Departure Lounge: Aer Lingus launches six exciting new routes from Cork and Dublin

The new routes include exciting destinations across Europe and America

Nice in Southern France, - One of the new destinatios offered by Aer Lingus

New routes from Cork

It’s always good news when Ireland receives new flights. Aer Lingus has launched five new European routes for summer 2026, along with a new transatlantic route to Pittsburgh. The itinerary includes two new Cork routes, to Nice in the south of France and Santiago de Compostela in northwestern Spain. Three new flights from Dublin include Asturias in Galicia in northern Spain, Montpellier in the south of France, and Oslo, Norway. From May 2026, the airline will also commence a new service to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, which will operate four-times weekly, beginning May 25. So, plenty of fresh inspiration for those 2026 holiday plans.

aerlingus.com

Walking Croatia’s coast

The coast of Split, Croatia 

Sunway’s Dalmatian Coast Walking Holiday offers a chance to explore Croatia’s famous coast with a guided adventure. Departing May 12, you’ll explore historic towns, swimming coves and scenic trails, from Split to the idyllic islands of Hvar and Brač. Graded as a moderate walking holiday, hikes will cover 11-16km a day, walking for 3-6 hours and requiring a good level of fitness. En route, you’ll be fueled by local food and wine. With Unesco sites and traditional coastal life, this 7-night Adriatic itinerary promises to be extra special, € I,549.

sunway.ie

Deal of the week

The Club House Hotel, Kilkenny

A new (to us) address in Kilkenny worth popping on your radar. The Club House Hotel, a Georgian boutique hotel, has emerged from a €2.5 million refurb and is offering a two-night heritage break in the medieval city.

The family hotel has been welcoming guests since 1797, and the smart new look makes it a fresh new destination. Included is dinner for two on one evening and entrance to either Kilkenny Castle, St Canice’s Cathedral, or Rothe House.

A two-night Georgian Winter Getaway starts from €350, Sunday-Thursday, for two people. Air conditioning, WiFi, and plentiful parking are included.

clubhousehotel.com

Perfect Porto for less

Porto, Portugal

Porto unfolds like a fairytale, its colourful houses stacked high sloping down to the banks of the River Duoro in the old town, where the port trade evolved.

Named a World Heritage Site by Unesco, the historic Portuguese city is charming, atmospheric and exciting to explore.

This January, enjoy a three-night stay in the three-star Da Bolsa Hotel from €199 per person based on 2 adults sharing. Price includes return flights from Dublin to Porto and a room-only accommodation.

clickandgo.com

January in Dubai

Palm Jumeirah island, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Start the new year in sun and style at Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort.

The impressive beachfront five-star sits on the eastern crescent of the landmark Palm Jumeirah, and offers world class dining, superb pools and elegant design that blends contemporary Asian styling in an Arabian setting. Departing 13 January 2026, with direct flights from Dublin to Dubai with Emirates, seven nights half board and private return transfers, from €1,849.

trailfinders.ie