A night to remember
This month sees the 110th anniversary of the downing of the Unsinkable Titanic. It’s also the 10th anniversary of the opening of the Titanic Belfast attraction. For anyone sceptical about a museum dedicated to a ship that didn’t make it, it’s actually a truly fascinating delve into Belfast’s industrial past, and an insight into the age of travel before planes truly took off.
Stay across the road at the chic and atmospheric Titanic Hotel, home of the original Harland and Wolff drawing offices, where the great ships were designed – did you know, they had a loft where they drew them out full size? Rates from €214 including B&B for two, plus admission to Titanic Belfast.
titanichotelbelfast.com
Sea views
It’s always a nice reminder that summer is coming when a beloved hotel reopens after a rejuvenating break. West Cork’s Dunmore House sits on the shores of Clonakilty Bay, so tasty views are guaranteed. An organic kitchen garden and a penchant for locally sourced produce means the meals at the in-house Adrift Restaurant are pretty lovely too.
The Barrett family have been running the place for four generations, so they know what they’re at, and activities in the area include fishing, golfing, hiking, beach yoga, surfing and horse riding. Yum. Get in on the action from €315 including B&B and dinner for two.
dunmorehousehotel.ie
Make it to Morocco
Fifteen minutes from Marrakech, the 4-star Iberostar Club Palmeraie Marrakech is a family oasis. The kids’ Star Camp offers plenty to do when they’re not splashing about in the children’s pool. Fret not, there’s an adult only pool too, and a hammam.
Save €300 on a seven-night all inclusive break with Tropical Sky when you book by April 30th, for travel after May 1st. Priced at €719 pps including flights from Dublin, and transfers on the Morocco side.
tropicalsky.ie
Dead Sea strolls
Jordan is one of those places that is so rich in it layers of culture, landscape, antiquities and history, that you’ll really benefit by having a guide. Go with Travel Department’s TD Active and explore Jerash, Ajloun, Madaba and Amman. You also get to hike in nature reserves, snorkel the Red Sea and dip into the Dead Sea, as well as do a 4×4 jeep tour and stay overnight in the desert valley of Wadi Rum.
Add a cooking class to spice things up, and you’re all set. From €2,399 pp, including flights, transfers and nine nights’ accommodation, B&B, and guides. Departures from September 11th, with dates up to October 3rd.
tdactiveholidays.com
