After a brilliant first day, the Harrington family’s Great Aviva Road Trip rolled into day two - and what a day it turned out to be. With their Citroën C5 Aircross MHEV Plus Pack and car insurance for an electric vehicle provided by Aviva, they set off from Mullingar Park Hotel towards the stunning Sligo coast, ready for new experiences and plenty of family fun.
A Scenic Journey to Sligo
Leaving Mullingar mid-morning, the family enjoyed a relaxed, scenic drive north-west. The sun was shining, the roads were lined with rolling hills and glistening water, and even the kids put their devices away to watch the world go by. Boats bobbed on the water; mountains rose in the distance; it was one of those drives where the journey really was part of the experience.
They arrived at Sligo Park Hotel just after lunch and were welcomed with warm smiles and thoughtful touches. The children were each given a gift bag filled with colouring pencils, a deck of cards, and even a voucher for a free scoop of ice cream. The fun did not stop there. The hotel also hosts evening movie screenings, complete with popcorn and juice, all included in the stay. Tonight’s film was the animated adventure Wonder Park.
The Harringtons were shown to their interconnecting rooms, newly decorated, spotlessly clean, and each with a double and single bed. The view was a real showstopper, overlooking the city, water, and mountains beyond. A few luxury touches, like chocolates and robes on the beds, made it feel extra special. The kids even found time to hit the tennis courts before the evening movie, while Chelsey and Joseph admired the hotel’s leisure facilities, including a beautiful pool and well-equipped gym.
A Scenic Saddle Adventure at Iceford Stables
The main activity of the day took place just outside Sligo in County Mayo at Iceford Stables, it was a real highlight. The Harrington children are no strangers to the saddle, riding every few weeks at home, so they were excited to explore somewhere new.
When they arrived, the first thing they noticed was the incredible setting, open fields stretching towards the mountains, and horses making their way back from a trek, silhouetted against the skyline. The stables themselves were spacious, spotless, and welcoming.
After being fitted with helmets and boots, the family chatted with the friendly instructors about their riding experience. For Chelsey, who was feeling a little nervous, a guide stayed by her side the whole time, making the experience relaxed and enjoyable.
The trek itself was breathtaking; winding paths led up towards a scenic peak, where spectacular views of the surrounding countryside, lakes, and distant hills opened up in front of them. With the fresh air, gentle pace, and the sound of hooves on the trail, it was the perfect blend of adventure and tranquillity.
After the trek, the family returned to the Sligo Park Hotel and checked into their interconnecting rooms. They enjoyed a lovely dinner at the hotel, with Callum tucking into pasta, Zoe choosing pizza, and Chelsey and Joseph enjoying chicken dishes. To finish off the meal, the children treated themselves to ice cream, making for a sweet end to an action-packed day.
Looking Ahead for the Harrington Family
With their night at Sligo Park Hotel to rest and recharge, and their Citroën C5 Aircross MHEV Plus Pack ready to hit the road in the morning, with car insurance by Aviva, the Harringtons are set for whatever day three has in store, including visits to Sliabh Liag and The Rusty Mackerel. If day two is anything to go by, there are plenty more unforgettable moments on the road ahead.
