Summer in the Boyne Valley is all about slowing down, spending quality time together, and making the most of longer days in the countryside. Whether you are planning a family holiday, a romantic break, a group gathering or simply some time to recharge, there is no shortage of experiences to enjoy during your stay at Decoy Country Cottages.
From wellness retreats and outdoor dining to family adventures and digital detox escapes, here are just some of the ways you can make the most of your summer break with us.
Family & Friend Reunions in the Countryside
There is something special about getting everyone together in one place, especially during the summer months.
At Decoy Country Cottages, our collection of cottages is ideal for birthdays, reunions, celebration weekends and even intimate weddings. With spacious indoor areas, landscaped courtyards and covered outdoor BBQ spaces overlooking the Meath countryside, there is plenty of room to relax and enjoy each other’s company.
The Loft is especially popular for gatherings, with its exceptionally large kitchen and dining room capable of seating up to 24 guests together for meals, celebrations or catered evenings.
To make things even easier, we can also arrange catering for your group, whether you are planning a casual gathering or something more special. Afternoon tea served directly to your cottage is always a lovely addition, complete with sweet treats, savoury bites and locally sourced tea and coffee.
Romantic Escapes & Relaxation
Summer is also the perfect time for couples to slow down and spend uninterrupted time together.
The Tack Room is designed with romantic countryside escapes in mind, offering cosy interiors, a roaring fire, jacuzzi bath and peaceful surroundings close to the Hill of Tara and Newgrange.
Spend your days exploring the local area, enjoying countryside walks or relaxing in the wellness retreat before returning to quiet evenings together.
For an extra special touch, guests can arrange:
- Champagne on arrival
- Flowers and chocolates
- Spa and wellness treatments
- Delivered meals straight to the cottage
It is all about making time to properly switch off together.
Foodie Experiences & Easy Self-Catering
One of the best parts of a self-catering holiday is the flexibility to enjoy meals your own way.
When you arrive at Decoy Country Cottages, you will be welcomed with a basket of locally sourced Boyne Valley products alongside essentials including coffee, tea, oils, spices and household basics to help you settle in immediately.
For guests who want an even more relaxing stay, we can arrange:
- Freshly prepared home-cooked meals
- Afternoon tea experiences
- Grocery deliveries to your cottage
- Breakfast baskets
- Catering for groups and celebrations
Whether you are enjoying a relaxed breakfast outdoors, sharing a BBQ with family or having dinner delivered after a busy day exploring, summer dining at Decoy is designed to feel easy and enjoyable.
Bring Your Dog Along
For many guests, summer holidays are not complete without the dog.
Our pet-friendly cottages make travelling with pets simple and comfortable. Unlike hotels, self-catering accommodation gives you more space, more flexibility and direct outdoor access, making it far easier to keep your normal routine while away.
We can provide:
- Dog beds and bowls
- Pet blankets
- Dog toys
- Leads if required
The peaceful countryside setting, outdoor space and nearby walking routes make Decoy Country Cottages ideal for dog-friendly holidays in Ireland.
Relax, Play & Connect at The Den
The Den is one of the most loved parts of the Decoy experience and becomes especially lively during the summer months.
Designed for guests of all ages, this communal social space includes:
- Pool and foosball tables
- Board games
- Reading areas and books
- A giant chalkboard wall
- Children’s toys and games
- Fitness suite and gym equipment
Outside, children can enjoy the playground, football area and large in-ground trampoline while adults relax nearby in the safe, car-free courtyard.
It is a space that naturally brings people together, whether for games, quiet reading, workouts or simply spending time together indoors after a busy day exploring.
Stress-Free Stays for Young Families
Travelling with young children can often feel overwhelming, but we try to make family holidays as easy as possible.
At Decoy Country Cottages, guests can request a wide range of baby and toddler equipment free of charge before arrival, including:
- Cots and high chairs
- Stair gates
- Baby baths and bath toys
- Sterilisers and monitors
- Pottys and toilet steps
- Baby bouncers and changing mats
We can also help arrange babysitting, grocery deliveries and home-cooked meals, allowing parents to fully relax during their stay.
Combined with the outdoor play areas and The Den, it makes summer breaks easier for both parents and children.
Try a Digital Detox This Summer
Sometimes the best summer memories happen when phones are put away.
Our digital detox experiences encourage guests to disconnect from screens and reconnect with real life. With peaceful surroundings, open countryside and slower-paced days, Decoy is the perfect place to take a break from constant notifications and scrolling.
Guests can even request a Stolp box during their stay to help reduce screen time and encourage more meaningful downtime.
Instead, spend your evenings:
- Reading a book
- Playing board games
- Sitting outdoors together
- Enjoying conversations without distractions
- Watching the stars over the Meath countryside
Wellness Retreats in the Countryside
One of the newest additions to Decoy Country Cottages is our outdoor wellness retreat.
Overlooking the peaceful Meath landscape, guests can enjoy:
- Scandinavian-style sauna sessions
- Cold shower therapy
- Outdoor Hikki tub bathing
- Optional seaweed bath experiences
- Private wellness sessions included with stays
Whether you are recovering after a long walk, taking time to yourself or enjoying a romantic evening outdoors, the wellness area is designed to help you slow down and reconnect with nature.
The experience is especially magical during summer evenings, with sunset skies, fresh country air and peaceful surroundings creating a truly relaxing atmosphere.
Explore the Boyne Valley This Summer
Of course, your stay is also the perfect opportunity to explore everything the Boyne Valley has to offer.
Visit iconic sites including:
- Newgrange
- Hill of Tara
- Trim Castle
Enjoy:
- Scenic walks and cycling routes
- Distillery tours
- Golf courses
- Family attractions
- Beautiful gardens
- Local cafés and restaurants
There is something for every pace and every type of traveller.
At Decoy Country Cottages, we believe summer breaks should feel relaxed, flexible and memorable.
Whether you are reconnecting with family, escaping for a romantic break, travelling with children, bringing the dog along or simply taking time to slow down, our cottages and facilities are designed to help you make the most of your time away.
From wellness experiences and outdoor spaces to shared moments in The Den and evenings around the BBQ, it is all about creating a stay that feels comfortable, easy and genuinely enjoyable.
We look forward to welcoming you. Plan your stay HERE!
