Literary lovelies
It is a Unesco City of Literature, and from Patrick Kavanagh's bench at Wilton Park to James Joyce's famous puzzle – to try and cross the city without passing a pub – Dublin is littered (in the nicest possible way) with reminders of all the brilliant writers it has inspired. Celebrating 25 years, the International Literature Festival Dublin runs from May 19th to 29th, this year from a base in Merrion Square Park. Expect stories, poems, foodie stuff and even a little literary yoga. Stay at Stauntons on the Green, where there is a charming city centre garden out back, and it's right alongside MoLI, the Museum of Literature Ireland. Where else? Room only from €269.
Sea side
People flock to the Cliffs of Moher, but they are even more impressive when seen from the sea. The Doolin Ferry Company has launched its summer schedule with return trips to the Aran Islands, inter-island travel and a delicious one-hour Cliffs of Moher cruise. Tickets are €6 for an inter-island transfer, €13/€25 for the cruise, while €39 will get an adult to Inis Mór and back. Stay at Ireland's first certified carbon-neutral hotel, the Eco Boutique Hotel Doolin, with room only from €190.
Sail on
Still on the subject of sailing, Brittany Ferries recently reconfirmed its midweek sailings from Cork to Roscoff, taking you direct from the People's Republic to the delights of the Breton coast in France. The company's overnight sailings mean you will wake up refreshed, swapping breakfast rolls for croissants and that certain je ne sais quoi. From €238 for a car, two adults and two children each way. Add a four-berth cabin from €104 each way.
Surf’s up
Get closer still to the water in Portugal's Algarve, home to seven water parks, gorgeous beaches and plenty of Atlantic surf, where the offshore wind known as the Nortada kicks up some useful swells for those looking to learn the tricks of the point break trade. Sunway has seven nights, departing from Dublin on June 22nd, with options including: the two-star Turim Algarve Mor self-catering apartments, from €405pp for two adults and two children; up to €649 pp for the five-star Vale D'Olivieras Quinta Resort and Spa, also self-catering.
