Go wild Magazine issue 3 full single by Go Wild Magazine

e c n e i r e p x E y a W c ti n a tl A d l i W e h T Limerick You’re a Lady

Crafts Along the Way A HAVEN FOR ARTISTS & CRAFTS MAKERS

Atlantic Trails

EXHILARATING GUIDED WALKS, HIKES AND TOURS IN WEST CLARE & BEYOND

4 PAGE FEATURE INSIDE

Foodie Havens

LET YOUR TASTE BUDS GUIDE YOU

Scenic Cycles

DISCOVER THE WILD ATLANTIC WAY ON TWO WHEELS

Picture courtesy of George Karbus Photography

Go Wild Tourism Magazine, Issue 3, Summer Edition 2016

See Exquisite Pieces of Crystal manufactured before your eyes

Waterford Crystal Factory and Brand Experience

The House of Waterford Crystal brings a visit to Waterford to a whole new level, as visitors can witness the creation of crystal masterpieces right before their very eyes. The factory tour is a unique and captivating experience that allows people go behind the scenes for over an hour and see exactly how Waterford Crystal pieces are made and they can witness every stage of production, from the initial design stage right up to the final engraving of the piece.

Guided Factory Tours daily Waterford Brand & Visitor Experience Open Daily

Book online at www.waterfordvisitorcentre.com and receive a 10% discount on adult tickets

Phone +353 (0) 51 317000

www.waterfordvisitorcentre.com

Welcome!

Publishers Note

Welcome to the Spring/ Summer 2016 edition of Go Wild Tourism magazine. I really do hope that your journey along the Wild Atlantic Way is as much fun for you as we have had creating this edition.

o Wild Magazine will be celebrating our first birthday In June, and I am happy to say that from the very first edition we have had wonderful support from a multitude of people, including, the wonderful Grainne Kilcoyne in the Failte Ireland Westport office all willing us, and assisting us to bring together each publication. This issue of Go Wild Magazine, is the third in the Tourism series and the team and I really do hope that you discover some amazing places to enjoy and that hopefully you will feel the urge to return again for your next holiday to complete the famous Wild Atlantic Way Route. We always welcome your comments, opinions and feedback so don’t be shy in telling us your Wild Atlantic Way stories by simply contacting me on bobby@ gowildmagazine.com. Please share your images with us on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter by following gowildmagazine on each platform. We might even feature your posts in our next issue.

Finally a big thank you to Niamh Murphy our new Editor, Dave Curtin our amazing graphic designer, Shane O Neill our distribution logistics genius, my wife Cleo for her patience with the accounts, my son Jason for his ideas & constant support, my daughter Louise who continually flies our flag proudly in Canada and everybody else who has contributed to this edition. Go Raibh Mhat Agat. (Thank You)

Bobby Power Publisher

Letter from the editor Welcome to the Wild Atlantic Way, where your Irish journey of discovery awaits. This touring route takes you along the entire west coast of Ireland, an incredible 2500 kilometres, without straying too far from the coastline.

t is place of raw beauty, where you can roam, ramble, relax, dive, dance, discover, live and love. This beautiful stretch of land, sea and villages, which runs from Kinsale in Co. Cork to Derry in Northern Ireland, will awaken your senses. There is so much to see, hear, feel and taste, many of which are explored in this issue, from our unique craft, to scenic cycles, local produce, our lively traditional culture, festivals, Atlantic Trails, fashion and much more. One of our contributors even ponders what may have been if the Beach Boys had been Irish! Now that’s a thought… As I write and edit this magazine, I am overwhelmed with a sense of pride – pride in our country, our landscape and our people. It has been 100 years since the 1916 rising – so much has changed in that time, but the beauty of our coastline and villages and the warmth of our people have remained a constant.

Out of all the places I have travelled to, the West of Ireland has always been the closest to my heart, so I was honoured to be chosen as the new editor of Go Wild Magazine. Of course, it’s a team effort and we have a fantastic and talented team - our jovial and patient publisher Bobby Power, our talented designer Dave Curtin, our sub-editor (and my business partner) Damien O’Mahony, and our fantastic contributors for this issue, Michelle McDonagh, Deirdre Hynds, Clair Collins and Aoife O’Connell. A huge thanks also needs to go Fáilte Ireland and Tourism Ireland for their support with content and imagery. I hope this publication helps you discover all that we love about our amazing country - from a local’s point of view. Every county is unique, so it is a place you can return time and again – and we will welcome you with open arms. Enjoy your journey and feel free to share your experiences with us.

Niamh Murphy Editor

Download the FREE Wild Atlantic Way app now – your official guide to the journey of a lifetime. wildatlanticway.com/ pages/the-app/

Contacts:

Contributors:

Sub-editor & features writer:

Fashion editor: Deirdre Hynds

niamh@e-t-c.ie

Damien O’Mahony

Graphic Design:

For advertising: Bobby Power, Publisher

Features writers: Michelle McDonagh,

Dave Curtin, Brainstorm.ie

bobby@gowildmagazine.com

Clair Collins, Aoife O’Connell

dave@brainstorm.ie

For editorial: Niamh Murphy, Editor

A special thank-you to Fáilte Ireland for their support with content and imagery.

Ma gazine

Magazine

Contents 4-6 Top Points on the Wild Atlantic Way

56- 58: ‘Craic agus ceoil’:

8-10: Craft along the Way

Traditional pubs & JJ Craft Brewing 59: Glorious Glamping

A haven for artists and crafts makers 12-13: Mick & Valerie Dolan

60-61: Leave no trace

A pub with free traditional music every night 14: Just Go – must-sees along the Wild Atlantic Way 16-17 Cork - Ireland’s Southernmost city

Eco-tourism along the Wild Atlantic Way 62-63: Lucy Hunt Sea Synergy 64: Wild Way News

18-19: Interview with Liam Campbell Fáilte Ireland 20-22: Atlantic Trails - exhilarating guided walks, hikes

66: Life as a Head Concierge at The Savoy 70: Wild Atlantic Way Authors 76-77: Foodie Havens -

and tours in West Clare 24: Shannon Ferries - linking Clare with Kerry

Let your taste buds guide you

26: Wild Way Festivals this season

78-80: Featured restaurants

27: A taste of Cream House Curry

82-85: Scenic Cycles

30-34: Donegal to Mayo in 5 days

Discover the Wild Atlantic Way on two wheels

36: Wild Atlantic Warrior

86-87: Edible Seaweeds - Irish Seaweed Kitchen

One man will run the entire Wild Atlantic Way 38: Ger Corrigan

88-89: Eithna’s by the Sea 90-91: Sail a-way 92: 5 Minutes with Sinead Dunphy

What if the Beach Boys had been Irish? 40-42: Fashion Finds – Wild Atlantic Way designers

Cork International Choral Festival

46-49: Lots to love about Limerick

94: Places to lay your head

50-52: Best Places to unwind & refresh

96: Interview with Clare Cullen blogger

54-55: Go Wild for Trad

Join the fun! 

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@gowildmagazine

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Top Points W A W e h t g n o l A

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T H E H AV E N COA S T  The southernmost stretch of the Wild Atlantic Way zigzags gently from dreamy Bantry Bay through Skibbereen and on to Kinsale. Past gardens lush with sub-tropical plants. Between hedgerows thick with fuschia and monbretia. By hundreds of inlets, coves, safe harbours and Blue Flag beaches just right for long days spent in the salty air… beachcombing, islandhopping, whale-watching, learning to sail, kayaking on a saltwater lake in the moonlight, or simply enjoying a pint on the quayside while the fishing boats land their catch.

SOUTHERN PENINSUL AS:  Get memorable experiences and that edge-of-world feeling on the Cork and Kerry coasts. This is as far west as Ireland gets: “next parish Manhattan”, as they say. And there’s a distinctly edge-of- the-world feel to the Southern Peninsulas, as both the mainland and everyday life are left far behind.

T H E C L I F F COA S T:  Beauty, tradition, warm hearts and hard land, from Galway through Clare to the north Kerry coast. “The land is hard, the soul is not…” So says Lonely Planet about the Wild Atlantic Way’s Cliff Coast, where Ice Age landscapes meet west coast warmth and music is a way of life. This striking seaboard is a place for cliff-top walks, island-hopping, glowing pubs, rich waves of traditional music and soulstirring views.

Charming Country Manor House on the shores of Caragh Lake, set in one of the most beautiful romantic corners of Ireland.The delightful boutique hotel is the ideal place to relax in luxury whilst enjoying the finest local cuisine and a warm Irish welcome

Caragh Lake, Killorglin, Kerry. Tel: +353 66 9769105 Email: reservations@ardnasidhe.com website: www.ardnasidhe.com

Top Points W A W e h t g Alon

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T H E B AY COA S T:  Skimming the coast from Achill Island to Galway Bay, you will be on an open-air playground. The Bay Coast is a salty, open-air playground, loaded with dazzling beaches and Blueway trails, with opportunities to kayak, kite-surf, paraglide, swim and dive. Cyclists follow the Great Western Greenway – one of the world’s most scenic cycleways. Walkers climb the sacred Croagh Patrick and Twelve Bens range.

T H E S U R F COA S T:  Enjoy wind and waves out West with wild waters from Donegal to Erris. This stretch of the Wild Atlantic Way from Donegal Town to Sligo to far-flung Erris, was the famous poet’s, W.B.Yeats, ‘Land of Heart’s Desire’ - the countryside in which he grew up and which inspired him well into old age. It’s just as poetic today. Voted Ireland’s ‘Best Place to Go Wild’, coastal hubs like Bundoran, Mullaghmore, Enniscrone and Strandhill are renowned for their surf – throwing up both beginner-friendly ripples and monster slabs that attract some of the world’s top waveriders.

NORTHERN HE ADL ANDS:  Expand your mind, body and soul in Donegal. Untouched, off-radar and crying out for exploration, this rugged and remote region marks the northwestern contour of the Wild Atlantic Way.

For more see www.wildatlanticway.com Go Wild Magazine - Summer Edition 2016

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Book Killarney’s Holiday Village +353 (0)64 663 6667

illarney’s Holiday Village is the place to stay if you don’t want to compromise. Just minutes from both Killarney town and the renowned Killarney National Park, Killarney’s Holiday Village is a cluster of 35 delightful holiday homes ideally located on the Kenmare Road (N71). These holiday homes make the ideal base for any exploration of the Wild Atlantic Way, the Ring of Kerry, or the Dingle Peninsula. We are less than 30km from Kenmare, one of the most scenic spots on the Wild Atlantic Way.

House & Gardens in the morning, have lunch in Killarney, take a trip on the Lakes of Killarney in the afternoon, and hit the town for dinner and live music. That’s the beauty of our self-catering holiday homes: Your choice of activities and destinations is virtually unlimited, and the accommodation is so comfortable and attractive that if you decide to just do nothing, that’s fine too! It’s your holiday, so do it your way in Killarney’s Holiday Village.

Each home features an elegantly furnished, spacious lounge with abundant, comfortable seating, a 42-inch colour television, DVD player and an electric fireplace for those cooler evenings. The open plan kitchen-dining area is fully equipped with every modern convenience. Unwind at your leisure and enjoy the bright and airy surroundings, including a large green area shared by each group of eight houses, ideal for those long, summer evenings. Every house offers free, high-speed Wi-Fi internet access. Enjoy the comfort and flexibility of our self-catering accommodation, with a choice of 3- and 4-bedroom holiday homes, some sleeping up to ten people. You can stroll around Muckross

Book Killarney’s Holiday Village at: https://killarneysholidayvillage.com/booking/

Email: info@killarneysholidayvillage.com Telephone: + 353 (0) 64 663 6667

e d a m me

S T F RA NEED Some INSPIRATION!

Crafts along the Way It is no wonder that the Wild Atlantic Way is a haven for artists and craft makers, as it is a place that truly inspires. Traditional crafts are still very prominent on our wild west and play a huge part in Irish culture. Along the 2,500km of coast, there are countless opportunities to discover local talent and learn regional crafts that are unique to this part of Ireland. Need some inspiration? Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve put together a sample of some of the wonderful homemade crafts on our island to help get you started.

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LISBETH MULCAHY THE WEAVERS’ SHOP

IRISH CRAFTS DOOLIN WEDDING PRESENT INSPIRATION

Siopa na bhFhíodóirí, Dingle, Co. Kerry Lisbeth Mulcahy is one of Ireland’s best known weavers. Siopa na bhFhíodóirí, her combined weaving studio and shop, has been a feature of Green Street trade since it opened in Dingle, Co. Kerry in 1986 in a beautiful, listed building dating from ca. 1850. The shop retains most of the original features throughout, including original counters and shelving. Siopa na bhFhíodóirí/The Weavers’ Shop and on-line shop are two of only four outlets for her signature designs in high quality woven goods. The weaving room is open to view by the public, who can see how the wall hangings are made. The Lisbeth Mulcahy

Doolin, Co. Clare

high quality range includes scarves, stoles, throws and wall hangings, with a new range of colours for the scarves and stoles every year. Lisbeth also makes one-off woven tapestries. Fifteen of her large scale tapestries were commissioned by the Department of Foreign Affairs over a number of years and are installed in Irish embassies around the world. Siopa na bhFhíodóirí also stocks work by other Irish designer/makers.

