This summer, my husband, daughter, and I set out on a journey through the Emerald Isle, a family road trip that took us from peaceful lakeside cabins to rugged coastlines, historic castles, and vibrant cities. Ireland is the kind of place that feels like it was made for slow travel, and exploring it by car allowed us to soak up its charm at our own pace. If you’re planning a family road trip to Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, I hope our experience gives you inspiration and practical ideas for your own slow travel in Ireland.
Click play on the video below to watch our full family adventure in Ireland
Day 1 and 2: Lakeside Bliss at Cabu by the Lake
After landing in Dublin, we picked up our rental car and headed two hours northwest to Cabu by the Lake. Nestled in Killykeen Forest Park, this two-storey loft cabin became our cozy home for two nights. The setting felt like something out of a fairytale – big trees, still waters, and singing birds as the soundtrack to this beautiful place.
Families can fill their days here with outdoor activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, cycling, and hiking. We chose a peaceful kayaking adventure – the perfect way to ease into slow travel in Ireland and shake off the jet lag. The nature spa, with its hot tubs and Japanese bath, was perfect for unwinding after exploring. I chose to spend a little “solo me time” at the spa, while my husband and daughter stayed back at the cabin. An experience every parent needs and deserves. Our daughter loved picking wild raspberries right in front of our cabin, while we appreciated the slower pace to really soak in the natural surroundings…the perfect way to recover from any jet lag.
Day 3 and 4: Caves, Castles, and Island Adventures in Fermanagh
From Cabu, we drove to the Marble Arch Caves in County Fermanagh. A guided walking tour took us deep underground, where we followed the Owenbrean River through a network of chambers and delicate formations. There was even a cave boat ride, which was a first for us. It was both educational and magical, and a great opportunity to see a side of Ireland many visitors do not.
During our first afternoon in the area, we visited Enniskillen Castle for a brief walk before boarding a water taxi to Devenish Island with Erne Water Taxi. The Erne Water Taxi tour lasts about 1 hour and 30 minutes, offering the chance to see Ireland’s only island town from the water and to stop at one of the country’s most important monastic sites. Along the way, you can enjoy the scenic island landscapes and learn about the rich history of Lough Erne.
Devenish Island is a historic site where families can explore the well-preserved ruins of a 6th-century monastery, along with several ancient churches and high crosses. Once on the island, the peaceful atmosphere makes it easy to imagine the monks and pilgrims who once lived there. With its mix of history and natural beauty, Devenish Island is the perfect example of slow travel in Ireland- a place that invites you to pause, wander, and truly immerse yourself in another era.
Our base in Fermanagh for two nights was Lough Erne Resort. From here, we explored the Ulster American Folk Park. This was one of our favorite stops during our entire trip, and one that cannot be missed. The Ulster American Folk Park is a fantastic place for families to step back in time and experience history in a fun, hands-on way. Kids will love wandering through thatched cottages, chatting with costumed guides, and seeing how people lived hundreds of years ago. One of the highlights is walking onto a full-size emigrant ship and imagining what it was like to sail across the Atlantic before arriving in a recreated American frontier town. With plenty of space to explore, stories brought to life, and interactive activities along the way, the park makes learning about Ireland’s past engaging and memorable, letting you feel history instead of just reading about it.
In the evening, we tried hydro-biking for the first time with Erne Adventures. If you’re after a playful, outdoor outing that everyone in the family can enjoy, this is a fun activity. Picture pedalling a floating bike across the calm waters of Lower Lough Erne where each trip lasts about an hour. You’ll glide past highlights like the historic Enniskillen Castle, all while on an unsinkable bike.
We ended our second day at The Firehouse for dinner where we had our first non-imported Guinness, which was everything I thought it would be…deliciously creamy! If you’re looking for a great place to eat in Enniskillen, this family-run restaurant is a local favorite. It’s known for its warm, lively atmosphere and delicious food, from stone-baked pizzas to the best chicken wings we’ve ever had, it’s the perfect spot for a casual lunch or relaxed dinner.
