Family Break at Center Parcs Ireland

Center Parcs Ireland at County Longford may be 3 hours away from Cobh but the drive is worth it after you settle down in your lodge and soak the many family activities that the park has to offer. If you are looking for a relaxing family break, this may just be the place that is close to your hometown without the hassle of flying and rushing to the airport.

The Covid pandemic temporarily halted the services at Center Parcs but it has since ease down and open for visitors. In order to access the park and avail of its faciities, one has to book the lodge and the guests that will stay in the lodge.

Booking has to be made in advance, prefably weeks and months before visiting, to ensure there are available lodgings and also for better rates. Believe me summer booking can fill up quickly so plan your holiday ahead to get the dates and rooms that you like.

According to their website, there are 466 lodgings and 30 apartments spread around the 400 acre area and all these are fully-equipped. You can choose the number of rooms and the location that suit your needs. Some lodging are closer to the shops and activity area while others farther and more remote.

There are 3, 4 and 7 nights stay (subject to change) that can be booked. After dropping off your bags and belongings, your vehicle is to be parked at the public parking lot. This would clear the street with only a bicycle (rentable or bring your own) as your mode of transportation, or you can walk, of course.

There are activities for both grown-ups and little-ones, and these range from easy-going to a full-work out. if the weather is wet as usually is in Ireland, one could always switch to an indoor activity. There are plenty, just make sure you book them also way ahead before your scheduled arrival.

In the center of the park is a lake that also serves as a water park. This big inflatable water obstacle course (see pic below) is a fun way to bounce, slide, climb and run around on a nice autumn or summer day. There are also kayaks and boats if you and your family just want to be dry and enjoy the scenery.

Also in the center of the park are the main shops and restaurants. There’s a one-stop-shop for groceries, and gift, apparel and accessory shops, and there are restaurants serving different cuisines: Indian, American and Italian. Indoor activity area and playgrounds are within this vicinity too.

The jewel of Center Parcs Longford is undoubtably the Subtropical Swimming Paradise, a 29.5c year round heated pool to make swimming enjoyably comfortable. This pool happens to be the biggest indoor water park in Ireland too. A Wild Water Rapids, whirlpools and kid’s play/swim area, all under this massive structure.

We were there for 5 days/4 nights and i have to say this is really a chillaxing time to be away from work and routine. Your day goes with your scheduled fun and favorite activities, or you can just set it freely at your own pace and time. Center Parcs is at Longford Forest for a reason, breathe the woodland air and be active and have a grand time.

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