There is a huge growth in destination weddings across the Wild Atlantic Way, and Irish Crafts Doolin specialise in finding a unique gift to help couples remember their special day. With the beauty of the Burren, the Cliffs of Moher and the Wild Atlantic Way right on their doorstep, it’s easy to see where the inspiration comes from in Doolin. There is lots to choose from in the store but we love this unique wall art from Conker Tree Studio. Justyna Mackowska handcrafts these unique pieces from her home studio under a beautiful Conker Tree in south Co. Kilkenny. Each piece is lovingly created – ready to become a treasured memento of a special

day. Available from Irish Crafts, Doolin & www.irishcraftsonline. com From: €59.95

HANDWEAVING STUDIO DONEGAL The Glebe Mill, Kilcar, Co. Donegal Studio Donegal is a handweaving and clothing business based on original hand weaving skills passed down from generation to generation. It is situated in the remote mountainous region of South West Donegal. Tristan Donaghy set up Studio Donegal 30 years ago to try and maintain the Donegal tradition of hand weaving. “We’re continuing a craft while making something classical yet contemporary”, he says. “We also sell upholstery fabrics to a couple of designers in Denmark and New York. These can only be handwoven. Additionally we make throws and cushion covers.” http:// www.studiodonegal.ie/

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LIVING GINGER DESIGNS WORKING WITH

GALWAY CRYSTAL

porcelain, glaze and wood Sliding Rock Ceramics in Spiddal, Co. Galway Louise Browne is a secondgeneration potter who works in slab-built, three-dimensional porcelain. She works under the brand name Living Ginger, a name inspired by a quote from Yeats, and originally established by her mother, a Co. Clare based potter. Living Ginger Designs offer two main ranges; their Impressed collection, a twist on a traditional method through the use of local flora and impressed details, and their Smocked

Work, an innovative collection of vessels created with sewn smocked fabrics capturing the essence of the Connemara landscape. All their products are designed and handcrafted ffrom their workshop in Connemara by Louise. They are fashioned in the manner of the ripples left in the sand as the tide retreats. http:// www.slidingrockceramics.com/ artist_louise_brown.html

ARTS AND CRAFTS COURSES AT KINSALE POTTERY

Galway Crystal was established in 1967 by a group of local business people from the Galway Junior Chamber of Commerce. Its first location was on the famous Nun’s Island, named so because of the Poor Clare Convent which is still home to the Poor Clare Sisters today. In the late 60’s Galway Crystal moved to a specially designed facility on the Dublin Road, on the site of one of Galway’s Ballroom of Romances, the Eagle, or Skyline Ballroom. In April 1993, Galway joined the Belleek Group. Both companies have performed particularly well since then. Aynsley China has since become part of the Group. This meeting of three prestigious brands has further enhanced the position of Galway Crystal in the global

marketplace In 1996 a beautiful new building was opened on the site of the old factory, and it is from here Galway Crystal operates today. Through the years many well-known people have passed through the doors of Galway Crystal, from Royalty to Presidents to celebrities. Galway Crystal can be found in some of the world’s most prestigious homes, from our own Aras an Uachtarain to the White House and the Vatican. Galway Crystal also produces commissioned pieces for sporting bodies worldwide, from the world famous Galway Races, to the European Tour, the GAA, the Football Association of Ireland, to name but a few. www.galwaycrystal.ie

Kinsale, Co. Cork Kinsale Pottery and Arts Centre provides arts and crafts courses for adults and children, specialising in pottery, glass fusing and stained glass, jewellery-making, and mosaic-making. They run weekly morning and evening classes, weekend breaks, summer schools and tailormade workshops for corporate groups and private parties. They can accommodate up to 20 people in one class and up to 50 in a group, or as few as two or three at a time. All of their courses suit beginners, enthusiasts and professionals, using a wide range of facilities and techniques. The pottery includes electric and raku kilns, stoneware and earthenware clays, and they teach throwing, hand-building and all varieties of glazing. Located just 20 minutes from Cork Airport, Kinsale Pottery is close to the centre of the

beautiful historic harbour of Kinsale, famed for its restaurants and shops. The pottery is in the converted stables of the home farm for Ballinacurra House, and the gallery is in the eaves of its coach house, which dates back to 1795. www.kinsaleceramics. com The Design & Crafts Council of Ireland, which is the main champion for Ireland’s design and craft industry, and Fáilte Ireland have joined forces to help holidaymakers find the best studio experiences in Ireland. The selected sites featured in the Irish Craft Studio Experience are either craft studios open to visitors on a full-time basis or craft galleries and retail spaces offering visitors the opportunity to meet or interact with the maker. For further information, visit www.craftinireland.com/ explore

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Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve changed... with you in mind Drop in and try our sumptuous new Menu which is Available Daily

The contemporary feel of our newly renovated hotel bar provides a perfect place to relax and enjoy great food and friendly service. Extensive Bar Menu and Hearty Irish breakfast served all day until 9pm

The Charm and sophisticated decor of our hotel Bedrooms makes its the perfect place to unwind after a busy day

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Dolans

A pub with free traditional music every night 

When Mick and Valerie Dolan moved their family from Dublin to Limerick over 21 years ago, their dream was to open a pub with traditional Irish music every night of the week all year round. Within a few short months of opening at Dock Road in December 1994, they had achieved this dream thanks to a fantastic response from local musicians.

oday, Dolans Pub is a cultural attraction for tourists and locals alike, and was recently honoured with an IMRO Best Live Music Venue award. As well as the pub, which remains the hub of the business, the Dolans run a restaurant and three purposebuilt live music venues — The Warehouse, Upstairs at Dolans and KASBAH Social Club, which cater for groups of all shapes and sizes. Mick explains that the original open acoustic sessions which anybody could join in were so successful that they decided to open a bigger venue to accommodate national and international acts and so the Warehouse opened its doors in 1998. The Warehouse introduced Mick and Valerie to different musical genres – rock, comedy, jazz, blues, country, classical and lots more. Tourists from all over the world regularly visit to photograph the venue that has

Go Wild Magazine - Summer Edition 2016

 The quality of musicians in Limerick and Clare is phenomenal so we have a huge pool to pull from. We had a session one night soon after we opened where a friend of mine was dancing on the bar. The photo appeared on the front page of the Limerick Leader the next day and people started coming down to what was a red light district at the time, to see what was going on. The whole area has been regenerated since then. Mick Dolan played host to such legends as Glen Hansard, Damien Rice, Damien Dempsey, Christy Moore, Ian Brown, Imelda May and Sharon Shannon. In recent years, Dolans has hosted concerts for acts like Kasabian, Mumford and Sons, Franz Ferdinand, Hozier, Snow Patrol, The Editors and Bell X1. It is a venue that musicians from all over the world consistently request to perform in and return to. The two twin venues, the Upstairs and the newly built

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Kasbah social club, host a variety of different acts and events from rock, pop and acoustic to private parties. Kasbah Social Club is an alternative music venue and pub. It hosts some of the top national and international alternative music acts, with everyone from Duke Special to metal band Coltsblood. The club is available for private hire with a range of party packages available from a basic finger food package to a hot buffet with live DJ, karaoke or themed night.

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WE HAD A SESSION ONE NIGHT SOON AFTER WE OPENED WHERE A FRIEND O F M I N E WA S DA N C I N G O N T H E B A R . T H E P H OTO A P P E A R E D O N T H E F R O N T PAG E OF THE LIMERICK LEADER T H E N E X T DAY A N D P E O P L E S TA R T E D C O M I N G D OW N TO W H AT WA S A R E D L I G H T D I S T R I C T AT T H E T I M E , TO S E E W H AT WA S G O I N G O N .

GLEN HANSARD, DAMIEN RICE, DAMIEN DEMPSEY, CHRISTY MOORE, IAN BROWN, IMELDA MAY AND SHARON SHANNON. IN RECENT YEARS, DOLANS HAS HOSTED CONCERTS FOR ACTS LIKE KASABIAN, MUMFORD AND SONS, FRANZ FERDINAND, HOZIER, SNOW PATROL, THE EDITORS AND BELL X1

Upstairs @ Dolans is the Limerick home away from home for many national and international breakthrough musical acts and is very popular for acoustic gigs and sessions. People who have graced the stages there since it opened in 2004 are Jape, Clive Barnes, Gemma Hayes, Des Bishop and many more. The Upstairs venue has a private terrace smoking area, bar, and can be set up for party food, making it ideal for private parties or work events. A team of experienced music bookers and promoters — including Mick and Valerie’s son, Neil — programme a schedule of live music at Dolans seven nights a week, incorporating all genres from rock, indie and electronic to traditional, folk, country and

Go Wild Magazine - Summer Edition 2016

roots music. This diversity attracts music fans from all walks of life and from all around the world. A chef by trade, Mick is coy about his own musical abilities. “I played a bit myself, but I was never any good. Myself and Valerie can both sing and do a bit of a dance.” And a love of music definitely runs in the family with Neil working for the business, while his sister Sarah is an opera singer based in Seattle. The bar is open from 12pm to 10pm Monday to Friday for lunch and dinner. At weekends and public holidays you can enjoy breakfast from 9am. The extensive lunch and evening menu feature Irish favourites like cottage pie, Irish stew and Limerick

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bacon and cabbage, as well as steak, seafood, salads, signature sandwiches and desserts. The warehouse caters for group bookings which are very popular with coach parties who want to wine and dine on the best of fresh local ingredients, while listening to live traditional music and trying their hand at Irish dancing. As well as the nightly open trad sessions, Dolans host a beginner’s session every Monday night from 7.30 to 9.30pm, set dancing on Tuesday nights, salsa on Wednesdays and step dancing on Thursdays. For more information on what’s happening at Dolans, phone 061-314-483, email info@ dolans.ie or john@dolans.ie

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Just GO

E xperience s to saviour on the Wild Atlantic Way GET UP CLOSE TO CLIFFS THAT ARE AMONGST THE HIGHEST IN EUROPE: Paddy, the skipper of the Nuala Star will pick you up from Teelin Harbour on the north side of Donegal Bay, to sail below the sheer granite walls of Sliabh Liag (Slieve League) – at 600 m (1970ft). They are amongst the highest accessible sea cliffs in Europe and the huge panoramas presented to you from these cliffs can look different from every angle. You might also see dolphins, seals and whales, or even basking sharks in June. There’s also the option to go swimming in the little coves: and wetsuits are provided. Once back on dry land, the climb up the Pilgrim’s Path is optional. On a fine day, the views from the top – across seven counties – are glorious.

CRUISE ON IRELAND’S ONLY FJORD: With luck, a pod of dolphins will accompany you for some of your cruise on Killary Harbour, said by some to be Ireland’s only true fjord. Dotted with mussel rafts, with mountains to the north and south, the fjord reaches due east from the Atlantic for 16km (10 miles), ending at the Aasleagh Falls. Killary Cruises start from a mile or so outside the village of Leenane on the road to Clifden at ‘Nancy’s Point’. Leenane is known as the ‘Gateway to Connemara – you may recognise some of the locations from the movie version of John B Keane’s poignant play ‘The Field’, filmed here in 1989.

FORAGE FOR WILD FOOD ALONG THE KILLALA SHORELINE: Spend an afternoon with Denis Quinn of Wild Atlantic Cultural Tours – foraging for food out along the shoreline under the huge skies of north Mayo. Denis will guide you expertly across Killala Bay, crossing mudflats, scrambling over rocks, gathering edible seaweeds, rooting around in rockpools and spooning cockles, mussels, clams and winkles from the vast expanse of soft sand uncovered at low tide.

REMEMBER IRELAND’S GREATEST BORN STORYTELLERS:

WATCH THE SUN SET OVER THE ARAN ISLANDS: The viewing platform at O ’Brien’s Tower is said to be the best place to see the

Out on the very edge of Europe, as far west

sunset from the iconic Cliffs of Moher.

as you can go in Ireland, lies a deserted

The Tower was built at the highest

village on an archipelago. These are the

point on the cliff edge in 1835, as an

mystical Blasket Islands – famous for their

observation point for tourists, by far-

storytellers, and deeply symbolic of the

sighted landowner Cornelius O ’Brien.

Irish story of emigration. Halfway round the

Before arriving at the Tower, you could try

Slea Head Drive – a scenic route circling the

a guided walk along the cliff-edge paths

edge of the Dingle Peninsula – is the Blasket

with a Cliffs of Moher Ranger. The walks

Centre. Its director, Irish-speaking Mícheál

take just over an hour and, depending

de Mordha, provides moving insights into

on the time of year, you’ll see puffins,

the islanders’ hard lives, the sorrows of

guillemots, kittiwakes, chough, peregrine

emigration, and the literary heritage of the

falcon, fulmar and shags, among other

Blaskets.

birds.

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Cork DA M I E N O’ M A H O N Y: Brings us o n a jo ur n e y of disc o ve r y

he Wild Atlantic Way - even the

influenced by – the wider world. And it’s a

harbour. Waterways circle the city centre,

name conjures a sense of freedom and

place of learning, with one of Ireland’s oldest

crossed by 22 bridges. Hilly neighbourhoods

universities at its heart.

climb the river banks, stacked with colourful

mystery. Ireland stands as the most westerly



outpost of Europe, and its western shores, as any map or satellite view will tell you, are etched by the tireless Atlantic. But its geographical position as the last port of call before the New World has, for centuries, contributed to its economic growth - not least to that of Ireland’s second city, Cork the wonderful Gateway to the Wild Atlantic

It turns out that Cork, as well as being crammed full of nice people, is a sort of food Mecca. Never mind Paris or Brussels – if you want a gastronomic experience to remember forever, hop over to Cork and head for the English Market. If you like food, it’s like dying and going to heaven.

Way.

India Knight

Ireland’s southernmost city – capital of the beautiful south-west – is high on the Lonely

Cork’s got the depth you’d expect from a

houses and the University’s historic campus

Planet’s list of favourite cities in the world.

European Capital of Culture – the galleries,

seamlessly connects to the city centre.

It’s a spirited, independent place. Frommers

museums and live performances, plus a

Between the grand Georgian parades and

Guide, Yahoo Travel and the Huffington

packed events calendar, with more than 25

medieval alleyways of the central island is

Post have also put Cork in their top ten city

major festivals each year, including jazz,

the sensory delight of Cork’s 18th century

break destinations. It’s cosmopolitan and

choral, folk, Christmas and St. Patricks

creative too. And that’s hardly surprising.

Festivals. Throughout the year the city hums

For Cork is an ancient maritime port that

to the beat of the Lee Sessions - a series of

has spent centuries trading with – and being

free Irish Traditional music sessions in some of the city’s quaintest hostelries. The city also runs a traditional music showcase throughout the summer months - the award-winning Pulses of Tradition - a treat not to be missed. And Cork boasts a bewildering selection of great pubs which offer, amongst many other tipples, three black stouts brewed locally – Murphys, Beamish and Me Daza, unlike its poorer neighbour Dublin, which has only one! And there’s a lively city buzz. But there’s also a ‘no-nonsense’ warmth and an unpressured pace that makes you feel the time is on your side here. Nature has a hand in that. Cork was founded 14 centuries ago, on islands in an estuary, where the River Lee joins the world’s second-largest natural

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COBH, CO CORK Image Chris Hill

English Market. It’s loud, lively, and packed

many landmark attractions - St FinBarre’s

are all rewarding places to visit. Check out

with flavour: Cork in a nutshell. The star

Cathedral, Elizabeth Fort, (one of the world’s

the city’s excellent website for full details of

of this indoor casbah – and of Cork’s great

best preserved Elizabethan star forts), The

all there is to see and do - www.cork.ie.

eating-out scene – is the local produce from

Nano Nagle Exhibition on Douglas Street

Grounded, witty and irreverent, “The People’s

this fertile region’s fields and seas. Every

(Nano was the Foundress of the Presentation

Republic of Cork” likes to set itself apart

palate is catered for in this vibrant city - fine

Order of Nuns - the Exhibition opens in May

from the rest of the country. Cork people are

dining, a thriving bistro culture and an

2016), Triskel Christchurch where the poet

immensely proud of their independent streak.

eclectic ethnic food offering make this place

Edmund Spenser was married, St Peter’s

For all that, it’s an intensely Irish place to

a foodie paradise. India Knight, the respected

Church on North Main Street, (William

visit. Perched between the Wild Atlantic Way

British food critic

Penn worshipped here). Blackrock Castle

and Ireland’s Ancient East there’s not a better

had this to say:

Observatory, the Lifetime Lab and Cork Gaol

place to start or end your journey.

