A Romantic Newcastle Getaway
From Castlewellan, we took a weekend trip to Newcastle. We actually walked all the way there from our Workaway house!
Newcastle is a charming seaside town in Northern Ireland you shouldn’t skip! Between the ocean breeze, ferris wheel, and picturesque mountain backdrop, Newcastle truly felt like something from a romance novel. Who knows, maybe we’ll see it in a Hallmark or Lifetime movie one day!
Accommodation: Slieve Donard Resort & Spa
We did splurge on this one, but it was worth it. Upon entry, we were greeted with live piano music and an aroma of fresh lilies. It reminded me of a mix between Disney’s Grand Floridian and Beach Club Resorts. It immediately felt like we were on a romantic Victorian getaway.
Slieve Donard Resort was the seaside vacation spot in the early 1900s. Charlie Chaplin stayed in 1921. The resort lounge was full of Chaplin posters and memorabilia and even had a whole room dedicated to the resort’s history.
Resorts in Ireland and Northern Ireland have THE BEST breakfasts. We have been to several, and they are always fantastic. They have what I call ‘fancy buffets.’ The tables are covered with white cloth, silver platters of fresh bread are brought to your table, fresh honeycomb (my favorite part) is available, and the buffet has endless amounts of delicious foods. Pastries, yogurts, jams, cheeses, and of course all of the traditional breakfast goodies.
A traditional full-Irish breakfast consists of fried eggs, sausages, black pudding, and a tomato. You’ll often see baked beans and mushrooms as well.
Besides the delicious breakfasts, the pools and spas are always something to remember. We didn’t indulge in any spa treatments, but we did enjoy the relaxing use of the pool area.
When in Ireland or Northern Ireland, be sure to indulge and stay at a luxury resort and spa for at least one night!
The sun setting behind the property was stunning. Greg and I have each had a few “wow, we are so fortunate and lucky to be able to do this” moments on our journey this year, and this was one of those moments for me. I truly felt remarkably happy on this weekend trip.
Heart O’ Down Pipeband Championship
This was an incredible find! We had no idea this was going on when we chose to go to Newcastle for the weekend. Greg heard bagpipes, I heard drums, so we followed the music and found this free event! It was the final competition. Not only were there bagpipers, there were highland dancers, drummers, and even color guard. It really took me back to my high school marching band days!
We are so happy we stumbled upon this!
Food and Drink
Beachside picnic
Nashville hot chicken sandwich from a food truck
Ice cream at one of the many ice creameries
Taps at Quinns (it felt too clubby, so we didn’t stay long)
Highlight: splurging for fancy cocktails in the hotel lounge! The entertainment was a man with a bow tie hanging around his neck singing 50s music. It was a great night!
“How would you describe this weekend?
Kasey: “A romantic seaside getaway feeling fancy, fortunate, and fun”
Greg: “A fantastic beach resort experience. Great location. Great cultural experience.”
Newcastle is definitely a place to add to your Northern Ireland journey!
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