What to love about Center Parcs… if you’re a girl

Planning a getaway with the family? Look no further than Center Parcs in Co Longford, the ultimate adventure staycation for the whole family. Here’s our girl-approved guide to what’s on offer, with Alanna Gore-Grimes (8) and Katherine Meagher (9).

Affiliated with the much-loved Center Parcs resorts in the UK, Ireland’s first offering is set amid 400 acres of woodland in Longford.

Boasting 466 lodges and 30 apartments, the resort accommodates up to 2,736 guests.

While a little smaller than its UK cousin, the Longford Forest is packed with all the same main attractions, namely the 3,500m2 Subtropical Swimming Paradise (heated to 29.5°C all year round); watersports lake, impressive aerial adventure forest park, Aqua Sana spa, and over 100 leisure activities to choose from.

Read: The dad’s guide to Center Parcs

Read: The mum’s guide to Center Parcs

Read: The boy’s guide to Center Parcs

Cousins Katherine Meagher and Alanna Gore-Grimes get harnessed up for the Aerial Tree Trekking. Photo: Supplied

Alanna (8)
“When I went to Center Parcs, I loved the Aerial Adventure and Tree Trekking. I did it with my older cousin. I had so much fun. First it looked kind of scary, but when I went with my cousin it felt way better. My favourite bit was the zipline.

“I also made a den with my two brothers and my two cousins out the back of our lodge – it was so cool. There was also a sweet shop called Treats.

“Me and my cousin did pottery painting. We both painted cupcakes – I am putting my jewellery inside.”

Katherine and Alanna build a den at the back of their lodge in Center Parcs. Photo: Supplied 

Katherine (9)
“I think I liked the swimming pool best. And the four-man ride and the Wild Water Rapids. I liked the four-man because it was freaky. If you picked the theme ‘Thunder’, there was a projector that showed pictures of thunder and lightning and makes lots of noise.

“I also liked the wall climbing. I thought Center Parcs was a really good place. They have cool bikes there that you rent – much more fun than walking.”

Katherine dares the Aerial Tree Trekking. Photo: Supplied

For more information and to book your epic family getaway, see centerparcs.ie.

Main photo: Katherine Meagher and Alanna Gore-Grimes put safety first with their protective head gear at Center Parcs