Travel Bag: The week's best travel news

Take the plunge in Connemara, sail away with your furry friends, fly to Philly and chill in Cavan


Try this

Delphi Resort never fails to get hearts racing, and this month the Connemara adventure centre is set to host another one of its infamous Delphi Resort challenges. It begins with a 250m swim in Killary Fjord, followed by a 20km cycle through the stunning Doolough Valley and finally a 5km off-road run in the picturesque trails of Delphi Forest. Take part this April 14th from €45 per person; delphiresort.com.

Priority pets 

Stena Line has conducted research around Irish pet owners and their holiday habits, finding that 61 per cent of all Irish households own either a dog or cat and that having a pet significantly impacts where most owners choose to go on holiday. In a bid to encourage furry friends to holiday with the family, the ferry company is offering free travel for pets. They just need to bring their pet passport along for the journey. Visit stenaline.ie for more.

Philly flight 

The inaugural Aer Lingus flight to Philadelphia took to the skies in March – its newest route to the USA. Due to operate four times weekly, the Dublin Philadelphia service will increase to a daily service from May 18th, with fares starting from €159 each-way including taxes and charges, when booked as a return trip. Visit aerlingus.com for more.

Signature special

To celebrate the launch of its new signature treatment, the ESPA Lavender Lullaby, Farnham Estate in Cavan is welcoming guests with a special package throughout April. Stay from Monday to Friday at the four-star with three hours in its Water Mint thermal suite, relaxation rooms, indoor and outdoor infinity pool and gym, a two-course light lunch in Café Vista or upgrade to afternoon tea for an additional €5 per person, plus the new signature treatment, from €129 per person. Visit farnhamestate.ie to make a booking.