Center Parcs Longford has been getting rave reviews since it's opening, however, it comes at a price. Finding ways to cut down on costs is essential.
Over the past few weeks, families across Ireland have flocked to Ireland's only Center Parcs Resort located in Longford and the reviews to date have been incredible. The five-star resort situated on 400 acres of natural woodland includes 466 self-catering lodges and 30 apartments accommodating up to 2500 guests at a time.
However, the luxury of the state of the art short break holiday can come at a price. So today we are sharing our top tips on how to save money both while booking Center Parcs Longford and during your time there.
Use Tesco Clubcard Boost
Save money off your reservation by redeeming your Tesco Clubcard Boost vouchers. Every €2.50 in Tesco Clubcard Boost vouchers is the equivalent of €10 Center Parcs vouchers. The maximum Clubcard vouchers are €40 off a booking giving you €160 off your family break at Center Parcs Ireland.
Book Off Peak
Like with any holiday, the best time to book is to book well in advance and off-peak. Prices tend to skyrocket during the summer months or when the kids are off school at every resort or hotel, so try to book your family break away in the cooler months during the school term to get the most out of your hard-earned cash. Obviously, this will only suit parents of toddlers and preschoolers but if you plan well you in advance you may just sneak in a short break away for a fraction of the price.
![People cycling in a forest.](https://familyfriendlyhq.imgix.net/uploads/2019/08/19111030/people-cycling-5000x3333.jpg?auto=format&crop=entropy%2Cbottom&dpr=1&fit=crop&fm=jpg&h=&ixlib=php-1.2.1&q=75&w=860)
Bring Your Own Bike
Center Parcs is a car-free zone, meaning the only way to get around is by walking or cycling. Bicycle hire for the duration of a visit is €35 for adults and €27.50 for children so it makes sense to bring your bikes with you.
Shop Before Your Arrive
While Center Parcs has a reasonably priced ParcMarket on-site, stop off at Lidl or Aldi before you arrive to pick up essentials for the duration of your stay. All lodges have a fully equipped kitchen with modern appliances including a dishwasher allowing you to dine in during your stay. Alternatively, you can look up menu prices online for each of the ten restaurants and cafes located across the Longford Forest.
Make The Most Of The Free Stuff
Center Parcs Ireland has a programme of over 100 indoor and outdoor activities to choose from, however, each one comes at a cost and if you have a few kids to entertain it can add up quickly. That is why we recommend you make the most of the free stuff during your stay at the Ballymahon resort.
- Enjoy unlimited entry in the 29.5C Subtropical Swimming Paradise complete with waterslides, a wave pool, outdoor water rapids and a dedicated children's water play area.
- Bring a bucket and spade and kick back and relax at the biggest beach in the centre of Ireland.
- Whatever the weather, make use of the outdoor wooden adventure playgrounds, explore the fairy trails and the beautiful woodland walks that Center Parcs Longford has to offer.
Finally, Bring Supplies
Like with any breakaway, there are hidden charges along the way so we recommend you bring extra towels. It costs €2 a pop to rent towels at the swimming pool and if you forget swim nappies, you're looking at €1.50 a nappy each time you visit.