Great Western Adventure 2022

THE GREAT WESTERN ADVENTURE

Your ultimate guide to visiting Ireland’s northwest, southwest and midwest

INSIDE:

What you need to know about planning a road trip to the west of Ireland

Places to stay and attractions to visit Highlights along the Wild Atlantic Way

Aoibhín Garrihy, Erica Cody and James Kavanagh on what they love about the west …and much more

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Deputy Editor: Shauna McCrudden

Cover: Keem Bay, Achill Island

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Location images throughout magazine are courtesy of Fáilte Ireland unless otherwise stated

During the pandemic, outside of lockdowns, Irish people had the opportunity to reconnect with places they loved and explore new experiences across Ireland. Niall Tracey says that while people travelled the length and breadth of the country, the Wild Atlantic Way – Ireland’s spectacular coastal route in the west spanning 2,500km in length – was a particular draw for visitors.

“According to our research, satisfaction levels in relation to those trips have been very positive, with 83pc being extremely or very satisfied with their 2021 trip. This is a great reflection on the experience visitors had and also provides an opportunity to drive repeat trips.

“As we emerge from the pandemic and restrictions on international travel reduce, there is a demand for overseas holidays amongst Irish consumers. However, Fáilte Ireland research tells us that there are still a lot of accumulated savings following the pandemic that could be used on short breaks throughout the year.”

Keep Discovering

Fáilte Ireland is investing €10m in domestic marketing this year, which represents a doubling of investment to continue to drive demand at home.

“There is a lot happening along the Wild Atlantic Way this year,” says Niall. “Particularly over the summer months, so there are plenty of reasons to visit. Our ‘Keep Discovering’ campaign showcases destinations throughout the west of Ireland that appeal to all, and will remind more Irish people to discover the joy of holidaying at home.”

For those considering driving along the Wild Atlantic Way route, Niall suggests

Journey to the west

giving yourself 2-3 nights in each location to make the most of the locations you are visiting.

“Drive south to north. The Atlantic Ocean will be on your left-hand side, allowing maximum opportunity to stop off and take in the views. Check your distances before setting off. While they may seem short on the map, the reality of narrow and winding roads can make the driving time longer.”

Visitors can plan their journey around a trip to some of the 180 Wild Atlantic Way Discovery Points that are mapped out along the coastline. “And you can visit 15 incredible Signature Discovery Points, which have some of the most striking scenery and views on the Wild Atlantic Way. But do be more adventurous and go off the beaten track too.

Activities, funded under the Platforms for Growth 2 Scheme.”

■ Walking the Edge – A Wild Island Immersion Tour of Tory Island, Co Donegal. Stories of seafaring, legendary conflict and survival intertwine with the dramatic coastline of Tory Island. (farandwild.org)

■ Galway City Distillery – This company distils in the heart of Galway city and serves a range of award-winning gins, whiskies, vodkas, rums and cocktails. (galwaycitydistillery.ie)

■ Strandhill People’s Market –Every Sunday, from 11am to 4pm, the market sells an array of local crafts, foods and textiles. Lots of new stalls have been added. (strandhillpeoplesmarket.ie)

■ Anthony’s Restaurant, Doolin –Anthony’s is a brand new restaurant located in Doolin, Co Clare at Doolin Inn. Experience the flavours of the Burren. (doolininn.ie/anthonys)

■ Scattery Island RIB ride – Explore the stunning coastal scenery of the majestic Shannon Estuary onboard an adventure RIB ride from Kilrush, Co Clare. (scatteryislandtours.com) Visit discoverireland.ie for lots more things to do and see

“Embrace the magnificence of Wild Atlantic Way beaches, and feast upon the delectable flavours of the West Coast, from Sligo’s edible seaweeds and native oysters to succulent Connemara lamb.”

Niall continues, “There are many fantastic attractions for tourists to enjoy all along the Wild Atlantic Way. The new visitor centre at Mayo’s Céide Fields has just opened. This tells the incredible story of 5,000 years of Irish heritage and culture, with a state-of-theart immersive visitor centre. The new visitor centre at the spectacular Blasket Islands in Co Kerry is also expected to open this summer.”

Be inspired

Niall adds, “There are also one-of-akind experiences that immerse you in the wonderful nature and tranquillity of the Wild Atlantic Way. Enjoy a rejuvenating seaweed bath, catch a wave, head out on a sea-swept coastal walk, or gallop along the beach on horseback.”

Explore the west

Within this special supplement, you will find tons of tips to help you plan a safe road trip in the glorious west of Ireland – whether that’s to Donegal, Leitrim, Roscommon, Mayo, Sligo, Galway in the northwest or Kerry, Cork, Clare or Limerick in the mid- and southwest. From the highlights along the Wild Atlantic Way, to the top local attractions, to getting the best out of your Volkswagen on the journey, we have it all covered.

Set forth and create some incredible memories on your Great Western Adventure!

Visit volkswagen.ie

Niall says there is lots to look forward to in 2023 and beyond. “Fáilte Ireland also made a significant investment in developing waterbased activity tourism around Ireland, with €19m allocated in April 2021 for 20 worldclass Facilities Centres for Water Based

Turn to page 4 for more tips on planning a road trip along the Wild Atlantic Way. Niall, who lives and works in Sligo, also recommends stopping by his home county. “To me, Sligo is outstandingly surprising in so many ways. But I particularly love the variety of walks, suitable for all ages and abilities. Sligo has the most amazing scenery with iconic mountains, hillsides, glens, and beaches, with Instagrammable opportunities at every turn.

“For the surf lovers, we eagerly await the opening of the new Strandhill Surf Centre later this year. I encourage everyone to come and see Sligo for themselves to understand why so many people visit and want to live there!”

Niall Tracey, Fáilte Ireland’s Marketing Director, speaks about what visitors to the west of Ireland can expect this summer and what to know about travelling along the Wild Atlantic Way

What’s new in the west for summer 2022

Niall Tracey

Tory Island , Co Donegal

Ceide Fields, Co Mayo

Driving Ireland’s coastal route

Experiencing the whole 2,500km of the Wild Atlantic Way, the longest defined coastal touring route in the world stretching from Inishowen in Donegal to Kinsale in West Cork, in one go might be a bit ambitious for most of us (although you are welcome to try!). But, if you’re looking to get in as much as you can, we’re here to help.

Below, we guide you on how you can prepare and get the most from your road trip along the Wild Atlantic Way:

Choose your base location

This all depends on the areas you most want to see, but make sure to base yourself close to the Wild Atlantic Way. Why not plan your accommodation in Co Galway, right in the centre of the west of Ireland and drive along from there choosing a number of gems to explore each day? Galway City is the only city located directly on the route, so it’s a great starting location.

Try settling into The Galmont Hotel & Spa, Galway which was recently refurbished and overlooks Galway Bay. It is close to many other sights of the west, as a hop in the car will take you past Co Clare’s coast, the Cliffs of Moher, and Keem Bay in Co Mayo.

Plan your route

Sure, you can just take off and travel to as many random places as you’d like. But you’ll find yourself driving down dead-end paths and end up in small housing estates with definitely no surfing to be seen! So, it’s always best to plan your route before embarking on your adventure, especially if you have kids in the back.

Have your licence and up-to-date tax disc, along with a copy of your car insurance policy and your car’s manual – because you never know when it might come in handy!

You can use Google Maps or the oldfashioned paper map to plan your route. Have a passenger guide you or use a handy phone holder which you can install on your dashboard. There are plenty of other road trip apps, such as Ireland Travel Guide, to help you find sights and things to do on your way. The AA app can be used to report a breakdown and track traffic. Or even use Camping Ireland to help you find campsites.

Some drivers prefer to take the back roads for the more scenic view, or you can try to find the quickest way possible to your destination. Some of the more rural areas in the west can have tricky roads, or smaller lanes only fit for one car at a time, so planning ahead is usually the best decision to avoid any potential problems.

Look after yourself

A road trip on the Wild Atlantic Way can take many hours, so you need to ensure you care for yourself and any passengers in the car. On a longer trip, always plan to take a break

every couple of hours or every 100 miles or so. This shouldn’t be difficult, as there are so many places to stop and take in the surroundings. Taking a break, stretching your legs, and relaxing your eyes will make you a more alert and safer driver. And if you

ever feel too tired to drive, pull into a rest area and take a nap, plus a strong coffee.

Keep entertained

If on a long car journey, you need to keep entertained between stops! This is especially

Highlights along the Wild Atlantic Way

 Yeats Country, Co Sligo

The Wild Atlantic Way journey can be broken up into 14 stages. One of those is travelling from Donegal Town to Ballina. There are so many highlights along the way, from Mullaghmore Head which has a wonderful beach and a picturesque harbour, to the magical island of Inishmurray, bringing you back to long-forgotten times.

But it’s Yeats Country on this route, or ‘The Land of Heart’s Desire’ as he once described it, which you need to see before you leave the west. The spectacular sights of Co Sligo, which inspired WB Yeats, one of Ireland’s most enduring poets, are a bucket list item. Walk through Sligo Abbey, which appears in two stories by Yeats, go surfing at Strandhill Beach, and walk Knocknarea Mountain whose beauty and legends fascinated Yeats.

 Achill Island, Co Mayo

Achill Island, on the west coast of Mayo, is one of the most remote parts of the country. So why not explore it by driving the Atlantic Drive? Driving this route is incredibly pleasant, as you could easily be one of the few people on the road that day. The drive takes you along the Achill Island side of Achill Sound, through the villages of Shraheens and Derreens to Cloughmore. Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and the islands of Clare and Achill Beg, take some time to park your car and explore the cliffs on foot, or just sit and listen to the crashing waves on the rocks

below. There are panoramic views of Clew Bay and the Maumturk Mountains and who knows, you might even want to stop and climb the Croagh Patrick pilgrim route to get the most out of your trip!

 Clifden, Connemara, Co Galway

Clifden, an area which hosts rich archaeological sites including Neolithic tombs, standing stones, Iron Age forts, crannog lake dwellings, and more, is a real highlight along the west. Check out the Clifden Castle ruins and the stunning views over Clifden Bay from the 10-mile-long Sky Road. Did you know that at Derrigimlagh Bog, the first transatlantic radio signal was sent, and the first transatlantic flight landed in 1919? Truly a unique place to see.

 Buncrana, Co Donegal

Take a dip into the Atlantic Ocean in this scenic seaside town. The 5km-long golden Lisfannon beach offers incredible sights of the rugged coastline and the Inishowen Peninsula. While here, stroll along the beach and visit the little Buncrana Lighthouse, which was a comfort to many sea captains on stormy nights. Situated on the shorefront of the beach, it is a truly beautiful sight.

