A Family Guide to the Ultimate Family stay at Portmarnock Resort

If you’re looking for the perfect family break, and wanting somewhere that has a mix of fun, adventure, good food, beautiful scenery and plenty to keep the kids entertained then the Portmarnock Resort & Jameson Golf Links is the perfect base to explore this part of Dublin. It’s Located right on Velvet Strand beach which is one of Dublin’s most stunning beaches. The location of this hotel is amazing it’s so close to many beautiful towns and villages so you have the best of both worlds, a relaxing coastal escape close to so many brilliant family days out.

Portmarnock Resort & Jameson Golf Links offers comfortable family accommodation options making it an excellent place to stay. It has multiple restaurants, a gold course, spa and gorgeous outside areas. You can also hire electric bikes to explore the local area. The family rooms are beautifully decorated and have two large beds, a seating area and separate wardrobe area. They are clean, modern and perfect for families, many rooms and suites face the Irish Sea, Lambay Island, and Ireland’s Eye.

Howth

Just a 20 minute drive from the hotel is a beautiful fishing village called Howth, one of Dublins most scenic coastal villages filled with shops, cafes, restaurants and bars.

It's known for its spectacular cliff walks , boat tours, working harbour and fresh seafood restaurants. It offers something for everyone weather it be an active morning exploring the cliffs , a cruise around Irelands Eye or simply a stroll along the harbour with an ice cream. It's also a stunning spot to catch a beautiful sunset.

Howth Cliff Walk

Howth has a number of beautiful and impressive walks for every ability. The Summit Walk is a short 2km family friendly walk with some of the most breathtaking views over Dublin Bay. For the more adventurous families there are longer and harder trails. The walks provide you with spectacular views of the cliffs, Ireland’s Eye, Lambay Island and the Lighthouse.

Tips when visiting:

• The walks are not stroller or wheelchair friendly, so bring a carrier for small children.

• Bring snacks and water

• There is a free car parking area at the start of the trail along with toilets.

Irelands Eye Cruise

If you want to experience the spectacular beauty of Ireland’s Eye then hop on a boat tour that takes you up close and personal to it. You board your Howth Cliff Boat Adventure at the West pier.

Here you will find a number of different cruise experiences, the 45 minute cruise is perfect for families. There are longer experiences available and some tours allow you to get off at Ireland’s Eye to explore it a little more. While on the tour keep an eye out as you may spot dolphins, seals and a range of different bird species, you may even get to see some Puffins as they come to nest on the Island between April and September.

Tips and visitor information:

• There is a toilet onboard

• Bring a little rain jacket as you may get splashed

• Prebook tickets online at Howth Cliff Cruises

• For the 45 minute cruise it costs €25 adult €15 child

• Senior and family tickets available

Newbridge House & Farm

Located less than a 15 minute drive from Portmarnock Resort & Jameson Golf Links is Newbridge House and Gardens, one of Dublin’s best family experiences. This place combines history, nature and outdoor adventure all in one place. The farm is a traditional working farm that is home to lots of farm animals like pigs, sheep, goats and ponies. Children will enjoy meeting, petting and feeding the animals. There are also lovely woodland trails and play areas to enjoy and explore.

If you want to learn more about the history of the gorgeous Georgian house you can take part in the guided tour, they even have a special children’s house tour running daily at 11am.

Tips and visitor information:

• Allow 2-3 hours to explore farm grounds and area

• Cafe and picnic facilities on site

• Stroller and wheelchair friendly

• House and farm tickets cost €15 Adult €10 child

• Senior and family tickets available

Malahide

Located only a 10 minute drive from Portmarnock Resort & Jameson Golf Links is the charming coastal town of Malahide.

You can enjoy a lovely stroll along the marina watching the boats sail by or enjoy a delicious bite to eat or drink at one of the many cafes, bars or restaurants. Malahide is also a great spot for some shopping as it’s home to many beautiful boutique shops. Setto’s is a great place to enjoy a bite to eat, it has delicious food , great kids menu options and a lovely friendly atmosphere around the place with indoor and outdoor dining areas to choose from.

Pappagallino’s is the perfect stop for delicious authentic Italian gelato and sweet treats.

Malahide Castle & Gardens

Located 10 minutes from Portmarnock Resort & Jameson Golf Links is Malahide Castle and Gardens.

The historic castle dates back over 800 years and offers guided tours where visitors can learn about the Talbot family who lived in the castle for generations. You can explore the beautifully restored rooms and learn all about the rich history of the estate.

Outside the castle there are 22 acres of gardens to explore, with woodland walks, a butterfly house, fairy trails and plenty of open space to enjoy and. Little ones will also love the children’s playground and there is even a little train ride that goes around to all of the different areas of the gardens.

Families can grab a coffee or bite to eat at the fabulous Avoca cafe and have a browse around the shop. There are also lots of picnic spots to enjoy.

Tips and visitor information:

• Allow approx 2-3 hours to explore all it has to offer

• Castle tours are ticketed and pre booking is recommended

• Tickets cost €17.50 adult €10 child, family and senior tickets are also available

If you wanted to really step back in time to the 18th Century and be part of the Hunt Family you could join in for the unique dining experience they offer. It's an amazing dining experience for guests to be transported back in time. It's €120 pp and lasts approx 4hrs. It includes a 4 course dining experience and entertainment you won’t find anywhere else.