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By Elaine Whelan
Fossa Caravan and Camping Park (Kerry).
Fossa Caravan and Camping Park is a well-loved family run site in the heart of Kerry. Set at the foot of the MacGillycuddy Reeks mountains and only a ten minute drive from Killarney and the start of the Ring of Kerry, this park is ideally located. The site itself mirrors the beauty of its surrounding as it sits among shrubs and mature trees, with a wooded area at its rear. Every year families flock to this scenic spot to enjoy the numerous family friendly amenities such as games rooms, tennis courts, a T.V. room and play area. Your furry friends are also free to join your holiday as dogs are allowed in Fossa. The village of Fossa itself is only a few minutes’ walk away so you’ll never be bored. https://www.fossacampingkillarney.com/
Blarney Caravan and Camping Park (Cork).
This four star, family run park is perfectly situated 8 kilometres from Cork City. Despite its close proximity to the city however, the campsite offers a secluded country atmosphere, which families from cities or towns might enjoy. The famous Blarney Castle is situated just 3km away from the village of Blarney. As well as that there is plenty to do around Blarney itself. Kiss the Blarney Stone and shop till you drop in the Blarney Woollen Mills store. Views of the castle and its surrounding countryside can be seen from the park. The kids will love the vast open spaces to run and play football as well as the site’s play area. There is also an 18-hole pitch and putt course and guests can avail of free shower services. http://www.blarneycaravanpark.com/
Casey’s Caravan Park (Waterford)
Casey’s Caravan Park is a multi-award winning family park set on Clonea beach in Dungarvan. The beach itself is a blue flag beach with countless water sports during the summer for kids such as surfing, kayaking, swimming clubs, inflatable obstacle courses and lifeguard training. On the site, there are showers, a large playground, football fields, crazy golf, tiny tots paly, a T.V. room and an arcade room. . There are two shops on site which sell everything you will need for your stay, however the bustling waterfront town of Dungarvan is only a ten minute drive away. The town has an array of shops, supermarkets and pubs as well as three golf courses. Dungarvan is well known for its cycling as the popular Waterford Greenway runs from the town to the city. The Greenway is less than a two minute cycle from the caravan park. Having spent countless summers here myself I can safely say that Casey’s is a camping heaven that children absolutely adore year after year.
https://www.dungarvantourism.com/caseys-caravan-and-camping-park/
Nagles Camping and Caravanning Park (Clare)
With stunning views of the Cliffs of Moher and minutes from The Burren it’s no wonder why Nagles is one of the best camping sites in county Clare. Set outside the town of Doolin, Nagles has plenty to offer family visitors. With only a quick ferry trip, you and your kids can explore all the beauty that the Aran Islands has to offer. As well as that, towns such as Ennis, Lahinch and Lisdoonvarna are a short drive away. Doolin itself is steeped in history including the Tower Houses, Ring Forts, and Tombs. It is also well known for its music culture so if you are partial to the odd Ceili make sure to make the trip. The campsite has been renovated in the last few years and sports many modern facilities. The kids will love the playground and on site shop or maybe even jumping from Doolin Pier.
Dunmore East Holiday Resort (Waterford)
Built in 2013, this intimate camping site is well maintained and modern. Its smaller size means that the camp is safe and quiet for families to relax in. The site provides sea view camping for campervans. The camping park itself doesn’t boast many facilities however the resort itself offers many activities for families. In addition to the campsite there is a cliff edge 9-hole golf course, an open plan village of self-catering holiday homes, several playgrounds, a private access trail to the local blue-flag beach and the renowned ‘Lighthouse Bar and Restaurant’. The entire resort boasts spectacular views across the Irish ocean and the famous ‘Hook lighthouse’. This all comes within a few minutes’ walk to the several blue-flag beaches, local parks with its award winning playground, local tennis courts, Waterford Harbour Sailing School, Dunmore Adventure Centre and whale watching facilities. There are also spectacular coastal walks and local woodland trails. The close proximity to the sea results in many kids’ water sport clubs and activities in the summer. The coastal village is also a 20 minute drive to Waterford city where plenty of more activities can be found. Dunmore East truly is the perfect Irish summer escape for families.
