Northern Ireland Staycation: Fun at Home

Updated On: November 07, 2023 by   Ciaran Connolly

Sometimes, the delights on your doorstep make a staycation a better option than travelling abroad. There are plenty of options for Northern Ireland Staycations in regards to activities and locations. With relaxing spas to cycle trails, Northern Ireland staycations have plenty to offer all ages with secluded spaces to enigmatic cities, let your next adventure be at home. 

Finn Lough: A Bubbledome Northern Ireland Staycation

On the leafy banks of Lough Erne sits the beautiful and secluded Finn Lough. Stunning natural settings are at the heart of this accommodation, Finn Lough has been made famous due to its bubble domes. Nestled in the trees, the bubble domes provide a feeling of sleeping under the stars while in the warm environment of the dome. If that type of physical exposure isn’t for you, there several other types of accommodation that are available as well. With the Lakeside Lodges, Waterside Cottages, and Catered Suites, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the fruits of Finn Lough.

Romantic getaways to family fun are included in their long list of activities. Hidden in the woods is a stunning spa, airsoft is available for the more adventurous sort, fishing, cycling, or walks around the lake. To enjoy the spoils of County Fermanagh, Finn Lough is a fantastic opportunity for those wanting a Northern Ireland staycation. 

The Lough Erne Resort: A 5-Star Northern Ireland Staycation

Voted Hotel of the Year in 2017 at the LCN Awards, the multi-award winning Lough Erne Resort provides decadence to those who prefer the finer things in life. Most famous for playing host venue to the G8 summit of 2013, it is a luxury 5-star resort in Enniskillen. House in an incredible 600-acre peninsula between Castle Hume and Lough and Lower Lough Erne, it has incredible views of the Fermanagh Lakelands and The Faldo Course.

Lough Erne resort provides sensational golf experiences with the ultimate 36-hole golf event. Options for golf within the resort include the award-winning Faldo Course, Castle Hume Golf Course, and the Golf academy – all state of the art facilities. 

Lough Erne boasts a Thai-inspired spa experience that has its unique luxury treatment menu. Regardless if you want to have a paid treatment, The Thermal Suite and Infinity at the Thai Spa are complimentary for all hotel guests. 

The Catalina Restaurant on site is run by acclaimed chef, Noel McMeel and his culinary team. Showcasing the delights of modern Irish cuisine, it’s one of Northern Ireland’s only 3 AA Rosette Hotel Restaurants. For those who love the high-life, Lough Erne Resort is the perfect place for a Northern Ireland staycation. 

The Salthouse, Ballycastle: Seaside Staycation

The Salthouse, Ballycastle offers a unique Northern Ireland staycation. A luxury, eco-hotel, it offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean for those used to the smoke of city living. Resting above the quaint seaside town of Ballycastle, The Salthouse is designed for those who want a relaxing, holistic experience and to reconnect with nature. A wonderful Northern Ireland staycation who are searching for a romantic getaway or a coastal retreat. 

Taking its name from the local production of salt that occurred from Pans Rocks to Fair Head, The Salthouse plays homage to this important part of Ballycastle’s history. With a spa that focuses on the restorative nature of salts and the fresh sea air that surrounds the space, The Salthouse is the perfect place for those who need to recharge their batteries.

Finn Valley Cottages: A Strabane Staycation

Located on the Donegal border, Finn Valley Cottages are situated just outside of Strabane in County Tyron. In a picturesque and rural location, Finn Valley Cottages offer luxury holiday homes that are surrounded by natural beauty with stunning scenes of the Donegal hills to be enjoyed from your cottage windows. An authentic Irish experience that is steeped in tradition, it also offers plenty of activities and attractions to keep all ages entertained. 

An exclusive experience, there are only four luxury, self-catering cottages available. The cottages are uniquely positioned on the River Mourne and River Finn, renowned for their salmon and trout fishing, making this an ideal location for those with a penchant for angling. Easily accessible to the Royal Portrush Golf Club, which hosted the Open in 2019, the area is filled with world-class golf courses with picturesque views. 

Titanic Hotel Belfast: Don’t Sail Staycation

Built in the former headquarters of Harland & Wolff, the shipbuilders of the Titanic, the Titanic Hotel is set right in the heart of the shipyard. With oceanic views of Belfast Lough and the River Lagan, the Titanic Hotel offers a city break with a difference. With sea breeze walks to the SS Caroline and SS Nomadic, the hotel has the renowned and acclaimed Titanic Belfast Experience right on its doorstep, for those who enjoy history and culture. 

The Titanic Hotel’s bar and restaurant offers The Harland &and Wolff Drawing Offices to enjoy a full steak dinner or a quiet whiskey with friends. Art Deco decorations with large ships’ lanterns, the space transports you back in time. Ideally located within Belfast, it is a short walk into the city and has a quiet yet bustling atmosphere. For those who want to immerse themselves in history and culture in the capital city, this is the perfect Northern Ireland staycation. 

Bishop’s Gate Hotel: A Derry Landmark Reborn

For those who wish to visit the walled city, the Bishop’s Gate Hotel is perfectly positioned within the historic city walls in the heart of Derry City’s Cathedral Quarter. The exquisite Grade B1 listed building was developed in 1899, blending stunning Edwardian architecture, stylish appointments and luxurious facilities which have been sensitively restored to pay homage to the rich heritage of the building, whilst exceeding the contemporary needs and desires of its guests.

A luxurious and incredible retreat right in the heart of Derry City, The Bishop’s Gate Hotel offers The Wig and Gown Champagne Bar and Restaurant, providing high-end dining and a fabulous bar for those who are cocktail aficionados. An alternative city break, Bishop’s Gate Hotel is for those wishing to explore Northern Ireland’s second city for a relaxing staycation.