Enniskeen forest Estate is a peaceful retreat into nature with a luxurious twist. Located only 1 hour from Dublin and 40 minutes from Belfast and near the seaside town of Newcastle this private estate offers an exclusive glamping experience that blends rural charm and a luxurious comfort. The Estates ideal location is an ideal base for exploring the surrounding area, a short drive brings you into the quaint promenade and sandy beaches or for those wanting more of a challenge there are hikes and mountain biking available. Set within the magical mountains of Mourne, Enniskeen Forest Estate is a magical retreat, it even has Hollywood royalty listed amongst it's guests. Hugh Jackman spent time there whilst filming here in Ireland. Enniskeen forest Estate is an adult only venue and consists of A Kingfisher's Residence, Doe's Den, Dreamer,s Drey, Thatched mountain Cottage. Each Residence comes with it's own private hot tub with views to die for, and only woolly sheep as your neighbours, you won't want to leave. Whilst staying at Enniskeen Forest Estate, take the time to explore the unesco geopark Mourne Mountains conquer Slieve Donard , northern Irelands highest mountain. Explore the graniite tors trail of Slieve Binnian & Doan mountain, hike the challenging "Mourne Wall", A listed monument which is 24 miles long! Northern Ireland answer to the "Great wall of China". Then after, relax at the private forest Spa. Indulge in your own private spa oasis hidden in the woods. For experiences such as a forest sauna and riverside hot tub, where your prosecco is delivered by zip line. A two night stay at Enniskeen Forest Estate starts from €285 per night based on 2 people sharing.

From the ancient Daintree Rainforest to the turquoise waters of the Great Barrier Reef, Journey Beyond’s new all-inclusive rainforest to reef package offers guests an intimate journey through two of Far North Queensland's UNESCO World Heritage-listed landscapes. This new package seamlessly connects the destination's most iconic natural and cultural sites all in a single day. Alicia Triggs, Executive General Manager Sales & Partnerships says: “This new package perfectly blends the beauty of the Great Barrier Reef and the lush Daintree Rainforest into a one-day, all-inclusive package. Guests can experience the best Tropical North Queensland has to offer, and discover three worlds - reef, rainforest and Indigenous culture - all while connecting with the rich traditions of the Traditional Owners”. As an Advanced Eco-Certified reef operator, Sailaway Port Douglas offers premium, small group sailing and snorkelling experiences to Mackay Coral Cay on the outer Great Barrier Reef, Low Isles, a coral cay island and Sunset Sailing. Celebrated as the seventh wonder of the world, the Great Barrier Reef is recognised for its vibrant coral ecosystems and remarkable marine biodiversity, captivating visitors with its beauty and playing a crucial role in global marine conservation. Nestled in the World Heritage Listed Daintree Rainforest, Mossman Gorge offers an opportunity to explore one of the world’s oldest tropical rainforests. Just one hectare of the 120,000-hectare forest can contain over 30,000 species of plants and animals. Located within this stunning landscape, Mossman Gorge Cultural Centre offers visitors the opportunity to connect with both nature and culture through the 90-minute Kuku Yalanji-guided Ngadiku Dreamtime Walk. Celebrating 40 years in 2026, the walk is led by local Indigenous guides, visiting culturally significant sites while exploring crystal-clear rainforest streams, lush greenery and diverse wildlife. Guests can choose from two packages: a full day Rainforest to Reef or a half day Rainforest and Sunset Sail package. Rainforest to Reef Package – Full Day Departs 9:00am – returning 6:30pm Start the day with Mossman Gorge Ngadiku Dreamtime Walk, led by experienced Indigenous guides. Hear Stories of the Kuku Yalanji culture and traditions, visit a sacred ceremony site and witness a soap & ochre paint making demonstration. In the afternoon, embark on a 5.5-hour tour with Sailaway Port Douglas. Visit Low Isles, including a nature walk, snorkelling activities and glass bottom boat tours. Highlights & Inclusions: Return transfers from Port Douglas to Mossman Gorge Cultural Centre. 