Teen Getaways · Summer 2027

Independence Through Adventure

Not just a trip away. A proper adventure.

Ages 13–16 · 1st–3rd Year · Booking Coming Soon

Explore the 2027 Getaways
Teen Getaways

More freedom. More adventure. Real independence.

Our Teen Getaways are a proper break from the everyday. Days are spent outdoors, trying new things, taking on challenges and having fun with a great group of people.

They are designed to give teenagers more freedom and responsibility while encouraging them to step outside their comfort zone, build confidence and make new friends. From outdoor skills and adventure activities to cooking together and evenings around the fire, every getaway is about learning by doing and making memories along the way.

See the Getaways in Action

Adventure, independence and unforgettable memories.

Our Teen Getaways give young people the opportunity to step outside their comfort zone, make new friends and experience the freedom of an outdoor adventure.

Each location is different — but the aim is the same: Independence Through Adventure.

Summer 2027

Choose your adventure

Four very different settings. The same Active Ireland approach to adventure, independence and the outdoors.

An Óige – Hostelling International Ireland

Proud to work with An Óige

We’re proud to work hand in hand with An Óige, Ireland’s youth hostel association. Every getaway is based in one of their hostels – Knockree, Glendalough, Glenmalure and Errigal – so teens stay somewhere safe and welcoming, right in the heart of the outdoors, with hostel teams who know us well.

Independence Through Adventure

We don't just want teenagers to take part. We want them to leave feeling that little bit more confident than when they arrived.

Inclusion

Everyone should feel welcome, valued and able to take part.

Diversity

Different people, abilities, personalities and perspectives make our groups stronger.

Respect

We encourage respect for ourselves, for each other and for the places we explore.

Independence

We give people the opportunity to make decisions, solve problems, take responsibility and achieve things for themselves.

Adventure

Getting outdoors, trying something new and taking on a challenge creates experiences that stay with you.

Fun

Being active should be enjoyable. The best memories are made when people are having fun together.

For parents

Getting ready for the getaway

Everything you need to know before your teen heads off – how we look after them, what to expect each day and what to pack.

Where they’ll stay: An Óige youth hostels at Knockree and Glendalough (shared with other guests) and Glenmalure and Errigal, Donegal (our group has the whole venue).

What to expect – the handbook in brief

Supervision

At least one staff member for every eight teens (1:8). Staff sleep close to the participants’ rooms and are on hand through the night.

Our team

Every staff member is Garda-vetted, safeguarding-trained, first-aid qualified and HACCP-trained in food safety.

Phones

Phones are handed in on arrival and returned each evening to call home. At Glenmalure there’s no signal, so parents get set times to contact our instructors.

Living as a team

Teens cook meals together in small teams with staff, keep their rooms tidy and help look after the hostel. Dietary needs and allergies are always catered for.

Health & safeguarding

We collect medical details before camp and manage medication with your written consent. Ali Coffey is our Designated Liaison Person for safeguarding.

Behaviour

Zero tolerance of bullying, and no alcohol, vapes or nicotine. Serious breaches may mean being collected early. Every teen signs our Code of Conduct.

The full Residential Camp Handbook is sent to every family once booked. Any questions before you book? Call or WhatsApp 089 229 9458.

What to pack Show list ▾

Please label all clothing and belongings with the participant’s name. We’re outdoors in all weather, so pack practical clothes they don’t mind getting wet or muddy.

Clothing

  • T-shirts
  • Hoodies / warm jumpers
  • Tracksuit bottoms / outdoor trousers
  • Shorts
  • Underwear
  • Plenty of socks
  • Nightwear / pyjamas

Outdoor clothing & footwear

  • Waterproof jacket
  • Waterproof trousers (strongly recommended)
  • Sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots
  • Comfortable runners
  • Flip-flops / sliders (for showers and the beach)
  • Sun hat or cap

Swimming & toiletries

  • Swimwear
  • Beach / bath towel
  • Toothbrush & toothpaste
  • Shampoo and shower gel / soap
  • Face cloth, hairbrush / comb
  • Deodorant and personal hygiene products

Essentials

  • Refillable water bottle
  • Small day backpack
  • Sun cream
  • Insect repellent
  • Prescribed medication (if applicable)

Optional

  • Book, playing cards or a small travel game
  • Musical instrument – always encouraged!
  • Head torch / torch
  • Hair dryer
  • Spending money (€20–€30 recommended) – there’s a small tuck shop at the hostel

Please do not bring

  • Alcohol, cigarettes, vapes or nicotine products
  • Illegal substances
  • Knives, weapons or fireworks
  • Valuable jewellery or expensive items
  • Gaming consoles or Bluetooth speakers
  • Unauthorised medication

Going to Glenmalure? Pack these too

  • Sleeping bag and pillow – for the camping nights
  • A torch or head torch – a must at Glenmalure

There’s no phone signal at Glenmalure. We’ll give parents set times to contact our instructors for an update, and in an emergency we’ll put your teen in touch with home straight away.

Active Ireland cannot accept responsibility for lost, stolen or damaged personal belongings.

Summer 2027

Which adventure will they choose?

Explore the four Teen Getaways and find the one that suits your teenager best.

Explore the Getaways