 Aillwee Cave, Co Clare

When you’re passing Clare while travelling the Wild Atlantic Way route, make sure to stop by the famous Aillwee Cave. Located

in the Burren, the cave is 40 minutes from both Galway and Shannon, and it is one of the oldest caves in Ireland at 1.5 million years old. Families can enjoy exploring this underworld of winding passages, chasms, rock formations and waterfalls. The cave has an underground river and waterfall as well as large stalactites and stalagmites. Afterwards, drop into the Birds of Prey Centre, adjoining the cave which is home to many different bird species such as eagles, falcons, and hawks.

Visit aillweecave.ie

 The Blasket Islands, Dingle Peninsula

This stunning archipelago of islands north of Co Kerry is renowned for its beauty and rugged wilderness. The population decreased over hundreds of years until it was finally abandoned in the 1950s by its Gaelic speakers. Today, the islands are uninhabited, but visitors can travel over by ferry and enjoy the peace and tranquillity.

The literary heritage of the islands is well-documented. The art of the Seanchaí (a storyteller) was passed from parent to child. Irish playwright J.M. Synge famously wrote his well-known classic play, The Playboy of the Western World, based on his travels here and through the west. See the magical marine life – seals, whales, dolphins, puffins, and an array of sea birds. The Cathedral Rocks’ of Inis na Bró and the most westerly lighthouse of Ireland – An Tiaracht.

All you need to know before embarking on your road trip

Achill Island, Co Mayo

WB Yeats, Sligo town

the case with young children in the car. Load up a playlist with your favourite songs (or take inspiration from Erica Cody’s ultimate playlist on page 11!). Crank up the volume and sing to your heart’s content. If available in your Volkswagen, take advantage of AppConnect to really get the tunes going.

If possible, why not turn on audiobooks to keep the kids entertained? Or, play games

they can tick off everything they see on the journey. Or why not play the classic game of counting how many of each colour car they can spot! The road trip itself can be a big part of the fun.

Ensure your car is safe and ready

Keeping your car safe on the road is an important part of every road trip. Here are some car checks you should do before and during your trip:

■ A spare tyre – make sure to check that the

ones you already have are in good condition and properly inflated

■ Check all the lights are in working order

■ Make sure the oil level is correct

■ Check the brake fluid, wiper fluid, power steering fluid and coolant in the engine

■ Pack a roadside assistance kit – with booster cables, warning triangle, LED flashlight, emergency blanket, cable ties, PVC tape, bandages, emergency whistle, work gloves, screwdriver

■ Carry out additional checks and

maintenance – before you head on your adventure, let the expert team at your preferred authorised repairer give your vehicle a full check.

Find your local Volkswagen retailer on volkswagen.ie

Sky Road, Clifden

Great Blasket Island, Dingle Peninsula

Aillwee Cave, Co Clare

The charming town of Westport is a popular holiday spot in Ireland, and with good reason. It boasts pristine beaches, a lively nightlife, fabulous restaurants, and an abundance of outdoor adventure activities.

If you’re planning on visiting Westport soon for a weekend, here’s a little inspiration on how you could spend your 48 hours there.

Where to stay

Base yourself at the 4-Star, family-owned Castlecourt Hotel. Located at the centre of Westport Town, the hotel celebrates 50 years in business this year! There’s a range of stylish room types to choose from, including the Classic Double and Superior Family Rooms. While dining options include their elegant Orchard Restaurant and the laidback May’s Bistro.

The hotel also has its luxurious Sula Spa with a tranquil Thermal Suite. And their C Club Leisure Centre includes a 20m pool, kiddies’ splash pool, Jacuzzi, sauna, steam room and fully equipped gym. There’s even a hair salon in the hotel, so you can look your best when heading out on the town over the weekend! Summer breaks (B&B) from €75pps. Visit castlecourthotel.ie

 DAY 1

Morning: Start your first day with a light breakfast and pack your walking boots (and plenty of water) to take on the famous Croagh Patrick! Croagh Patrick is one of Ireland’s most stunning mountain climbs and offers panoramic views of Clew Bay at the top. The holy mountain of Croagh Patrick has also been a place of worship for thousands of years. Pilgrims climb Croagh Patrick in recognition of St Patrick’s (the patron saint of Ireland) 40day and 40-night stay on the mountain. The hike itself is about 7km. It will take at least three or four hours (return trip) and it can be quite difficult in areas, as it is steep. The upper slopes require good fitness and flexibility. Croagh Patrick is about a 13-minute drive from Westport and at the base of the mountain, there’s a car park. (However, there is a charge.)

Tip: If you’re not quite ready to take

48 hours in Westport

We share some inspiration of things to do and see during a weekend in Westport, Co Mayo

on Croagh Patrick yet, or would prefer something more relaxed for all the family, check out the Westport House Loop at Westport House and Gardens. This 3.5km trail is relatively easy and takes approximately one hour. It takes you through Westport Estate, around the riverside and through woodlands. You can start the walk from three main points: Westport House, Hotel Westport Bridge or Quay entrance. There’s also a Pirate Adventure Park at Westport House and Gardens, with a range of amenities for children of all ages.

Lunch: If you completed Croagh Patrick, you’ll need to refuel afterwards! At the foot of Croagh Patrick is the Tavern Bar and Restaurant. This family-run bar and restaurant has built up a well-earned reputation for fine food, quality drink and friendly service over the years.

Or, enjoy food at Westport House and Gardens, where there are three dining options. If you’re in Westport Town, go to This Must Be The Place (thismustbetheplace.ie) to fill your belly with wholesome home-cooked food and great coffee.

Afternoon: After your hike, you’ll likely want to spend the afternoon relaxing! Head to the spa in Castlecourt Hotel for a treatment, or visit the pool. Or have a wander around Westport Town and check out some of the shops, such as Marlene’s Chocolate Haven (marleneschochaven. com), the home of delicious handmade Irish chocolate, and The Dressing Room Westport (dressingroomonline.com) for a new outfit.

If the weather is nice, sit back on one of Mayo’s beautiful beaches. Berta Beach

is just a 16-minute drive from Westport and Mulranny Beach is approximately a 33-minute drive away.

Evening: Dine at the Orchard Restaurant in the Castlecourt Hotel, with dishes including Slow Roast Rump of Erriff Lamb, and Baked Fillet of Wild Seabass. Relax with a cocktail, beer, or non-alcoholic drink, at the hotel’s bar, Petie Joe’s Bar. Or, you could head out to one of the pubs in Westport Town, such as Matt Molloy’s (mattmolloy.com) for a pint and a traditional live music session!

 DAY 2

Morning: Wake up early and start your day right with a hearty breakfast at the hotel. Then set forth on a day trip to either Achill Island or The Lost Valley of Uggool.

If you choose Achill Island, it’s about an hour’s drive from Westport. And there’s no need to worry about ferry times, because you can just drive straight onto Achill Island. Once there, you can choose to take in the views at your own pace. Stop by the beautiful Keel Beach and if you have kids, visit Achill Experience, Aquarium and Visitor Centre (achillexperience.ie). Achill is also a fantastic place for cycling, with three looped trails in the Achill Cycle Hub.

If you decide to visit The Lost Valley of Uggool (thelostvalley.ie) in Louisburgh, this is about a 45-minute drive from Westport. The Lost Valley is arguably the finest authentic memorial of the Great Hunger that remains today. You can visit the ruined famine village and see the multitude of potato ridges that have lain undisturbed and unattended for nearly two centuries.

The Lost Valley is now an active working

farm owned by the Bourke family, so visitors can experience life on the farm, as well as experience a three-hour guided tour on welldeveloped trails, suitable for all ages. An adult ticket is €25, child is €10 and family ticket is €60. Note that no dogs are allowed. Prebooking is essential.

Lunch: Achill has a number of places to stop by for food, including The Amethyst Bar in the village of Keel, near Keel Beach, and Masterson’s Bar and Restaurant in Tonatanvally. Or Gielty’s Bar and Restaurant (gieltys.com), known as the ‘most westerly pub in Europe’, situated at the edge of Dooagh village on the road to Keem beach.

In Louisburgh, approximately a 20-minute drive from The Lost Valley, you could stop at the Derrylahan Bar and Restaurant or the Seven Wanders Café for lunch.

Afternoon/evening: Make tracks home. Or, if you are staying overnight in Westport Town on day two, then head back to the hotel to relax for the evening before getting ready to go out for dinner. There are a variety of restaurants to choose from for evening dinner, such as The Pantry and Corkscrew Restaurant (thepantryandcorkscrew.com) and An Port Mór Restaurant (anportmor.com).

Visit discoverireland.ie/Westport for more inspiration on planning a staycation in Westport

Castlecourt Hotel Superior Family Room. Image courtesy of hotel

Bertra

Gerard and Maureen Bourke, owners of The Lost Valley of Uggool

Westport House

Walkers descending Croagh Patrick

Westport Town

The Lost Valley of Uggool

Off the beaten track

Do go chasing waterfalls

Donegal is teeming with natural beauty and is blessed with cascading waterfalls, like the Largy Waterfall, found way off the beaten track. You could say this is a secret waterfall as it is nestled deep below the Slieve League Cliffs. They are three times the size of the Cliffs of Moher and rank as some of Europe’s largest sea cliffs.

Just a five-minute drive from Killybegs and a 35-minute drive from Donegal Town, the waterfall is found in a cave, so it can be dangerous to attempt to see it. You’ll have to walk along rocks which can be slippy, so you need to have very good mobility and good fitness levels. It’s important to check the timetable for tides in the area too, or ask locally if you’re not sure, as the cave will be filled by the incoming flush of the Atlantic Ocean. But if timed right, the scenery is worth it, as you watch the waterfall fall from around 50 metres onto the sprawling rocks beneath it. It’s a secret worth revealing.

Look up in the sky!

See the sparkling expanse of the universe come to life before your eyes at the Kerry International Dark Sky Reserve in Ballinskelligs, Co Kerry. One of only three Gold Tier Dark Sky Reserves in the world as part of the International Dark Sky Reserve, this is a truly unique experience. The sky is devoid of artificial light pollution, letting you gaze at the Milky Way, the Andromeda Galaxy, star clusters and nebulae, imagining yourself in a galaxy far, far away.

Visit kerrydarksky.com

Horsing around Omey Island, a tidal island near Claddaghduff on the edge of Connemara in Co Galway, is a real hidden gem. The island

is only accessible at low tide every day by crossing acres of sandy beach by car or on foot. Tidal conditions vary each day with different weather, so ask for local advice before setting out to the island.

Once on the island, you can see the ruins of Teampaill Féichín (Feichin’s Church), a medieval church built on a 7th-century Christian settlement. It is surrounded by the remains of a submerged village that was wiped out during the Famine. St Feichin’s Holy Well can also be found just above a rocky inlet.

Once you cross the beach, you can attend the annual Omey Island Races at Omey Strand held every summer. Having been cancelled the last two years, this year, it is finally taking place on 31st July. Known as ‘The Other Galway Races’, the summer

races are a fun day of horses, sea, and sand. With up to nine races at the event, there are opportunities for young jockeys to hone their skills and it provides a great day out for visitors.