1.5-hour Mossman Gorge Ngadiku Dreamtime Walk led experienced Indigenous guides. Bush tea and Damper provided 3 hours at Low Isles, including an island nature walk. All snorkelling equipment, instructions and in-water assistance provide Guided snorkel tour with a marine guide Solar Electric Glass bottom boat viewing and reef interpretation Alfresco lunch, charcuterie board and canapes Freshly brewed tea, coffee, soft drinks and select alcohol beverages Sunset Sail, overlooking the Port Douglas coastline and the Daintree Mountain Ranges Tickets: Adults $495 / £259, Child $325 / £170 (ages 4-12), Family $1,455 / £755 For bookings and further information visit: https://sailawayportdouglas.com/tours/rainforest-to-reef/ Rainforest to Sunset Sail Package – Half Day Afternoon & Evening Experience Your afternoon will begin with a Mossman Gorge Ngadiku Dreamtime Walk, led by experienced Indigenous guides. Hear stories of the Kuku Yalanji culture and traditions, visit a sacred ceremony site and witness a soap & ochre paint making demonstration. Embark on a 1.5-hour evening sunset sail, as you watch the sun set with views over the Port Douglas coastline and Daintree Mountain ranges. Highlights & Inclusions: Return coach transfer from Port Douglas to Mossman Gorge Cultural Centre. 1.5-hour Mossman Gorge Ngadiku Dreamtime Walk led experienced Indigenous guides. Bush tea and damper Stories of the Kuku Yalanji culture and traditions Visit a sacred ceremony site Soap & ochre paint making demonstration Enjoy 1.5 hours of pure sailing on board Sailaway Welcome drink of wine, sparkling wine, beer, cider, or soft drink Multiple viewing platforms to relax and admire the sunset Charcuterie board and a selection of hot and cold canapés Tickets: Adults $240 / £125, Child $175 / £92 (ages 4-12), Infant $105 / £55 (0-3 years) Family $740 / £387 For bookings and further information visit: https://sailawayportdouglas.com/tours/rainforest-to-sail/ There’s no better time to visit Far North Queensland than now. Combining two UNESCO World Heritage-listed landscapes, in an easy, all-inclusive one day package. For bookings and further information visit Sailaway Port Douglas: https://sailawayportdouglas.com/

As travellers look for adventure without compromising on comfort, flashpacking is putting a luxurious spin on the backpacking spirit – hiking by day, glamping or checking into boutique hotels by night and embracing freedom without sacrificing style, wellness or a great night’s sleep. From the brand new White Elephant Aspen offering a luxurious escape after a long alpine hike, to glamping sites in close proximity to the natural wonders of Yosemite National Park and Acadia National Park, here are nine destinations for flashpackers seeking memorable adventures with a touch of indulgence. 211 miles of trails and endless luxury in Aspen and Snowmass Village, Colorado For those interested in hiking and embracing the backpacking lifestyle without compromising on comfort, head to Aspen and Snowmass Village for your next flashpacking escape. Stay at the town’s most recent luxury opening, White Elephant Aspen, conveniently located in the heart of Aspen with easy access to the destination's 211 miles of hiking trails, offering endless options for day hikes through wildflower meadows, rushing streams and towering aspen groves. Among the many trails to choose from, the 3.98-mile Rim Trail South rewards hikers with sweeping 360-degree views of mountains and valleys, while the 5.3-mile Cathedral Lake Trail climbs from the historic Ashcroft ghost town to a pristine alpine lake, with spectacular viewpoints overlooking the iconic Maroon Bells along the way. aspenchamber.org / gosnowmass.com Glamping at its finest, Under Canvas, Yosemite Tuolumne County Set in a serene, mountainside forest surrounded by mature, Yosemite-native trees and just 10 minutes from the west entrance of Yosemite National Park at Big Oak Flat Information Station, Under Canvas’ idyllic, 80-acre camp is within close proximity to natural attractions including Hetch Hetchy Reservoir and Tuolumne Grove of Giant Sequoias. The glamping style accommodations include private bathrooms and living areas, and USB battery packs for charging devices. Guests can also enjoy on site dining, an experience coordinator for booking activities, and camp programming that includes live music and morning yoga. Tents starting from £260 per night. visittuolumne.com Pedal, hike, soak and sip through Balaton, Budapest and Tokaj, Hungary From vibrant city streets to vineyard-covered hills and lakeside adventures, Hungary is ideal for flashpackers looking to combine authentic experiences with stylish stays. Start in Budapest, exploring the city's ruin bars, thermal baths and the newly reopened Citadel on Gellért Hill before heading out on two wheels along sections of the expanding EuroVelo 6 cycling route that follows the Danube. Continue to Lake Balaton, Central Europe's largest lake, where hiking trails, sailing excursions and wine tastings offer a slower pace. Rest your head in design-led hotels such as the newly opened Birgés Hotel in Balatonfüred, or unwind among the vineyards in one of the boutique guesthouses of the Tokaj wine region. visithungary.com Waterfront Luxury and the Wilds of Maine Maine’s mix of coastline and national park wilderness makes it perfect for flashpackers seeking scenic hikes and unique stays. Head