Center Parcs Longford Forest Announces Major €100 Million Expansion Project
Center Parcs Longford Forest, Ireland's premier forest village resort, is embarking on a transformative €100 million (approximately £87 million) expansion. This significant investment will introduce 83 new luxury lodges, a thrilling aerial zipline experience, and comprehensive upgrades to existing facilities, marking a substantial enhancement to the site's offerings and capacity.
Enhanced Accommodation and Sustainable Features
The expansion includes the debut of Center Parcs' iconic two-storey treehouse lodges at the Irish location. Each treehouse will be equipped with personal hot tubs, private saunas, and dedicated in-room gaming dens, offering an unparalleled luxury experience. These lodges, some accommodating up to six guests, will incorporate sustainable technologies, such as air-source heat pump networks and high-efficiency LED lighting, aligning with modern environmental standards.
New Attractions and Dining Experiences
A highlight of the development is the 'Forest Glider', an exhilarating continuous-loop, gravity-fed zipline set to open in autumn 2026. This attraction will allow guests to soar through the treetops, adding an adventurous element to the resort. Additionally, a new lakeside restaurant, previously announced in August 2025, will elevate the food and beverage options, providing scenic dining experiences.
Facility Upgrades and Economic Impact
Key facilities, including Ireland's largest indoor water park, the Subtropical Swimming Paradise, and the Aqua Sana Spa, will undergo major renovations to enhance guest comfort and enjoyment. The expansion has already generated approximately 300 jobs during the construction phase, with an expected 250 permanent roles upon completion, significantly benefiting the local economy in County Longford.
Background and Future Developments
Longford Forest, nestled in 400 acres of forest near Ballymahon, opened in 2019 as Ireland's first Center Parcs village and has welcomed over one million visitors. Bookings for select new lodges are now open for stays between December 2026 and April 2027. This expansion follows recent planning permission for Center Parcs Scottish Borders, a new village in Scotland set to open in summer 2029, featuring up to 700 lodges and a focus on biodiversity with newly planted forests and lochs.
The Longford Forest expansion will increase total guest capacity to around 3,500, reinforcing its value to Irish tourism and providing a model for sustainable, high-quality leisure destinations.