Open sesame

It wouldn’t be a list of Irish gems without a dramatic, ancient location mixed in! The Caves of Keash, also known as the Caves of Keshcorran, are a series of limestone caves located halfway up the Keshcorran mountain, near the village of Keash in Co Sligo. The caves appear almost like black mouths set in the white limestone rock face high on the mountain. There are a series of 16 chambers, which offer breathtaking views across the Sligo countryside. The Caves have evidence of human habitation going as far

back as the Neolithic period. They are also drenched in Irish mythology as the High King of Ireland, Cormac mac Airt, was said to have been born at the foot of Keshcorran and raised by a wolf in one of the caves. This is now known as Cormac’s Cave.

The climb to the Caves shouldn’t take more than an hour to get up and down. But you should allow for around two hours in total to be safe and to take in the surrounding areas.

Visit facebook.com/cavesofkeash

Go down with this ship

The Bunbeg Beach Shipwreck, or the wreck of Bád Eddie (Eddie’s boat), is one of Co Donegal’s most unique landmarks. Lying on Bunbeg’s Magheraclogher beach, in Gaoth Dobhair, an Irish speaking area, the boat was towed ashore in the 1970s and has been there ever since. The shipwreck is pretty famous too, as she has starred in a pop video! In 1985, the wreck was featured in the video for In a Lifetime, a collaboration between traditional Irish group Clannad and U2 frontman Bono.

Perfect for taking lots of snaps, the ship has become a sculpture on the beach representing the passing of time as the Atlantic storms and the years gone by have taken their toll on her. But the shipwreck is just the centrepiece of the stunning Magheraclogher beach. Stroll down the pristine, expansive beach with a fabulous view of Mount Errigal. While swimming is definitely not advised as the waters can be dangerous, the view and hiking opportunities more than make up for it.

Bunbeg Beach Shipwreck (Bád Eddie), Co Donegal

Kerry International Dark Sky Reserve

Caves of Keash, Co Sligo

Slieve League Cliffs, Co Donegal

Ruins on Omey Island, Co Galway

Lichen Ceramics, Co Leitrim

◊“When I was a teenager, I realised I could become an artist or I could become an engineer like my brothers,” says Bairbre Kennedy. “But I found the best of both worlds with ceramics!”

Bairbre Kennedy was raised in Carrickon-Shannon in Leitrim. After studying pottery with the Design & Craft Council of Ireland in Thomastown, Kilkenny, she then worked with Judy Greene Pottery in Galway. But in 2016, Bairbre decided to follow her dream and love of ceramics and set up her own business, Lichen Ceramics.

Bairbre says exploring her home county always inspires her work. So too does her love for Irish folklore, which she says she gets from her father.

“I moved back home to Leitrim, and I work out of the Sculpture Centre here. I can work with the local community and I see people bringing in their pieces to sell, so it’s very dynamic.

“I’m taking a photography course at the moment, which has made me look at the world and Leitrim in a totally different way in terms of colours and silhouettes. You can’t help but be inspired by the landscapes of the west. I mostly make functional tableware which people can actually use, instead of just look at! I make lots of mugs, but I also create figurines such as the púca, an Irish fairy creature, or quirky ceramic pumpkins for Halloween.

“I am also creating rose-patterned bowls, as Leitrim is known as the Wild Rose county. I think they provide a little bit of joy and they help to celebrate my home.”

Bairbre’s pottery is now available to buy in the Leitrim Design House in Carrick-onShannon, the Quayside Gallery in Westport, Local Hands in Ballyshannon, Co Donegal, Ro and Vee in Barna, Co Galway, Cluainín Community Co-op in Manorhamilton, Co Leitrim, and her website lichenceramics.ie.

She says she would recommend anyone to come to the west and to Leitrim in particular.

“I grew up beside the River Shannon, so I know there are so many incredible things to see here! I realised recently that people don’t know about Fowley’s Falls, a waterfall in the middle of the forest. We have well-kept secrets here which can inspire everyone. They definitely inspire me!”

Visit lichenceramics.ie

Tertulia Bookshop, Westport, Co Mayo

◊Tertulia is ‘a bookshop like no other’.

Based in Westport, Tertulia, was set up in 2019 to provide a space to reach out to people. Tertulia is a Spanish word for a circle of people who meet regularly to discuss literature, art, what’s going on in the world or just to gossip.

Show some local love

Co-owner Bríd Conroy says the bookshop’s mission is not only to provide people with a great selection of books, but also to provide a forum where they can come together to enjoy a coffee, a glass of wine, a conversation, or lose themselves in a really great book.

“Our mission is to make a positive contribution to the way the world thinks,” says Bríd. “We had just set up before the pandemic hit. Thankfully, we are getting back into our stride now that we have fully reopened. We host lots of different things from events for children to philosophical workshops. It’s wonderful to engage with people again.”

But being closed for so long didn’t impact that badly when the bookshop was awarded Best Independent Bookshop of the Year 2021 Regional winner. Tertulia Bookshop has also received a grant from EU programme Spotlit to develop literary tourism.

“Ireland has such a great literary heritage. It needs to be developed so that people can come into the store and meet their favourite author, or debate philosophical theories, or have their kids enjoy themselves at our Harry Potter corner!”

Bríd credits the strong local community in Westport as the secret to their success as they all support each other. Their location at The Quay in Westport has allowed them to be part of the thriving community.

“You really feel like an integral part of the community. They support us and we hold events for kids, we hold talks, and we invite people to chat. That’s what you see everywhere on the west coast. We are all small communities, so it’s important to stick together.”

For any tourists to the area, Bríd says if you love books, or even records, you will enjoy a visit to the independent store. They stock up on everything not only popular, but also thought-provoking.

“When you come here, it’s like a little place to just escape. We’re right beside the Atlantic, so it has a very different feel from other parts of Ireland. Buy a book and go lie on the sandy beaches to read it!

“We’re also excited to have authors Jan Carson and Eithne Shortall for a night of reading and discussion on 8th July. We have our Little Mermaid workshop for kids, and kids’ clubs throughout the summer. We

introduce new authors all the time. We like to live up to the nickname, ‘a bookshop like no other’.”

Visit tertuliabookshop.com

Green Dot, Irish Design Makers, Clonakilty, West Cork

Green Dot is a hub for beautiful, ethically-made Irish craft and design, based in the vibrant town of Clonakilty. The shop is owned and curated by Lisa Tonge, and has developed from a small, homebased, baby gift craft business, Little Green Dot, during her maternity leave in 2013, to something much more!

Green Dot now stocks the work of over 70 Irish-based designers and makers. The shop’s main focus is on promoting wellmade, unique, handcrafted work from all over the country, in particular Cork, as well as supporting the genuine people behind it.

“We have an eco-friendly, socially aware ethos where everyone is treated fairly in the production of these beautiful gifts, and we act in an eco-friendly and sustainable way when we can,” says Lisa, a former community

From cafés to craft stores, we share some local businesses based in the west to check out – drop in and say hello!

Bairbre Kennedy

Lichen Ceramics

Bríd Conroy

Tertulia Bookshop

development worker to self-taught crafter/ maker.

The treasures in the shop range from ceramics, jewellery, prints, skincare products, delicious treats, cards, woollens, wooden gifts, candles, beeswax gifts, lampshades, scarves, baby gifts and more. In October 2021, Green Dot also became home to one of the best eco-toy shops in Munster, according to Lisa.

“We offer people the opportunity to connect with genuine designers and makers. You can often see us working on sewing, macramé, crochet, or other projects when we can behind the counter!”

After the pandemic, Lisa says people are happy to be out mixing and talking with real people as there is a thirst for human interaction.

“There is a genuine interest in the story behind the item. The experience of coming into us and learning about a craft, how something is made, or the maker’s story is definitely more important now when people are weighing up their options about where to go, what to do, and what to spend their money on.”

As they are based in a rural town, Lisa says being part of the local community is a crucial and a very enjoyable part of the life there as, “we wouldn’t survive without local support”.

“A main aim of the project was to support the real, genuine people who live in our towns and communities that are working away, often for not a lot of money, on their craft. The amount of time, skill, and hard graft (as well as the odd tear!) that goes into this kind of craftsmanship in our towns, cities and countryside is truly remarkable in Ireland.

“The stories and work of the designers and makers are something to be cherished and valued, both in itself and for the extra colour and sustainability it adds to our community, especially in Clonakilty.”

Lisa says she brought together all the local makers in 2020 for a Clonakilty Maker’s Trail which was a great way of highlighting the brilliant work that’s taking place in the town. Coming up this year, in August, the Cork Craft & Design run Cork Craft Month for anyone interested in craft and design. And at the start of July in Clonakilty, there is the Band Festival and Old Time Fair - a highlight of the summer.

“Solidarity is a very valued feature of the craft sector and this ties in very well with living in Clonakilty. Before I started up this business, there were very few places to get genuinely locally made things in town. I like to think that my shop has changed that.” Visit greendotdesignshop.com

Misunderstood Heron, Connemara, Co Galway

Kim Young, who was brought up in Connemara in Co Galway, and her husband Reinaldo, originally from Temuco in the south of Chile, have a background in hospitality. “However, we never focused on cooking,” says Kim. “We travelled extensively and love foods from around the world, while also growing up in households where family meals were a large part of the family dynamic and where we learned basic cooking skills.

“These basic skills are definitely different for me than Reinaldo. His were a lot more fire and meat-based, and mine were more vegetable and butter-based!”

Kim and Reinaldo both had the dream of starting their own business. Once Kim’s university studies came to an end, they thought it was the right time to try something.

“We stumbled upon the idea of a food truck, with Reinaldo being the driver of the idea, no pun intended!” says Kim. “We thought that there was a gap in the market in Connemara, specifically our locality. Our start-up costs were reasonable, making it relatively low-risk for us both and we got grant support from An Bord Iascaigh Mhara (BIM). We started with a 12x7ft trailer, and with the support from BIM, we managed to convert a second-hand 20ft shipping container into the Misunderstood Heron it is today and get our own prep kitchen.

“We are now in our sixth season and still going strong!”

Misunderstood Heron is located on the shores of the majestic Killary Fjord, offering incredible views of Galway’s wild mountains and sea vistas. All while visitors can enjoy creative Irish food and top-quality Irish roasted coffee.

The Misunderstood Heron menu changes biweekly currently, but Kim says they always have local shellfish and fish, slow-cooked

meat sandwiches, a vegetarian dish and pasties. “The food is a mix of southern American, Indian, Persian, and Irish cuisine.”

The food truck is open Wednesday to Sunday, 12-5pm. Kim hopes to open seven days a week from mid-June.

Many visitors to Misunderstood Heron stop by after hiking around the Killary Fjord. Kim says, “The trail is a 2km looped pathway, which is part of the Killary Adventure Company grounds. It is suitable for all capabilities; however, the ground is uneven underfoot, as it is gravel. Killary Adventure Co also offers a boat taxi during the summer, where you can get a lift out to the end of the fjord and walk back along the famous famine trail.