to Acadia National Park, the ‘crown jewel of the North Atlantic coast’, featuring rugged headlands, water views and 47,000 acres of wilderness. Check into Under Canvas Acadia, to connect with nature on its 1,200 feet of shoreline and evening campfires under the stars. Summit Cadillac Mountain for the first US sunrise before exploring Acadia’s 158 miles of hiking trails. For a touch of luxury, unwind in nearby Bar Harbor at the historic Bar Harbor Inn & Spa, known for iconic waterfront views and fine dining. visitmaine.com Luxury Meets Wilderness on the Yosemite Mariposa County Flashpacking Trail 95% of Yosemite is designated wilderness, making it ideal for finding solitude whilst wandering the iconic landscape. Flashpack your way from Mariposa, wandering historic Gold Rush streets, before hiking through wildflowers at Hite Cove, then being rewarded with the scenic Tunnel View and Half Dome vistas. Just outside Mariposa, begin at glampsite, Wildhaven, stay in a quintessentially American airstream at Autocamp Yosemite, Midpines, where you can gaze at the beauty of Bridalveil Falls and enjoy local Sierra Cider tastings. End your stay at a luxury, century-old national park hotel, dining with views of Yosemite Falls, The Ahwahnee Hotel. yosemite.com A flashpackers guide to The Islands of Tahiti, French Polynesia For travellers embracing the rise of flashpacking, The Islands of Tahiti offer the ideal blend of adventure and indulgence. Rather than staying in one destination, visitors can island-hop across the archipelago, mixing charming Tahitian guesthouses and locally owned ‘pensions’ with unforgettable experiences such as hiking through Moorea’s lush interior, diving in Rangiroa’s world-renowned lagoon or exploring Taha’a’s fragrant vanilla plantations. Flexible multi-island air passes from Air Tahiti make it easier than ever to explore multiple islands in a single trip, allowing travellers to build their own bespoke South Pacific adventure. tahititourisme.uk/ Blend coastal serenity with adventure in ISESHIMA, Kii Peninsula, Japan Located just under two hours from Osaka on the Kintetsu railway, ISESHIMA in Mie Prefecture is perfect for flashpackers looking to escape the city and immerse themselves in the Japanese countryside. Designated entirely as the Ise Shima National Park, the region is home to a variety of cultural, nature and wellness experiences. Pay a visit to Ise Jingu, Japan’s most sacred Shinto shrine or head to Satoumi-an for an experience with the Ama, Japan’s legendary female pearl divers. Book a stay at the luxurious ISESHIMA Base for a relaxed and tranquil private glamping experience. Alternatively, those looking for a bit of indulgence can check out COVA KAKUDA where each private villa overlooks the calm waters of the Ago Bay. Be sure to take advantage of Japan’s luggage forwarding service and travel bag free around the region. iseshima-kanko.jp/en | visit-kii.com From Mountain Trails to Infinity Pools, Méribel, France For hikers who like their wilderness with a side of luxury, Refuge de la Traye offers one of the Alps' most rewarding overnight stops. Perched high above Méribel in the heart of the Three Valleys, this secluded retreat blends the charm of a traditional mountain refuge with boutique comforts. After a day exploring alpine trails and panoramic peaks, guests can unwind in the outdoor infinity pool, soak in the mountain-view sauna, and enjoy restorative wellness treatments. Combining adventure, wellness and alpine elegance, it's an ideal retreat for travellers embracing the flashpacking trend. Refuge de la Traye starts from £537 per night. Meribel-tourism The Wild West, Alpine Trails and Boutique Luxury, Colorado Hidden within a dramatic box canyon and surrounded by soaring peaks and wildflower-filled valleys, Telluride is one of Colorado's most spectacular mountain towns. Once a thriving Victorian mining settlement, the town still retains much of its Western heritage, with historic storefronts and beautifully preserved architecture lining its streets. After exploring trails to Bridal Veil Falls or Bear Creek, hikers can retreat to Madeline Hotel & Residences, Auberge Resorts Collection, where mountain-view suites, a luxury spa and a heated outdoor pool provide the perfect recovery. Rooms at Madeline Hotel & Residences start from £360 per night. colorado.com

