For a group weekend away, jam packed with adventure, activities, good food, and great accommodation, South Wexford has it all. Famous for its breath-taking vistas, magnificent natural landscapes and the salty spray of the sea, this two-day itinerary based on the pinnacle point of Ireland’s Ancient East will see you visiting the top must-see attractions, and participating in some sun, sea and sport that will have you grinning from ear to ear.

 

Day 1

Gather your crew to check in to Hookless Holiday Homes, a self-catering accommodation village boasting panoramic sea views that’s smack bang in the centre of a host of activities and adventure on Hook Peninsula and perfect for an adventurous get away, with sea kayaking and kite surfing to name a few activities right on your doorstep.

 

Once your bags are dropped, start your day with a visit to Hook Lighthouse which will blow away the cobwebs. Hook Lighthouse on Hook Peninsula truly is one of the greatest experiences of Ireland’s Ancient East. Standing for over 800 years at 36m high, this is one of the world’s oldest operating lighthouses and one which retains much of its medieval fabric. You can climb the well-worn steps (all 115 of them) to revel in spectacular 360-degree balcony views with miles of sea rolling out before you, take a guided tour, or enjoy the gift shop and in-house artist – a lovely way to spend your morning.

 

But soon it’s time for some action, so don your wetsuit for a spot of kite surfing on Duncannon Beach. Hooked Kitesurfing and Stand Up Paddleboarding gives you the confidence to enter the water under expert instruction, whilst nearby Freedom Surf School is also suitable for groups of all ages, and a sure fire way to get the fun started and the giggles going! For anyone who isn’t keen on a soaking, Dollar Bay Beach is a secluded and sheltered beach that’s ideal for fishing, sunbathing and walks.

 

You’re bound to have whet your appetite for lunch at Roches, one of the oldest traditional bars on the Hook Peninsula, with a separate private dining room for large groups.

 

After lunch, the imposing Loftus Hall is a fantastic experience to kick start your evening. Known as the most haunted house in Ireland, it fascinates visitors all year-round. Those brave enough to take a tour will learn about the history and legend of the stately home’s institution during the Black Death, its conversion into convent and hotel and of course the stories of disturbed souls said to still live there today!

 

Dinner is waiting in Templar’s Inn Seafood Bar and Restaurant, where private functions are catered for. Templar’s Inn specializes in seafood, but has an excellent and varied full bar menu that caters for all tastes, and a line-up of traditional and live music that will have your feet tapping in no time!

 

Day Two

There’s no time for a lie-in with another jam-packed day of adventure planned, starting with a visit to Duncannon Fort, an impressive presentation of a bastioned fortress perched. The historic structure has gathered countless intriguing and awe-inspiring stories over its 450-year history, and holds one of the best vantage points around. Enjoy a guided tour, or simply enjoy the surrounds, and perfect your group photo!

 

Just a short drive away to the opposite side of the peninsula, the majestic beauty of the partly restored Tintern Abbey is well worth exploring. An evocative piece of Irish monastic history, its sheer size and history will amaze you. There’s a coffee shop on site, and the beautiful forest walking paths nearby are unspoiled and a great way to stretch the legs after last nights’ dancing, without being too strenuous.

 

New Ross boasts any number of lunch spots to choose from like Mannions Gastro Pub which offers a fantastic casual dining experience in a buzzing atmosphere.

 

After lunch, for those still game for adventure, Quad Attack Adventure Centre in Clonroche is sure to quench your need for speed! This hilarious, exhilarating adventure provides all-weather cross country driving fun for every age group.

 

From here, it’s the road towards home, until your next adventure in Ireland’s sunny South East!