“This is a more arduous undertaking at 8km, over uneven track with inclines and declines. However, the route is spectacular and even better if you can finish up with us!”

During the Covid pandemic, Misunderstood Heron were able to stay open when indoor dining was not allowed, due to the fact it is an outdoor eatery. “Connemara became a holiday destination for the nation during the pandemic. So there was an influx of domestic tourism, with numbers that we had not seen previously. We count ourselves as part of the lucky businesses where Covid wasn’t a bad time for us business-wise.”

However, Kim feels tourism isn’t exactly back to pre-pandemic numbers yet, as international tourists are yet to return to Ireland and Irish people are now going abroad on holidays. She says it is important to support local businesses, as Ireland’s economy rebuilds, and recommends some in her area.

“For families or friends looking for fun in the great outdoors, check out Killary Adventure. Food-wise, Goodstuff Food Truck in Roundstone has delicious toasties and their Pecan Maple Bars are too good! In Clifden, there’s the Sea Hare Kitchen and The Lighthouse Wine Bar. Paddy Coynes in Tullycross has lovely food and drinks in a great, atmospheric pub.

“Hikers should take on Diamond Hill in Letterfrack, and stop by Kabo for a coffee afterwards. Benbaun is great for anyone looking for a nice medium/difficult hike. Take a trip to Inishbofin for a hike or just to chill at the beautiful beaches, or Inishturk for a more underdeveloped island experience. I could go on and on!”

And why should people stop by Misunderstood Heron on a visit to the west this summer? Kim says, “If you want to enjoy spectacular west of Ireland produce, packed full of flavour, while taking in the best view in Ireland in a unique setting – Misunderstood Heron ticks all the boxes!” Visit misunderstoodheron.com

Five other must-visit local businesses

1. Moher Cottage, Co Clare Moher Cottage is based near the famous Cliffs of Moher and provides unique Irish-made gifts, barista coffee and delicious fudge. mohercottage.com

2. The Blue Door Restaurant, Co Limerick

This beautiful restaurant is situated among the thatched cottages in the fab village of Adare. Enjoy dishes such as cottage pie, burgers, pizza, seafood and more, all washed down with wine and local craft beer. bluedooradare.com

3. The Crane Lane Theatre, Co Cork

One of the most iconic bars in Cork City, this was originally a gentleman’s club back in the 1920s and still retains a vintage feel throughout. cranelanetheatre.ie

4. Sweet Beat Café, Co Sligo

Based in Sligo Town, Sweet Beat Café is an award-winning, family-run plant-based café and eco retail shop. Enjoy super salads, fresh smoothies, and vegan treats, while there is also a range of eco-friendly gifts. sweetbeat.ie

5. Rusty Oven, Co Donegal

Pizza lovers will adore the Rusty Oven in Dunfanaghy, Co Donegal. Their handmade sourdough pizza and bread are divine. therustyoven.ie

Green Dot

Kim Young. Image by Nathalie Marquez Courtney

Misunderstood Heron. Image by Nathalie Marquez Courtney

Why the west is best

Formerly an actress in RTÉ’s Fair City, Aoibhín Garrihy moved from Dublin to Clare over eight years ago with her hotelier husband, John Burke.

Since then, Aoibhín and John, who is owner of the Armada Hotel at Spanish Point, have relocated in Clare to their newly built home with daughters Hanorah (3), Líobhan (2) and baby Isla, who they welcomed in August 2021.

Before moving west over eight years ago, Aoibhín once had plans to move to LA after she finished playing Nessa Dillon on Fair City. However, she had a change of heart and ended up in the west – and is glad she did. And it’s no surprise that for Aoibhín, who runs her own health and wellbeing business, Beo Wellness (beowellness.ie), the tranquillity of the west was appealing.

“I love the slower pace of life in Clare. I love that sense of community and connection and I love our close proximity to

the coast. I have always had a connection to the sea. So, to be living here now makes me very happy.

“That time spent in the open air immersed in nature is always time well spent. And there is so much to see, do and explore, particularly with the small ones. We feel very lucky to have so much here on our doorstep.”

Family fun

Aoibhín says there are a variety of experiences she would recommend to anyone visiting Clare this summer, “We are family members of Bunratty Castle and Folk Park and absolutely love it there. We’re also big fans of Moher Hill Farm and Aillwee Burren Experience for the little ones.

“If you are planning to explore a little, Clare Kayak Hire in White Strand or a Doolin2Aran Cliffs of Moher cruise, are great options. A sea swim in Clahane or Spanish Point, or a trek up Mullaghmore in

the Burren, are perfect for a taste of the great outdoors.”

And not to forget food! Aoibhín recommends having brunch in Dodi in Lahinch, dine at one of the outdoor offerings at the Armada Hotel Spanish Point, or Oar in Doolin.

Aside from Clare, Aoibhín says she also loves the Aran Islands, a group of three islands, Inis Mór, Inis Meáin and Inis Oírr, at the mouth of Galway Bay. “Inis Oírr with the kids feels so safe and like such an escape. I grew up spending every summer out there and so when history repeats itself and I bring my gang out now, it feels oh so nostalgic!

“But Kerry is probably our main go-to destination. Kenmare, Dingle, Brandon, Killarney. You can’t go wrong. There is something for everyone.”

Aoibhín says she is looking forward to a staycation in the west with her family this summer, “Holidays are still all about the staycation for us, as it’s a little easier with three small girls. Plus, if you get the weather, there really is no place like Ireland in the summer!

“We are planning a week in Connemara, as we spent one night in Dog’s Bay and Roundstone last year and absolutely loved it. We will also get to Dingle hopefully. It’s our favourite spot to visit every year. Similar to Clare, there is so much to do and the food is always great.”

Aoibhín, who is an Ambassador for Volkswagen, adds that the family go on a lot of adventures in their electric Volkswagen ID.4. “Whether it’s a coastal drive at the weekend, or a spin to Dublin to see Nana and Grandad Garrihy, the ID.4 has been a fantastic drive.

“I have the charging down to a fine art now and so never feel any mileage anxiety. There was a small bit of ‘getting used to’ in the beginning, but now I can’t imagine not driving electric. The ID.4 feels so safe, with ample space for what we need. Pack the double buggy in the boot and away we go!”

Work-time and downtime!

Of course, between working and family life, Aoibhín is kept very busy, so when she does find the time to unwind, she makes the most of it. Aoibhín is very close with her two sisters, Doireann and Ailbhe, and she was delighted to get away on a girl’s trip in the west together recently.

“That was so lovely. We live on opposite sides of the country, so it’s seldom we get together as a trio and have a proper solid catch up. We went for dinner and drinks in the g Hotel in Galway, and we were more than happy to just sit, chat and laugh all evening!”

And speaking about what’s coming up next for her, Aoibhín says, “It’s going to be a busy few months ahead. There’s lots in the pipeline in terms of BEO Wellness, with new product development and an action-packed autumn series. I have also been working on some personal projects that I’m very excited to share very soon. The girls keep me very much on my toes at the minute. They are at a very busy age and so the juggle is real!”

Actor, presenter and founder of Beo Wellness, Aoibhín Garrihy, speaks about her love for Co Clare and her plans to take her family on a staycation in the west this summer

Aoibhín Garrihy. Image provided by Volkswagen Bunratty Castle, Co Clare

Dog’s Bay Beach, Co Galway

Spanish Point, Co Clare

“Music playlists are ESSENTIAL for a good road trip,” says Erica. “I find certain songs always bring me back to particular moments. There is no better way to remember your favourite road trip, than with your favourite songs!”

Road trips have the call of the open road and the excitement of the destination to come. But those long hours spent in the car can create boredom in even the most excited adventurer. That is why all great road trips have a great soundtrack. And as Erica says, listening years later to certain songs will have all those memories of your favourite road trip come flooding back.

And it certainly wouldn’t be a road trip in the west of Ireland without music. Known for traditional Irish music, the west has become a cultural hub and is often the first port of

The ultimate road trip playlist!

Looking for some good music for your western adventure? Irish singer-songwriter and Volkswagen Ambassador Erica Cody selects her top songs to add to your road trip playlist

call for musicians.

“The west can inspire such great music,” says Erica. “As a musician, I can’t help but be inspired by all types of music, especially having grown up listening to such a variety of genres. My first instrument was the violin (fiddle) in a trad group, so I will never turn down an opportunity to hear some trad.

“I love taking my ID.3 (Kamala Electra) to my mom’s place in Sligo. Nothing better than a road trip to see Mammy! And if I’m ever in Gorteen, Sligo, The Coleman Heritage Centre is a great pit stop for your western dose of trad!”

Erica recommends her top five songs to add to your road trip playlist:

■ ‘Sweetest Pie’ by Megan Thee Stallion Ft. Dua Lipa – A feel-good summer anthem that should be on everyone’s pop playlist this summer.

■ ‘First Class’ by Jack Harlow – The ultimate cruising song that could make you feel like you’re driving in your favourite city. Or indeed, anywhere in the world.

■ ‘Good & Plenty’ (remix) by Lucky Daye, Masego, Alex Isley, Jack Dine – Soulful music

■ ‘Sing It Back’ by Boris Dlugosch remix (By Moloko) – This song can’t help but put you in a great mood for a road trip!

■ ‘Replay’ by Lady GaGa – Are you even going on a road trip if you don’t have GaGa on your playlist?!

Erica has been working hard making lots of new music herself and is appearing at a number of festivals during the summer. So you can expect some new tunes from her to add to your playlist very soon. You can also catch her alongside The Coronas frontman Danny O’Reilly on RTÉ this July, presenting a brand new music show The Mainstage for plenty of craic agus ceol!

But when she’s not busy with her own music, where does Erica like to go while playing her road trip playlist? She says there are so many beautiful places in the west.

“I spent some time in Spidéal in Co Galway one summer and it’s still one of my most memorable staycations!” says Erica. “It has so much to offer, from the landscapes and the seaside to the great food – you’re never short of things to do.”

So, what are you waiting for? Create your own perfect playlist and get on the road for your ultimate road trip.

Erica Cody. Image provided by Volkswagen

◊Clodagh’s choices:

 Killaloe Luxury Pods, Co Clare Killaloe in Co Clare is a gorgeous waterside village that lies on the River Shannon on the western bank of Lough Derg. There’s an abundance of things to do in Killaloe, from strolls along the banks of the river to a relaxing cruise and plenty of dining options. For a unique experience, stay in a self-catering Killaloe Luxury Pod, with breathtaking river views. The timberframed holiday chalets have state-of-the-art amenities including a fully equipped kitchen with Smeg appliances, as well as your very own hot tub looking out to the water. A perfect escape for couples or friends. Prices start at €240 per night.

killaloeluxurypods.com

The Ross, Killarney, Co Kerry Killarney in Co Kerry is one of my favourite destinations in Ireland and I once had a very enjoyable weekend staying at the luxurious 5-Star Killarney Park Hotel. So I’m looking forward to returning soon to Killarney, this time, staying in The Ross, Killarney.

