By Paris Donnatella Callan
Travelling with the family in tow need not be a stressful affair. Many of the finest hotels splayed across the island of Ireland offer kids clubs and activities for all ages, without sacrificing any elements of style or sophistication. Should you be pencilling dates into the diary for your next household holiday, these are the best family-friendly hotels in Ireland to take note of.
Treacy's West County Hotel Ennis, Co. Clare | for Treacy's Express Breakfast Train
Treacy's West County Hotel Ennis is a three-star destination in County Clare that firmly makes its way onto my list of the best family-friendly hotels in Ireland for good reason. While it understands how essential shared family time is, the hotel also offers parents some much-needed rest, while children are engaged and entertained.
Each morning, Treacy's Express Breakfast Train collects children from their room and brings them on an exciting adventure. Stop-offs include the breakfast room and the 'Mini T's Kids Club' where little ones can enjoy supervised activities until noon.
Diamond Coast Hotel, Co. Sligo | for Blue Flag beaches
The Diamond Coast Hotel is a four-star luxury destination located in Enniscrone, County Sligo. Whether you're a sun seeker or want to swing a club, you are bound to be impressed with vistas overlooking the Enniscrone championship golf course, white sand beaches and the Atlantic Ocean swell.
Diamond Coast Hotel is one of the best family-friendly hotels in Ireland, meaning that kids are a top priority. From its 'Little Diamond Kids Club' to its pirate playground, there's much to do. Not to mention that this hotel is a stone's throw from the Waterpoint Aqua Park.
Hotel Westport, Co. Mayo | for the young, and young at heart
From experience, I have found that the best family-friendly hotels in Ireland are the ones which are family-owned and operated. Hotel Westport is a fine example.
Situated on 400 acres of enchanting woodland and landscaped lawns, Hotel Westport is a destination holiday. The Pirate Adventure Park and 'Panda Club' are perfect for little ones with curious souls, while the school holidays see special events and activities tailored for the young, and young at heart.
Dingle Skellig Hotel, Co. Kerry | for its kids club and creche
The Dingle Skellig Hotel is the award-winning four-star resort in County Kerry. Situated on the scenic shores of the Dingle Peninsula, this hotel's backdrop offers postcard-worthy memories to last a lifetime.
Kids will rejoice with endless activities making it one of the best family-friendly hotels in Ireland. The Dingle Skellig Hotel is home to an on-site creche, playground and the 'Fungi Kids Club' and it offers a range of activities around the peninsula including boat rides, horse-riding and surfing lessons.
Delphi Resort, Co. Galway | for budding adventurers
The wild rugged nature of Connemara will steal your heart at the Delphi Resort – not to mention that the kids will be spoiled with all there is to do there. The four-star Delphi Resort prides itself on being an adventure, spa and lifestyle destination.
Adults will be swept away with the serene beauty of its surroundings, while the kids try out some of the activities on offer, including kayaking, surfing, zip-lining, archery, climbing and orienteering. Without a doubt, this makes for one of the best family-friendly hotels in Ireland.