Hiking holidays are associated with rugged back packs, tents as lodgings and long days trekking rough grueling terrain. But now we see a new trend emerging "Luxury hiking holidays". These trips combine the fun of adventure, walking through breath taking landscapes with the comfort of luxury accommodation , gourmet dining, wine tasting and expert guiding with luggage transfers to ease your hike. For travellers who want more than a sun lounger by the pool, Luxury hiking has become one of the fastest-growing trends in adventure travel. Luxury hiking holidays differs from the traditional trekking holidays. A Luxury hiking holiday focus on experiences and comfort as well as the journey itself. After a day of exploring guests often return to boutique hotels, spa retreats or bespoke lodges rather than simple 2 man mountain side tent. Many packages also include luggage transfers between stops, meaning hikers only need to carry a small day bag whilst walking. Many luxury hiking enhance the wellness aspect of hiking holidays with rewarding spa treatments , yoga sessions, or simply enjoying gourmet cuisine upon your return. Some of the most trending destinations for luxury hikes are Lofoten Islands Norway, The Dolomites Italy, Nakasendo Japan. There ae also luxury guided specialists on luxury hiking holidays, Walk into Luxury are "one of the best tour operators " specialising in luxury hikes world wide. Their signature journeys combine hand picked lodges and personalised experiences, giving you unique access to the worlds best wilderness areas. Travelers now are seeking more meaningful experiences rather than simple sight seeing tours, luxury hiking holidays provide just that, adventure without the stress, tailor made journeys, luxury and comfort and experiencing unforgeable journeys. For those seeking a luxurious hiking experience in Ireland, the following companies offer high-end tours that combine comfort, elegance, and local expertise: Wilderness Ireland: Specializes in guided hiking tours across Ireland's most beautiful regions, offering a range of walking tours with luxury upgrades and tailored itineraries. Irish Luxury Tours: Provides private, chauffeur-driven tours across Ireland, including the Wild Atlantic Way and Cliffs of Moher, with premium accommodations and local expertise.

We all love a trip to the big city, but what about spending a weekend or two in a destination surrounded by nature? Here’s a round-up of some of the best small towns and remote parts of the USA to unwind and enjoy a peaceful holiday. Granby, Colorado A small mountain town in Colorado, Granby has just over 2,000 residents and is praised for its friendly atmosphere and close proximity to Denver. Surrounded by Rocky Mountains National Park, Granby really lives up to its motto of ‘being something truly grand.’ Brimming with outdoor activities in the spring, travellers can breathe in the fresh air with hiking, camping, mountain biking, horseback riding or boating. Located in Granby, C Lazy U Ranch is a luxurious dude ranch offering an upmarket yet authentic wild western experience. An all-inclusive resort, guests can enjoy incredible views of the Continental Divide mountain range in complete peace and tranquillity whilst switching off from the rest of the world. Alpine Lakes High Camp, Seattle, Washington Just a short ride from Seattle, two hours to be precise, sits Alpine Lakes High Camp in Leavenworth. A remote area alongside the Alpine Lake Wilderness area, Alpine Lakes High Camp includes nine A-frames and cosy cabins along with private forests which are perfect for travellers who crave seclusion and untouched territory. In the warmer months, expect empty hiking trails, a wood-fired hot tub and intimate moments with nature. La Jolla, San Diego, California The southern California city of San Diego is known for its laid back atmosphere, beautiful coastline and incredible Mexican cuisine. Travellers looking to enjoy a slow pace of life should visit the La Jolla neighbourhood in the north of the city. Boasting numerous beaches, picturesque coves and Torrey Pines State Nature Reserve – a peaceful park set atop a cliff, with views of the Pacific Ocean – La Jolla is a great spot for a remote holiday. Visitors can stay at the La Jolla Shores Hotel; with each of the rooms offering coast or garden views, guests feel as though they are a million miles away from anyone else. Rooms from $339 per night. St. Helena, California Nicknamed “Napa Valley’s Main Street,” the downtown area of the charming wine-country town of St. Helena brims with lovely little shops, art galleries, and cafés set in historic buildings. It’s all nicely walkable within its primary half-mile-long core, so visitors can browse gourmet shops, fashion boutiques, and candy stores of this picturesque small town. Downtown St. Helena is ringed with wineries, such as the iconic Merryvale Vineyards, which was the first winery in the valley to open after the repeal of Prohibition in 1933. The perfect place to stay in St. Helena is Auberge du Soleil hotel; with breathtaking views, it is the dream of French restaurateur, Claude Rouas. Nestled within a terraced, sun-kissed hillside amid 33-acres of heritage olive and oak trees, the hotel’s 50 contemporary guest rooms and suites make a perfect location for a peaceful stay away from the crowds .Rooms for £1,136 per night.

