With Easter, St. Patrick's Day and the February mid-term break all coming up in the next few months, there will be plenty of time for weekends away. We've come up with a few places you should consider visiting if you're looking to get away in Ireland:

Waterford
Ireland's oldest city has a lot to offer for a weekend break. During the day you can enjoy a bit of history and culture by visiting the Waterford Crystal factory to see the traditional manufacturing methods they still use, or by going to Reginald's Tower to learn more about Ireland's Viking past. At night you have all the amenities of the city to explore, including top-class restaurants, bars and nightclubs.

Southwest Donegal
This is the place to visit if you want to get away from it all for a while. Base yourself in the fishing village of Killybegs, and use that as a starting point to explore some of Donegal's Wild Atlantic Way locations. The Slieve League cliffs are a must-see, they are the highest sea cliffs in Europe and offer spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean. Hiking up to the top will work up an appetite for the fantastic fresh seafood on offer in the area.

Wicklow
Wicklow is the perfect location for a weekend getaway, especially if you are based in Dublin. There's minimal travel involved, but you still get the feeling of escaping city life, and whatever your budget you will find accommodation options to suit. As well as taking time to relax, make sure you take a walk in Glendalough or around Powerscourt Gardens, or pay a visit to the beautiful Russborough House.

Westport, Mayo
Westport has long been a favourite for weekends away, and with good reason. The town offers a variety of accommodation choices, bars and restaurants to keep you occupied, while the surrounding area has many natural attractions on offer including Croagh Patrick, the cycling trail The Great Western Greenway and the Clew Bay trails. If the weather doesn't permit outdoor activities, Kylemore Abbey and Westport House also make great day trips.

Boyne Valley, Meath / Louth
The Boyne Valley region covers two counties and includes some of Ireland's most ancient sites. Base yourself in one of the many hotels in the region and then take the time to explore monuments such as Newgrange, Trim Castle and the Hill of Tara.

For lots of ideas and inspiration, please visit www.discoverireland.ie and www.wildatlanticway,com