The Unplugged Weekend: Doireann Garrihy and Jennifer Zamparelli Enjoy a Well-Deserved Break
There comes a moment in every season when even the most committed presenters yearn for a weekend off. For Doireann Garrihy and Jennifer Zamparelli, iconic faces of Dancing With The Stars (DWTS), that long-awaited weekend arrived, bringing with it a taste of freedom and a collection of picturesque scenes from their refreshing staycations across Ireland.
Trading the Spotlight for Seaside Leisure
The curtain finally fell on another mesmerizing DWTS season, marking the first weekend without the cameras. Doireann Garrihy and Jennifer Zamparelli, who had not taken a weekend off since January, eagerly embraced the downtime. While their careers on RTÉ have been synonymous with non-stop excitement and tireless dedication, both presenters knew just how to delight in their rare moments of respite.
Doireann and Mark’s Northern Escapade
Doireann, along with her husband Mark Mehigan, embarked on a delightful escape to Northern Ireland, a charming seaside town that promises tranquility: Newcastle in County Down. Reveling in the warm glow of early marriage bliss—having tied the knot in November—the couple indulged in Northern Ireland’s best culinary offerings.
A standout experience was their fine dining at Brunel’s, a modern European restaurant with rave reviews from DWTS stylist Clémentine MacNeice. The highlight of Doireann’s evening was a succulent dish of steak and potatoes, with the mashed potatoes capturing her heart and taste buds. "The mash alone was sensational," she gushed on Instagram, as she showcased the ethereal quality of their meal.
The next morning, Doireann and Mark journeyed to local hotspots, savoring Railway St coffee and pastries. For coffee aficionados, Newcastle offered a small-town charm coupled with high-quality brews, adding another layer to their cozy escapade.
Jennifer and Lauterio’s Dublin Delight
Meanwhile, Jennifer Zamparelli stayed locally enchanted, opting for the aesthetic elegance of her own city, Dublin. Her partner-in-crime and husband Lauterio joined her for a relaxed getaway at the chic Fitzwilliam Hotel on St. Stephen’s Green. This stay allowed Jennifer a chance to revel in R&R—uninterrupted by two lively kids, Florence and Enzo.
Her joy was palpable as she filmed herself jumping gleefully onto the hotel bed, exclaiming, "First weekend off since January." The couple also savored quality dining time with cocktails at the hotel’s bar, a fitting complement to weeks of relentless dedication to DWTS.
DWTS Viewers Set Stage for a Return
Both presenters savored every minute of this well-earned pause, but the dance floors beckon once more. RTÉ has hinted that next year holds the promise of another season of Dancing With The Stars. With the latest season witnessing a surge in viewing figures, followers and critics alike anticipate its return, strengthening its reputation as a formidable fixture on the Irish television landscape.
| Presenter | Destination | Activity Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Doireann Garrihy | Newcastle, NI | Dinner at Brunel’s, local coffee spots |
| Jennifer Zamparelli | Dublin | Staying at Fitzwilliam Hotel, enjoying cocktails |
FAQ Section:
-
Q: When will DWTS return?
A: Tentative planning suggests a return in 2026, with RTÉ eyeing continued success for the show. -
Q: Did Jennifer Zamparelli’s family join her?
A: Yes, she was accompanied by her husband, Lauterio, and shared quality couple time. - Q: Where did Doireann enjoy a memorable meal?
A: Brunel’s—a modern-European style restaurant.
Did You Know?
Doireann and Jennifer are both frequent champions of staycations, often discovering local gems off-screen as well as magnifying the charm of their respective hometowns.
Pro Tip
Seek out local culinary recommendations from insiders. Much like Doireann Garrihy’s experience, such tips can lead you to tasteful delights.
Whether it’s the affectionate vibes from Newcastle’s scenic coastlines or the urban sophistication of Dublin, both stars illustrated the joy of simplicity. As fans bide their time for the next media whirlwind, Doireann and Jennifer remind us that sometimes, the best luxury is found in a quiet, introspective weekend with loved ones.
What would your perfect staycation entail? Share your thoughts and travel plans in the comments below!
High-quality, engaging content like this helps you shape a well-expressed online presence. Explore more wellness and lifestyle inspirations on our blog and subscribe for fresh insights delivered straight to your inbox.