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Planning a getaway with the family? Look no further than Center Parcs in Co Longford, the ultimate adventure staycation for the whole family. Here’s our boy-approved guide to what’s on offer with Andrew Gore-Grimes (12), Patrick Gore-Grimes (11) and their cousin Shane Meagher (4).
Affiliated with the much-loved Center Parcs resorts in the UK, Ireland’s first offering is set amid 400 acres of woodland in Longford.
Boasting 466 lodges and 30 apartments, the resort accommodates up to 2,736 guests.
While a little smaller than its UK cousin, the Longford Forest is packed with all the same main attractions, namely the 3,500m2 Subtropical Swimming Paradise (heated to 29.5°C all year round); watersports lake, impressive aerial adventure, Aqua Sana spa, and over 100 leisure activities to choose from.
The Subtropical Swimming Paradise and Wild Water Rapids prove a favourite among Patrick (11) and Andrew Gore-Grimes (12). Photo: Center Parcs
Andrew (12)
“I loved the Aerial Adventure. I thought it was a bit nerve-wracking at first, but as you go on you get more and more confident. The staff members were really nice and ran through the whole thing. As you went on, the obstacles got taller and taller and to finish off the aerial adventure there was a big zipline going across the lake; it was so cool and you got such a good view from up there.
“I also loved the swimming pool because you got the feeling that you were in a tropical place. Plus, the water slides were so cool. My favourite was the Wild Water Rapids because you fly down at speed!”
Andrew enjoys a bike ride around the resort. Photo: Supplied
Patrick (11)
“The indoor wall climbing was a lot of fun. I am a bit afraid of heights, so in some parts I found it scary. The bubble one was the hardest, and the poles, because you have nothing to hold on to.
“I really liked the Subtropical Swimming Paradise. I liked the waves and playing in the little Venture Bay with my young cousin Shane. From the rides, I liked the Wild Water Rapids best, with all the bubbles coming up into your face.”
Patrick faces his fears on the indoor rock-climbing wall. Photo: Supplied
Shane (4)
“Everything was my favourite. Everything was the same height [as me]. I liked driving in the little car (Off Road Explorer) and finding the animals. I liked the [lazy] river, where we went around and around.”
Shane Meagher (4) has an adventure in the Off Road Explorer at Center Parcs. Photo: Supplied
For more information and to book your epic family getaway, see centerparcs.ie.
Main photo: xxx at Center Parcs