To the south, the deep bowl of Cork Harbour, with its sailing races and regattas, is circled by some of Ireland’s most iconic places. At the harbour’s edge Cork’s port of Cobh, a departure point for millions of emigrants, and the last calling point of the Titanic is a place with a poignant history beneath its cheerful seaside feel. East of the Harbour is Jameson’s whiskey distillery at Midleton: a pure taste of Ireland for millions around the world. To the North West lies Blarney and its Castle, legendary home of Irish eloquence. Just south again, on the Wild Atlantic coast, is picture-perfect, smart Kinsale with its yachts, beautiful quayside, narrow 18th-century streets, festivals and gourmet cuisine. The market towns of Clonakilty and Skibbereen are a delight to the visitor and Cork’s coastline, as you will no doubt discover as you explore the Wild Atlantic

THE ENGLISH MARKET

Way, boasts some of the most dramatic landscape in Europe.

Image Tourism Ireland

Back in the city itself, there is so much to see and do. Check out its Medieval Spine with Go Wild Magazine - Summer Edition 2016

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Interview with Liam Campbell L I A M C A M P B E L L F R O M FÁ I LT E I R E L A N D G I V E S I N S I D E R T I P S A N D A PA S S I O N AT E D E S C R I P T I O N O F H I S W I L D AT L A N T I C WAY

iam Campbell is Manager of International Publicity at Fáilte Ireland and worked for Irish tourism for 36 years throughout

Ireland, Britain and Northern Ireland. The International Publicity team designs, hosts and manages over 550 itineraries for over 1,200 international media, many of whom have been sourced by Tourism Ireland’s Markets offices. Last year, they made over 5,500 bookings with the tourism industry for over 1,271 international media, generating over €275 million in estimated advertising value to their audiences of over 1.6 billion.

2 . W H AT M A K E S T H E W I L D AT L A N T I C WAY S O U N I Q U E ?

For me, it is the drama and raw energy of an uncontrollable nature that imprints itself on the 2,500 km of Ireland’s Atlantic coast on the edge of Europe. The jagged mountains, like gothic cathedrals thrashed skywards from the sea by the pounding waves.

D O N E G A L’ S FA N A D A N D I N I S OW E N P E N I N S U L A S A R E P E R F E C T F O R R E A L LY W I L D AC T I V I T I E S L I K E R O C K A N D S E A S TAC K C L I M B I N G UNDER THE CARE AND G U I DA N C E O F WO R L D C L A S S LO C A L E X P E R T S .

The ever-changing skyscape of colour 1 . W H AT I S I T A B O U T T H E W I L D

and mood as the fickle elements try

AT L A N T I C WAY T H AT YO U L OV E ?

out different types of weather. Like a

3. ANY INSIDER TIPS?

I love the fact that the Wild Atlantic Way, as a

child on Christmas morning, there is

The first tip is to leave your watch at

very special part of Ireland, has the dual ability

the constant sense of excitement and

home. Time on Ireland’s Wild Atlantic

to connect us to nature and to local communities

anticipation as yet another jaw-dropping

Way has its own clock and unpredictable

that have evolved and been defined by its awesome

beautiful vista reveals itself around the

pace that encourages making time for

power and natural beauty. On a personal level,

next corner. And yet, despite nature’s

the unexpected and the spontaneous.

some of my family’s happiest memories are linked

influence, there is the very personal

Daylight hours are longer in summer

to Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way. My parents,

and human scale engagement to access

and when it rains, it gives an ideal

both Irish emigrants, met in England in the

the coast in the most sensual way

opportunity to go indoors for shelter and

fifties and married in Ireland. They spent their

through touch, sound, scents and taste,

nourishment. The natives are generous

honeymoon driving from Cork to Donegal and

whether climbing sea stacks, foraging

with their time to give you their local

visited Youghal during the filming of Moby Dick

for seaweed, fishing and having your

expert knowledge and stories. I am a

with Gregory Peck. Our summer holidays were

catch cooked in a local restaurant or

particular fan of the 150 Secrets of the

spent on beaches in Sligo, Clare and Kerry and in

hiring a bike and taking time to savour

Wild Atlantic Way – where the locals

my childhood’s memories, the sun always shone.

the saltiness of the Atlantic air.

go and also the free Wild Atlantic Way

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App on our website - www.failteireland.

foodie communities who champion their

Atlantic and amongst

ie/Wild-Atlantic-Way.aspx Dress for the

local ingredients to tantalise the taste

UNESCO World

occasion and every occasion and you won’t

buds of any gourmand. Mayo, home to

Heritage Sites has courted

have to say “no” when adventures arise.

Ireland’s only holy mountain offers a more

fame recently from another

horizontal and leisurely trek by bike on

galaxy, far, far away.

the Green Way and kayaking along the 4 . FAVO U R I T E I T I N E R A RY

coast. While fishing and seafood, Galway’s

Cork has its history of pioneering quality

Getting lost used to distract from the

City of the Tribes has a vibrant energy

local food produce and established farmers’

focus of a journey. However, now there

and nightlife you would expect from a

markets. Boasting some of the prettiest

is frequent signage to guide and reassure

university city and a strong Irish accent

towns and villages including colourful

that you are still on the Wild Atlantic

and language. Clare has its distinct Burren

Clonakilty and medieval Kinsale, it is not

Way while highlighting some of the most

and topography that attracts botanists

just Cork’s musical accent that is infectious.

powerful and photogenic views at the 15

amazed to see alpine and sub-tropical

signature discovery points. My favourite

plants coexist in the limestone pavements’

itinerary is more to do with a personal

clints and grykes. Traditional Irish music

and emotional experience and engagement

and song is synonymous with Clare.

with the locals than specific locations.

Limerick City, once the largest Butter

That is because every county on the Wild

Market in the world and nearby Foynes

Atlantic Way can deliver on my priorities,

where the Foynes Flying Boat Museum,

but each with their own distinct county’s

housed in the original terminal building,

accent and individual experiences. I look

recalls that nostalgic era when Foynes

for my mind and heart to be stimulated

was the centre of the aviation world from

but also becalmed and serene. There is

1937 to 1945. Home also of the first Irish

something almost primeval about hearing

Coffee, created here to warm up cold

6. FIVE BEST THINGS

and feeling the waves break at your bare

transatlantic passengers. The late great

A B O U T T H I S P L AC E :

feet. Both breathing and heart rate tunes

Hollywood actress, Maureen O’Hara

Some of the five most popular things that

in to the rhythm of the Atlantic that waits

was a great supporter – her husband

our international media have highlighted in

for nearly 5,000km to finish its journey from

was one of the Flying Boat pilots.

their writings, broadcasts and blogs show a

America ending its opus with a crescendo.

common thread that flows along Ireland’s Kerry, the cradle of Ireland’s tourism

Wild Atlantic Way. The dramatic scenery

5 . FAVO U R I T E W I L D AT L A N T I C

where genuine hospitality is genetic. So

that is almost heart-stopping majestic and

WAY D E S T I N AT I O N :

many icons and images - Dingle whose sea

sculpted by nature. A poignant history

My favourite Wild Atlantic Way destination

trading for nearly a millennium sees itself

as told in the visitor centres and by locals

is ever changing and depends on the time

at the heart of Europe rather than on its

that helps explain the 70 million people

of year. Donegal’s Fanad and Inisowen

edge. Nearby on the Iveragh Peninsula is

worldwide who claim Irish ancestry. The

peninsulas are perfect for really wild

the Kerry Dark Sky Reserve, one of only

freshest and tastiest of ingredients and food

activities like rock and sea stack climbing

three Gold Tier Reserves in the World

prepared with skill and flair. A necklace of

under the care and guidance of world

and the only one located in the Northern

new craft breweries and some distilleries

class local experts. In contrast when the

Hemisphere. Another international claim

showcasing a renaissance in Ireland’s

elements are in harmony, the northern

to fame from Valentia whose slate was

traditional beverages. The diversity of

lights can be viewed on Inishowen. While

quarried to roof and protect the Paris Opera

activities from world class golf links to

Donegal and Sligo’s surfing is world

House, London’s Houses of Parliament and

sea stack climbing and democratically

famous, Sligo has another new reason to

many billiard tables, including one made

accessible by wheel, paddle or foot to

stop and stay, the Sligo Food Trail shows

for the Duke of Wellington and Queen

all ages. An open invitation: discover

the passion and cooperation amongst the

Victoria. The Skelligs, a true star of the

your own Wild Atlantic Way, often.

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Atlantic Trails Exhilarating guided walks, hikes and tours in West Clare

The West Clare landscape is truly a unique and beautiful environment with colourful hills and valleys running down to meet the wild ocean below on Atlantic headlands and bays. It offers stunning treks for beginners and those looking for a little more of a challenge

tlantic Trails is a new venture by seasoned hikers and nature lovers, Paddy Dolan and Patrick Sheehy. Their guided walks and hikes take you away from the hustle and bustle of daily life, with tours along West Clare’s Wild Atlantic Way and also in the surrounding mountain areas, such as The Twelve Bens in Galway, The Galtee Mountains in Tipperary and the Kerry Mountains. They can cater for all needs from exploration trips off the beaten track, to walks along the Cliffs of Moher or the Aran Islands, drives around the magical landscape of The Burren, or full day guided hikes in the Kerry Mountains.

Go Wild Magazine - Summer Edition 2016

What makes Atlantic Trails different is that they offer more than just a standard guided tour – they are great ‘craic’ (fun), they give insights into the local area and environment, they introduce you to local characters, and they tell great stories, both historical and mythological. At the end of the day visitors are brought to a local village pub to quench their thirst and enjoy a lively Irish music session. What more could you ask for? So who are the duo behind the business and how are they living the dream that so many of us would aspire to?

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 “We are very excited to follow our passion for nature and create a new local business within it. After years of living abroad and experiencing so many beautiful places it only seems right to return home to Ireland, live on the west coast and get involved in Ireland’s tourism and the Wild Atlantic way”. PADDY DOLAN

Paddy and Patrick moved to Liscannor in Spring 2015 and were blown away by the landscape and what it had to offer. However, they were surprised at how very few walking and hiking tours were available for the large amount of visitors to the area, both from within Ireland and abroad, so they saw a gap in the market.

years and he loves a good day out on the hills with a new group, making new friends, in his favourite environment.

It has always been a dream of Dolan and Sheehy to work in the great outdoors and they also felt strongly about sharing their own breath-taking adventures with others, so it was the perfect opportunity to combine their hobby with a viable business. And so, they decided to take a leap of faith. Paddy Dolan, who worked as a Mechanical Engineer for over ten years in America & Ireland, says he is now living his dream – working in nature, being outdoors and earning a living guiding people around it.

His partner Patrick Sheehy, who has a degree in Psychology, also has a great wealth of experience. Friends would describe him as a well-travelled and sociable lover of life. He has explored more than 20 countries and lived in southern Mexico for 7 years, during which time he brought tourists on surf expeditions along the Pacific coastline, and inland to visit ancient Aztec and Mayan temples and ruins. Patrick is also an experienced Airbnb host near the Cliffs of Moher and it was through this work that he started taking his guests on tours of County Clare and the Burren.

Paddy believes spending time in the outdoors, surrounded by nature, is essential for healthy physical and mental growth. His introduction to the outdoors began at the early age of 6 years, when he joined the Beaver Scouts in Cork. From there he progressed through all ranks of Scouts and participated in many great adventures – frequently in the mountainous areas of Ireland, Scotland and Wales, but most notably Mount Kilimanjaro in 2005, the Swiss Alps in 2010, Mount Whitney and The Rocky Mountains of Colorado 2011 & 2012. Paddy is also an avid runner and surfer. He completed the New York City Marathon in 2005 and 2009 and surfing is what initially attracted him to the West coast of Clare. He has been leading groups of people up mountains for many

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Sample Atlantic Trails

The only difficulty is deciding which spectacular hike, trail or tour to choose from, so we’ve picked a few to narrow down the choice… CLIFFS OF MOHER WALK. This is the most desired trail walk in Ireland. Enjoy a breathtaking journey from Liscannor/ Hag’s Head to the Cliffs of Moher Centre (5km, 1.5-2hours), or from Hag’s Head to Doolin (13km, 4.5-5 hours). The Cliffs are rich in history and legend, but the scenery is its most outstanding feature. The Cliffs of Moher are home to thousands of seabirds, including puffins. They stand 214 metres above the Atlantic Ocean. Big wave surfers travel from all over the world to surf the famous bbig wave known as Aileen’s, down at the base of the cliffs. The terrain is easy walking on a well paved trail. DYSART O’DEA CASTLE AND THE ARCHAEOLOGY/ HISTORY TRAIL, FEATURING 25 SITES If you’re interested in archaeology and history, this tour will give you a deeper perspective on Ireland’s rich and diverse past. The authentically restored 15th century Dysert O’Dea castle, the stronghold of the O’Dea clan, houses the Clare Archaeology Centre, which was opened in July 1986 and has been the recipient of numerous national awards. Dysert O’Dea Church, which stands on the site of an early Christian monastery, dates mainly from the 12th century. Its most famous feature is the Romanesque Doorway. Near the church’s north western corner stands the remains of a Round Tower. The High Cross, situated east of the church, dates from the 12th century and is one of the finest examples of its kind in Ireland. Duration is 1-2hrs with only a little walking around the site. THE GREEN ROAD AND BLACK HEAD This trail along the ancient Green Road and up to Black Head offers stunning views of the Burren meeting the Atlantic Ocean, the Aran Islands and the mountains of Connemara. It is a 2-3 hour walk on green road or limestone paths, which highlights all the unqiue features of the Burren. There is only one mildly difficult hike up to an ancient stone fort overlooking Galway Bay.

Atlantic Trails I T I N E R A RY I N M I N D?

