Irish New Year’s Eve Ideas: 2016 on the Emerald Isle
If you've ever met an Irish person, you'll know the rumours are true: they do know how to party. If you combine this love of merriment with great music, delicious beer, stunning rural landscapes and vibrant cities, you have the ingredients for an extremely cheerful New Year's Eve.
Of course, if you're looking for a little peace and quiet, Ireland can also provide. With a low population density and an outdoors that includes both undulating green hills and wild rocky coasts, it's a superb place to get away from it all – especially since it's only an hour from most UK airports – or a short hop across the sea by ferry.
Perhaps you're considering the Emerald Isle for New Year's Eve, or for another date during the festive period; maybe you're planning a few days of detox in early January. Whatever your reasons for heading across the Irish Sea as 2016 approaches, be inspired by these five great Irish getaway ideas...
Irish Landmark Trust Cottages - Across Ireland
The Irish Landmark Trust takes care of some of Ireland's most unique properties – a list that includes cottages, lodges, towers and even light houses. While booking gets difficult around New Year's Eve, there is still availability in the run up to Christmas and New Year at time of writing. Imagine waking on an Irish winter's morning to waves crashing against a rugged shore as you peer out from Wicklow Head Lighthouse – or rising to the rural tranquillity of Tullymurry house in Donaghmore...
https://www.irishlandmark.com/properties/
Harvey's Point, Co Donegal
Set in a bucolic spot in Co Donegal, Harvey's Point has grown from a cosy guest house into a 76-bed hotel. Yet despite its size, it retains a sense of homeliness. This year's main New Year's Eve package is aimed at couples and includes a Champagne reception, countryside walks, treasure hunts and local beer tasting. The package includes two night's bed and breakfast, one evening dinner and a special candlelit dinner on New Year's Eve.
If you can't make it for New Year, it's worth remembering that Harvey's Point lets you take your own horse with you on holiday – if you happen to have one!
Ice House, Co Mayo
Set beside the tranquil River Moy, the Ice House was used to freeze and pack salmon in the mid-19th century. Today it is a funky boutique hotel, offering a cool urban chic in the midst of the Irish countryside. Alongside great food, wine and fancy cocktails, guests can enjoy the hotel's spa – perfect if your partying gets a bit heavy over the New Year period. Prices drop dramatically in early January if a New Year's Eve booking is not possible.
Hogans Cottages - Across Ireland
For those intent on staying in an Irish cottage over the New Year period, Hogans could be an option: the company still has plenty of availability. The firm offers a diverse range of cottages, some set in locations such as beautiful County Wicklow, others in the vibrant Dublin area. Those who choose a property in the latter location will be well-placed to enjoy the world-famous festivities of the Irish capital.
https://www.hogansirishcottages.com/
Dublin
There are still Dublin hotels and guest houses with availability for December 31st, so experiencing one of the most famous New Year's Eve parties in Europe remains within your grasp. Follow the Music and Arts Trails for excellent live Irish music in some wonderful settings, or check out Fat Boy Slim alongside the Coronas, Kila and Ryan Sheridan.
Food lovers should head for Dublin Castle's NYF Food Village, while fans of the moving image may enjoy the city's Luminosity events, featuring spectacular 3D animations.
Those of a poetic bent may find inspiration in the Spoken Word Festival, while the Procession of Light shouldn't be missed by anyone finding themselves by the Liffey on New Year's Eve.
Enjoy Complete Peace of Mind as You Ring in 2016
It may only be a short hop across the Irish Sea, but it's a good idea to protect yourself and your loved ones against flight cancellations, curtailments, illness, injury, baggage loss and theft – and various other risks.
With 5 days of European cover costing from just £6.50 – enjoying complete peace of mind this New Year costs little more than a festive pint of Guinness! We also provide a range of great value annual travel insurance options too.
Protect Your New Year's Eve Trip Today!
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