Day 5: Donegal and Sleeping in a Lighthouse
Heading west, we set off for Glenveagh National Park, a true gem tucked into the Derryveagh Mountains, with breathtaking scenery, shimmering lakes, and even a storybook-style castle. We spent the afternoon slowly wandering the grounds, taking our time to enjoy the views, exactly the kind of moment that makes slow travel in Ireland so rewarding. From there, we continued to Fanad Lighthouse.
Perched on the dramatic Donegal coast, Fanad Lighthouse isn’t just a place to visit, it’s a place you can actually spend the night. The old lightkeeper’s house has been beautifully restored into cozy guesthouses, complete with wood-burning stoves and amazing sea views. Getting to see the lighthouse all lit up at night and falling asleep to the sound of crashing waves is an unforgettable experience, whether you’re on a romantic getaway or an adventurous family trip. The whole experience was one of our favorites, and one of the coolest places we’ve ever spent the night.
Day 6: Castle Hopping and Mayo Evenings
We kicked off the day with a stroll through Donegal Town, popping into the local shops and soaking up the charm of the area. From there, we made our way to Breaffy House Resort in County Mayo, where the wide-open grounds were perfect for our daughter to run and play while we sat back and enjoyed a slower, more relaxed evening. By the way, this dinner we had here was our favorite meal of the entire trip!
Day 7: Galway and City Glamping
No trip to Ireland is complete without a stroll through Galway, which we fell in love with after a whole few minutes upon arrival. The city’s cobblestone streets, colorful shopfronts, and lively pubs make it a great place to explore. We had one of the best meals of our stay here at Greens and Co Galway. I recommend the Noodle Bowl. After a few hours of walking around the city, we drove to Pod Umna Village in Portumna for a unique glamping experience. This charming glamping spot offers cozy wooden pods and family cabins nestled in a peaceful woodland setting while also being in the heart of town. There are communal areas such as the kitchen, games room and dining area that all guests can enjoy.
The owners and hosts, Dick and Liz, go above and beyond to make your stay memorable, offering local tips and even lending a hand when needed. These two are some of the warmest and loving people we’ve ever met on all our travels. And the cherry on top is the ice cream parlor AND two adorable bunny rabbits you can cuddle with. Pod Umna Village is a perfect base for families seeking a blend of nature, comfort, and a touch of adventure.
Speaking of offering local tips, Dick connected us with his friend at Derg Lake Tours who took us on a speed boat tour on Lough Derg. I’m talking 90 km/hour donuts around the lake. It was definitely a thrill!
Day 8: A Unique Castle Stay
For our last night, we headed to Barberstown Castle Hotel in County Kildare. Built in 1288, this 13th-century castle has been transformed into a cozy four-star hotel, blending medieval charm with modern amenities. Guests can explore the castle’s rich history, relax in spacious rooms, and enjoy delicious meals at the on-site restaurant. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or just seeking a unique getaway, Barberstown Castle provides a memorable experience for all ages.
Day 9: Farewell to Ireland
The next morning, we returned our car in Dublin and boarded our flight home, our hearts full and our camera rolls overflowing.
We had an amazing time road-tripping across Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland! From stunning landscapes and welcoming locals to unique accommodations and family-friendly activities, this journey gave us so much more than a checklist of sights. It was a true experience of slow travel in Ireland, where we could pause, explore, and connect at our own pace. Ireland’s magic lies in its mix of wild landscapes, warm-hearted people, and a deep sense of history that seems to hum beneath everything. If you’re dreaming of a family adventure that’s both exciting and meaningful, Ireland might just be the perfect destination.
Family Road Trip Tips for Ireland
- Book ahead: Many attractions and unique stays (like Fanad Lighthouse) fill up fast, especially in summer.
- Pack for all weather: Irish weather is famously unpredictable. Layer up and bring waterproof jackets and comfortable shoes.
- Plan shorter driving days: While Ireland is small, winding roads mean journeys can take longer than you think.
- Mix nature and culture: From castles to caves to coastal walks and interactive history lessons, Ireland offers endless variety, perfect for keeping kids engaged.
- Leave room for spontaneity and take it slow: Some of our favorite moments came from unplanned stops and detours. Not packing too much into your itinerary gives you the time to slow down and feel more.
Have you experienced slow travel in Ireland (or anywhere else)? What was your favorite moment when you slowed down and really connected with a place? Share your stories in the comments — I’d love to hear them!
