Whether you’re planning a multi-generational staycation, a girls’ getaway or a holiday that involves multiple families, we’ve found the best places for groups to stay.
Words by Megan Burns, Melanie Morris and Meg Walker.
Sheen Falls Villas, Kerry
Sheen Falls Lodge is one of Ireland’s most adored 5-star hotels, but lesser-known are their spacious, super-luxe, self-catering villas. Properties are fitted to perfection, with everything the heart (and soul) could desire, and situated in their own landscaped gardens with a furnished terrace overlooking the waterfalls or stunning Kenmare Bay. The thatched villas have four double bedrooms, accommodating up to eight adults, and are pet friendly.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Everything is generous – from the proportions of the rooms to the stocked fridges (yes, main and drinks fridges) on arrival – the first evening, we feasted on artisan cheese, homemade brown bread, fruit from a massive bowl, gallons of chilled water and wine, all of which awaited us. Bedrooms and living rooms are plush, relaxing and elegant with oversize beds, big TVs, antique furniture and plenty of storage space. Bathrooms, the kitchen and utility rooms come fully equipped, along with your own “hotline” phone to Sheen Falls and its various departments, all of whom are at your unlimited disposal. Housekeeping visits every second day, which proved to be convenient and unobtrusive.
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There are so many day trips, activities and dining options when Kenmare is your base. Particular favourites would include a trip to Glengarriff and Bantry Bay for a pier side pub lunch, or a visit to nearby horticultural gem, Garinish Island. Closer to home, lunch or an early dinner at The Boathouse Bistro in Dromquinna Manor is an elevated yet convivial gourmet experience packed with local personality and produce. For those wanting a full day of spectacle, head west on the Beara Way to take in Castletownbere, the Tibetan Buddhist Retreat near the village of Allihies, or hop on the cable car to the beaches and birds of Dursey Island.
DON’T MISS
While there’s much to see and do, make sure to schedule a down-day at the villa. Breakfast hampers magically appear each morning before sunrise, packed with fruit, yoghurt, bread, pastries, muesli and juice and come included with the stay. Other meals can be ordered from Sheen Falls’ extensive room service menu and villa guests can dine a la carte at the hotel’s Falls restaurant and Stables brasserie upon reservation, book spa treatments, or any of the hotel’s activities – from archery to fishing.
Culloden Estate and Spa, Antrim
Set high on the Holywood Hills overlooking Belfast Lough is this magnificent 19th-century bishop’s palace and one of Northern Ireland’s finest five-star hotels. Here, historic grandeur meets modern luxury with a warm Irish welcome from the moment you ascend the steps to the iconic arched doorway.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Fresh air, manicured lawns, spectacular views of the sea and inspiring artworks surround you at every turn, while the comfiest cloud beds await in your bedroom for the most extraordinary night’s sleep (I assure you, you’ll be enquiring as to where you can source such a mattress upon departure).
SPEND THE DAY
Located on the outskirts of Belfast City, Culloden is the perfect spot for an escape from the hustle and bustle while allowing you and your friends the freedom to explore the city should you manage to pull yourself away from the peaceful serenity of the stunning estate.
The Spa, meanwhile, is dedicated to holistic wellbeing, with aromatic ESPA treatments fusing advanced techniques with ancient therapies, tranquil relaxation areas, thermal experiences including a eucalyptus steam room, jacuzzi, rainforest shower, swimming pool and sauna with serene views of the trees and Belfast Lough outside.
And with fine dining available in Vespers Restaurant, tapas-style small plates and sharing boards in the Lough Bar (I recommend the Wagyu beef) and hearty all-day fare in the Cultra Inn, plus an impressive afternoon tea in the Lounge and Drawing Room (which must be booked 24 hours in advance), you have an indulgent choice of ways to celebrate together at the end of the day.
DON’T MISS
Make sure to venture down to the scenic North Down Coastal Path, just five minutes from the hotel, for an invigorating outing, and maximise that sense of wellbeing with a Pilates class where you and your pals can stretch, pose and breathe with the guidance of one of Culloden’s expert teachers. Guests are invited to take part in the classes at no extra cost, but these must be booked over the phone when making your initial reservation.
The Retreat Country House, Cork
A Georgian house located just outside Bandon, this beautiful family home is available for private rental. With six large, comfortable bedrooms, it sleeps up to 12, making it ideal for a family get-together.
