Beat the January Blues
Photo credit Paul Byrne care of Belfast Telegraph
It’s January and that time of year when many of us may feel a need to have those cobwebs blown away after Christmas and New Year celebrations. For some, January might even be a “dry” month and, although the darker and colder nights may make this decision a bit challenging at times, there is still lots of potential for it to be a fulfilling month. We promise!
To ensure you make the most out of January, here are some local treats and attractions that will provide a welcome distraction and ensure you ward off those January blues…
Treat yourself
January is hard enough without begrudging yourself a treat or two. Yes, we all feel the hard pinch of the festive season at this point but it might be a good idea to set aside a few treats to keep you going (especially if the Friday night glass of wine has been replaced with a cordial!).
It might be an idea to have a few bars of Wee Choco chocolate delivered to your door to see you through January. Nipping out to the corner shop for your chocolate fix may not be so appealing this time of year and what’s more, Wee Choco is a social enterprise so you will be doing your bit for the local community as well.
To help your body recover from the heavy nights, long days, and over indulgence of Christmas, we also recommend a trip to Pure Day Spa to help reverse any damage caused. For maximum relaxation throw in their Tea for Two Ritual and bring a friend to keep you company!
Photo credit Martin Spence Photography
Day Trippin’
The County Down landscape never ceases to amaze and, so long as you’re well wrapped up, its endless adventures are sure to provide a great tonic for January blues. However, if the idea of going outside is just too much then there is also a list of several good indoor options to make a great day trip.
We’ve previously mentioned nearby Delamont Park, Strangford Lough and Bloody Bridge and we’ll mention them again as they are such stunning spots but if you’re looking for something indoors, the beautiful Mount Stewart House with its grand interior and grounds is a must. The house’s gift shop, tea room and garden shop will provide a few hours of bliss and, when the weather is good, the gardens will whisk you away into another world. Mount Stewart is also dog and kid-friendly, so bundle up the whole family for a trip outdoors and back in time this month.
Hibernating
A cosy sofa or, in fact, a cosy bed is maybe all you’re after come January! Plan a short stay with us for some much-needed respite without the hassle of airfares or long-haul travel and we will go out of your way to make sure you come out other side feeling refreshed and renewed. Spend a long weekend relaxing in a stunning four-poster bed, tucking into a hot cooked breakfast, snuggling up with a good book, or venturing into Killyleagh village to enjoy the endless great coffee shops, quirky merchants and award-winning pubs and restaurants. Check out some of our favourite eateries here!