On the road again

What you can expect on a post-lockdown staycation in the west

With many lockdown restrictions lifting, it looks like we will be getting the summer we have been waiting for. Pubs and restaurants are now open for outdoor dining, cinemas and theatres are finally open and even more reopenings are planned for later in the summer. So, there is no better time to explore this island of ours, and especially the west coast –the land that has inspired writers, poets, songwriters, and artists for centuries. Or according to the west of Ireland’s favourite poet WB Yeats, ‘the Land of Heart’s Desire’.

Confederation (itic.ie), says the west coast of Ireland is in-demand. And tourism and hospitality businesses are excited to welcome back customers.

some time, Céad Mile Fáilte is in the DNA of Irish hospitality. Tourism businesses are eager to provide a warm and safe welcome to their visitors, as they reopen over the next number of weeks and months.”

Oh, the places you’ll go!

The Wild Atlantic Way has hundreds of wonderful land and water-based activities that can all be done in the great outdoors while safely distanced. Miriam Kennedy of Fáilte Ireland has some personal favourites.

Miriam Kennedy

“Businesses are excited to get back to what they’re good at, which is welcoming people,” says Catherine. “There have been huge efforts behind the scenes to ensure staff and premises are ready and prepared to provide the best experiences safely.

“Glenveagh National Park in Co Donegal is a hauntingly beautiful wilderness of rugged mountains, deep glens and pristine lakes. I love the Clew Bay Bike Trail, which is a 90km cycling trail around Clew Bay in Mayo taking in Clare Island, Achill and The Great Western Greenway. It involves a ferry crossing from Roonagh Pier to Clare Island and then onto Achill. The Fastnet Rock Tour in West Cork is a day trip that will bring you through the spectacular waters of Roaringwater Bay spotting for whales and dolphins on the way.

“The west of Ireland is so spectacularly scenic, with amazing seascapes, vibrant towns and villages and the best seafood in Ireland!” says Miriam Kennedy, Head of Fáilte Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way. “There is a magic about the west that stays with you and draws you back time and again. People look forward to the crashing waves, long summer evenings, undiscovered beaches and plenty of outdoor fun.”

What to expect

According to the most recent Fáilte Ireland CP&I – Consumer Update report, over 60pc of consumers intend to take a break in the west of Ireland within the next six months. But with this year’s post-lockdown travels, what can people expect on a staycation?

“I’m going west this summer, so I’m taking in the coast, the islands, small towns and then a city because there is still a lot of availability out there. ITIC has actually put forward the idea of an extra bank holiday at the end of September to the Government to lengthen the amount of time to support tourism businesses, as we believe that could really help.”

Discover the west

Fáilte Ireland has relaunched their awareness campaign to promote its Covid-19 Safety Charter initiative with almost 6,000 businesses having applied for the Charter to date. This highlights to their customers that they are operating in line with all Government public health advice and regulations.

Along with their safety charter, Fáilte Ireland has also launched their ‘Keep Discovering’ campaign, to stimulate domestic holidays and help reboot and rebuild Ireland’s tourism industry.

“Visit the newly revamped Valentia Lighthouse at Cromwell Point, Valentia Island. Take a guided walk up Macgillycuddy’s Reeks, or escape to one of the 26 islands on the Wild Atlantic Way!”

Miriam says Irish people should plan a trip in the west of Ireland this year, not just for the incredible number of activities available, but also the stunning landscapes.

“The Wild Atlantic Way offers some of the most stunning locations in the world, packed with creative and innovative restaurants to gourmet food trucks. There are so many great experiences to choose from!

“While how we engage with each other is different, the warmth and sincerity of the Irish welcome will continue in line with government public health guidelines.”

Visit discoverireland.ie for lots of itinerary ideas and top tips on where to go, what to see and do all along the west

Miriam says, “While social distancing and wearing face coverings will continue for A BeCreative Editorial Production www.becreative.ie

EDITOR: Clodagh Dooley

DEPUTY EDITOR: Shauna McCrudden

COVER: Roadway to Keem Beach, Achill Island. Image courtesy of Fáilte Ireland

ADVERTISING: Terri Byrne, (086) 823 7900

DESIGN: Susan McClean, Design Studio, Mediahuis Ireland

REPRO: Mediahuis Ireland, 27-32 Talbot Street, Dublin 1

The content of this magazine is sponsored

Catherine Flanagan, Head of Special Projects at the Irish Tourism Industry

Keeping

It’s important to abide by the regulations in place to prevent Covid-19 when you travel, but don’t forget your car safety on the way. Here are some tips on keeping safe while on the road: π Get a car check-up Before leaving on any long road trip, bring your car to an approved authorised repairer to make sure everything is okay. Check light bulbs are functioning, ensure windows and mirrors are clean and free from obstruction, check tyre pressure and car fluid levels. π Get right for the road – Check your insurance, tax, and NCT are all up-to-date. π Safety while driving - Keep to the speed limits and keep an eye on other road users. Check

*The information in this magazine is correct at time of print but always doublecheck with hotels, activity providers and other establishments before travelling that seat belts are in their correct position. And ensure that an adequate number of high visibility vests and triangles are readily accessible for you and your passengers, if required. π Pack correctly Your vehicle’s

DGVW (Design Gross Vehicle Weight) should be listed in your car’s manual. This is important to figure out just how much weight your car can hold. Don’t overload your car, as this can impact fuel economy, tyres, and safety.

FRIDAY

8pm:

Check in to Currarevagh Country House

This early Victorian country house is the longest-running country house in Ireland and is set in 180 acres of private parkland and woodland bordering on Lough Corrib. Located in charming Oughterard, Currarevagh Country House is the perfect place to base yourself on the first night of your weekend in Connemara. Email info@ currarevagh.com or call (091) 552312 to book a stay.

8.30pm:

Dinner in Currarevagh Country House

Currarevagh Country House prides itself on its unique and individual character, and this is very evident in its delicious food. Always local and seasonal, their menu is a real treat, with signature dishes such as Skeaghanore Duck and Atlantic Crab.

SATURDAY

08:30am:

Breakfast in Currarevagh Country House

After a tasty breakfast in Currarevagh Country House, consider also grabbing a coffee from the award-winning Connemara Greenway Café on Main Street, Oughterard before you hit the road!

10am:

Take off for a reviving walk or climb

Pack up your bags and choose from one of the following walks for the next part of your Connemara adventure:

1. Diamond Hill

This captivating 7km loop walk through Connemara National Park takes approximately two hours. The route consists of gravel paths, a wooden boardwalk, and a strenuous but satisfying climb up the slopes of Diamond Hill, where you’ll get magnificent views across Connemara’s coastline. Diamond Hill is approximately a one-hour and five-minute drive from Currarevagh Country House. Free parking is available at Connemara National Park.

2. Máméan

According to legend, St Patrick climbed Máméan to bless the wild lands of Connemara. The Máméan hike is a pilgrimage route to what may be the smallest chapel in Ireland. The walk is approximately 4.5km and for logistical reasons, most people start at the Lough