The Ross, Killarney is a 4-Star, family-run, boutique hotel, located right in the heart of the Killarney town centre, making it the ideal accommodation option if you’re staying in Killarney.

It’s mere footsteps from Killarney National Park and surrounded by bar and dining options including its very own The Lane restaurant. The Lane offers the finest local produce prepared by head chef Antoine Minelli, as well as handcrafted cocktails. Also worth checking out is The Pink Lounge Gin and Champagne Bar at The Ross for a stylish night out with the gals! Guests who stay at

Where to stay

Travel writers Clodagh Dooley and Shauna

McCrudden share some of the best accommodation options in the west

The Ross have the option to book treatments and relax and glow in the stunning spa at its sister hotel, Killarney Park. Room rates for this summer are from €220 (B&B). theross.ie

 The Galmont Hotel & Spa, Galway Recently, myself and my boyfriend stayed at The Galmont Hotel & Spa, Galway. The hotel is ideally located beside Lough Atalia, providing fab lakeside views, and is just a five-minute walk from vibrant Eyre Square and Shop Street, where all the pubs, restaurants and shops are based. It’s the perfect option if you want to combine a relaxing spa escape with a city break. We stayed in a luxurious Executive Room on the top floor, which had its own lounge area and a private terrace overlooking Lough Atalia. The Galmont Hotel’s leisure centre consists of a gym and 18m swimming pool, equipped with a Jacuzzi, sauna and outdoor hot tub. Perfect for unwinding after a day spent shopping or after a night on the town. Their Spirit One Spa has a variety of treatments including facials and massages, which I’ll definitely try out next time I visit! thegalmont.com

 Ballylickey House and Garden Lodges, Co Cork

Based in Ballylickey in Bantry, West Cork, Ballylickey House and Garden Lodges offers

unique self-catering garden lodges suitable for couples, families or friends. For example, their Superior Garden Lodge sleeps two adults and features an ensuite bedroom, and living room area. Plus, an HD LED flat-screen TV, tea and coffee-making facilities, hairdryer and iron. Minimum stay is two nights and costs €200 off-season and €230 for highseason. Then there are Family Garden Lodges, which can hold either two adults and two children, or two adults and one child. Ballylickey House itself was built some three hundred years ago by Lord Kenmare, as a shooting lodge. And over the years, the house has been beautifully restored, and is available for short-term rental. On the grounds, there’s also an outdoor heated swimming pool and Poolhouse, as well as gorgeous gardens. The long lawns head down towards Bantry Bay, offering spectacular views. Situated close to the Cork/Kerry border, Ballylickey House & Garden Lodges is the ideal location from which to explore the rugged countryside. Boat trips to the islands, fishing, whale watching, hill-walking and garden tours are all on your doorstep. ballylickeyhouse.com

 Inis Oírr Hotel, Aran Islands

This charming family-run hotel is located on the smallest of the Aran Islands, Inis Oírr (Inisheer). Inis Oírr Hotel will provide

a homely, welcoming feel and is the perfect safe haven from which to explore the island’s natural and cultural heritage, and white sandy beaches. There are also plenty of walks around the island, allowing you to take in the beauty of your surroundings. When it comes to dining, Inis Oírr Hotel’s Rua Restaurant offers locally sourced cuisine, including fresh seafood and specials such as steak and baked chicken breast. hotelinisoirr.com

 Abbey Hotel Roscommon

I was at a wedding at the Abbey Hotel Roscommon in May and the castle-style setting was magical. The 18th-century manor house hotel has idyllic private grounds and gardens, while the rooms have a classic, luxurious vibe. The hotel’s restaurant serves delicious local dishes and they offer Carvery Lunch on Sundays, as well Afternoon Tea –which must be pre-booked – and a new Pizza Menu. There’s also a range of cocktails you can enjoy in their newly refurbished lounge areas. The hotel also has a state-of-the-art

Killaloe Luxury Pods

Ross Hotel, Killarney

Ballylickey House and Garden Lodges

Inis Oírr. Image: Fáilte Ireland

The Galmont Hotel & Spa, Galway Ocean Sands Hotel and Apartments

gym, 20-metre heated pool, Jacuzzi, sauna, steam rooms and plunge pool. And there’s plenty to do in the local area for families, such as the Arigna Mining Experience and Lough Key Forest Park. abbeyhotel.ie

 Ocean Sands Hotel and Apartments, Sligo

The 4-Star Ocean Sands Hotel in the seaside resort of Enniscrone, Co Sligo is nestled right by the pristine Enniscrone beach. The hotel comprises 50 bedrooms, including 20 family rooms, and an impressive bridal suite complete with a sea view balcony. Then, directly behind the hotel, are 13 beautifully appointed and roomy apartments with easy beach access. It’s ideal for family holidays and it’s also pet friendly, allowing dogs in selected hotel rooms and apartments. The beach spans an amazing 5km, offering ample walking opportunities, as well as swimming opportunities. There’s also a range of shoreside activities including horse-riding and golfing, with the popular Enniscrone Golf Course being close by. Plus, the hotel has also just opened a new spa, The Ocean Spa. Special offer: four-night family package for two adults and two children (B&B) is from €926. Also includes two evening meals. theoceansandshotel.ie

◊Shauna’s choices:

 Maldron Hotel Limerick, Co Limerick

When I had a girls’ weekend in Limerick with some friends last year, there was only one place recommended to us to stay – the Maldron Hotel Limerick. Perfectly located, it is only a five-minute drive from the train station and five minutes from Limerick City Centre. We visited the Hunt Museum in the city centre, the People Park, King John’s Castle and some local bars and restaurants, and the Maldron was the perfect base to see it all. Featuring a Jacuzzi and a sauna, it is a place for relaxation.

We ate at the Grain & Grill Bar and Restaurant on one of the nights, where we enjoyed a heavenly meal. The Philly cheesesteak sandwich is to die for! But the staff were very courteous and assisted us with other dining reservations and recommended places to visit. The 20m swimming pool is great for a dip, the gym is fully stocked, and it’s family-friendly too as kids can enjoy the kid’s pool. I’d definitely recommend it to anyone travelling to the city. maldronhotellimerick.com

 Downings Bay Hotel, Co Donegal

If you’re thinking of a family trip, then the 3-Star family-run Downings Bay Hotel situated in the quiet coastal village of Downings, on the picturesque Sheephaven Bay, is the ideal choice. The hotel has 40 luxurious ensuite bedrooms, with both family rooms and interconnecting rooms available, and is equipped with travel cots. There are two beautiful beaches close by, making this the perfect place for a family break. Guests of the hotel have complimentary use of the nearby Leisure Centre, and also of Kidz Kingdom, the soft play centre. Both are a few minutes’ drive away from the hotel. But adults are not left out as the hotel is just a few minutes’ drive from Rosapenna’s two famous golf courses, and is within easy driving distance of Portsalon, Dunfanaghy and Letterkenny Golf Clubs.

The Haven Restaurant is a fine dining restaurant at the hotel, with locally-sourced produce cooked to order by head chef Julian to guarantee ultimate freshness. And of course, JC’s Bar and the Wee Bar serve pints and food for some craic at Downings Bay Hotel! downingsbayhotel.com

 The Hardiman, Co Galway

This 4-Star Galway hotel has been part of the very fabric of Galway City for the past 167 years. Centrally located in the heart of Eyre Square, stylish, elegant, and celebrated for its great food and warm welcome, it has recently completed a €7m refurbishment program on all areas of the hotel.

The Hardiman has some great summer packages too. Book your summer holiday break and enjoy two nights with breakfast each morning, and a meal in the hotel’s Gaslight Brasserie, the perfect dinner location for Galwegians and those visiting alike, as it’s ideal for soaking up the vibrant atmosphere of Galway City. And enjoy a snipe of prosecco and a bowl of fresh strawberries on arrival in your room to start your summer break in Galway! thehardiman.ie

 Ard Nahoo, Co Leitrim

At the Ard Nahoo Eco Retreat and Yoga School, escape from daily stresses in one of the three self-catering Eco Cabins. Hidden in the peaceful countryside of Leitrim, the wooden Eco Cabins were built with eco principles in mind throughout. They are painted with muted natural paints, furnished

with antique finds, and heated by cosy wood pellet stoves.

All cabins have fully equipped kitchens, and amazing views out to the green hills and mountains from a private deck. Just imagine watching the sun go down from the blue deck of the Hawthorn cabin. All Eco Cabins are timber-framed, cedar-cladded, hempinsulated and powered by a wind turbine (Airtricity).

Alongside these cabins, you can also take advantage of the Yoga School run by therapist Noeleen Tyrrell. If anyone is looking for some peace in their lives, they can take a break here, in the middle of nowhere. ardnahoo.com

 Keenan’s of Tarmonbarry, Co Roscommon

Landmark pub and boutique hotel Keenan’s of Tarmonbarry has launched new summer packages, inviting people to stop a while and enjoy the waterways and glorious scenery. For six generations, the Keenan family has welcomed hungry and thirsty travellers. Today it is a gastropub and 12-bedroom boutique hotel managed by David Keenan the great-great-great-grandson of Hugh Reynolds, who first opened a pub on the site in 1865.

The historic pub lies at the crossroads of the mighty River Shannon flowing north to south, and the N5 linking the east and west coasts. Tarmonbarry Bridge, built in the mid-1840s and probably tolled in the early days, made the location a strategic point for the new pub and it soon became a regular watering hole for travellers, as it is to this day.

The new Royal Canal Greenway begins just a couple of minutes from Keenan’s and both bike racks and secure bike lock ups are provided for customers. And there are packages for anyone wanting to cycle the route. The one-night deal includes bike hire and is ideal for exploring the Greenway which is almost right on the doorstep.

One-night offer is €125pps and includes breakfast, bike hire and an evening meal.

Two-night offer is €175pps and includes one evening meal and breakfast. keenanshotel.ie

The Hardiman, Co Galway

Keenan’s of Tarmonbarry

Downings Bay Hotel

Limerick City. Image: Fáilte Ireland

Ard Nahoo cabins

Images across these pages supplied by the accommodation providers

Scenic views

For enviable Instagram pics, we share some of Ireland’s most incredible viewpoints to stop by on your next road trip!

 ‘Deck of Cards’ houses, Co Cork

The small town of Cobh in Co Cork is well-known for being the last port of call for the RMS Titanic, before it embarked on its fateful journey to New York. But Cobh is also recognised for its quaint, colourful houses – known as the Deck of Cards. Each of the 23 houses, which were built in 1850 and slant uphill, differ in colour. And they were built on 23 different levels, hence the name. Apparently, locals joke that if the house at

Volkswagen Snapshot Competition!

The popular Volkswagen Snapshot competition is now open for you to post pics of all your favourite gems in the west

The Instagram-based competition encourages photography enthusiasts to use their creativity and upload photographs of their travels to Instagram. Categories include: #Volkswagen, #Water, #Colour, #Night, #Animals and #Sustainability.

