Words: Dray Morgan
We’ve been conditioned to think it is necessary to suffer somewhat in order to have a successful festival weekend. However, it really is possible to come out of a festival feeling revitalised and ready for the once-dreaded return to reality. If the usual festival tropes put you off heading to one this summer, then explore the accommodation options around the Slane grounds, indulge in a banquet and lounge in a hot tub with a bottle of prosecco.
Getting the crystal ball out and obsessively checking weather apps before festivals to try and avoid a soggy sleeping bag? Quaint ‘Boutique Camping’ is widespread at Otherside. On offer are luxury yurts and tiny homes, scattered around the festival, sleeping from 2-12 people. Cosier abodes, such as bell tents and pine shepherd huts provide the perfect basecamp to escape the unpredictable Irish summer. Skip the setup, with everything already prepared, you can dive straight into Otherside. Thinking big? There’s the River House to accommodate up to 12 people.
The mid-festival slump is far too commonplace. A day down and a day to go, it can all get a bit much. Well, take a midpoint refresh. Rise Nordic Spa are bringing their natural swimming pool alongside hot tubs, saunas, massage and wellness treatments. Between acts, you’ll be able to engulf yourself in bubbles with a poolside, wood-fired hot tub. If you want to enhance your relaxation even further, then pair your time with an optional bottle of prosecco. If you prefer to sweat your sins away, then give the Nordic Sauna a visit. If your party is large, or if you’re on a solo cleanse, then you can book individual tubs to relax.
It feels like we’ve just accepted that having a sub-par eating experience goes hand in hand with a festival. Gone are the days of consuming the humble burger and chips whilst simultaneously feeling like you’re being extorted with the price. Get ready for The Roast, a sumptuous banquet taking place on both evenings. Curated by the talented folks at Happy’s, this menu offers a unique twist to Irish traditional cuisine with an Eastern influence. Try something different with gourmet options like cumin and treacle cured roast beef, char siu rock farm porchetta, or a jungle curry cauliflower steak. Keeping with the fine food, craft cocktails and locally produced beverages are on offer. The long banquet tables facilitate what Otherside is all about, collaboration. Make some new festival friends over a top-notch feast. It’s a culinary experience that combines the best of Ireland with a touch of something unexpected.
Grab tickets to Otherside Festival here
Elsewhere on District: Otherside Launch Banquet Restaurant