Unwind on a coastal break on the island of Ireland

If you’re ready for a break from the daily treadmill, you’ll find wave-lapped golden shores, dramatic cliffs and secluded hideaways waiting for you on the island of Ireland.

Where better to enjoy great sea views than from a lighthouse. Stay in the lightkeeper’s house at Blackhead Lighthouse on the stunning Causeway Coast or hole up at the edge of the world at Loop Head Lighthouse on the Wild Atlantic Way.

Or why not glamp off grid on tiny, unspoiled Rathlin Island off the north coast, home to Northern Ireland's largest seabird colony, where you can see puffins, guillemots and razorbills.

Spoil yourself with a stay in five-star Cliff House Hotel, County Waterford. Its outdoor hot tubs overlooking gorgeous Ardmore Bay offer the ultimate way to relax. Bathe in organic peat or seaweed and feel the pains and strains melt away.

The state-of-the-art spa at magnificent Slieve Donard Hotel, County Down, also offers pure indulgence. Overlooking the beach and the Mourne Mountains it offers ESPA treatments that blend advanced techniques with ancient therapies to deliver the best therapeutic experiences in the world.

Sometimes the best therapy is simply a walk on the beach and the island of Ireland has a multitude to choose from.

Sheltered Keem Strand on Achill Island has been named Ireland’s best beach but it’s a close-run thing with so many worthy contenders. Downhill Beach in County Antrim, overlooked by the romantic Mussenden Temple, grabbed the attention of the makers of Game of Thrones, while Curracloe Beach in Ireland’s Ancient East has appeared in many Hollywood movies.

But no matter where you are on the island you will not be far from a beautiful, and often empty, beach where you can enjoy a stroll immersed in the sounds of the sea.

Getting active on the waves is another great way to unwind and there are plentiful places off the coast to surf or sea kayak.

Counties Sligo and Donegal offer wonderful wave action and Bundoran is known as a “cold paradise” for surfers.

Alternatively, grab a kayak and take to the water off the Wild Atlantic Way. You’ll be rewarded with spectacular views and an exhilarating experience. Make it even more memorable by signing up for a night kayaking tour.

If all that sounds a bit too energetic why not just find a spot to watch the sun set.

At the majestic Cliffs of Moher in County Clare, sunset is a magical time when the fading light imbues the cliff face with orange and pink hues.

In County Antrim, Dunluce Castle, perched on a craggy headland, is picture perfect at sunset while views from the Sky Road in Connemara as dusk falls are simply breath-taking.

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