We don’t need to tell you this but Ireland has experienced a disappointingly wet start to 2026. In fact, it’s the worst start to the year since 1941 in terms of rainfall, because it has rained somewhere in the country every single day since last December 29th.
And Cork, as you know, is no exception. We all badly need some sun on our bones, so we have found some great bargain holidays departing from Cork Airport.
Santa Ponsa, Spain
The Globales Verdemar Apartmentsoverlook the beautiful Mallorcan coastline and are perfectly located in the heart of a vibrant shopping and entertainment area. The apartments are just a short drive from popular resorts such as Magaluf and Palmanova, and the resort has a professional entertainment team.
All rooms have a balcony, en-suite bathroom and flat-screen satellite television, as well as air-conditioning and a kettle to enjoy a cup of tea.
Departing March 3rd, an apartment stay for seven nights on a bed and breakfast basis costs from €459 per person. See Lee Travel for details here.
Fuerteventura, Canary Islands
The 4-star SBH Club Paraiso Playa hotel is located in the Playa de Esquinzo resort in Fuerteventura. The hotel is a beachfront resort with an outdoor swimming pool, and a poolside bar serving snacks and drinks.
Tennis and billiards are some of the activities on offer, and the hotel operates an evening entertainment programme, featuring live music and professional shows.
There’s a number of restaurants, bars and nightlife on the doorstep, or you can visit Gran Tarajal city, which is a short drive away.
Departing March 19th, an all-inclusive stay for seven nights costs €459. See Love Holidays for details here.
Albufeira, Portugal
The Pateo Village Apartments are a 15-minute walk, or five-minute bus ride from the beach and central Albufeira. There are shops, bars and restaurants on the doorstep, too.
This place is set on a hillside and surrounded by well-kept gardens, so you get fantastic views from pretty much every angle.
They come with well-equipped kitchenettes, as well as private terraces which are ideal for outdoor dining. There’s a bar, outdoor and indoor pool, kids’ pool and restaurant.
Departing March 3rd, an apartment stay for seven nights costs €247.05 per person. See Tui Holidays for details here
Benalmádena, Spain
The Betania Hotel is a quiet hotel located in the centre of Benalmádena, just 150m from the nearest beach. Plenty of shops, bars, cafés and restaurants as well as links to the transport network and La Paloma Park can be found in the vicinity.
The hotel has an outdoor pool, a spa and a solarium, plus a casino and a nightclub are also options for entertainment. Dining facilities include a dining room, a café and a bar, and bed and breakfast can be booked.
Departing March 15th, a room-only stay for seven nights costs €292.50 per person. See Sunway for details here
Algarve, Portugal
The Janelas do Mar apartment hotel is located in Montechoro, on a hilltop, and it has breathtaking panoramic views. Guests will find a shopping area close to the hotel with an array of shops, restaurants, and bars.
Lively Albufeira and its amazing nightlife is only 2. 5 km away, and there are public transportation links just metres from the hotel. The hotel also offers many activities such as live sporting events, evening entertainment, swimming pool, fitness centre and hot tub
.
Departing March 24th, a self-catering apartment for seven nights costs €210 per person. See Budget Travel for details here
