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The Journal

The five hottest staycation towns in Ireland this summer

IT'S ONLY MAY, but we've already been blessed with a few weeks of glorious sunshine. And we all say it, but there is nowhere quite like Ireland in the sun. With high hopes for a warm summer, there is no doubt many people are thinking about exploring some of Ireland's most in-demand staycation hotspots. Whether you're looking for beaches, bustling towns or big adventures, there is no shortage of destinations in Ireland for you to visit. In this week's Allianz Home Magazine, we're looking at some of Ireland's hottest staycation locations to help you plan the perfect summer trip. 1. Westport, Co Mayo Shutterstock Shutterstock Westport is a charming town at the epicentre of many of Ireland's most picturesque coastal views. Situated close to the foot of Croagh Patrick – a hugely popular recreational hike – the town is an active traveller's paradise. Rent a bike for a tour of the greenway, or go for a long walk on one of the dozen beaches within an hour of the centre. After the adventures, relax with a pastry and coffee in one of the many independent restaurants and cafes. It's what sunny day's out are made of. If you've got the car with you, it's essential that you make the drive out to Keem Bay and watch the golden sunset from the seashore after a swim in the Atlantic Ocean. Being in Westport puts you in arm's reach of other beautiful natural landmarks such as the Dún Briste Sea Stack and Killary Fjord, so even if you book a long staycation you'll never run out of places to go and sights to see. 2. Dingle, Co Kerry Shutterstock Shutterstock Rivalling Westport for access to glorious beaches, Dingle is one of the most spectacular towns in Ireland's southwest. The town itself is always lively with art and music, and is home to many iconic, traditional Irish pubs, such as Dick Mack's. There are also breathtaking drives, such as the one through Conor Pass, a 12km panoramic journey through a mountain pass at elevation of 456m. And within a 25-minute drive from Dingle town are two of the most scenic locations on the entire island, Coumeenoole Beach and Inch Beach. By staycationing in Dingle, you're not losing out on any of the sun or sand that you might get with a foreign holiday. Just like Westport, this town needs to be on your list of best Irish towns to visit. Advertisement 3. Dunmore East, Co Waterford Shutterstock Shutterstock Moving away from the west of Ireland and instead looking to the sunny southeast coast, a consistently popular staycation spot is the town of Dunmore East. If you're travelling with kids, the Dunmore Adventure Centre will certainly keep them busy with activities such as surfing, sailing, climbing and kayaking. If you're staying in Dunmore East, you're also less than a 20 minute drive to Tramore. Tramore is famously home to one of Ireland's most beloved amusement parks, with plenty of rides and rollercoasters to make the whole family happy. With over 147km of coastline to explore, south Waterford is one of Ireland's best locations for enjoying the summer vibes. 4. Bundoran, Co Donegal Shutterstock Shutterstock From one corner of Ireland to another, Bundoran is the perfect staycation destination if you're looking to spend time in the pristine Atlantic waters off the coast of Donegal. There is plenty of fun to be had, not least at Waterworld Bundoran – the legendary water park is scheduled to reopen again this summer after renovations. While Bundoran is known to most as a surfing hotspot, the town also boasts opportunities to go angling, play golf, listen to live music, go on the scenic Rougey Walk, or eat in traditional Irish bistros and gastropubs until you're ready to collapse into your bed at the end of a summer's day well spent. 5. Lahinch, Co Clare Shutterstock Shutterstock When it comes to Irish staycation spots, you can't leave Lahinch off the list. While the town itself is smaller than some of the others on this list, its waters are perfect for swimming, surfing and all kinds of water sports. It also boasts a location that few other towns can match. By staying in Lahinch, you're within a comfortable drive of the majestic Cliffs of Moher — a site that truly does not disappoint. You can explore the nearby town of Doolin, and if you're there at the right time of year, you can even pass through the Lisdoonvarna matchmaking festival, an entirely unique Irish experience. Also close by are such iconic features as The Burren and the Aillwee Caves, making for a staycation packed with excitement, adventure and wonder. In Ireland, you've got your pick of amazing towns to spend the summer staycationing in. Pack up the car and head out to the coast. You'll be kept busy with stunning views, craic agus ceol and plenty of outdoor activities to blow the cobwebs off. Wherever you go this summer, make sure your journey is protected with 15% off car insurance when you visit Allianz online. Allianz p.l.c. is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland. Standard acceptance criteria, terms and conditions apply.