Annual leave is a blessing but when it gets towards the end of the year, you'll often find that you've plenty of days left and nothing to do with them. That is until you remember that midweek is a great time to hit the road for a mini staycation.
Accommodation is cheaper, towns are less busy and with the days getting shorter, there's nothing better than cosying up in a hotel bar with a hot drink. Here are five towns you should hit up before the end of the year.
Kinsale
A lovely spot for a winter getaway, where the brightly-coloured buildings liven up even the dullest of days.
Westport
Head west to one of the liveliest towns in Ireland, with plenty of accommodation options for a fun-filled night or two.
Doolin
A lovely little village that's the perfect base for a trip to the Cliffs Of Moher.
Adare
The thatched cottages of Adare are always popular with snap-happy tourists but in the winter the place is bound to be less crowded.
Dungarvan
Hop on your bike and hit up the Waterford Greenway.
Dunfanaghy
At the tip of the country lies Dunfanaghy in Co. Donegal. Surf, kayak and explore the coastline.
