Wellness advocate Clare McKenna’s top 5 highlights this January

With January in full swing, taking the time to slow down and take care of yourself has rarely been more important.

Thankfully, as Irish radio presenter and wellness advocate Clare McKenna notes, our perception of time slows down when we travel somewhere new. This is known as the oddball effect and whether you’re an oddball or not, there’s no better place to escape to this winter than Northern Ireland. 

Whether they are on your doorstep, or slightly further away, Northern Ireland is home a wealth of unique experiences suitable for a wide range of budgets - with many less than two hours from Dublin.

To help you plan your next giant adventure, Clare has highlighted five of her favourite refreshing experiences you can embrace in Northern Ireland this winter!

Escape to nature in Fermanagh

Science shows that taking a trip to somewhere new can make the world of difference to our well-being and for me, there are few better places to unwind than by the shores of Lough Erne in a forest dome at Finn Lough. 

These private domes feature 180-degree transparent walls that allow you to truly immerse yourself in nature and sleep beneath the starry skies.

This spring the resort is set to open a one-of-a-kind spa – Awen Springs. Nestled among the enchanting woodland, the new spa will feel akin to the balmy cenotes of Mexico and allow guests to enjoy a revitalising swim in a natural pool housed within a large circular glass dome. 

The resort is also home to the Shoreline Spa which offers panoramic views of the lough, Boa Island and the Lough Navar Magho Cliffs. At Finn Lough your stay includes the free use of bikes and there are also opportunities to revitalise with a yoga session or glide along the water on a kayak to reveal secluded islands.

Be inspired on the Causeway Coastal Route

Northern Ireland’s stunning coastline provides long stretches of golden sand, impressive sand dunes and inspiring views. 

I love going for a walk along the Causeway Coast. With its dramatic sea cliffs and rolling hills, it is a great way to clear your mind, especially after the hustle and bustle of Christmas. It’s easy to see why this part of the world is such a draw for blockbuster movies, thanks to its accessibility and jaw dropping scenery.

From the painters paradise of Ballintoy Harbour to the cascading waterfalls above Downhill Beach there is something for everyone to enjoy in this part of the world. 
After a day well spent in nature, the coastal calm and sustainability championing The Salthouse hotel and its ocean view restaurant, is the perfect place to recharge. 

Embrace the dark skies of Tyrone

With so much going on in life I’m really making the effort to carve out time for some meditation. It’s a great way to focus your attention and eliminate the stream of jumbled thoughts in your mind and I’ve found the dark skies of Davagh Forest, along with the serene silence, sets the mood for me to find my inner peace.

The lack of light pollution in Davagh Forest (one of only two Dark Sky Parks in Ireland) and the nearby OM Dark Sky Park and Observatory makes nighttime here magical. The crystal-clear view of star constellations is awe-inspiring and really helps me feel like I’m part of something much bigger. 

If you’re looking for a unique stay then I’d really recommend Sperrin View Glamping on the outskirts of Cookstown. The untouched rural landscape surrounding the site creates the perfect opportunity to relax and unwind in nature and the specially designed windows in each pod allow for the perfect view of the night sky in all its glory. 

Conquer the Mournes

Hiking is one of my favourite activities and a refreshing hike in the magnificent Mourne Mountains is an enjoyable way to spend the day — it is also a great way to spend quality time with the family with an added challenge!

The views from the top of Slieve Donard - Northern Ireland’s tallest mountain really help to put things in perspective and include Newcastle, the Irish Sea and the 12 other peaks in the range.

After a day spent hiking, what better way to rejuvenate than at the Slieve Donard Resort and Spa – your legs will certainly thank you as unwind in the hot-tub or thermal suite and gaze upon the majestic mountain you conquered. And, if you’re into golf, there is a pretty famous course just next door which will host the Horizon Irish Open 2024 in September. 

Unwind in style in Belfast

Sometimes the best way to refresh and revitalise is in the lap of luxury and in Belfast, look no further than The 5* Merchant Hotel.  Every time I’m in Belfast I’m left in awe of this breathtaking listed building, which was formally a bank headquarters. It’s perfect for special occasions and the spa and hydrothermal area is simply gorgeous. The views from the rooftop hot-tub are amazing, especially at sunset. Talk about a picture-perfect skyline!  I love The Merchant’s afternoon tea and its city centre location makes it the perfect spot to indulge and soak up some culture. 

Belfast is home to amazing restaurants and I just love trying new places and new dishes! Variety is the spice of life and the six or nine course tasting experience at Blank in the Queens Quarter — where each dish is an unknown until it arrives at your table — is a culinary delight you’ll want to tell all your friends about.

So, if you are looking for that perfect break to leave you refreshed and rejuvenated this new year, look no further than a giant adventure in Northern Ireland.