Prizes include:

■ The #Volkswagen category winner will receive the top prize - A Macbook Pro 13” 256GB

■ The #Water category winner will receive a GoPro Hero9

■ The #Colour category winner will receive an Amazon Echo

■ The #Animals category winner will receive a DJI Mini 2 Drone

■ The #Night category winner will receive a pair of AirPods Pro

■ The #Sustainability category winner will receive a weekend stay for two at the Wren Hotel, Co Dublin

Plus, 11 Volkswagen favourites will have their work featured in the Snapshot 2023 Calendar along with the overall winner and will receive a Fitbit Sense Smartwatch. All proceeds from the sale of the calendar will be donated to Volkswagen’s 2022 Charity Partner, Women’s Aid, a leading national organisation working to prevent and address the impact of domestic abuse against women and children in Ireland.

To enter, just upload your favourite photo to Instagram, tag @ volkswagenireland and include the hashtag #VWSnapshot along with the category hashtag of your choice before 6pm on August 31st 2022. Check out volkswagen.ie/snapshot for more details. And remember – you can enter as many times as you like! So, get snapping!

the bottom fell down, then the others would pile down on top of it. Like a deck of cards!

Top tip: To get the iconic picture of Cobh’s Deck of Cards with St Colman’s Cathedral in the background, position yourself at Spy Hill. This street sits east of the Deck of Cards houses.

 Keel Beach, Co Mayo

Achill Island itself is a photographer’s heaven, with the rugged landscape, remote lakes, secluded beaches, mountain views and roaming sheep. Achill Island also has five Blue Flag beaches, but Keel Beach (also known as Trawmore Strand), at the foot of Achill Head is one of the most popular and magnificent sandy beaches on the island. It’s also a great place to surf, as it’s an extremely safe location for beginner, and intermediate surf sessions. Get someone to photograph you as you ride the waves!

Top tip: The adjacent Minaun Heights offers unrivalled views over the Mayo coastline and Achill Island. An access road takes you to within 15 minutes of the 466-metre high summit. Just follow the signposts, and then, the walk is relatively easy from there.

 O’Carroll’s Cove, Co Kerry

There are some extremely scenic sights along the Ring of Kerry, the iconic driving route which circumnavigates the Iveagh Peninsula. From the sandy Derrynane beach to the stunning village of Caherdaniel. It’s no surprise that travel site, Big 7 Travel, named Kerry as one of the ‘World’s Most Instagrammable Places 2022’, a survey

which analyses the cities that hold the most Instagram appeal. Kerry landed at 39th on the list for its ‘jaw-dropping’ scenery.

But a great photo opportunity is to be found at O’Carroll’s Cove. With its turquoise

waters, white sandy beach and an abundance of dolphins, seals and other sea life, it’s truly breathtaking.

Top tip: Dine outside at O’Carroll’s Beach Side Bar & Restaurant (ocarrollscove.ie), owned

GETTING THE PERFECT SHOT

Photographer Paddy McGrath talks about his love for photography and shares some of his top tips on how to capture professional-looking pictures on your road trip

backdrop for the photos of the vehicles.

taken, or are about to take, in the background.

When Paddy McGrath was a kid, his dad brought him to car rallies, where he would watch his father take photographs of the competitors. “I fell in love with cars first, then photography later on. I think I was around 13 years old when I finally managed to prise the camera away from my dad and have a go myself.

“The camera was an old 1980s era Pentax MG 35mm, with manual focus and 32 shots on a single roll of film. When we finally got that roll of film back from the chemist, I was fascinated by the varied results depending on the settings for each shot, and how creative you could be.”

Since then, Paddy has photographed cars for various clients, including Volkswagen. As part of this, he has travelled across the west of Ireland, using the stunning scenery as a

To get the best shot, he says, “I think it’s about trying to find a balance between the car and the scenery, and not allowing one to overpower the other. Don’t obscure the view with the vehicle, but similarly, don’t have the car so small or abstract that it’s unrecognisable.

“I’ve really enjoyed working with Volkswagen’s new design language, particularly on the fully electric ID. cars. They have found that balance between modern and classic-looking car design that I believe will stand the test of time. The little details hidden around each model are always a joy to discover and capture as well, such as the optional 3D LED taillight clusters or the interior background lighting at night.”

For people on a road trip this summer that are trying to get professional-looking road trip images, Paddy has some tips, “I would always try to pose the car in such a way (where safe!) that it helps to tell a story. You can have friends or family posing or interacting with the vehicle. Or, try to show the road you’ve just

“Try to give the scene some context, to narrate the story of your road trip.”

And he says not to worry if the weather isn’t quite what you wished for, “Embrace it! Every weather situation has its advantages. And a cloudy day supplies lovely, soft, and even light. Besides, if it isn’t raining at some stage, will people even believe that the photograph was even taken in Ireland?”

Speaking about his own love of the west of Ireland, Paddy says, “We’ve been fortunate enough to travel around a lot of the west of Ireland in search of the most scenic locations to photograph. There are a lot of genuinely stunning places on the Wild Atlantic Way. One of my personal favourites is the cliffs outside of Kilkee in Co Clare.

“They’re maybe slightly overshadowed by being near the Cliffs of Moher, but they’re beautiful and peaceful in their own way. You’re less likely to encounter busloads of tourists as well, so it can feel a lot more intimate. And, it means nobody gets in your scenery picture!”

Visit pmcgphotos.com

Deck of Cards houses, Co Cork

Keel Beach, Achill Island

Ashleam Bay, Co Mayo. Image by Paddy McGrath

by the O’Carroll family since 1984. Not only will you devour tasty, local food such as juicy steaks, Kerry lamb and fresh seafood, but you’ll also take in panoramic views of Kenmare Bay.

 Father Ted’s House, Co Clare

Everybody will know the iconic Parochial House from the hit series Father Ted. It’s a must-visit for fans of the show and makes a great picture for your Instagram grid!

Known as Glanquin Farmhouse, Father Ted’s House can be found in Lackareagh, Co Clare. The house is currently a private property and you can’t access the grounds themselves, so do be respectful.

Top tip: Why not bring along a flask of ‘tae’ and set forth on a Ted Tour! Ted Tours (tedtours.com) provides private guided tours, starting at the Falls Hotel in Ennistymon or in Kilfenora. You’ll visit the Father Ted House, plus other locations such as the ‘Song For Europe’ Waterfall.

 Pine Island, Co Galway

Based in Connemara, about 20km east of Clifden, Pine Island is one of the destinations that attracts photographers from near and

far. Pine Island lies within Derryclare Lough, about 200m offshore, with the peaks of the majestic Twelve Bens mountain range in the background. It’s a popular viewpoint for visitors to the area, and if you visit there, you’ll see why.

Top tip: On a calm day, you will be able to get beautiful reflection shots. Going at sunset will make it even more magical!

 Devil’s Chimney, Co Sligo

At 492 feet (150m), Sruth in Aghaidh An Aird, known as the Devil’s Chimney, is listed on the World Waterfall database as Ireland’s tallest waterfall. The waterfall is only a stone’s throw from the famous Glencar Waterfall. While getting to it involves parking the car and walking, the trail is only 1.2km. The looped walk involves an ascent of approximately 30 minutes at the beginning, but there are many resting places and viewing points. So make sure to wear sturdy shoes and bring water.

The name Sruth in Aghaidh An Aird means ‘stream against the height’. The waterfall reflects the observed phenomenon that during certain weather conditions, when the wind blows from the south, the water is blown upward and back over the cliff from which it falls.

Top tip: Note that the waterfall doesn’t flow during periods of dry weather, but it is spectacular during, or immediately after, heavy rainfall. And we’re sure to get some rainfall during the summer in Ireland!

 Fanad Head Lighthouse, Co Donegal

Fanad Lighthouse is located within the Donegal Gaeltacht, perched on a rugged cliff-top between idyllic Lough Swilly and Mulroy Bay. Fanad Lighthouse is one of 70

lighthouses operated by the Commissioners of Irish Lights around the coast of Ireland and plays a vital role in maritime safety. But it’s also beautiful to look at. In fact, it was voted one of the most beautiful lighthouses in the world. For an authentic insight into the Fanad Peninsula and life at Fanad Lighthouse, book a guided tour on fanadlighthouse.com. And for an exhilarating moment to remember, climb to the top of the tower for some amazing views of North Donegal, the Atlantic and North Swilly.

Top tip: Accommodation at Fanad Lighthouse is also available all year round in three charming former lighthouse keeper’s homes – all with stunning sea views. A unique experience affording you a relaxing break from the modern world!

 Glin Pier, Co Limerick

If you’re driving between Kerry and Limerick, the N69 coast road offers breathtaking views across the Shannon Estuary out to Co Clare. There are a number of viewpoints along the coastal route, where you can park your car and get some great photos. Along the way, you will also pass the village of Glin. Situated about 1.6km east of Glin, is Glin beach and pier, which is not just a scenic spot for pictures, but it’s also known to be a popular swimming location.

Top tip: Stop by Foynes on your trip, approximately a 12-minute drive from Glin. Foynes is home to the Foynes Flying Boat & Maritime Museum (flyingboatmuseum.com). The museum captures the story of how Foynes played a pivotal role in establishing commercial transatlantic flights across the Atlantic in the 1930s and ‘40s. It’s also where Irish Coffee was invented in the 1940s by Chef Joe Sheridan!

Pine Island, Connemara

Fanad Lighthouse, Co Donegal

Devil’s Chimney, Co Sligo

Top foodie choices

Social media personality, TV presenter, Volkswagen Ambassador and co-author of The Currabinny Cookbook, James Kavanagh, shares his top foodie choices from the west of Ireland

◊The west of Ireland is renowned for its scenic beauty, rugged mountains, and stunning coastline. But it has also become an area with a thriving culinary culture. Foodie fans will be very well rewarded when they make the trek to the west coast.

In fact, James Kavanagh says the west is incredibly inspirational when it comes to creating recipes.

“The freshness and vibrancy of the raw ingredients along the west coast is a very exciting starting point for so many classic and contemporary Irish dishes,” says James. “I think it has become an absolute mecca for so many chefs and food creators because of the plentiful fresh, organic food that’s produced there.”

James and his partner, William Murray, will be launching their Currabinny Caravan in Dublin soon, from which will be selling seasonal sandwiches and hot pots. He will also be launching season 2 of his food podcast What Did You Eat This Week? in a couple of months. This means he has been fully entrenched in foodie culture. It’s safe to say, he knows what he’s talking about! And when in the west, James has a few recommendations.

He says you can’t leave the west without eating mussels, chowder, and open salmon sandwiches as they are “always stunning”.

“Visit Sweet Beat, Pudding Row and Shell’s Café – these are my go-tos in Sligo. Get the ham from the trolley in Ballynahinch Castle. And eat as much seafood as possible in Donegal! The seafood and foraging scenes are also incredible.