PATRICK’S BURREN TOUR: This is one tour that Patrick has been perfecting for some time. He always brings his B&B guests on this one and they love it. A fun full day with a nice variety of sights. Visit the High Crosses of Kilfenora, a 500 year old castle, Carran Perfumery in the heart of the Burren, the stunning Eagle’s Rock and the Flaggy Shore. Dine in one of Ireland’s best seafood restaurants. Finally, visit the ancient Poulnabrone Dolmen, a portal tomb about 6,000 years old. Most of this tour is driving around to the sights with short walks at each location. Duration 4-6 hours. THE GALTEE MOUNTAINS A beautiful mountain range of several peaks, valleys and lakes running 25km in an East-West line in North Munster, claiming the highest inland mountain seat in Ireland. At approximately 250million years old, they are a fine example of fold mountains from the Armorican period. Outstanding features include the Galtee wall running across the top of the range, deep corrie lakes, wide awesome valleys and views far into the surrounding Golden Vale, make this hiking area a joy every time. There are a variety of at least 10 fine hikes to choose from in this range. A lot of the time Galtee Mor peak is included in the selected route as it is the highest point in the range at 919m, but any hike can be selected for you with your desired length and duration. Terraine can be anything from easy flat walking paved trails to steep rocky slopes. Duration can be 1-6hours. MULLAGHMORE Known as “The Jewel of the Burren”, this hike offers fine examples of the unique hills of the Burren and their fascinating shape. Beginning along the shore of a typical Burren lake, Lough Gealain, it then follows a well-used trail up to the summit of Mullaghmore. There are great views of Clare and Galway, two prehistoric cairns on the summit and plenty uncommon flora including a variety of orchid species. Duration approximately 3hours.

If you have an itinerary in mind or if you are looking for inspiration, Atlantic Trails can guide you on a journey of exploration. See www. atlantictrails.ie or contact Paddy or Patrick on paddy@atlantictrails.ie, patrick@atlantictrails.ie +353 87 6254503 or +353 83 4733043.

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A location spectacular beyond belief

enjoy â&#x20AC;˘ relax â&#x20AC;˘ explore

Parknasilla is only a short drive along the Wild Atlantic Way from the vibrant town of Kenmare. But what really counts is our immediate location set within a "Tropical Paradise" of islands, inlets & hidden beaches. So come stay with us and wake up to our beautiful sea views, indulge in a little spa pampering, explore one of our many coastline walking trails, enjoy a guided sea kayaking tour, play a little golf and in the evening come dine with us in The Pygmalion Restaurant where exemplary cooking, good wine and great service will impress.

www.parknasillaresort.com Parknasilla Resort & Spa, Sneem, Co. Kerry, Ireland Tel: +353 (0)64 6675600 Email: info@parknasillaresort.com

SHAN NON FE RRI ES Linking Clare and Kerry M I C H E L L E

M C D O N A G H

C H AT S

W I T H

C E O ,

E U G E N E

M A H E R

When a group of local family businesses got together in the late 1960’s to set up a vehicle ferry company linking the iconic tourist spots of the Banner County of Clare and the Kingdom of Kerry, they never envisaged that almost 50 years later this busy route would be carrying half a million passengers every year.

he only ferry trip company on the main spine of the Wild Atlantic Way, ShannonFerry sails visitors from all around

the world across the majestic Shannon Estuary from Killimer, County Clare to Tarbert, County Kerry 364 days of the year, apart from Christmas Day. The invigorating 20 minute journey,

company back in 1968 and custom-built its

natural vistas all along the route.”

which would take two and a quarter

very first vessel in 1968, are still involved

The Shannon ferry evokes wonderful

hours to drive on poor roads, allows

in the company today. Since then, the

memories for domestic tourists who can

passengers to experience the rugged

volume of traffic on the route has grown

still remember the excitement of getting

nature of land and sea as they breathe in

on a continuous basis and the capacity

the boat as a child, and the bottle of

the fresh salty air of Ireland’s west coast.

of vessels and infrastructure alongside.

Lucozade and bag of crisps onboard.

If they are lucky, they might even

“We get a mixture of passengers. Tourism,

“The Wild Atlantic Way has been there for

catch a glimpse of the dolphins,

both international and domestic, is the key

thousands of years, but Failte Ireland came

which in the summer, can sometimes

driver of our business and we do two-thirds

up with the brilliant idea of developing

swim right up to the ferry.

of our business from the start of May to

a brand around it which has pulled the

The ShannonFerry Visitor Centre in

the end of September, and domestic traffic

whole tourism fraternity along the western

Killimer stocks an extensive range of

is a huge part of our bread and butter.

seaboard together. It’s not just a marketing

books for all interests, souvenirs of Ireland,

International tourism has bounded ahead

or branding tool, there is infrastructure

CDs and tapes, tea, coffee, minerals,

over the last few years, and visitors from

behind it, and having something as

sandwiches, sweets and ice-creams. A

all over the world are coming to see the

significant as this identified with our route

Bureau de Change service is available,

Wild Atlantic Way,” says Mr Maher.

and business is critical. It’s an outstanding

as well as free and easy parking.

concept that has led to a rejuvenation

Information on the wide range of local

The Shannon Dolphin, which was

of the West Coast of Ireland, providing

sites, attractions and activities in Clare,

purpose built in Appledore, England,

visitors with an authentic feeling of what

Kerry and their wider regions from

in 1995 can accommodate 52 cars and

rural Ireland is about — the music, food,

Loop Head to Dingle and the Ring of

350 people. The Shannon Breeze, also

language and culture,” Mr Maher says.

Kerry, is available at the Visitor Centre

built in Appledore and launched in 2000,

Summer Opening Hours: 09:00 to 21:00

or online at www.shannonferries.com

has space for 60 cars and 250 people.

Winter Opening Hours: 09:00 to 19:00

Eugene Maher, CEO of ShannonFerry

Mr Maher remarks: “It’s a huge novelty

Killimer Visitor Centre, Phone +353

says that with a service every 30

for tourists to drive onto the ferry, get

65 9053124 Fax: +065 9053009

minutes in peak season between May

out of their car, get a breath of fresh air,

and September, they have a saying that

and take a stroll on the upper deck. It’s

ShannonFerry Group Limited,

“you’re never late for one of our

a great break from driving, particularly

Killimer, Kilrush, Co Clare.

ferries, just early for the next one.”

for coach groups operating to a schedule.

Tel: +353 65 9053124 Fax: +353 65 9053125

Five of the six families from both sides of

Passengers can use our rest rooms or get a

Email: enquiries@shannonferries.com

the Shannon Estuary who established the

tea or coffee while they enjoy the stunning

Web: www.shannonferries.com

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Bridging the best of Irelandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s West

CLARE KERRY

Shorter Crossing...Longer Memories! Scheduled daily sailings between KILLIMER & TARBERT Your gateway to the

www.shannonferries.com tel: (065) 9053124

s l for the season ahead a v i t s e F

Ireland has some very quirky festivals – ones that champion mountain goats, pirates, twins, redheads and matchmaking. Check out some of our favourites for the season ahead… BALTIMORE PIRATE FESTIVAL

FLEADH CHEOIL NA HÉIREANN

West Cork, June 18-19

Ennis, August 14-22

This remarkable June event marks the real ‘Sack of Baltimore’, an

Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann is the most important event in the

attack on the area by over 200 Algerian pirates in 1631. During

traditional music calendar. For many, it is the culmination of

the festival, this charming seaside town is abuzz with maritime-

months of hard work and practice as they compete against

related activity, with townspeople and visitors invited to dress up.

fellow musicians, singers and dancers to achieve the recognition of being an All-Ireland champion. For others it is a unique and welcoming festival of the best of traditional arts that offers a wide

SEA SESSIONS, BUNDOREN

range of activities to be enjoyed by all. www.fleadhcheoil.ie

Co. Donegal, June 24-26

FAMILY FUN AT TWIN FEST, BALLYMOTE

Laidback music and surfing come together in style every June at

Ballymote Co. Galway, August 23

Sea Sessions in the popular seaside town of Bundoran, County Donegal; a world-renowned surfing area. Over the weekend,

Each August, the historic village of Keash in rugged County

the town positively buzzes; catch the waves during the day

Sligo plays host to Twin Fest; a one-day event celebrating

on the sandy beach, then settle in at night for some fantastic

twins, triplets and quads. It’s an opportunity for twins from

live music performances. Marquees are set up against the

round the world to make new friends, with monies raised

backdrop of the wild Atlantic, adding to the unique atmosphere.

going to a great cause (ACT For Meningitis). Organisers

www.seasessions.com

opted to hold it in Sligo, the county Irish poet WB Yeats dubbed “the land of heart’s desire”. History fans will be excited to hear that Keash was the birthplace of Ireland’s most famous king, Cormac McAirt, who reigned sometime between the second and fourth centuries. www.twinfest.ie

DISCOVER YOUR HAIR-ITAGE AT THE IRISH REDHEAD CONVENTION PUCK FAIR, KILLORGLIN

Crosshaven Co. Cork, August 21-23

Co. Kerry, August 10-12

The Irish Redhead Convention is a festival of ginger loving madness and a celebration of all things to do with having

More than 400 years old, Puck Fair in Killorglin is Ireland’s oldest

fabulous red hair! It takes place in the beautiful sailing village

festival, and certainly one of its most beloved. Every August,

of Crosshaven in County Cork and started as a joke. Red hair

locals crown a wild mountain goat king of the town... yes, you

is the rarest of hair colours, and accounts for only 0.6% of the

read that right! It’s thought that the

worlds population. The highest percentage of natural redheads

celebration dates back to pre-Christian

in the world live in Scotland at 13% with Ireland reigning in

rites of harvest and fertility. However, the

close behind at 10%. So if you love your red hair and want a

crowning element was added as homage

chance to discover your natural hair-itage, join us and hundreds

to a plucky goat who, back in the 17th

of other natural redheads from all around the world, for the

century, broke free from his herd and made

Irish Redhead Convention. www.redheadconvention.com

his way to Killorglin, warning inhabitants

between the second and fourth centuries. www.twinfest.ie

of the approaching Cromwellian army. Today’s festival is a time of celebration, with parades, street art, music and entertainment taking place over the course of three days. www.puckfair.ie

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Savour genuine Indian cooking at Limerick’s

Cream Room Curry House

There are very few places outside India itself where you can enjoy the finest of authentic Indian cuisine, but the award-winning Cream Room Curry House at the Great National South Court Hotel in Limerick is one such rare establishment.

FINEST INDIA N CUISINE

He says: “The restaurant has been busy from the very first day it opened and it is going very well. We get a lot of local people coming to eat here as well as hotel guests and visitors to Limerick.” The Cream Room opened in 2013 and was recommended by Paulo Tullio’s Taste of Ireland as a place to eat in 2014 and 2015.

Inspired by the traditions of his home country, head chef Lekhraj Kapil, and his team fuse sophisticated flavours and expertise to take diners on a tantalising journey across the different regions of India. Kapil joined the Cream Room with a wealth of experience from prestigious eateries in India, Dubai and Ireland over the past 40 years. So popular is his genuine Indian cooking that customers from the restaurant where he worked in Ennis before moving to Limerick have followed him. The Cream Room Curry House combines the best of ethnic Indian cuisine and fine wines at value-for-money prices with the hospitality and warmth of Ireland. “For the people of India, dining together symbolises a shared celebration of life. The colourful richness of the ingredients and the passion in preparing food is uniquely Indian, and we aim to reflect this in our cuisine,” says Kapil. A good chef will never pick a favourite from his menu, according to Kapil, as the quality of every dish he cooks should be at the same high standard. However, the most popular dishes with his Irish customers are the milder menu options like his kormas, Tikka Masala and Murgh Makhani (butter chicken). Having said that, some of his more adventurous customers like so much spice in their food, it’s even too hot for Kapil’s taste.

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The restaurant’s extensive range of starters features fresh tiger and jumbo prawns, tender tilapia fish, and chicken and lamb marinated in Kapil’s secret blend of herbs. The mouth-watering main course menu features kormas, jalfrezi dishes flavoured with carom seeds, and regional dishes like Murgh Chettinad, a speciality of the Kerala region with roasted Malabar peppers, mustard seed, curry leaves and coconut sauce. There is lamb rogan josh, a popular dish of the Kashmir and Ra Ra Gosht, a rustic dish from the heart of the Punjab made with lamb rump, lamb mince, lentil beans and greens. The menu also features an extensive range of European and vegetarian starters and main courses, a selection of fresh naan bread and rice dishes, a delicious choice of desserts, and to end the meal perfectly, a selection of the speciality coffees.

The Cream Room Curry House at the Great National South Court Hotel is now open seven days a week from Monday to Thursday, 5pm to 10pm; Fridays and Saturdays from 5pm to 10.30pm and Sundays from 5pm to 9pm. Take-away service is also available seven days and can be ordered online at www. creamroomcurryhouse.thedeliveryguys.ie or by calling direct on +353 (0)61 487405. To make a reservation, please call: +353 (0)61 487405 .

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Come and see our beautiful 1,000 acre estate • 6 Acre Victorian Walled Garden • Restored Rooms in the Abbey • Gothic Church Phone: 095 52001

KYLEMORE

A • History Talks and Guided Tours • Woodland & Lakeshore Walks • Café & Tea House: Craft & Design Shop

E: bookings@kylemoreabbey.com

BBEY

& VICTORIAN WA L L E D G A R D E N

W: www.kylemoreabbey.com

DAY 1 : D O N E G A L TOW N TO S L I G O TOW N : 1 0 0 K M (62 M I L E S ) / 2 H O U R S AT 5 0 K M / H D O N E G A L T OW N T O M U L L AG H M O R E H E A D

COU NT Y DON EGAL TO MAYO in 5 D ays Reconnect with nature on remote islands, listen to the beat of the land at a trad session, and watch the very best surf sky-high waves.

 The route begins in Donegal town, be-

rivers are some of the most plenti-

fore heading southbound on the Wild At-

ful salmon spots on the island.

lantic Way. Settle in for the evening after a

Mullaghmore Head is a surfer’s haven:

stroll along the harbour and a feed of Don-

think monster waves reaching up to 30

egal Bay oysters, fresh from the trawlers.

feet. It’s also where you’ll find one of

And so we move towards Mullaghmore,

nature’s purest therapies… think about

but not before a brief but beautiful stop

stopping off for a hot bath of Atlantic

in the ever-verdant county of Leitrim.

seawater seaweed at the Pier Head Hotel.