Chile is establishing itself as one of the world’s leading astro-tourism destinations. With over 300 clear nights a year, an extremely dry atmosphere, minimal light pollution and some of the most advanced observatories on the planet, the country offers exceptional conditions for observing the night sky. Currently, around 40 per cent of the world’s infrastructure dedicated to astronomical observation is located in Chile, a figure that is estimated to rise to approximately 60 per cent in the coming years. The north of the country, in particular, has established itself as an international centre for astronomy and stargazing. The unique combination of cutting-edge scientific research, spectacular landscapes and tourist experiences makes Chile an extraordinary destination for amateur astronomers, photographers and nature lovers. Whether in the silence of the Atacama Desert, amongst the vineyards of the Elqui Valley or in the Andean valleys near Santiago, the stars seem brighter, closer and more impressive than almost anywhere else in the world. The Atacama Desert: A Window to the Universe The Atacama Desert is recognised as one of the best places on the planet for stargazing. In the area around San Pedro de Atacama, numerous tour operators offer guided excursions to gaze at the stars under a virtually perfect sky. Visitors can admire the night sky both with the naked eye and through powerful telescopes. One of the most iconic spots is the Valley of the Moon, whose surreal landscape takes on an almost otherworldly quality beneath the starry sky. Among the region’s main scientific attractions are the ALMA Observatory, situated at an altitude of 5,000 metres, and the Paranal Observatory, home to the famous Very Large Telescope (VLT), one of the world’s most powerful optical telescope systems. Both facilities offer guided tours by prior booking, allowing visitors to gain an up-close insight into the advances in modern astronomy. Another exceptional setting for astrophotography is the monumental sculpture ‘La Mano del Desierto’ (The Hand of the Desert), located south of Antofagasta. Against the backdrop of the Milky Way, this site creates a unique connection between art, science and nature. Elqui Valley: Mysticism, Pisco and Starry Skies The Coquimbo Region, situated in northern Chile, accounts for approximately half of the country’s astro-tourism offerings and is known as the country’s ‘capital of the stars’. In the magical Elqui Valley, situated about five hours’ drive north of Santiago, visitors will find an extraordinary concentration of observatories and astronomical experiences. Among these, the Mamalluca Observatory, near Vicuña, stands out as a pioneer of astro-tourism in Chile. Its guided tours combine introductions to astronomy with observations through professional telescopes. Also worth noting are the Cerro Tololo Observatory, the Gemini Observatory, the La Silla Observatory and the modern Collowara Observatory, located near Andacollo. The Elqui Valley offers a unique combination of clear skies, wine culture and pisco-making traditions, alongside easily accessible observatories. During the day, visitors can tour the area’s famous pisco distilleries and vineyards, before rounding off the day by gazing at one of the world’s most spectacular night skies. Stargazing near Santiago: Where Astro-Tourism Meets Wine, Culture and Nature The area surrounding the Chilean capital also offers excellent opportunities to explore the cosmos. In the Cajón del Maipo, located just a few kilometres from Santiago, various tour operators combine stargazing with nature and adventure experiences. During the day, visitors can enjoy activities such as hiking, rafting or zip-lining, whilst at night the focus shifts to observing planets, constellations and galaxies. Observatories such as Roan Jasé and Pailalén complement the experience with educational activities and insights into the ancestral worldview of the Mapuche people. Further south of Santiago, in the renowned Colchagua Valley, astro-tourism blends with the wine-making tradition. At the Cerro Chamán Observatory, situated within the Santa Cruz Vineyard, visitors can enjoy guided observations of the night sky accompanied by wine tastings and exhibitions related to astronomy.

