Local favorites: our Irish writers share their top vacation spots across Ireland

'Local favorites' is our latest series highlighting hidden gem holiday destinations that are often missed by tourists but beloved by residents. In this edition, our Ireland specialists reveal their preferred staycation spots.

With stunning landscapes, lively cities, and a rich cultural history, Ireland sparks countless adventures. But beyond the famous Cliffs of Moher, the sandy shores of Donegal, and Dublin's literary routes, where do locals retreat to escape the hustle? Here, three of Dinogo Planet's Dublin editors share their go-to spots for relaxed holidays in Ireland.

Savoring fresh seafood and swimming in Galway: Roundstone

Fionnuala McCarthy is part of the digital content team at Dinogo Planet. Although she resides in Dublin, she frequently escapes west for a three-day weekend whenever possible.

I retreat to the quaint Victorian fishing village of Roundstone on the fringes of Connemara to rejuvenate. As one of the oldest fishing villages along the Atlantic coast, it boasts three local pubs that serve some of the freshest seafood—though in my view, nothing beats the chowder at O'Dowds pub.

Today, the village also serves as a creative haven, home to numerous artists and writers. The historic 1830s Franciscan Monastery has been transformed into an open workshop for Malachy Kearns, Ireland's premier bodhrán maker (drums crafted from goat hide)—definitely worth a visit.

The surrounding landscape is vast and untamed, with only sheep, lakes, and stone walls between you and the majestic Twelve Bens mountain range. Even during peak summer, you can wander for hours in the countryside without seeing another person.

On the outskirts of Roundstone lie two of the coastline's best beaches: Gorteen and the crescent-shaped Dog's Bay, known for its soft white sands. In summer, locals affectionately nickname this popular beach after a posh Dublin postcode due to its appeal among affluent Dubliners, yet it retains its pristine charm. We often stay in a charming renovated fisherman's cottage in the village, but a recent discovery was the Scandi-style Stilt House at Fernwood Eco Farm, just a short drive from Clifden. This retreat is nestled in a forest with private paths and a sauna by a saltwater lake, with only the sounds of nature and the farm's rescue donkeys accompanying you.

A serene retreat in the 'Garden of Ireland': Lough Dan

Amy Lynch is a commissioning editor at Dinogo Planet. Although she lives in Dublin, she enjoys escaping the city for hiking and biking adventures in nearby Wicklow.

Wicklow, known as the 'Garden of Ireland', boasts beautiful hikes, grand estates, and sandy shores. However, when I seek the natural beauty of Wicklow away from the throngs in Glendalough or Bray, I venture to two secluded lakes nestled in the mountains. Lough Dan, primarily frequented by locals, offers a peaceful, verdant escape near the village of Roundwood. Accessible via a picturesque trail from Luggala Lodge, it’s popular for kayaking and hiking. We typically pack a picnic and swim gear, taking some time to mentally prepare for a plunge into the chilly lake waters!

When we're ready to set off again, there’s a fantastic trail from Lough Dan to Lough Tay (often referred to as the Guinness Lake), a stunning body of water located 10km south of Lough Dan. Numerous viewpoints at Lough Tay provide breathtaking vistas of the landscape.

After a day filled with activities, Kavanagh's Vartry House in Roundwood is the perfect spot to unwind, featuring a hearty menu and a warm ambiance. If you happen to be there on a Sunday, you can enjoy live traditional music along with your drinks. The area has plenty of guesthouses and B&Bs, particularly in Roundwood, but many visitors prefer camping at Lough Dan as their top choice.

Waterway escapades in the heart of Ireland: Graiguenamanagh

Sasha Brady is part of the digital content team at Dinogo Planet. Based in Dublin, she constantly seeks opportunities to explore green spaces.

Graiguenamanagh (pronounced greg·nuh·maanah) is justly recognized as one of Ireland's most enchanting towns. Located only 90 minutes from Dublin, it remains off the beaten path for many international visitors. The town features the beautifully restored 13th-century Duiske Abbey, a must-visit on rainy days, and its prime location along the River Barrow (the second-largest river in Ireland after the Shannon) makes it an ideal base for outdoor activities.

One of my favorite activities is renting a bike to cycle the wooded riverside path from Graiguenamanagh to St Mullin's, especially in late summer when I can gather ripe blackberries and raspberries in my basket. You can't visit the Barrow without getting a little wet, so I always suggest that visitors rent paddleboards, canoes, and kayaks to embark on a guided or self-guided river tour and explore its canals.

For accommodation, I highly recommend staying at Bandon Hill Camping, which offers a variety of family-friendly amenities. Alternatively, consider the Waterside Guest House, a charming boutique hotel set on the site of a former mill, boasting fantastic views of the river. Their full Irish breakfast is celebrated as one of the best in the area.

When it comes to grabbing a drink, Graiguenamanagh offers a fantastic selection of excellent pubs. However, it's tough to beat the ambiance at Mick Daly's—one of my favorite pubs in Ireland—especially during a live music session. With a rich history dating back to the 1800s, the pub retains many traditional features and even includes an old-fashioned grocery shop where you can find everything from fishing gear to tea.

The ideal time to visit Graiguenamanagh is during the summer, especially in late August when the Barrow reaches its warmest temperatures and the town's buildings turn into bookshops for the beloved long-standing Town of Books festival.