Over the rainbow
While many hotels declare themselves family friendly, it's not always the case.
here are four of the best places to visit in lreland where the yellow brick
road rises to meet both parents and children. By Claire O'Mahony
Parknasilla Resort Sneem, Co. Kerry
Having “something for everyone” is one of those irritating phrases that rarely holds up under close scrutiny but in the case of Parknasilla Resort, it’s actually true. It has the subtropical vegetation, it has the spa, it has the playground that is 500 acres of gorgeous Kerry countryside and it has an unsurpassed number of activities so if you don’t find some elements to enjoy here, you’re very spoilt indeed. Best of all is Parknasilla’s attitude to children: they are perceived as guests of the future and are catered to accordingly with special menus, entertainment and activities. There are 92 bedrooms and suites at the hotel but the 24 two-bedroom courtyard lodges just off the main building and the 38 spacious three bedroom villas are particularly suited to families. The latter have their own kitchen if you’d prefer the self-catering option although you’ll still have access to the hotel facilities and all of the on-site activities.
The Deal: three nights B&B and two evening meals in a family room is from €299 per adult and €135 per child under 12. Included is children’s tea time and two hours of supervised play each evening with access to the swimming pool, an activity pack and mapped walks with interactive play maps. This deal is running until the end of the summer.