With staycations becoming increasingly popular, weekend breaks across the UK are on everyone’s radar. This summer’s events offer the perfect opportunity to enjoy a sunny weekend in Cambridge, complete with great food, lively entertainment, and plenty of fun. What’s on June Bat Punt Safaris with Scudamore’s (running until 30 September): The annual River Cam bat safaris, run by the Wildlife Trust for Beds, Cambs & Northants and Scudamore’s, are not to be missed. Guests are guided into the nocturnal world of bats by an expert, with the chance to use a bat detector to listen to their ultrasonic calls. Tickets from £71 Live Wimbledon Screenings (29 June-12 July): Set in a prime spot near the train station, tennis fans can soak up the sun while enjoying live screenings of Wimbledon. Whether stopping by on a lunch break or after work, it’s the perfect way to see all the action. July & August Summer in the Square (every Thursday in July): Summer in the Square brings free, family-friendly events to a pop-up parklet in Station Square. Each week there is something new, from gardening workshops and creative writing sessions to health and wellbeing activities. Cambridge University Botanic Garden Sounds Green 2026 (every Wednesday evening in July): A celebration of summer and music, Sounds Green is a series of open-air live music performances held on the Garden’s Main Lawn, offering a perfect opportunity to enjoy the sights and sounds of summer with family and friends. Cambridge Folk Festival Presents (July- August): In an exciting new chapter for 2026, the Cambridge Folk Festival, presented by Cambridge City Council, will expand beyond its traditional format with a city-wide programme of events. In the lead-up to the main weekend, local venues, promoters and folk clubs will host performances throughout the month, including concerts at Cambridge Corn Exchange. Screens in the City (August): Across two locations, Cambridge BID will host four days of outdoor film screenings for everyone to enjoy. Free and family-friendly, the programme will include a mix of classic favourites and recent releases, inviting residents and visitors to enjoy memorable days in the the city. Out of the Ordinary Festival (29 and 30 August 2026): Celebrating its fourth birthday over the August Bank Holiday weekend, Cambridge will welcome a line-up of leading performance artists from around the world, bringing a packed programme of entertainment to the city. Find more options here - www.visitcambridge.org/whats-on Places to Stay The Varsity Hotel: Perfectly positioned in the heart of the city, the hotel is an ideal base for visitors. Alongside its comfortable rooms, guests can experience the impressive culinary spaces including the iconic Roof Terrace, where contemporary cocktails are enjoyed while taking in views of the city skyline. Double rooms start from £222 per night on a B&B basis. Wilde Aparthotels: Located among the university colleges, this property offers beautifully designed studios and one-bedroom apartments, each fully equipped with its own kitchen. The hotel’s boutique cafe-bar, Oscar’s offers an elegant setting for a meal, while the charming terrace is great for soaking up the sun with a drink from a curated selection of wines, local beers and spirits. Rates start from £194 per night for a studio and £225 for a one-bedroom apartment. Find more options here: www.visitcambridge.org/place-categories/accommodation Where to eat Garden House: Set within the stylish Graduate Hotel, Garden House is a relaxed yet charming riverside space overlooking the River Cam. With its chic interiors, open grill kitchen and garden terrace, it’s an ideal spot for everything from leisurely lunches to alfresco drinks in the warmer months. Mercado Central: Inspired by the historic markets in Spain, the restaurant showcases the finest seasonal produce. Diners can enjoy relaxed lunches by the open kitchen to more refined dinners upstairs, all complemented by a carefully selected wine list – making it an ideal spot for flavour-led summer dining in the city. Aromi: A firm favourite in Cambridge, Aromi brings a taste of Sicily to the city with its handcrafted sourdough pizzas, fresh focacci and famously creamy gelato. Great for relaxed summer dining, visitors can easily grab a slice or gelato to take away and wander through the historic streets, making the most of the sunny days. Find more options here: www.visitcambridge.org/place-categories/food-drink