“The Misunderstood Heron in Galway is a must for a unique culinary experience. Not only is the food next level, but the location is breathtaking. Enjoy your lunch with the most stunning scenery backdrop. And the most delicious nduja (a spicy, spreadable fermented pork sausage) mussels I have ever had.”

James gives us his top foodie choices along the west coast of Ireland:

■ The Fish Box in Dingle for the best fish and chips ever!

■ Cáis restaurant in Dingle for stunning toasties and treats.

■ Kai in Galway for a heavenly brunch.

■ Goodstuff in Roundstone for the most divine toasties and coffee.

James adds, “The west of Ireland is absolutely world-class and a region we should all be so proud of.”

Catering to all tastes

 Bernie’s Cupán Tae, Co Cork

When it comes to Ireland’s national drink, you might think of Guinness. But when it comes down to it – it’s always going to be a good cup of tea. So, on your western adventure, why not stop off and enjoy a cuppa at ‘the tea shop at the end of the world’?

What began as a prefab, where owner Bernie served hot drinks and homemade scones to walkers on the Lighthouse Loop Walk at the end of the Sheep’s Head Peninsula, has become legendary. It still has its tasty tea and scones, but is now just as famous for its salmon sandwiches and apple pie. Simple food, done well. And a walk out to the lighthouse with views of the Atlantic Ocean has to be in the cards!

livingthesheepsheadway.com/cupan-tae/

 Dingle Tasting Tour, Co Kerry

Meet the people who produce some of the greatest Irish food. Hear their wonderful

stories and experience their passion for their craft.

The little fishing port of Dingle serves up authentic Irish culture and the Dingle Tasting Tour definitely serves some of the world’s best food. Experienced guides will take you through the town of Dingle, visiting a few of the town’s best food and beverage locations. There, you can enjoy authentic, local food and drink, as well as listen to stories of Dingle’s past. Try seafood straight off the boat, then Irish beef from local pastures, or locally crafted gin and beer. Plus, you get exclusive access to tasters from Dingle’s most iconic restaurants and pubs, created especially for the tour. dingletastingtour.ie

 Catch and Cook, Co Kerry

Make the most of your trip to Dingle by catching your own fish! Experience what the Wild Atlantic Way has to offer with its breathtaking scenery and delicious local

food. Spend your morning fishing outside the mouth of Dingle Harbour and cooking your catch at Dingle Cookery School. No experience of fishing or cooking is required, and all fishing gear is provided as you are taken through the entire process of fishing and cooking. When you eat your catch of the day, you can feel proud that you worked hard for your meal! This class is dependent on the weather and sea conditions. dinglecookeryschool.com

 The Burren Food Trail, Co Clare

Eat your way around one of the most beautiful landscapes with the Burren Food Trail. Visit farmer’s markets, cafés, restaurants, and gastropubs dotted across Clare and feel the true passion for food.

You can stop at every establishment, or just dip in and out along the way, and learn about how the local food is produced. Enjoy some of the best food in the west, prepared by talented chefs using the best local ingredients, by ordering the Burren Food Trail Signature Dish at each location. Head off on a self-guided tour and experience local food such as Burren Gold cheese, St Tola Goat Cheese, Burren Smokehouse and Taste the Atlantic, Flaggy Shore Oysters and more. You will never look at food the same way again.

burren.ie/taste-the-burren/burren-food-trail/

We profile some unique cuisine experiences for a true taste of the west!

James Kavanagh. Image provided by Volkswagen

Dingle Harbour

Burren Smokehouse, Co Clare

Cheese-tasting in Dingle!

 Surf’s up

The beautiful Fanore Beach in the heart of the Burren, Co Clare, with all its space and uncrowded surf, provides the ideal location for those wanting to learn to surf.

Aloha Surf School offers professional surfing instruction for people of all ages and abilities, with all equipment provided. You’ll learn how to read the ocean with a trained eye, handle rip currents, and how to time and catch waves safely. Lessons range from individual to group and families. To book lessons at Aloha Surf School and for price details, log onto the website, surfschool.ie.

Or, if you’re visiting Lahinch in Clare for your holidays, check out Lahinch Surf School which also offers professional surfing lessons.

Visit surfschool.ie and lahinchsurfschool.com

 ‘It’s the climb’

Perhaps not for the fainthearted, rockclimbing can be a brilliant full-body workout, as well as offer great views. There are plenty of places to go rock-climbing in the west of Ireland, particularly Co Donegal. The county boasts two major Irish mountain ranges, as well as over a thousand kilometres of coastline, one hundred sea stacks, such as Gull Island and Tormore Island, and many diverse climbing locations. Donegal currently plays host to several lifetimes’ worth of world-class rock climbing in some of the most beautiful and unspoilt places in Ireland.

Whether you have tried rock-climbing before and were left wanting more, or are a total beginner, consider a course with Unique Ascent. The company provides taster sessions for beginners and an introduction to rock-climbing course for those who want to learn more. You could also give Tyrolean traverse a go too if you’re feeling really adventurous. This is a method of crossing through free space between two high points on a rope. In rock climbing, a Tyrolean traverse is most often used to gain access to a sea stack and return to the mainland after climbing the stack (pictured above).

Visit uniqueascent.ie

 Fly through the treetops!

Get all the family involved and enjoy the thrills of Zipit Forest Adventures in Lough

Key Forest Park, Boyle, Co Roscommon.

Built in a natural forest setting, Zipit’s fun-packed circuits include zip-lines, swinging logs, cargo nets and rope bridges. Trained instructors are on-site to provide assistance and encouragement, and to help you overcome all the challenges. In Lough Key Forest Park, there’s also a range of water-based activities, cycling tracks, and woodland walks. Prices for online tickets to Zipit are €18 for 7-8-year-olds, €28 for 9-11-year-olds, €32 for 12-14-year-olds, €35 for 15-17-year-olds, and €40 for 18 years and over. To book Zipit, visit zipit.ie/locations/ lough-key

 Starry-eyed surprise

Experience the wonder and serenity of kayaking peacefully under the stars. Lough

Adventures in the rugged west

From mountain climbing to canoeing to horse-riding, here are some thrilling activities for the adventurous in Ireland this summer

Hyne is one of the most beautiful spots in West Cork. And Atlantic Sea Kayaking offers a 2.5-hour Lough Hyne Night Kayaking Tour, allowing visitors to take in its beauty and have some fun in the process! The tour is for all abilities, aged 18 and over, and it costs €75pp using double kayaks. All necessary safety and kayaking equipment is provided. Book at atlanticseakayaking.com/ night-tours

 Tubing time

Smugglers Cove in Rosscarbery, Co Cork, is home to Ireland’s first tubing park.

Tubing involves riding on a large, inflatable donut-like ring through a series of downhill routes. At Smugglers Cove, there are four tracks varying from 50 to 100 metres, with the biggest being the ‘Tubby Jump’. This is a steep run into a big kicker where the rider is propelled into the air before landing onto a giant freestyle ski bag! Tubing tickets are €17.50 each, with the minimum age being eight years.

At Smugglers Cove, there’s also Crazy Golf, a golf range, a timber maze and Ireland’s largest corn Maze, which opens at the end of July from 11am until 6pm. The golf

range is open until 9pm, seven days a week. Plenty of fun for all the family!

Visit smugglerscove.ie

 Horse-riding on the beach

Horse-riding along the beach is a great way for couples, groups of friends or families to spend the day. Head to Dunfanaghy Stables at Arnold’s Hotel, Dunfanaghy, which is run by Helen and Niamh Mc Daid. They’ll take you along Donegal’s rugged coastline by horseback, as they have access to the beautiful Atlantic beaches. There is a varied selection of horses to suit people with all levels of horse-riding ability. From little Shetland ponies for the tiny tots to Connemara ponies, quiet cobs, and Irish hunters, all of which are sure-footed when crossing the mountain paths and cantering along the beaches. An adult lesson is €35 per hour, a child’s (under 18s) lesson is €30 per hour, and half-hour lessons are €20 for adults and €18 for children.

Visit dunfanaghystables.com

Zipit Forest Adventures at Lough Key Forest Park, Co Roscommon

Horse-riding with Dunfanaghy Stables

Fanore Beach

Surfing at Lahinch

Tyrolean Traverse, Cruit Island, Co Donegal

The Great Western Greenway, Co Mayo

Cycle the 42km Great Western Greenway, from Westport to Achill, one of Ireland’s longest off-road cycling and walking trails. The stunning landscapes of the west of Ireland are brought into sharp focus on this scenic trail.

The cycle path winds its way along the coast of Clew Bay, past the beautiful views of Mayo’s mountains, bogs, farmland, and dramatic Atlantic coastline. Just hire a bike at one of the many shops such as Clew Bay Bike Hire (clewbaybikehire.ie), which offers a shuttle service allowing you to cycle only one way. It can be completed in either direction, and of course, you don’t have to complete the entire 42km, as there are a number of entry points onto the Greenway, so you can choose to cycle in smaller sections. The pathway is traffic-free with only occasional hills and plenty of places to stop, so the trek is great for all the family at most fitness levels. How long will it take to complete? The 42km cycle should take 5+ hours to complete depending on the fitness level.

Visit greenway.ie

The North Kerry Way, Co Kerry

This 48km linear walking route takes in the northern part of Kerry, starting in Tralee and ending in the town of Ballyheigue. It offers spectacular seascapes, the finest beaches in Ireland and many ancient sites, churches, and field monuments to walk through.

The route heads out of Tralee and heads northwest along a sea wall at the back of Tralee Bay. From the village of Spa, it

Western walking wonders

Park up the car and embark on one of these walking and cycling trails

goes cross-country into the white sands of Banna Strand and the beginning of a scenic mountainous area on Kerry Head, which it loops around before finishing at Ballyheigue. Made up of mostly quiet country roads, fields, and beaches, the terrain is easy enough to traverse so is family-friendly. You can also join the trail at any number of points along its length if you don’t wish to complete

the full 48km, or you can return along the same route to Tralee increasing the walk to approx. 70km. It’s up to how adventurous you are!

How long will it take to complete? This path is typically hiked over two days and there is plenty of accommodation along the way Visit sportireland.ie/outdoors/walking/ trails/north-kerry-way

Inis Mór Loop, Aran Islands, Co Galway

◊Why not try something different and go for a cycle around the largest of the Aran Islands, Inis Mór? It is the perfect place to explore on two wheels. This route is a moderate, 55km cycling route around the entire island, stopping at all the best sights. These include the ancient stone fort of Dún Aonghasa, the strange natural rock formation and wormhole known as ‘Poll na Peiste’ (the Serpent’s Lair), scenic viewing points, beaches, headlands, and old churches.

Step off the ferry, choose your bike at Aran Islands Bike Hire (aranislandsbikehire.com), and take off on your very own Wild Atlantic Way adventure. And depending on the time available, you can judge how many places you can visit and explore.

How long will it take to complete? If you want to see a good few main highlights on the island, this cycle route will take about four or five hours.