Stocky stone crosses are almost ubiq-

As an island, we’ve had our fair share

uitous in Ireland, but the sample at

of seafaring visitors. Some have come

Tullaghan has a story that sets it apart.

to a tragic end on these shores. You can

Mysteriously washed up on Leitrim’s

visit the site of the 16th century Spanish

shores in 1778 it was rescued and

Armada Shipwrecks at Streedagh Beach,

erected by a local landlord. Today, it

County Sligo. A monument now com-

stands proudly in Tullaghan village,

memorates those who lost their lives.

safe from the Atlantic’s erosive intent.

Alternatively, take to the harbourside

Any anglers in this part of the world

Pier Head Hotel and marvel at the

should take note: the Drowes and Duff

views from the comfort of indoors.

M U L L AG H M O R E H E A D T O S L I G O T OW N  Leave the Neoprene-clad daredevils

Jack also ensured that his illustrious works

behind at Mullaghmore, and make for

of art portrayed a little of that special

Yeats Country. The Nobel Laureate WB

Sligo beauty, no matter what the subject.

Yeats (son of a Sligo-born mother, who

A 25-minute detour from Ben Bulben

brought her children back to grow up in

is Glencar Waterfall, a secreted gem of

her home county) is celebrated both in the

gushing brilliance immortalized by Yeats

town and countryside. The dramatic back-

in the poem ‘The Stolen Child’. Picnic

drop of Ben Bulben in the Dartry Moun-

facilities are plentiful here, so should the

tains can be seen from Sligo town. Stand-

weather suit, make an afternoon of it.

Starting in the surfers’ paradise of Donegal,

ing out as a spectacular rock formation,

Post Glencar visit, reconnect with the

embrace the staggering greenness of Leitrim,

there’s no doubt WB Yeats gazed upon this

Wild Atlantic Way in Sligo town, home

before exploring Yeats Country in Sligo,

very same sight when penning his poem

to countless Yeats brothers secrets and

driving across Achill Island and concluding

Under Ben Bulben. His younger brother

sliced elegantly by the Garavogue River.

inding through the counties of Donegal, Leitrim, Sligo and Mayo will give you an authentic glimpse

into the wild ways of the west.

your journey in Westport, County Mayo. This touring route takes in four counties so it could take up to five days to really experience all the magic.

P O T T E RY Distinctive, Handcrafted Pottery Made with skill and passion by the team in our Workshop near Clogher Strand, Ballyferriter. Open Every Day, All Year

The Perfect Stop on Dingle’s Slea Head Drive CAFÉ/RESTAURANT • POTTERY SHOWROOM • WORKSHOP TOURS

Tel: 066 9156229 • www.louismulcahy.com Pota d ói r e ac h t n a C aolóige

DAY 2 : S L I G O TOW N TO D OW N PAT R I C K H E A D : 12 5 K M ( 7 7 M I L E S ) / 2 H O U R S 3 0 M I N U T E S AT 5 0 K M / H S L I G O T OW N T O AU G H R I S  On leaving Sligo town, make an exit

all abilities. Mugs of hot chocolate are

Aughris coastal walk, which takes you to

towards the ocean and head for yet another

the order of the day in these parts…

a nearby deserted village where you’ll find

surfing haven of Strandhill Beach – did we

Continuing west along the Wild Atlantic

the remains of booley huts. These simple

mention that surf was big around here?

Way, you’ll arrive at Aughris. Check

stone dwellings were built for herdsmen

Beginners are welcome, with Strandhill Surf

out The Beach Bar, an award-winning

who needed to be close to their cattle

School, Perfect Day Surf and Sup School

restaurant housed in a cosy thatched

during summer months. Historically, entire

offering a warm welcome and lessons for

cottage. Aughris is part of the Dunmoran/

families used to call these places home.

AU G H R I S T O D OW N PAT R I C K H E A D  Continue west from Aughris, and

the sea. It remains a pilgrimage site

To the southeast of Downpatrick Head

you’ll pass through the town of Ballina,

due to its namesake, Saint Patrick.

lies Killala Bay, while to the west are

where every July the town relishes

It’s little wonder that a lookout post was

the tall Staggs of Broadhaven: a group

its location on the banks of the River

built here during World War II. The Dún

of five rocky islets rising 100m above

Moy by hosting the Ballina Salmon

Briste (The Broken Fort) sea stack can

the crashing waves. The Stags, said to be

Festival. Hug the coast northwest

be seen from this point, too. Separated

millions of years old, are a magnet for

again until you come face to face with

from the mainland in 1393, this Atlantic

deep-sea divers and kayaking groups so

Downpatrick Head, which stands a

rock has remained remarkably intact,

if you’re feeling adventures, dive in.

staggering 38.5m (126 feet) above

despite the ferocity of the waves below.

DAY 3 : D OW N PAT R I C K H E A D TO B E L M U L L E T: 1 69 K M ( 1 05 M I L E S ) / 3 H O U R S 2 2 M I N U T E S AT 5 0 K M / H D OW N PAT R I C K H E A D T O C É I D E F I E L D S  Taking the road west from Downpatrick

the natural blanket bog covers secrets from

Easter to September) exhibiting the

Head, you’ll arrive at a place called Céide

the Stone Age that may surprise you.

region’s unique ecology and bogland.

Fields. This is where the first settlers

These Neolithic field systems are the

Guided walking tours are available to

began to farm the slopes of the Behy and

oldest in Europe and have their own

get a feel for the site’s rich history.

Glenurla hillside over 5,000 years ago, and

interpretative visitor centre (open from

CÉIDE F I ELDS TO BELMU LLET  Over half an hour away to the

the summer months from Blacksod.

Mayo coast from Ballina to Belmullet.

northwest is Belmullet (Béal an

Belmullet is ideally placed for those

The sculptures were installed in 1993,

Mhuileat), a Gaeltacht (Irish-speaking)

interested in sea angling, while also

coinciding with the celebration of

town on the Erris Peninsula. Lying

forming the end of the North Mayo

Mayo 5000, a year-long event that

to the southwest of the peninsula is

Sculpture Trail (Tír Sáile in Irish).

marked the presence of humankind

the tiny island of Inishkea (Inis Gé

This involved the creation of 14 site-

in Mayo for that many years…

Theas), which can be visited during

specific sculptures along the north

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DAY 4 : B E L M U L L E T TO K E E M S T R A N D : 13 3 K M (82 M I L E S ) / 2 H O U R S 39 M I N U T E S AT 5 0 K M / H B E L M U L L E T T O B A L LYC ROY  Head south to Ballycroy village, located

when it was the main route for locals

Wild Nephin wilderness experience: 11,000

between Mulranny and Bangor. Ballycroy

and their livestock. Summing it up, Irish

hectares in North West Mayo have been

National Park is Ireland’s newest National

author of The Way That I Went, Robert

designated as Ireland’s first wilderness

Park and is dominated by the Nephin Beg

Lloyd Praeger said: “You are thrown at the

area, and it’s the first of its kind in Western

mountain range. The park is a hillwalker’s

same time back upon yourself and forward

Europe! Think blanket bog, mountainous

dream with dedicated walking trails. The

against the mystery and majesty of nature.”

terrain, and plenty of rivers and lakes.

Bangor Trail dates back to the 16th century

If you want to really go wild, then try the

B A L LYC ROY T O K E E M S T R A N D  Drive south from Ballycroy, before

– next stop America. Mayo is known

into your swimsuit should the sun

turning west to Mulranny and you’ll

for its multitude of Blue Flag Beaches

shine down on you, most times you’ll

find yourself on the bridge connecting

(each must meet 32 strict criteria for

only have the sheep as onlookers…

the Currane peninsula and Achill

water quality, management, safety and

Nature lovers will enjoy the 11,000

Island. Following the island signposts

environmental education) and Keem

acre Ballycroy National Park, with

brings you across to Keem Bay, which

Strand is one that continues to thrill

its conservation areas and special

gazes out onto to the Atlantic Ocean

beach goers. We suggest a change

species of flora and fauna.

DAY 5 : K E E M S T R A N D TO W E S T P O R T: 97 K M (60 M I L E S ) / 1 H O U R 5 6 M I N U T E S AT 5 0 K M / H K E E M S T R A N D T O C L E W B AY  Drive back east, before turning south

season, and keep watch for Dorinish Island,

Just outside Westport, in April and

towards Westport, and on to Clew Bay

which John Lennon bought in the 1960s.

August every year, as the sun sets it

where locals say there are 365 islands, one

Clew Bay is and has always been

appears to roll down the northern slope

for every day of the year (in reality, there

a hub for maritime activity. The

of Croagh Patrick. Taking around 20

are 117). The largest island, Clare Island,

infamous Pirate Queen Grace O’Malley

minutes to full sunset, this has to be one

still has around 130 inhabitants and can be

based herself from this spot over 500

of the most spectacular sights to capture

easily accessed by ferry. See the bay from

years ago. Nearby Westport House

on your Wild Atlantic Way journey

onboard Clewbay Cruises during high

celebrates her fearsome legacy.

C L E W B AY T O W E S T P O RT  Just a few minutes from Clew Bay is

town is particularly lauded for its great

Clare, just south of here, boast some of

Westport, which has been voted the best

gourmet offerings, especially during the

the best natural landscapes imaginable,

place to live in Ireland. Once you arrive,

Westport Food Festival (September).

while Limerick city became the first

you’ll understand why. The charming

From Westport, you’re ideally placed to

ever Irish City of Culture in 2014.

coastal town buzzes with warmth and

keep on exploring the rest of the Wild

the locals’ welcome is legendary. The

Atlantic Way. Counties Galway and

FOR MORE ITINERARIES see http://www.ireland.com/en-gb/wild-atlantic-way/west-coast-itineraries/

Go Wild Magazine - Summer Edition 2016

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the Wild A Your perfect base to dis Visit our website www.hotelnewport.iethe or contact 42464 for W Wild098Atlantic more information. Special group packages will be available with Your perfect base discover Yourtoperfect base to discover Your perfectvarious base to discover activities in place. the Wild Atlantic Way the Wild Atlantic Way the Wild Atlantic Way

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Visit ourtowebsite www.hotelnewport.ie or contact 098 42464 for Special accommodation packages available discover098 the42464 sightseeing Visit our website www.hotelnewport.ie or contact for views more information. Special group packages will be available with of Co Mayo. For more information visit our website on www.hotelnewport.ie or more information. Special group packages will be available with Hotel Newport, Main Street, New contact our reservation team on 098 42464. various activities in place. various activities in place.

Hotel Newport, Main Street, Newport, Co. Mayo

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Hotel Newport, Main Street, Newport, Co. Mayo

otel Newport, Main Street, Newport, Co. Mayo

c i t n a l t A d l i W Wa r r i o r B Y

A O I F E

O ’ C A R R O L L

THERE ARE MANY WAYS TO SEE THE WILD ATLANTIC WAY You could drive it all the way from Donegal to Cork, you could even cycle it or kayak around your favourite bits. The one thing nobody has done is run the entire length of the Wild Atlantic Way—until now. Kerryman Alan Ryan has set himself the epic challenge of running the Wild Atlantic Way, all 2,500km of it, this summer. He is no stranger to major feats of endurance, having completed the gruelling Marathon des Sables in 2006. For that jaunt, he completed 251km (a mere six marathons) in six days, across the scorching Sahara Desert in Morocco. He also organises marathons, triathlons,

about the closest thing to going barefoot you

and cycling events through his website Hardman

can get. He maintains allows him to run with

Events, but this is an event on a whole other

the proper gait. To date, he has had no injuries

scale. So why is he taking on the equivalent of

or even blisters, so it seems to be working.

almost ten consecutive Marathons des Sables?

Diet is also important, with crisps and coke

“To paraphrase Sir Edmund Hillery, because it was there! I just couldn’t resist the challenge, knowing that nobody else had done it before, and it’s on my doorstep. On a serious note, I also wanted to do something to raise money for multiple sclerosis.” Training for what he is calling the Wild Atlantic

making way for protein-rich smoothies, nuts,

Warrior started last autumn, and the miles have

and oat bread. “I really miss junk. In fact, I’d

been building, with full weekends of back-to-

say the diet is even harder than the training!”

back marathons almost second nature at this

Alan will start his run in Muff on the

stage. At peak training, he will be doing two

Inishowen Peninsula in June, hoping

marathons in a day, before scaling back his efforts

to run about 40 miles every day, before

as his training tapers before the main event.

finishing in Kinsale in early July.

Alan follows the heart-rate training method

Alan starts his Wild Atlantic Warrior challenge

endorsed by the likes of Dr. Phil Maffetone,

on June 1st. He’s hoping for lots of support

which encourages running at an ideal maximum

along the way, as well as plenty of participation:

aerobic heart rate, so that you can run for longer,

You can follow Alan’s adventures on the

burning fat as fuel. He also runs in what look like

Wild Atlantic Warrior Facebook page.

Alan Ryan with Kerry footballers Colm Cooper and James O’Donoghue

flip flops. These minimalist running sandals are

Go Wild Magazine - Summer Edition 2016

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Heritage HeritageSites SitesOf OfIreland Ireland

Many millions from Ireland and overseas visit The OPW Heritage Card, costing just 25 our heritage sites every year. Guide/ranger (euro) for a Senior Citizen and 60 per services and interpretative displays are Family offers unlimited admission provided at many centres. For further to over 40 of our fee paying Offers unlimitedplease admission to over 45 fee paying sites for one year information contact: sites for one year – please contact: Visitor Services, Office of Public Works, email: heritagecard@opw.ie Unit 20 Lakeside Retail Park, Claremorris, Tel: 01 6476587 Mayo, Ireland. OPWCo. Heritage Card — Tel: 00 353 1 6476592 General Information(Photos: Photographic Unit, Dept. costing Adult:Many €25 Senior: €20 Family Child/Student €10 millions from €60: Ireland and overseas visit The OPW Heritage Card, just 25 email: info@heritageireland.ie Email: info@heritageireland.ie Arts, Heritage & The Gaeltacht) Offers unlimited admission to over 45 fee paying sites for one year. our heritage sitesTel: every Guide/ranger (euro) for a SeniorTel: Citizen 60 per Email:heritagecard@opw.ie 00353year. 1 6476592 00353and 1 6476000 services and interpretative displays are Family offers unlimited admission provided at many centres. For further tofind over us 40 of fee paying www.heritageireland.ie onourfacebook information please contact: sites for one year – please

s y o B h c WH AT I F TH E Bea H A D B E E N I R ISH?