Families, culture lovers and those seeking a slower pace are being invited to discover a wealth of magical experiences at Comeraghs Wild Festival 2026, with four days of activities, heritage, creativity and entertainment taking place across Waterford from July 9th to 12th. While the festival is renowned for its mountain adventures, headline concerts and comedy gigs, this year's programme is packed with family-friendly activities and fascinating experiences designed to delight all ages. The festival begins on Thursday evening with a journey into the past at the Old Woollen Mill in Kilmacthomas. Renowned historian Julian Walton will explore the remarkable story of the mill, which was established in the 1850s by Louisa, Lady Waterford, to provide employment in the difficult years following the Famine. Local historian Andy Kelly will present a special exhibition of historic photographs featuring the mill, the railway, the viaduct and some of Kilmacthomas' most notable characters. Light refreshments will be served, offering visitors the perfect opportunity to step back in time and celebrate local heritage. On Friday afternoon in Dunhill Community Hall, visitors can discover traditional fishing skills with a fascinating workshop by Brendan Simpson on how to make a traditional willow lobster pot, or creel, preserving a craft passed down through generations. Saturday promises plenty of rural charm at Cooney's Yard with traditional sheep shearing demonstrations and sheepdog displays showcasing the age-old skills that have shaped life in the Comeraghs for generations. Animal lovers and families are expected to flock to this entertaining and educational event. The popular Wet Felt Workshop also returns to Clonea Parish Hall, with sessions for both beginners and advanced participants, offering another opportunity for festival-goers to explore their creative side. On Saturday morning, the Greenway Joggers will host a special Memorial Walk in Crough Wood in memory of former committee member Mary Flynn. Festival-goers and members of the community are warmly invited to come together to remember Mary and celebrate her contribution to the festival and the local area. Storytelling enthusiasts can enjoy an immersive and collaborative evening experience at Clonea Power on Saturday, where folk tales from the Comeraghs and beyond will come to life through shared stories and imagination. Also taking place over the weekend is the ever-popular Dancin' Neath the Comeraghs, a much-loved community event which continues to draw strong support and brings people together through music and dance. Drama lovers can round off the evening with mystery and intrigue when the Gealach Gorm Theatre Group presents Cliffcastle House at St Brigid's Hall, Kilrossanty. Written and directed by James Barry, the production promises murder, secrets and plenty of twists as the heirs of Baron Cliffcastle gather to hear the reading of his will. Creativity takes centre stage on Sunday with a special Cyanotype Workshop in Crough Wood, Kilmacthomas. Suitable for all ages, children and adults will learn how to harness the power of the sun to create beautiful prints using leaves, stones, branches and natural objects gathered from the woodland floor. Participants will create imaginative artworks inspired by fairies, faces and the magic of nature. Young adventurers can also enjoy the Creative Children's Woodland Camp and the Enchanting Woodland Escape with Claire O'Sullivan, while adults seeking relaxation can immerse themselves in Zen in the Park, featuring yoga, pilates and wellbeing sessions designed to reconnect mind and body with nature. Elsewhere across the weekend, visitors can enjoy the Dunhill Artisan Food and Craft Market, the Comeragh Motor Club Classic and Vintage Car Run and Display, a free performance by the Comeragh to Coast Chorus and guided adventures including the spectacular Coumshingaun Ridge Hike. Music fans are also spoiled for choice, with Gerry Walsh and California Blue kicking off the festival at The Village Bar, Rathgormack. Reviving the electric energy of Ireland's golden ballroom era, the band brings together rock 'n' roll, classic country and beloved showband favourites in a lively performance guaranteed to have audiences asking "Are you dancin'?" Widely regarded as pioneers of the Irish showband scene, Gerry Walsh and California Blue promise an unforgettable start to the weekend. Bernard Casey also takes to the stage at The Village Bar, while Duke Special performs in the beautiful setting of Clonagam Church on Sunday afternoon with support from Moylan. The festival concludes with An Evening of Song and Story featuring the White Horse Guitar Club and The Backyard Band at Woodhouse Estate. Festival organiser Bernadette Drohan said Comeraghs Wild Festival is all about bringing people together and celebrating the unique spirit of the region. "Whether you're interested in history, arts and crafts, theatre, music, wellbeing, or simply making memories with family and friends, there is something for everyone at Comeraghs Wild. We want people to slow down, explore, discover and experience the magic of the Comeraghs." Full programme details and tickets are available at www.comeraghswild.com.

