You don't have to travel half way across the world to catch some waves, truth is, Ireland has some amazing lil spots - Mayo being one of them.
One thing I've realised over the last few years is that one of the shittest things about being an adult is how hard it is to meet up with your mates. Trying to get everyone in one place at one time is harder than it was to study for the Leaving Cert on a sunny day.
I have also come to learn that the best way to round up the troops is organising a group event, a lil weekend break - no one can cancel and everyone is in great spirits as soon as that Friday feeling kicks in - Ideal right?
Well, chance are you've probably tried this to but perhaps finding inspiration for something to suit everyone was the next challenge?
Don't you worry, I've found just the thing for ya.
Say hello to the Big Style Lodge.
The Big Style Lodge is the ideal place for a weekend break away, everything you need is under one roof.
I haven't heard of anywhere like this in Ireland.
This is a surf and yoga lodge was designed to get the very best of the wild North Atlantic and the wilder west of Ireland. The beautiful 14 en-suite bedroom hotel overlooks some of Mayo's most spectacular views.
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The venue is super cosy, it's like a hostels hotter cousin with a boujee chill out area, a kitchen, a high-rise decking and wood-fired hot tubs.
Food can be supplied and there's also a bar in the lounging area as well as a pub attached to the hotel that often has live trad sessions and serious craic.
For the adventurers and the outdoorsy type, you'll adore this spot as there is so many walking routes, in-house kitesurfing, surfing and Stand up Paddleboarding schools and huge yoga studio.
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The Lodge also runs an array of retreats including a BigStyle surf weekend, an adventure weekend and yoga retreats.
The Lodge is located a 25 minute drive south of Westport, just outside the town of Louisburgh.
Beds come with a free breakfast of tea and coffee, bread butter and jam, along with delicious porridge.
I had such a deadly time here, the lads are pure sound and I couldn't recommend it enough.
Dorms cost €25 per person and double rooms with a view come in at €110.
Summer plans? Sorted.
To learn more about Big Style Lodge,
click here.