Ger Corrigan contemplates the wonders of what may have been if they Beach Boys were born on the West of Ireland

like to think that if the Beach Boys had been Irish, perhaps they would have been bigger! Imagine if they has been born on the West Coast of Ireland and raised on the fabulous surf of the Wild Atlantic Way. Instead of golden haired blond lads they may well have had the odd freckle and the slight red skin hues of a gentle wind burn. Perhaps their hair would have been flaming red! I like to think of my Irish Beach Boys having names like, Turlough,

I get Around Get around round round I get around Achill Sound, around round I get around California Girls becomes Connemara girls I wish they all could be Connemara girls Wish they all could be Connemara Girls Surfin USA becomes Wild Atlantic Way

When I read the lyrics I can hear the sensational sounds of our Irish Beach boys. I think that the Wild Atlantic Way would have added a richness and depth to their lyrics. Doesn’t Connemara Girls sound far more interesting than California Girls? Get around round round I get around flows off the tongue easily and surely everyone would go surfing the Wild Atlantic Way - it has a potentially greater appeal than “Surfin USA”.

Go Wild Magazine - Summer Edition 2016

Fionn, Fiachra, Cathal and Oisin. Inspired by the majestic surf of the Wild Atlantic Way, they could have been huge. What inspiration would they have drawn from the majesty of Mullaghmore head as they watched warriors battle the waves? What inspiration would they have drawn for battling the thirty foot waves? What would they have made of Aileen’s wave with the majestic Cliffs of Moher as it’s glorious backdrop? They surely would have been inspired! Imagine the inspiration Lahinch would have provided

for our Irish Beach Boys! And what about Bundoran with its breaks peaks and waves, its majestic surf would have inspired enough material for ten albums.

If everybody had an Ocean a place to Surf and Play then everyone would go surfing The Wild Atlantic Way

Connemara Girls oh the east coast girls are hip i really dig those styles they wear there are lovely girls in Belfast and in beautiful Adare

Wouldn’t it be Nice Wouldn’t it be nice to Surf in Mayo or Tullan Strand in Donegal Strandhill Beach in County Sligo The Wild Atlantic Way has it all Good Vibrations becomes Wave Sensations Wave,Wave,Wave Wave Sensations Wave ,Wave ,Wave,Wave Sensations I’m pickin up Wave Sensations Wild Atlantic Wave Sensations

I like to think of my Irish Beach boys cruising the 2,500 kms of Wild Atlantic way, writing about its wonders, producing album after successful album, perhaps creating a new genre of Coastal Pop. I think they would have graced the Rock and Roll hall of fame, sold out world stadiums and topped the charts from Connemara to Yokahama. I like to think that fans would travel to the Wild Atlantic Way to pay homage to them.

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Turlough, Fionn, Fiachra, Cathal and Oisin - our Irish Beach Boys - singing about the beauty of Inchydoney, its unending treasures a source of continuous inspiration. I have re-imagined the Beach Boys Catalogue and re-written the lyrics to reflect the impact that the Wild Atlantic Way would have had on their creativity.

the mid west farmers daughters are wonderful they’ll charm ya but there’s nothing like the girls you meet in dear old Connemara oh I wish they all could be Connemara I wish they all could be Connemara I wish they all could be Connemara girls

I imagine a plaque on a wall in Clifden commemorating the very spot where the song Connemara Girls was inspired. Turlough, Fionn, Fiachra, Cathal and Oisin - we salute you. Your lyrics conveyed the magic of the Wild Atlantic Way, your healthy complexions fashioned by the Atlantic Winds, your beautiful freckles each telling a story and your ginger blond hair your iconic feature.

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All of this is

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Our favourite

Fashion Finds along the Way

Deirdre Hynds, looks at Atlantic Inspired Designers who are setting the Irish fashion scene alight The sublime beauty of the 2,500 kilometres of coastal

ethereal is brought sharply to earth by craggy rocks

road that wraps itself around Ireland’s West Coast-

that taunt the waters below, swooping gulls, solitary

line, both protecting it from, but opening it up to the

sheep and grass-lined roads, which slither through

wilds of the Atlantic Ocean, has always permeated

the landscape. Artists and designers, like many rare

the creative discourse of the Irish consciousness.

birds, have always flocked to the coastline; it ex-

Turner-like stormy seas create a gravitational pull

erts an instinctive pull that cannot be ignored.

on the collective psyche of the creative mind; but the Stars shine brighter by the water’s edge, and the constellation of Atlantic inspired fashion designers emit a glow that is setting the Irish fashion scene alight, a veritable pirates chest full of treasured inspirations waiting to be discovered from the north to the south tip of the Wild Atlantic Way.



M O L LOY & S O N S

F F II N N D D S S

f you are looking for fabric that will tell a story, Co. Donegal based Molloy & Sons Weavers will spin

you a yarn…The history of the land and the people is inextricably woven in to the rich textures and hues of the Donegal Tweed, produced by a father-son team who perceive their roles as; ‘representing the history of the past, the ambition of the future, and the ever–present beauty of the Atlantic coast of Donegal.’ Together they preserve a heritage that spans five family generations, by fusing traditional craftsmanship with modern techniques. The mill which is located on the northwest of the Atlantic coastline has ensured that the legacy and tradition of weaving is safeguarded, and continues to inspire lovers of heritage fabrics both at home and across the seas. www.molloyandsons.com



WE ARE ISL ANDERS We Are Islanders is a label that shares

in striped maritime navy and sunshine yellow

Molloy & Son’s awareness of the landscape,

linens, woven in one of Ireland’s last remain-

and story-preserving sensitivities, and

ing mills. The We Are Islanders hand-painted

has experimented with the mill’s Donegal

silks in jade and turquoise, are inspired by

Tweed throughout collections to date.

the fluidity and movement of water, and are named after famed sea-explorer Ida Pfeiffer.

Conceived after designer and visual artist

Flourishes which subtly reference the lives of

Rosie O’Reilly spent a summer building a

the islanders, include the clam-digger length

traditional Irish boat called a ‘currach’, the

jumpsuits, or the standout ‘Botany Shirt’

name We Are Islanders reflects the met-

produced in a tarpaulin like organic handloom

aphorical idea of living on an island. The

cotton (€325) which envelops the silhouette

lives of ancient and modern islanders infuse

of the wearer in folds of fabric, originally

the aesthetic of this unique label, which is

designed as pouches for shoreline sea foraging.

designed and sustainably produced in Ireland. The waters of the Atlantic soak the label We Are Islanders continually reference the

tangibly again with luxury salmon suede

Atlantic Seas as a touchpoint for design

trimmings. The salmon skins are a bi-product

inspiration and process. The SS16 collection

of an organic fish farm off the coast of Co.

is titled the ‘Journey to Hy-Brazil’ a reference

Galway, tanned to create an intricately natural

to a mythical Atlantean island said to lie

print which belies a strength that challenges

off the west coast of Ireland, a cartograph-

conventional leather hide, the juxtaposition

ical anomaly fabled to only be visible once

of the salmon suede with the linens and silks

every seven years…the stuff of sea legends.

elevate the collection, taking the wearer from utilitarian to evening wear with ease and grace.

SS16 pays homage to Ireland’s once thriving linen legacy, with tailored trousers, a dramatic

The full We Are Islanders collection is available

dress coat, and a chemise designed respectively

to purchase on www.weareislanders.com

I R I S H D E S I G N E R S AT T H E K I L K E N NY S H O P



The Kilkenny Store is perfect for Wild Atlantic Way travellers in Cork, Killarney and Galway, who are looking for a rockpool of Irish design treasures, with a selection of Irish fashion and crafts located under one roof, from season fashion to handmade jewellery, dazzling crystal and hand-thrown pottery to contemporary interior design, and brands including Orla Kiely, Nicholas Mosse, Fee G, Stephen Pearce and John Rocha. www.kilkennyshop.com

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

AT L A N T I C E Q U I P M E N T The idea of adventure and discovery resonates with the Co. Sligo based Atlantic Equipment Project. James Dean once mused, ‘I can’t change the direction of the wind, but I can adjust my sails to reach my destination’ and Atlantic Equipment is an Irish label designed to facilitate lifelong sail adjustments for intrepid travellers and explorers. Conceived in 2014 by Ashleigh Smith after spending years studying and working in product design, Atlantic Equipment designs and makes a small collection of carry equipment; backpacks, satchels and bags, and is inspired by Atlantic adventure. The label works with hardwearing, tough and natural fabrics to build backpacks and satchels



that will travel with their bearer and become

beautiful colour combinations. The aesthetic is

solid cast brass fittings, and secured with the

the physical expression of surf trips down

decidedly contemporary and refined, and pays

label’s signature D-ring and cord-tie-through

the coast, journeys to woodlands and bogs, or

tribute and respect to the harsh beauty of its

system. It will fit notebook, binoculars, iPad,

even the daily commute with laptop in tow.

surrounds. If the legendary Grainne Mhaol

diary and all necessary accoutrements for the

could have had her pick from the collection, she

demands of a modern day explorer traversing

Atlantic Equipment dips its brush into the pal-

would have chosen the ‘Field Satchel’ (€65) as

the waves of daily life. Available to purchase

ette of the local landscape, where lichens, moss,

her travel companion. This piece is made from

on www.atlanticequipmentproject.com and

the ocean, dunes and forest floors offer natural,

a tough duck canvas and cotton strapping, with

stockists in Galway, Dublin, Sligo and Cork.

vision of Conneely who has quietly, but deter-

heirloom in her work; something that de-

trends, an idea that resonates with the designer

minedly wrought an indelible imprint on the

serves love and care, but demands respect.

who is clearly concerned with our collective

A L I S O N CO N N E E LY Romantic figures from history are conjured up again when meeting with Designer, Stylist and Art Director, Alison Conneely, a self-confessed Irish modernist and dreamer. Irish poet W.B Yeats once remarked, ‘The world is full of magic things, patiently waiting for our senses to grow sharper.’ The notion of magic and wonder is carefully divined, and given shape through the work and artistic

landscape of the Irish fashion topography.

responsibilities as custodians of the land. Conneely’s work is rendered in natural fibres;

Growing up on the Ardbear Peninsula in

wools, linens silks, tweeds, leathers, and

Highlights include a modernist, slightly

Connemara, an early embrace from the

kid-skins, and is produced by a select group of

oversized tweed coat (€1,100), which is dra-

Twelve Bens Mountain range on one side, and

handpicked mills, makers, artisan workshops

matic but simple, lightweight and temperate

the wild Atlantic on the other, has informed

and tanneries in both Ireland and Italy. An

enough for year round wear, or the signature

Conneely’s sensitivities, expressed aestheti-

awareness of time, and one’s place within it is

‘Faul’ Bag (€595) which is an investment

cally through texture, form, and simplicity,

pervasive across the collection, the pieces have

worth making, designed with minimalist

her homeland features almost like a living

been produced to last, and transcend the idea of

clean lines, it is durable and timeless.

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JUST ONE NIGHT. BUT EVERY DETAIL… EXTRAORDINARY. “A week before we even put the bags in the car, our anticipation for a great night away began. About 6’ish on a Friday evening Sinead phoned from the Ice House to confirm our booking the following week. Dinner would be ready for us at 8pm. The spa was booked for us both on Saturday morning and if there was anything else we needed, just ask. A genuinely warm welcome and we hadn’t even arrived yet. The warmth continued when we got to the Ice House a week later. Check in was effortless and in minutes we were shown to our suite. A welcome written in chocolate, fresh strawberries and chilled prosecco was waiting (but not for long). The room was fab. The unique snowflake emblem on the door was just the beginning.

Floor to ceiling windows that look out across the river, a king size bed, a pedestal bath and a monsoon shower… the place just oozes comfort and style. We dropped our bags, grabbed a glass and enjoyed. Dinner brought things to the next level. A local Achill Island Chef, Anthony Holland, and the very best of local produce… what’s not to love! An amuse-bouche of sautéed Mushroom, Parmesan and Jamon Crostini whet the appetite for more. For starters, we had the Parsnip and Thyme Soup and the Tian of Crab with Crispy Pink Prawns. It was so good we found ourselves taking photos. A bit awkward, but then a quick look at the table next to us and we saw they were doing the same. The mains were perfect. Baked organic Claire Island Salmon and Balsamic Glazed Irish Beef Fillet, so tender it melted. With no room left for dessert we went for a walk along the quay. If you’re in the mood for a drink, Crockets is the place to go. For a bit more sophistication head back to the Ice House and take a tour of the gin menu. Nightcaps don’t get any better!

Discover more and plan your escape at: www.theicehouse.ie or to book call 096 23500

The next morning, draw back the curtains and let your jaw drop. The view is beyond compare. From the river that flows to the woodlands opposite, to the wreck of the Crete Boon that lies on a distant sandbank, you can’t help be captivated. Breakfast at the Ice House is fit for a king and the service is second to none. Matched with piping hot coffee plus the morning papers and we were in heaven. The perfect set up for even more pampering in the spa. We finished off with a luxurious dip in the outdoor hot tub and our night at the Ice House ended the way it had begun a week earlier… filled with anticipation for our next visit!” The Ice House Hotel in Ballina is set right on the banks of the River Moy. Once a literal Ice House, it stored ice to preserve the countless salmon caught along the river. Today it’s an icon of city centre chic a world away from the city. The perfect base for exploring Foxford Woollen Mills, the Ceide Fields, the Dun Briste Sea Stack, Downpatrick Head and all the attractions along the Wild Atlantic Way.

escape to the extraordinary

Errigal Mountain, Do. Donegal

Kilkee Seaside Town

Loop Head, Cliff Walk

Cliffcoast Kilkee, Pollockholes

Pictures courtesy of FailtĂŠ Ireland Go Wild Magazine - Summer Edition 2016

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k o o b k o o C e Th

Supporting Canc er Services in the Mid West @ University Hosp ital Limerick. Avai lable to purchase online @ www.thecookb ook.ie

AVA I L A B L E AT T H E F O L LOW I N G LO C AT I O N S F O R € 2 0.

Coumeenoole Beach, Slea Head

 O’Mahonys Bookstore, O’Connell St Limerick  Easons Sky Court Shannon  Participating restaurants  Crescent Book store

LI M E RICK 2020 The beating heart of Ireland’s Mid-West region has undergone a remarkable renaissance and is now a shortlisted city for European Capital of Culture 2020

imerick, on the

culture and those who answered

gateway to the

witnessed a party like never

Wild Atlantic

before on Shannonside.

Way, is not a

But the cultural renaissance

place with a fixed identity.

was in no way confined to

In fact, there are multiple

that year-long celebration.