The Little Island Resort Near Clonakilty on the coast of County Cork, The Little Island Resort, a former 1960s motel, has been brought back to life by sisters Aislinn O'Shea and Nicole O'Shea. Today, The Little Island Resort has become an adults-only and dog-friendly boutique hotel. With just six rooms, the property focuses on an intimate and modern atmosphere inspired by Palm Springs style, all set within unique architecture overlooking the ocean. You’ll find everything you need: fast Wi-Fi, a smart TV with Netflix and Spotify, and a minibar, everything you need for a relaxing stay without missing a single episode of your favourite series. Guests can enjoy the Swim Club Deli, a laid-back seaside café serving barista-style coffee, cocktails and pizzas. Visitors can also borrow bikes and blankets, while picnic options are available for beach days and excursions. Just 1.7 km away, discover the impressive Castlefreke Castle and more than 12 km of scenic trails running through woodland and along the coastline. Hiking, nature walks and even kayaking make it the perfect base to explore the beauty of West Cork. On the sustainability side, the hotel’s roofing system uses solar energy and ambient air to produce hot water for the property. A unique project in Ireland that continues to evolve season after season. Practical information B&B from €190 More information: The Little Island Resort This property was featured in the Fab 50 2026 list.

Oul House Hidden within the wild landscapes of the Inishowen Peninsula, Oul House is a beautifully restored traditional Irish cottage offering a true escape from everyday life. Surrounded by nature, this charming house immediately stands out with its iconic green door, cosy interior and peaceful atmosphere. Designed to accommodate up to six guests, it features a spacious living room, a country-style kitchen and a clawfoot bathtub perfect for relaxing after a long day exploring the region. Large windows overlook the surrounding countryside and Pollan Bay, creating the ideal setting to reconnect with nature and slow down. The property also includes solar panels and an electric vehicle charging point. Located close to beaches, scenic trails and historic sites such as Carrickabraghy Castle and Glenveagh National Park, Oul House is the perfect base for discovering County Donegal. Guests can also enjoy award-winning local dining at Nancy's Barn, known for its dishes prepared with fresh local ingredients, as well as the many cosy pubs nearby offering a warm and friendly atmosphere. This unique stay promises a true disconnect in a typically Irish setting, with its thatched roof, exposed wooden beams and rustic charm, while still offering all the modern comforts needed for a relaxing getaway. Practical information From €180 per night More information: Oul House This property was featured in the Fab 50 2026 list.

Killarney Royal Townhouse Located in the heart of Killarney, the 4-star Killarney Royal Townhouse, owned by the Scally family and a member of the Irish Blue Book, offers an elegant and welcoming escape in County Kerry. The hotel features 32 rooms, including 9 suites, while its Fig Restaurant and breakfast area have recently been renovated to provide an even more refined guest experience. Soft earthy tones inspired by the nearby national park create a warm and calming atmosphere throughout the property. Irish craftsmanship is also celebrated through collaborations with Muckross Weavers and artworks by Declan Mulvany, giving the hotel a unique identity. Each room is meticulously decorated with beautiful antique furniture and comfortable feather duvets, as well as a Smart TV, air conditioning, Wi-Fi and even a golf putter and putting kit for golf enthusiasts. The Fig restaurant showcases Kerry produce in a modern, locally sourced menu; the hotel is working to strengthen its commitment to sustainability by prioritising local Kerry producers in its catering. What’s more, discover the region in a different way, particularly through packages that include guided walks in the national park. Practical information B&B from €285 “Natural Pause” package including 2 nights, breakfast, dinner and a guided walk in the national park More information: www.killarneyroyal.ie This property was featured in the Fab 50 2026 list.

Sleeping in one of Dublin’s most iconic landmarks? It’s possible thanks to the summer accommodation available at Trinity College Dublin. During the summer holidays, visitors can stay in the famous Rubrics building, the oldest building on campus dating back to between 1699 and 1705. Fully renovated, the rooms combine historic charm with modern comfort and offer stunning views over the university’s iconic courtyard. Trinity College is also the perfect central location for exploring Dublin while enjoying the unique atmosphere of the campus. Guests can extend the university experience by dining in some of the campus dining halls open to the public during the summer months. The property is also committed to sustainability through the installation of ground-source heat pumps, improving the building’s energy performance by 40%. A historic and nostalgic stay that brings you back to university life and all those unforgettable memories… even if nobody really misses the exams. Practical information Rooms from €93 If the Rubrics are fully booked, other accommodation options may also be available across the campus during summer. More information: www.visittrinity.ie This property was featured in the Fab 50 2026 list.