Visit connemarawildescapes.ie

Glenveagh Derrylahan Nature Trail, Co Donegal

◊This walk is perfect for those who want to spend the day exploring the magnificent Glenveagh National Park. This looped walk takes you to a remote area of Glenveagh that was once covered in Oak Forest and is now blooming with many different habitats, so you can become

immersed in nature.

At 2km long, the gravel trail starts close to the Visitor Centre, with easy-to-follow signs to help you navigate along the loop. The trail will showcase a section of a blanket bog and Scots Pine woodlands! It is an ideal introduction to Glenveagh’s natural environment, as visitors of all ages and fitness levels have the chance to see some of the plants and animals of Glenveagh National Park. Once complete, you can choose to explore the other walks in this park including the Lakeside Walk, the Garden Trail which takes you on a full tour of the Castle gardens, Bridle Path Walk, Lough Inshagh Walk, and the Viewpoint Trail. How long will it take to complete? The terrain is mostly gravel paths and visitors should allow approximately 45 minutes to fully explore the trail.

Visit glenveaghnationalpark.ie

Curraghchase Forest Park, Co Limerick ◊

This cycle trail in Kilcornan, Co Limerick extends to nearly 300 hectares of parkland, lakes, and woodlands. It has plenty of cycling routes which are just the right distance for children. The Glenisca Trail is 3.5km and brings you past an old cave and impressive limestone cliff walls. While the 2.4km Curragh Trail is flat and takes you away from the park’s lake, through mature broadleaf and conifer forest. Most of the cycling is done under a tree canopy, and there are plenty of playgrounds, an orienteering course, picnic spots and barbecue pits, and a campsite to stay over. How long will it take to complete? The Glenisca Trail is moderate and takes around an hour to complete, while the Curragh Trail is easier and takes around 30 minutes.

Visit limerick.ie/discover/eat-see-do/ nature-wildlife/forest-parks/ curraghchase-forest-park

Dún Aonghasa, Aran Islands

Ballybunion Beach, Co Kerry

Glenveagh National Park, Co Donegal

The Great Western Greenway

Sea Sessions, Co Donegal

June 17th - 19th

Get back to the sunny seaside for the longawaited return of Sea Sessions ’22! It has been three years since the last festival took place and now the over 18s event is aiming to become the best concert this summer. With top acts including Kodaline, Tinie, Basement Jaxx, Lyra, Gemma Dunleavy, David Keenan and so much more, the tunes will be rocking out across Bundoran beach.

Sea Sessions is the only event in the country bringing together the unique lifestyle aspects of surfing, music, skating, BMX, beach sports and more into a three-day and four-night camping festival. You can camp, glamp, or stay in a local hotel. And there are surfing competitions, barefoot tag rugby and barefoot soccer on the beach, as well as yoga sessions, so the weekend suits all interests.

Visit seasessions.com. Tickets are on sale now. €129.90 – 3-day non-camping, €159.90 – camping weekend. Day tickets: Friday:

€59.90, Saturday: €69.90, Sunday: €64.90

West Cork Chamber Music Festival, West Cork

June 24th - July 3rd

This summer’s West Cork Chamber Music Festival is celebrating its 25th anniversary. More than 70 concerts will take place in Bantry and feature 60 professional musicians and twenty students.

The 2022 Festival is built around four top international String Quartets: the Pavel Haas Quartet from Prague, Danel Quartet from Belgium, Signum Quartet from Germany, and Doric Quartet from London – and a series of major cycles from Biber and Bach to Weinberg via Haydn, late Schubert and Bartók.

This year’s line-up includes cellists Johannes Moser and Alexander Kovalev; viola players Dana Zemtsov and Sara Fervández; percussionist Alex Petcu; pianists Anna Fedorova, Zoltán Fejérvári, Julius

Back in action!

Drake and Joseph Havlat, and many more. Visit westcorkmusic.ie/ chamber-music-festival

Dromcollogher Festival

June 24th - July 3rd

The 80th Dromcollogher Carnival celebrations will take place this year in Co Limerick. This festival is one of the longestrunning festivals in Ireland taking place over 10 nights every summer, with a focus on family fun and a carnival.

Over the 10 nights, there will be entertainment for all age groups. From DJs on the street, street entertainers, kids’ day, street dancers, and adult fancy dress. Plus, there’s bubble football, dog shows, talent competitions for children and adults, motorbike parades and much more. The whole family will love it! Visit facebook.com/dromcollogher.carnival

Galway Film Fleadh

July 5th - July 10th

Ireland’s leading film festival, which has

been the place of discovery of new Irish cinema and talent, is once again taking place in Galway for the 34th time.

Galway Film Fleadh will return with inperson screenings, and online and in-cinema screenings for the 2022 Fleadh. In-person screenings will take place in the heart of Galway city, as Pálás Cinema will reopen its doors in time for the Fleadh.

Each year, Galway invites luminaries of the silver screen to impart their knowledge. Past guests include Michael Fassbender, Florence Pugh, Martin Sheen, Saoirse Ronan, and more. This year, the guest is TBD, but it is sure to be as incredible as in previous years! Visit galwayfilmfleadh.com

Galway International Arts Festival

July 11th - 24th

Experience 14 days of extraordinary this July 11th-24th at the multidisciplinary Galway International Arts Festival. The line-up includes live music, theatre, opera, visual arts, street spectacle, dance, discussion, and comedy.

Founded in 1978, Galway International Arts Festival (GIAF) develops and produces new work that tours nationally and internationally; and presents a major discussion platform, First Thought Talks. Along with the multidisciplinary line-up, the live music line-up includes performances from the legendary Pixies, The Flaming Lips, and Kaiser Chiefs among others. Not to mention the art and theatre performances throughout the two weeks. It can’t be missed! Visit giaf.ie to read the full programme line-up and to buy tickets

Listowel International Storytelling

Festival

September 15th - 18th

The 4th annual Listowel International Storytelling Festival at Kerry Writers’ Museum will take place this year in midSeptember. Every September, the heritage town of Listowel welcomes Irish and international storytellers and musicians for a community gathering full of tales, recitations, music, songs, and ballads. The

2022 festival will feature a packed programme of events including storytelling sessions and workshops, story and history walks, children’s events, and music sessions. Acclaimed Storyteller in Residence at the Kerry Writers’ Museum Maria Gillen is the Artistic Director for the festival and will use her expertise to make this a fantastic festival for all the family. Visit kerrywritersmuseum.com/ storytelling-festival

Dingle Food Festival

September 30th - October 2nd

The Dingle Food Festival takes place on the first weekend in October every year in the beautiful fishing town of Dingle on the Dingle Peninsula in Co Kerry. Locals call it ‘The Best Weekend of the Year’ as the town comes alive with locals and tourists alike. Highlights of the festival include cookery demonstrations, food trails, over 50 market stalls, workshops, street entertainment, childrens’ events, wine tastings, and much more.

Why not try The Taste Trail during the festival? You can book taste trail tickets and then visit over 70 venues around the town offering tastings of the best food and drink the Peninsula has to offer.

Visit dinglefood.com

We share some unmissable events across the west this summer

Sea Sessions

LifeLine as part of Galway International Arts Festival. Photo: Áine Kilgallon

Mairead Hickey – West Cork Chamber Music Festival Dingle Food Festival

Orla McGovern & Niceol Blue at Listowel International Storytelling Festival

Galway Film Fleadh

A day at the fairground

Images provided by event organisers

Day trip ideas

Looking for a fun way to punch in the time and spend a day in the west?

 Shed Distillery, Co Leitrim

Drumshanbo in Co Leitrim is where Gunpowder Irish Gin was born. The gin is the brainchild of PJ Rigney and a result of experimenting with wild grains, Irish flora, and exotic botanicals. Visit the Shed Distillery and discover how Gunpowder Irish Gin, and PJ’s other creation Drumshanbo Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey, are created. You’ll get a fully guided tour and finish with a refreshing gin and tonic at the Honey Badger Bar in their majestic botanical glasshouse. Open seven days a week, from 10am-6pm, during the summer. An adult ticket is €19. There’s also a gift store on-site, and the bright and spacious Jackalope Café serves a wide range of hearty Irish foods.

Visit thesheddistillery.com

 Aqua Dome, Co Kerry

For a fun day out for all the family, head to Aqua Dome in Tralee, one of Ireland’s largest indoor water worlds. It is brimming with attractions, including the 90-metre

High Flume Slide and Lazy River, as well as a Vitality Spa for the adults. The spa has a new Himalayan rock salt-tiled steam room, Luxor heated seats, and a cool plunge pool. General admission to Aqua Dome is €17 per adult, €15 for juniors (under 18) and free for those under two years of age. Family admission ticket options are also available.

There’s also an exciting 18-hole minigolf course located alongside the Aqua Dome, which is great craic for old and young alike. Prices for Aqua Golf are €7 per adult, €6 per junior, and €20 for a family of four.

Visit aquadome.ie

 Ards Forest Park, Co Donegal

Ards Forest Park is one of the most unique forest walks in Donegal and somewhat of an undiscovered gem for many. It’s filled with beautiful woodlands, coastal scenery, megalithic tombs, picnic areas, rivers, and saltwater lakes. There are nine different

trails, suitable for all ages and abilities. These include the Binngorm Trail, which is a strenuous 3.5km walk and the Heritage Walk, which is a moderate 5km walk. There are lots of places to stop along the walks and trails to take in spectacular views of the surrounding countryside and the Atlantic Ocean.

Visit discoverireland.ie/donegal/ ards-forest-park

 Ferry around the Cliffs of Moher, Co Clare

Everyone might have viewed the wellknown Cliffs of Moher from land, but have you seen them from sea level? Set sail with The Doolin Ferry Co, to truly take in the majesty of these iconic cliffs. During the trip, you’ll listen to live commentary from their experienced crew and learn about the Cliffs of Moher and the area. You will see Ireland’s largest seabird colony at An Branán Mór (Sea Stack), as well as the sea cave used in filming Harry Potter & the

Half Blood Prince

The tour takes approximately 50 minutes to one hour and there are a number of times available. Return trip for an adult is €25, student/senior is €20, child (5-15 years) is €13, and a child of four years and under is free. Family tickets are also available and a ‘combination ticket’ for the Cliff’s Cruise and any Aran Island trip is available too.

Visit doolinferry.com

 Kylemore Abbey and Victorian Walled Gardens, Co Galway

Kylemore Abbey and Victorian Walled Gardens in Connemara is a spectacular attraction, and a haven of beauty, serenity and history. Located just over an hour from Galway City, Kylemore Castle was built in the late 1800s by Mitchell Henry MP, a wealthy businessman and liberal politician. Today, Kylemore Abbey is owned and run by the Benedictine community who have been in residence there since 1920. Go on a day trip to Kylemore and enjoy the new visitor experience. Explore the woodland and lakeshore walks, magnificent architecture and Ireland’s largest walled garden. An adult ticket is €15, student/senior is €12.50, under 16s are free and a family ticket is €38.

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