Limericks—hundreds of

Today, two years on, it is

individual layers that contrast

manifesting itself in many

and overlap. It is a Multiplicity.

ways. You will see it in funky urban art in the lanes and on

T H E B E AT I N G H E A R T O F T H E M I D -W E S T H A S UNDERGONE A REMARK ABLE C U LT U R A L A N D E C O N O M I C RENAISSANCE

Go Wild Magazine - Summer Edition 2016

The beating heart of Ireland’s

the walls of Limerick, in the

Mid-West has undergone

Hunt Museum, King John’s

a remarkable cultural and

Castle visitor experience and the

economic renaissance. As a

Limerick City Gallery of Art.

shortlisted candidate city for

Your senses will be assailed by

European Capital of Culture

it through a myriad of festivals,

2020, it has a rich, colourful

like the Richard Harris Film

and intricate cultural tapestry

Festival, which is dedicated to

with a huge range of first class

one of the proud sons of the city.

facilities, innovative venues,

There’s the Limerick Literary

fascinating heritage attractions,

Festival, Riverfest on the River

dedicated arts organisations

Shannon and many summer

and vibrant festivals.

events from the world-renowned

Limerick is a city that always

Irish Chamber Orchestra,

had a beautiful voice, but for

which is based in the city as

far too long, kept it low.

well as the Blas Summer School

It was given a proper platform,

of Traditional Irish Music at

and accelerated from that, with

the University of Limerick.

the designation of Limerick

The festivals envelop not just the

as Ireland’s first National

city but also the county where

City of Culture in 2014.

you can enjoy the Lough Gur

That was a sign-post, one great

Storytelling Festival and the

big invitation to the nation and

Castleconnell Concert Series

the world to explore Limerick’s

with Bloomsday in Bruff Festival

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and the Taste of Ballyhoura Food

the world’s first mass production

Festival also taking place.

assembly line of clothing and the

The list goes on but festivals

famous fashion design programme

aside, there’s a proliferation also

at the Limerick School of Art and

of theatre, museums and live

Design, ranked as one of the top

music venues. The development

50 fashion schools in the world.

of the fabulous new Lime Tree Theatre has bolstered the city’s

It’s no wonder that Limerick is

stock, adding to the likes of

being viewed with a fresh eye

the University Concert Hall

and its re-birth is indicative of

and Dolan’s voted as Ireland’s

the new wave of energy and

top live music venue.

vibrancy that is the city’s cultural

Limerick’s rich culture is also

experience today. Therefore, it’s

evident in the city’s architecture.

no surprise that it’s shortlisted for

The beautiful Medieval Quarter is

European Capital of Culture 2020.

dominated by the majestic, 13th

Winning would deliver fresh

century fortress King John’s Castle

impetus for a place which is

on the river. Just a short walk later,

working collectively, pooling

you can see excellent examples

energy, vision, passion

of Georgian architecture, which

and innovation to create a

frames much of the city centre in

European city of the future.

an elegant grid-like street plan.

One suspects that this remarkable

Limerick also has a long tradition

renaissance will continue to thrive

in textiles, with the popularity

in Limerick for quite some time.

of Limerick Lace, the creation of

www.limerick.ie

LIMERICK’S RICH C U LT U R E I S ALSO EVIDENT IN THE CITY’S ARCHITEC TURE

The beautiful Medieval Quarter is dominated by the majestic, 13th century fortress King John’s Castle on the river

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Follow the TR AI L TO LI M E RICK m any othe rs are As a respected travel blog recently and rightly stated, “there’s something in the air in Limerick”. There is, indeed, and it’s a very strong whiff of new-found confidence.

Y THERE’S PLENTY ALSO TO S E RV E T H E ADRENALIN JUNKIE, FROM THE B A L LY H O U R A M O U N TA I N BIKE TR AILS TO F O R E S T CLIMBS.

ou see, Limerick has never really

villages; golf-courses, fantastic

that has a new-found and edgy

had any reason to be anything

eateries, five star and other hotels.

mojo. Over the past five years, it

other than confident and proud

There’s its rich culture, spanning

has risen from the ashes of difficult

about its tourism asset base. Yet,

everything from sport – it

times to become a melting pot of

it’s a cache that, for a variety

makes a strong case as Ireland’s

culture, influences and ethnicities.

of reasons – neighbouring

sporting capital – to food

This enables Limerick to retain the

counties shouting louder, lack of

and theatre to live music.

best of the old whilst welcoming

coherent messaging – Limerick

There’s plenty also to serve

in the freshness of the new.

has largely remained hidden.

the adrenalin junkie, from the

All within walking distance, you can

Ballyhoura Mountain Bike

explore the remarkable and recently

But, to some extent, aren’t we

Trails to forest climbs. For the

restored King John’s Castle, historic

ever so grateful that it has kept

younger generations, there’s

not just in a local and national

its light under a bushel. It’s like

any amount of activities from

context but also international in

we’ve just been given a whole new

pet farms to ‘play worlds’.

that it remains one of the best

county to explore and enjoy.

The list goes on but another head-

preserved Norman Castles in Europe.

So what does this best kept

turning characteristic for sure

Nearby there’s St. Mary’s Cathedral,

secret of Irish tourism offer?

worth mentioning is its extremely

the oldest building in Limerick

Firstly it’s at the heart of the Golden

competitive price-wise compared

in daily use today. It dates back

Vale, the best agricultural land in

with other better known tourist

to the 12th century and has seen

Ireland and amongst the best in the

counties. And for international

off famines and wars. It even has

world. There are rolling hills, rivers;

tourists, it has an airport with direct

a curious ‘Leper’s Squint’ – a

great buildings, including castles and

links to the US, UK and mainland

hole in the wall for lepers in

cathedrals; historic sites, timeless

Europe just 20 minutes away.

medieval times to view mass from

towns and sleepy, picturesque

At the heart of it all, then, is a city

outside the Cathedral’s Walls.

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There’s the city’s stunning

surely Ireland’s most atmospheric

Georgian Quarter, the captivating

weekly food celebration.

Hunt Museum, with its 2000

Enough already? There’s lots more

strong collection of ancient and

– including its status as a Wild

modern ethnographic treasures.

Atlantic Gateway, with easy reach

Move into the modern era and it

to Cork, Kerry, Clare and Galway

is a city with Ireland’s freshest

and, because of its heritage and

cultural vibe, with gallery art, street

history, as part of Ireland’s ‘Ancient

art, theatre and one of Ireland’s

East’ - but no more room on these

best known music venues, Dolan’s.

pages unfortunately. You’ll just

Many would argue that it has

have to find out for yourself.

Ireland’s best pub culture, with

Just suffice to say that it’s worth

some having almost cult status.

testing that air. It’s full of energy,

Limerick also has a huge food

freshness, new and old. And

heritage and that’s saluted today

all wrapped up in a wonderful

through a wonderful and value

blanket of Limerick green!

driven blend of culinary styles,

www.limerick.ie

embracing a café/bistro culture to more fine dining experiences that draw on the premium produce of that same Golden Vale hinterland. If you want something to whet your taste buds, make your way to the Milk Market on a Saturday morning,

M A N Y WO U L D A R G U E T H AT LIMERICK HAS IRELAND’S B E S T P U B C U LT U R E , W I T H S O M E H AV I N G A L M O S T C U LT S TAT U S .

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Best places to

RELAX AND UNWIND If you are looking to relax and unwind, there is no bet ter place than the Wild Atlantic Way. It is home to a range of luxur y hotels who of fer an array of treatment s with s tunning views of the picture sque surroundings .

magine sinking into a

INCHYDONEY ISL AND LO D G E & S PA -

There is plenty to do for all ages

C LO N A K I LT Y, W E S T C O R K

in Inchydoney Island Lodge & Spa,

Inchydoney Island Lodge & Spa

on the beautiful beaches and in

is a sumptuous seaside hotel

Clonakilty and the surrounding

and one of the country’s iconic

areas. With whale watching, sea

seawater spa destinations…with

kayaking, surfing, horse riding,

a charming West Cork accent!

bike hire and picnic hampers

Genuine, hospitable, open and

available, discovery days out are

warm – it is a beacon of welcome

simply a matter of deciding which

for people who value time together.

adventure to choose. There are

breath-taking scenery. From the

Overlooking two magnificent

gorgeous gardens to visit, great golf

tranquil bays of West Cork in

stretches of Blue Flag beach, just

courses to play, interesting towns

the south to the rugged beauty of

outside the pretty heritage town

and villages to explore and all the

County Donegal’s beaches in the

of Clonakilty, Inchydoney Island

pleasures of Inchydoney Island Lodge

far north, dozens of unique and

Lodge & Spa is a warm, polished

& Spa to return to every evening.

candlelit seaweed bath full of essential oils, or escaping

to luxurious surroundings on a secluded island. Or maybe a yoga and meditative retreat is more you? However you dream of relaxing, Ireland’s West coast has plenty of experiences to enjoy amidst serene nature and

indulgent experiences await...

and welcoming seaside hotel with a unique and wonderful

www.inchydoneyisland.com

thalassotherapy seawater spa.

THE GEORGE

right in the heart of Limerick City,

B O U T I Q U E H OT E L

close to shopping, entertainment

match of a cutting edge cosmopolitan

The George Boutique hotel Limerick

and the commercial district.

boutique hotel style along with an

is a luxury 4 star hotel located on O

A luxury hotel that will not

Their guests experience the perfect

unparalleled standard of service, and

Connell Street. Inspired by leading

disappoint, they boast an eclectic mix

their accommodation is sure to impress

4 star hotels around the world,

of contemporary style and comfort

even the most discerning traveller.

this popular limerick city hotel is

in a premier central location.

All www.georgelimerick.com

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Stay at the 4* George Hotel Limerick from only €69.00 Discover your route to the Wild Atlantic Way

O ’ C O n n e l l S t r e e t, l i m e r i C k C i t y, i r e l a n d 061 460 400 w w w.t h e g e O r g e b O u t i q u e h O t e l . C O m

Best places to

RELAX AND UNWIND ARD NA SIDHE COUNTRY

HOUSE, KILLORGLIN CO. KERRY

are very much part of the experience for

There is an ambience of graceful elegance

guests who enjoy the magical stillness

combined with the luxury of modern

and peace of Caragh Lake. Boating and

comforts while retaining an old world

rd na Sidhe Country house is part

fishing on the lake is available free of

enchantment with its collection of antique

of the well-known hotel group

charge and there are numerous guided

furnishings and paintings. Complimentary

Killarney Hotels Ltd, which includes the

trails in the area for walking and hiking,

internet access is available to guests at

award winning 5 star Europe Hotel &

Visits to the local beaches are a must

Ard na Sidhe Country House Hotel.

Resort and The Dunloe. Built by Lady

and renowned golf courses are just a

Gordon in 1913, the charming Country

short drive away from the hotel.

Manor House is located on the shores of Caragh Lake near Killorglin in Co Kerry.

Sidhe Country House Hotel the perfect

everywhere you go and the county’s

choice. www.ardnasidhe.com, tel: 066

enchanting towns and villages will delight

9769105 or email reservations@ardnasidhe.

and reveal hidden secrets at every turn.

com . A little piece of heaven on earth.

They have a choice of five stylish

la carte dinner menu that combines

restaurants and bars offer something

classical cuisine with contemporary

to suit all tastes. Dine informally in

taste and they also specialise in

erfectly placed and set within

the New York Style Hamptons Bar and

seafood appealing to all tastes

the vibrant shopping and theatre

Grill, where an imaginative extensive

The hotel’s grounds and surroundings

T H E S AVOY H OT E L LIMERICK

History and heritage is prevalent

An intimate restaurant and plenty of things to see and do nearby, make Ard na

Surrounded by some of Ireland’s

district of Limerick City, The Savoy

menu of sustainable, fresh fare is on

most scenic landscapes, The Savoy

is Limerick’s most celebrated and

offer from lunchtime until night.

provides the perfect location from which

glamorous 5* luxury hotel. They have 92 lavishly appointed

The Savoy Restaurant on the

to discover, and be a part of, life in

first floor, with its distinct relaxed

Limerick. Explore many famous Irish

rooms and suites which feature

atmosphere and elegant, airy décor,

landmarks, theatrical and sporting

luxurious marble bathrooms and all

is just perfect to enjoy dinner with

events, only a short walk or taxi-ride

the little extras one could hope for.

friends and family, or have a tasty

away from your base at The Savoy.

The Savoy is a destination for food lovers and drink connoisseurs alike.

PA R K N A S I L L A , CO. K E R RY

working lunch with colleagues. Their renowned chefs have developed an a

Because of the effects of the

The Savoy. www.savoylimerick.com

and great service with a delicious

Gulf Stream and its sheltered

breakfast and gourmet dinner in their

ampering - Island Walks - Romantic

position, Parknasilla is a Kenmare

Pygmalion Restaurant, and enjoy an

Kayaking Trips - Miles of walking

Bay Hotel which enjoys a genial

aperitif or a night cap next to the piano

trails – what more could you ask for?

climate where subtropical plants

and real fire in the Doolittle Bar.

For generations, this magical Sneem

and vegetation flourishes.

Hotel has captured the imagination

This Ring of Kerry Hotel, encompasses

Get active and explore the 500 acres of land at Parknasilla Resort & Spa

of many. Its name invokes a scene so

an historic hotel, indulgent spa,

with a splash in the sea, energetic walk,

beautiful it takes your breath away,

spacious self catering accommodation

leisurely bike ride or a round of golf. Then

a haven of rest and relaxation, an

and a 12 hole golf course.

rest and refresh in the warmth of our

escape from stress, a luxury Kerry Hotel as inspiring as it is spectacular.

Immerse yourself in their Spa, a hideaway from the bustle of real life. Be greeted at the warm reception by an open

The resort has a rich heritage

serene spa, with floor to ceiling windows overlooking the expanse of the sea. Most people go to Parknasilla Resort &

fire and a smiling receptionist. Revel in

Spa not ‘to do’ but simply ‘to be’. This is

dating back to 1692, attracting

the sanctuary of one of their spacious

life as it should be, calm and unhurried

such literary luminaries as George

rooms with awe inspiring views of

- time to talk and listen to friends

Bernard Shaw to its beautiful location

Kenmare Bay and the Kerry Mountains.

and family and regain lost vitality.

over looking Kenmare Bay. Go Wild Magazine - Summer Edition 2016

Rediscover the joy of good food

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www.parknasillaresort.com www.gowildmagazine.com

400 Years Of Fun – Waiting To Be Explored, There’s always something happening at Nelly’s

Eat

Drink

Enjoy

Durty Nelly’s can truly be described as one of Ireland’s landmark pubs. Nestling in the shadow of the magnificent Bunratty Castle and the adjoining Folk Park, it is the first stopping off point for generations of visitors to Ireland arriving at nearby Shannon Airport. Whether you’re just passing through on your way to explore the beautiful mid-west of Ireland or can spend a little longer with us, you’ll find that a visit to Nelly’s is an essential Irish experience – one that will provide a lasting memory of your visit to Ireland.

