Brought to you by DiscoverNI
If you're thinking about a weekend away, you don't need to hop on a plane...
Weekends away are great fun and all, but not so much when you spend half the time in airports or sitting on a plane. The only way to go is to get the holiday started as quickly as possible.
That's where Northern Ireland comes in, as it's only a bit up the road for anyone looking to get away for a few days.
Whether it's to put your feet up for a bit or to expand your taste buds and test out the best restaurants, Northern Ireland's got you covered. Here are some of the places our own Áine Leech and Justine Stafford got to visit on their chilled out weekend up north (full video at the bottom of the page).
First of all, what a view!
There is literally no place like this to enjoy a drink in the country, as it's the highest bar in Ireland. The cocktail lounge opened last year and has been going down a treat.
People come for the great views, but stay for the cosy atmosphere and fantastic service.
We really can't overstate how cool the bubble pods in Finn Lough Resort in County Fermanagh really is. A handy 30-minute drive away from Enniskillen, it's unlike pretty much anywhere else in Ireland.
It's so secluded and peaceful there that you'd be forgiven for thinking that you're in the depths of the Amazon, rather than the outskirts of Aghnablaney. The resort's spa is nothing short of incredible as well, as they use several ancient techniques you won't find in many other places that will make you feel more relaxed than you ever have before.
You might think that you have to go into the countryside to try paddle boarding, but that's where
Far and Wild come in.
From right in the heart of Derry city, you can try your hand at it for yourself. Not only does it give you a unique tour of the city, but it's an incredible amount of fun to boot!
Nothing like a bit of fresh air to help you unwind. Overlooking the gorgeous Lough Erne in Fermanagh, the Lough Navar Forest is a perfect place for a leisurely stroll (and perhaps an Instagram or 12).
Don't be surprised to see some red deer or wild goat either, as they're known to frequent the area!
Nothing like doing sod all to build up a healthy appetite. Everything served by Pyke 'N' Pommes in Derry is made from scratch, and those authentic flavours definitely hit home when you're eating it.
If you think the photo above looks good, believe us when we say it tastes even better...
There's no need to worry about boarding a plane or scrambling for your passport when you want to relax for a few days. Just hop up the road to Northern Ireland, and enjoy everything it has to offer!
Brought to you by DiscoverNI 
