cottages4you blog: inspiration for your cottage or villa holiday in UK, Ireland and Europe

Those of you planning on taking a holiday in Ireland next month could be in for a treat – the Electric Picnic Music and Arts Festival is coming to Stradbally, Laois.

According to Tourism Ireland, the event re defined the idea of a music festival thanks to its relaxed atmosphere and emphasis on quality services.

The festival "attracts families with young children in their droves", said the website, which could have something to do with its hot showers and good food.

Tourism Ireland continues: "Electric Picnic prides itself on its eclectic range of bands playing – with mainstream international stars playing next to niche acts."

And this year's line-up includes Massive Attack, Leftfield, Roxy Music and The Frames.

Moreover, the events offers visitors additional entertainment such as Showeroake – where you can compete for the title of best shower singer – and Picnic Power, which will involve 30 cyclists powering an environmentally-friendly carousel.

Posted by David Sollberger, cottages4you
 

When you think of Dublin, you would be forgiven for thinking of Ireland’s national drink – Guinness – but there is also an array of cultural events on offer this summer.

Ireland holiday cottages could be booked to take advantage of the Summer in Dublin Festival, organised by the city council, which will once again turn the region into the perfect spot for a fun time.

The city’s parks and public spaces will be transformed into arenas to host a wide range of events, including the return of the Street Performance World Championships and the Rose Festival.

A new festival dedicated to learning about the Vikings will also provide parents the chance to entertain their kids, while boosting their knowledge during the summer holidays.

It seems like a Dublin holiday is a win-win situation for families! See what you think, here.

Tourists taking early holidays in Ireland could pop along to the Bloom in the Park festival – which begins at Phoenix Park in Dublin today (June 3rd) – and boasts gardening, food and family festivities.

Posted by Andrew Hill, cottages4you

Ireland holidays are always something to remember and cottages4you believes that this weekend will be the perfect time to head to the country.

The week-long Powerboating Festival, which begins in Galway this Saturday (June 5th), is expected to draw hundreds of thousands of visitors to the city by showcasing several racing competitions.

If that doesn’t take your fancy, holidays in Ireland this weekend could also involve the annual Salthill Devon National Fives soccer competition at Salthill Park, or the new Little Havana Festival, a street party taking place in the Latin Quarter.

Michael Coyle, chief executive of Galway Chamber, told the Connacht Tribune: "When you look at what is being lined up, it is a fantastic array of entertainments event and there’s going to be a great buzz around the town."

However, these events shouldn’t be the only reason to visit Ireland – the country has plenty on offer for family breaks, romantic weekends and adventurous fun.

See what Ireland has to offer you, here.

Posted by Ben Webster, cottages4you

Ireland holidays are great escapes for people of all ages and tastes. But don’t just take our word for it – listen to the experts!

According to Shaun Rodgers, managing director of Real Ireland, certain parts of the country suit those looking for a tranquil break.

"The relaxed pace of life, especially in the west and north-west of Ireland, will appeal," he explains.

You could try Glenveagh in Donegal and take a walk in Ireland’s largest national park.

Those who prefer exploring indoors could head to the castle and take a look around before enjoying the beautiful gardens, he states.

More mature holidaymakers should contact Discover Ireland for a Golden Trekker pass, offering free travel.

And families who enjoy frolicking on the beach will be pleased to hear there are hundreds of them in Ireland, many of which are "completely deserted", according to Mr Rodgers.

But many of us go to Ireland for one thing – the music – which you will find in abundance here all year round, he reveals.

Posted by David Sollberger

If you’d like to add some adrenalin to a stay in an Ireland holiday cottage, you might consider visiting the Galway Power Boat Festival.

Running from June 5th-12th, the event promises to be just as exciting and powerful as its name suggests.

Extreme racing events will be held, including the P1 Superstock Championships, P750 racing and Jet Ski time trails.

And the entertainment isn’t just confined to the water, as each night of the festival will showcase a music line-up on the centre pier of Galway, with food and craft markets also adding to the atmosphere.

Powerboat P1 claims to be the "world’s premium marine motorsport" containing all the drama of a James Bond-style chase.

Chief operating officer Robert Wicks says: "Ireland has a strong following and a long tradition of powerboat racing and we are sure that Powerboat P1 can complement the fantastic week’s competition and vibrant entertainment Galway is famous for."

So if you fancy trying something different on your Ireland holiday, why not click here and find out more information about the exciting event?

Posted by Ben Webster, cottages4you