Why Bundoran? –
Just before Nicola finished up work on maternity leave she won a voucher for a hotel break, which could be used anywhere in Ireland. At first we weren’t going to use it, who in the right mind goes away with a newborn?! However, Megan was a chilled baby, and we thought why not!
We did our research – we wanted somewhere which wasn’t too far away, and somewhere baby friendly with a pool. We found the Great Northern Hotel in Bundoran, and off we went on our very first road trip as a family with a 5 month old baby and a boot full of nappies and bottles!
Where is Bundoran?
Bundoran is on the West Coast of Ireland, about a 2 hour drive from my home town of Bangor. It’s just over the border from Enniskillen in County Donegal, nestled between Donegal town and Sligo.
Currency –
Euro, but with its proximity to the border, Sterling should be welcome.
How to get there –
Being new parents on our first proper trip as a family, Nicola packed the whole house, and then some. Therefore, we decided to drive. Another option would be to take a train from Bangor to Belfast, bus from Belfast to Enniskillen and then a local bus to Bundoran.
Where to stay –
We stayed at the Great Northern Hotel
http://www.greatnorthernhotel.com/
We went in October, which is off peak, so many hotels and guest houses had closed for the season. During the summer months, there is plenty to choose from; hostels, apartments, BnBs and hotels, just book early as we looked at going back and the prices are pretty high.
The hotel we stayed in was beautiful, aging, but has lots of character. The hotel sits on the edge of a golf course. It has a swimming pool and a gym and, most importantly, a really nice bar and restaurant.
What to see and do –
There are some lovely walks along the coast.
There are also plenty of pubs to shelter from the rain in. We went to one called The Bridge Bar, it’s a proper old pub with a good atmosphere.
In the summer season, I would say Bundoran would be very busy. There is a lot on offer from the indoor adventure pool area, surfing, amusements, shops and the beaches to entertain the kids. These make it a popular spot for holiday makers.
Where to eat –
We mainly ate in the hotel because evening meals and breakfast were included in the price. The town has ample cafes, restaurants, chip shops and takeaways to choose from.
Would we recommend?
Yes and No. We would probably stop of for a visit if passing through on the way to somewhere else.
Top Tips
1. Book your accommodation early because prices do rise dramatically over the summer season.
2. If it’s a relaxing family break you’re looking for, then October would probably be the best time to go. However, if it’s a more lively break, then Easter until the end of August will be better.
3. Most people try to keep it local the first time they go away with a small child. Unless you’re going to stay in a remote location near nothing, don’t be like Nicola and pack the contents of the house, it isn’t needed.
