Pack that basket!
It's picnic time and we have the ultimate list of destinations around Ireland perfect for spreading your blanket and soaking up the beauty of your surroundings.
1. The Wild West
I will always have a place in my heart for Connemara where the horizon is dominated by more than fifty majestic mountains; the Twelve Bens, Maum Turks, Partry and Sheffrey.
One most impressive areas to visit is the Connemara National Park. It's stone paths make it safe for children, there is a playground a visitors centre and best of all...a picnic area!
Expect to see the ocean, island and mountain views in all directions. The kids will love spotting the rogue sheep, and you can swing by Roundstone for some garlic crab claws if you are still hungry.
MummyPages Tip: Don't forget the selfie stick, you will be delighted with the pictures of everyone against such a stunning backdrop.
2. The Garden of Ireland
A magical setting with a massive wow factor, the Powerscourt Waterfall in Co. Wicklow is the highest in Ireland AND will be a show-stopper for your children.
We laid out a picnic blanket on our most recent visit but there are picnic benches available with stunning views of the Cascades. It is a fantastic place to capture a memorable family photo, there is a hugely adventurous playground two minutes away, as well as the all-important toilets and plenty of open space for all the family.
MummyPages Tip: It is almost impossible not to play on the stepping stones in the shallows and inevitably someone always puts a foot into the water so bring spare socks!
3. A Garden of Delight in Cork
What could be more fun than taking a boat from the pier at Glengarriff to Garnish Island in Bantry Bay?
There are gardens with a clock tower and the most beautiful array of flowers in the summer. We have picked this as the ultimate picnic spot because of the sheltered nature of the Island where somehow, it always feels warm.
MummyPages Tip: Make sure you pack a good filling meal for the children as they won't want to stop exploring this stunning setting with ponds and winding steps around every corner. Chicken tacos are a firm picnic favourite in our house and best of all, the kids can help make them!
Having a picnic day out is a brilliant way to get the children involved, gives you the chance to stretch your legs and get some fresh air for the whole family.
And remember, sometimes the simplest things produce the BEST adventures.
