can’t decide what you want to see in Kilkenny, there’s a guided train tour taking you around the city and showing off what Kilkenny has to offer. You can find out more information about your staycation in Kilkenny here.
 

5. Cork 

Some may say it’s the real capital, and while the dubs may not agree, Cork as a county has a lot to offer staycationers. If you fancy a city break, Cork City will be the place for you. With plenty of shops, restaurants, hotels and more, you won’t be short of things to do. If a countryside break is more of what you are looking for, look no further than Schull in Co. Cork. Amazing scenery awaits visitors. While the town itself is picturesque, the surrounds are even more breathtaking. Cape Clear Ferries are available to take you on a tour around the bay, where you may even spot a whale and dolphin or two. You’ll find more about what Schull has to offer here.
 

6. Dublin 

As the capital, Dublin is home to plenty of tourist attractions. If you fancy pouring your own pint of Guinness in the Guinness Storehouse, or paying a visit to the Natural History Museum or even walking through Trinity College like Connell and Marianne, Dublin City Centre has a lot to offer. While the city is full of things to do, places like Howth, Dalkey, Dun Laoighre and Malahide offer that little bit of quite away from the hustle and bustle. You can find out more about places to visit in Dublin here.

 

7. Westport 

A small town in Mayo, Westport is a must visit. The town itself is home to a huge offering of local shops, restaurants, and amenities. Going outside of the town itself, Louisburgh is a surfers paradise, and if you’re into hiking, Croagh Patrick awaits you. A picturesque town in the heart of the west is a must visit for your 2020 staycation. You can find out more about the beauty that is Westport here.

 
 
               Photo cred. Failte Ireland. Derek Cullen
 

8. Donegal 

Arguably the most picturesque place on the island of Ireland, Donegal is a must visit in the year of the staycations. You can visit what Donegal has to offer on the Wild Atlantic Way, to those famous Hills of Donegal, you won’t be disappointed. You can find out what happening in the hills this summer by visiting https://www.govisitdonegal.com/
 
So, there you have our top eight recommendations for your 2020 staycation. Ireland is a beautiful place, to have everything on our doorstep is a real bonus. Discover this amazing country, you won’t be disappointed! And as always, if you need a little help to get you on the road, you know where your local credit union are!