WHAT TO EXPECT
With the entire property to yourself, you have total freedom and privacy during your stay, letting you curate your own trip. Period features are combined with modern comforts to set the perfect tone for any gathering – simultaneously luxurious and laid-back. There’s a large garden with a terrace and barbecue, and a kitchen spacious enough to cook meals for a crowd.
The dining room practically begs for you to gather a group together to enjoy a feast, while a drawing room, morning room and sitting room provide places for your crew to chat together or find their own nook to relax. Everything such as kitchen equipment, laundry detergent, bed linen and dressing gowns are all provided, while there are logs to light the stove, and a whole library of books to peruse. The main issue might be convincing everyone to leave at the end of your stay.
SPEND THE DAY
Nearby, Bandon has plenty to enjoy, from a farmer’s market at the weekend to golf and fishing, as well as popular shops and restaurants. You also have the whole of West Cork to explore. Kinsale and Clonakilty are each just 25 minutes’ drive away, while the rugged coast is dotted with stunning beaches.
DON’T MISS
The real benefit of a location like this is the chance to spend quality time together – make the most of this home’s generous spaces with mornings of the kids playing on the lawn, lunches that linger long into the afternoon, evenings spent playing board games together, or for a special meal you can even organise private catering to take the hassle out of cooking.
BigStyle Lodge, Mayo
Water sports specialists BigStyle have their very own lodge right by the Atlantic outside Killadoon, a 13-bedroom hotel that’s the perfect base for surfing, kitesurfing, paddleboarding, yoga, and more. You can book B&B rooms, packages with food and activities included, or you can work with BigStyle to create a bespoke trip for your group. The lodge has a laid-back, rustic surfer’s aesthetic, and there are a range of room options from dorms to ensuite twin rooms.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Perfect for those who love an action-packed stay, there is no shortage of things to do. You can plan outings for the whole group, or let everyone choose their own activities. The nearby beaches are ideal for surf lessons if you’re a beginner, or try out other water sports – you can hire equipment if needed, and there’s nothing better to bring everyone together than the thrill of riding a wave.
Killadoon Hill offers the perfect opportunity for a scenic hike, while the yoga studio offers morning classes for a great start to your day. If you opt for a weekend package, all your meals are included, and the lodge’s pub, P Dan’s, is an ideal spot to gather everyone together to reflect on the day’s adventures over a pint.
DON’T MISS
Water sports is a given during a stay here, but don’t pass up the opportunity to relax (and warm up) afterwards in the Big Dipper Spa. With a sauna, plunge pool and hot tub, it has views of Inishturk and Clare Island, Carrowniskey beach, and even the peak of Croagh Patrick. The sauna seats up to ten people, while five fit in the hot tub, so it’s great for a gang to enjoy together.
www.bigstyle.ie — MB
Cabü by the Lakes, Cavan
Set within Killykeen Forest on the shores of Lough Oughter in Co Cavan, Cabü by the Lakes is a collection of luxurious log cabins and lake houses. The location is perfect for an escape surrounded by a peaceful, natural setting, with all the comforts you could want.
WHAT TO EXPECT
The flexibility of accommodation makes it perfect for groups. If several families are taking a trip together, you can book separate cabins, which are available in different size and bedroom configurations. While a group of friends might want a boathouse, which has three bedrooms and sleeps up to six, ensuring you all have space to spend time together. Some cabins are even dog-friendly, so you can really bring the whole family.
You can all come together in the communal spaces, which include a covered alfresco seating area with a fire at the centre, a bar, and Cabü House, a space to relax with the paper or enjoy a drink, while each cabin has a stylish, comfortable living space you can retreat to, as well as facilities to cook meals for the whole group.
SPEND THE DAY
Whether your group loves outdoor adventures, complete relaxation, or a mix of both, there are options that span from kayaking and paddle-boarding to an on-site spa with outdoor hot tubs and Japanese forest baths. There’s also the option to hire bicycles, or simply explore the forest trails.
DON’T MISS
Hire a boat to explore the system of lakes next to the cabins, and then gather together for a barbecue in the evening. Eat it enjoying the sounds of the birds that live in the surrounding forest.
www.cabu.ie — MB
This article originally appeared in the Autumn 2024 issue of IMAGE Magazine.
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