Bunratty, Co Clare, Ireland • Tel: +353 61 364 861 • www.durtynellys.ie

INSPIRATION A IRISH MUSIC L

For TRad by

Damien O’Mahony

Well here you are at last. All that planning and the anticipation that went with it has finally come to pass. You are experiencing first hand one of the most inspiring landscapes on the planet.

Traditional folk music has always been a reflection of the life stories of those who create it, whatever nationality is involved. But in a people which such mystical origins as the Irish, it seems to take on a different dimension.

The Wild Atlantic Way - where the land meets the sea both serenely and with power - and nature, in her essence, takes your breath away. Is it any wonder then that the native and the traveller flock here in their thousands to become one with the elements in their purest form? Don’t settle for capturing those images on your smartphone - drink it in with your eyes. It will offer you memories that you will carry with you forever.

In his wonderful poem, The Given Note, Seamus Heaney beautifully describes the notion that these creations are not composed in the minds of men but and given by nature itself as a gift.

However, there is much more to be experienced here than that on which only the eyes can feast. This green and fertile land, those gargling rivers and that ever restless sea provides us with some of the greatest food produce in the world. The freshest fish, oysters, artisan cheeses and the tenderest meats offer satisfaction and delight to the most discerning of palates. But to the Irish, the landscape in which we exist produces much more than sustenance for our bodies. The ancient Celts believed that they lived in communion with nature and were as much a part of nature themselves as the mountains, woodlands and rivers. Small wonder then that as a race, we have always credited our natural environment with directly influencing our creative impulses - those things which come from us almost unbidden. That influence can be seen in our ancient stone carvings, our literature, our oral tradition, our dance but perhaps most particularly, in our music.

Go Wild Magazine - Summer Edition 2016

The Given Note

On the most westerly Blasket In a drystone hut He got this air out of the night. Strange noises were heard by others who followed, bits of a tune Coming in on loud weather though nothing like melody. He blamed their fingers and ear as unpractised, their fiddling easy For he had gone alone into the island and brought back the whole thing. The house throbbed like his full violin. So whether he calls it spirit music or not, I don’t care. He took it Out of wind off mid-Atlantic. Still he maintains, from nowhere. It comes off the bow gravely, rephrases itself into the air. Seamus Heaney - 56 -

Whether you believe that beautiful explanation or not, there can be little doubt but that the landscape deeply influences the music that derives from it. And you will see that different geographical areas along the route of the Wild Atlantic Way have different styles of music and different ways in which that music is played. The Fiddle playing of Donegal is very different from that of West Kerry and the playing of Irish polkas and slides find there natural geographic home in the Sliabh Luachra region on the borders of Kerry Limerick and Cork. Throughout your journey you will encounter passionate musicians who cherish and maintain this unique tradition through the expert interpretation of a wide range of musical instruments. Fiddles, wooden flutes, uilleann, (elbow) pipes, banjos, button key accordians, tin whistles,bodhráns, (the irish traditional drum), and of course the Irish harp, (although that’s one instrument that’s difficult to carry around!). You could read about this all day but what you really want to do is get listening - or better still participating. If you play an instrument, Irish musicians are generally delighted to welcome you into the session - provided of course you observe good manners and ask permission first. And even if you don’t play there are few experiences which will rival the joy of listening to Irish traditional musicians in full flight. There are plenty of fun musical activities to enjoy all along the Wild Atlantic Way from Donegal to Cork city from pub sessions to a whole raft of festivals (see panel across). Infectious, toe-tapping music - poignant and

www.gowildmagazine.com

Féile Cheoil Chlochán Bhréanainn/ Cloghane Brandon Music Festival July 26th – 28th, 2016 www.cflt.ie Willie Clancy Summer School Miltown Malbay, County Clare July 2nd – 10th, 2016 www.scoilsamhraidhwillieclancy.com Carrick Water Music Festival Carrick–on–Shannon, County Leitrim 2016 carrickwatermusicfestival.com South Sligo Summer School of Traditional Music, Song & Dance July 10th - 16th, 2016 www.sssschool.org Meitheal Residential Summer School July 18th - 22nd, 2016 www.tradweek.com

raucous singing which reflects our history and gives a unique insight into who we are as a people - these are experiences not to be missed. Seek them out - you’ll be richly rewarded.

Ardara Bluegrass Festival July 15th – 17th, 2016 www.Ardara.ie

You will find a wealth of Irish Music played in pubs throughout the Wild Atlantic Way. Ask at the Tourist Information Office or enquire locally. A number of locations will have sessions arranged every night such as Cork City which offers a series of free sessions in pubs throughout the city every night of the week www.leesessions.com. However, most villages, towns and cities along the route will offer an opportunity to enjoy the craic.

Scoil Acla Summer School July 23rd – 30th, 2016 www.scoilacla.com

If you’re not into the pub culture the WAW boasts an impressive array of Irish music festivals throughout the year. Here’s a sample of what’s on offer from May to September this year. For a full listing of festivals visit www.irishmusicmagazine.com/ links/festivals/

MAY

Fiddle Fair Baltimore, West Cork, Ireland May 5th – 8th, 2016 www.fiddlefair.com Galway Early Music Festival May 12th – 15th, 2016 www.galwayearlymusic.com Féile Chnoc na Gaoithe May 13th – 15th, 2016 www.cnocnagaoithe.com Fleadh Nua in Ennis May 22nd – 30th, 2016 www.fleadhnua.com

Go Wild Magazine - Summer Edition 2016

Joe Mooney Summer School July 16th – 23rd, 2016 www.joemooneysummerschool.com

Ballyshannon Folk Festival Ballyshannon, County Donegal July 29th – 31st, 2016 www.ballyshannonfolkfestival.com

JUNE

Galway Sessions 2016 www.galwaysessions.com Craiceann International Bodhrán Summerschool June 10th – 12th, 2016 www.craiceann.com Doolin Folk Festival 2016 www.doolinfolkfestival.com Celtic Fusion International Coleman Country Bodhran School Gurteen, County Sligo 2016 www.colemanbodhran.com The Blas International Summer School of Irish Traditional Music and Dance June 20th – July 1st, 2016 www.blas.ie

O’Carolan, Harp & Traditional Music Festival Keadue, Co. Roscommon July 25th – August 1st, 2016 www.ocarolanharpfestival.ie

AUGUST

Fleadh Cheoil na hEireann, Ennis August 14th – 22nd, 2016 www.fleadhcheoil.ie James Morrison Traditional Music Festival August 2016 www.comhaltas.ie Féile Cheoil Chill Chartha, Kilcar Fleadh, Kilcar, County Donegal August 2016 Masters of Tradition Festival Bantry, County Cork August 17th – 21st, 2016 www.westcorkmusic.ie Coleman Traditional Festival August 26th – 28th, 2016 www.colemanirishmusic.com

JULY

Westport Scoil Cheoil 2016 www.westportscoilcheoil.com

SEPTEMBER

Dingle Tradfest Dingle, County Kerry September 2016 www.dingletradfest.com

Earagail Arts Festival July 14th – 17th, 2016 www.eaf.ie Ceol na Coille Summer School of Irish Traditional Music July 11th – 15th, 2016 www.ceolnacoille.ie

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Tulla Trad Festival Tulla, County Clare September 2016 www.tullatradfestival.ie

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Wild Atlantic Way

Traditional pubs The Wild Atlantic Way really lives up to its name after dark! Here’s our pub crawl of a few of the best traditional Irish pubs on the West Coast that will offer you ‘craic agus ceoil’, fun and music…

De Barra’s, Clonakilty, Co Cork

Limerick and further afield for its genuine Irish hospitality,

The instant you enter the pub, the musical ambience takes over.

incredible atmosphere and unforgettable music sessions.

The wall on the left is covered in flutes, fiddles, bodhráns, pipes

If it’s traditional Irish music that you’re after, then The Locke is

and saxophones. Unlike most rock cafés, these instruments

the right place for you. Their free music sessions kick off every

have a very real history. The mandolin travelled Ireland with

evening from 7.30pm.

Paddy Keenan and the Bothy Band. The fender jazz bass guitar

Food is served 7 days a week until 10pm, with a full range of

belonged to the late Noel Redding, the former Jimi Hendrix

breakfast, lunch and dinner options available throughout the

bassist and celebrated resident of Clonakilty. Wherever

day.

possible, owners Bobby and Eileen have left the original pub interior intact, including the bar, complete with snug. A dark

In winter customers cosy up to welcoming, open fires and in the

wooden corridor lined with photographs and posters leads

summer they can enjoy al fresco dining in The Locke’s extensive

to the purpose-built auditorium where the de Barra Folk Club

outdoor seating area by the river. Another really interesting fact

congregates. And if the bar staff appear to be particularly

is that this pub is on the original site of one of Limerick’s oldest

interested in the tunes, that’s because they are all gifted

pubs dating all the way back to 1724.

musicians in their own right. www.lockebar.com , +353 61 413 733

www.debarra.ie +353 23 33381

Durty Nelly’s, Co. Clare M. Finucane, Ballylongford, Co. Kerry

Durty Nelly’s can truly be described as one of Ireland’s landmark

When Michael Finucane II died in 1982, the pub passed to

pubs. Nestling in the shadow of the magnificent Bunratty Castle

the present owner, Michael Finucane III so they have not had

and the adjoining Folk Park, it is the first stopping off point for

to change the name over the door in a long time. During the

generations of visitors to Ireland arriving at nearby Shannon

Easter rebellion of 1916, the owner at the time, The O’Rahilly,

Airport.

was gunned down on Dublin’s Moore Street, becoming the only

Perhaps the biggest single charm of Nelly’s – as it is known

leader of the uprising to die in action. A life sized portrait of the

locally – is the fact that it’s a meeting place for both locals and

republican leader still hangs in the bar. Michael has done much

tourists alike, and the interaction between the two is what

to ensure his pub remains an aesthetic delight. An overhead

makes it such a unique Irish pub.

shelf runs around the room, filled with tobacco-stained

You’ll typically find groups of overseas visitors and locals

footballs, whiskey jars, tumblers, brass lamps, ash plane canes

chatting away as if they were lifetime friends, swapping stories

and fishing nets. Cheerful green leather stools assemble along

or asking after friends or relatives who’ve settled around the

the Colombian pine bar and miscellaneous oddities hang from

world – or stayed at home in Ireland.

the ceiling. The pub opens only in the evening but is frequently

Over the years, it has hosted a host of global celebrities drawn

packed.

from entertainment, politics, the arts – all of them lured inside

Quay Street, Ballylongford, Co Kerry, +353 68 43 243

the doors by the legendary hospitality of Nelly’s. There are hundreds of badges that adorn the wooden beams of Nelly’s from visitors from all over the U.S. and the world – with a particularly strong connection to the countless police and fire

The Locke Bar, Limerick

departments who have visited us over the years. Indeed, there

The Locke Bar is one of Limerick’s best loved traditional

is a particularly poignant shrine at Nelly’s to those who bravely

Irish bars and seafood restaurants. Located in the heart

gave their lives during 9/11, and it’s one of the first parts of the

of Limerick’s medieval quarter, the Locke is synonymous in

pub that’s sought out by many overseas visitors.

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Welcome to the team at

he Buttery Kitchen, Wine Bar & Coffee House opened its doors in May 2014 & since then has picked up a rockin’ reputation as one of Limerick’s friendliest, tastiest and coziest places to eat. Whether it’s a quick lunchtime bite to eat, a long catch up with friends over Wine, Tapas & Live music, or a 2pm craving for breakfast on a Saturday or Sunday,The Buttery is the perfect spot. Open 7 Days a week for breakfast and lunch, and tapas, wine & live music every Thursday, Friday and Saturday, The Buttery is a one stop shop for the freshest, locally sourced & ‘made with love’ food in town! Owned by Limerick native Brother & Sister team, Joe & Hazel Murphy (you’ll always find one of their smiley heads behind the counter!) their aim is for you to “Come Hungry & Leave Happy”. Joe prides himself on being a Coffee Buff and Wine Conosuier, while Hazel is a Foodie idoliser with a huge love for all things

Hazel - Head of in house Banter, Loves to keep the chat flowing, the perfect hostess Joe - Chief Bean Counter, keeps the wheels & the till in motion hospitality. The pair joined forces to put a new twist on the food scene in Limerick. With its mouthwatering grub, bopping

music, fun friendly staff and an infectious care-free ambience it’s the perfect spot to visit any day of the week!

Eating out should always be a fun experience – not boring & quiet , we wanted to create an amazing time for our customers and that is our aim every day of the week!

Award Winning Barista made Coffee Voted one of Irelands Top 10 Brunch Spots, served all Day Saturday & Sunday The best Tapas in Limerick every Thursday, Friday & Saturday evening with live Music Open from 8am Monday - Sunday serving the most delicious Breakfast in town!

Breakfast

Lunch

MON - SAT MON - SAT 8am - 11.50am 12.15pm - 4pm

Call in 10 Bedford Row, Limerick City Give us a tinkle: 061 597668 For more information visit www.thebuttery.ie

Brunch

SAT 8am - 4pm SUN 10am - 4pm

Wine & Tapas THURS- SAT 5pm - Late

Or come play with us on

C The Buttery Limerick  @butterylimerick  @ButteryLimerick

Apart from the warm Irish welcome that you’ll find at Nelly’s,

atmosphere created by friendly conversation, then pop in for a

you’ll also enjoy the finest, freshest local produce – whether

pint or two. Really friendly staff will shortly have you feeling at

you’re just dropping in for a snack or staying for a fine dining

ease and the “craic” really begins at night when the music comes

experience.

on. A great venue for live music from Traditional Irish to Blues, www.durtynellys.ie , +353 61 364861

you will have great memories of your visit to Furey’s Pub. Bridge Street, Sligo, fureyspub@gmail.com

Seven Bridge Street Galway City Centre Seven Bar and Restaurant is Galway’s newest and most exciting

The Reel Inn, Donegal

bar & live music venue found in the heart of the city, offering everything from great food and delicious cocktails to live

The best craic in town is invariably found at this old-school

entertainment seven nights a week and some of the friendliest

pub. Its owner plays the button-box accordion, his wife has an

staff in Galway.

amazing singing voice and their pals join in traditional-music

Seven prides itself on being on-trend, and is a hub for artists,

sessions most nights. It is a busy, noisy and exciting Irish pub

musicians, locals and visitors alike. With breakfast served from

with an open mic event every Thursday night and Irish music

10am followed by the all-day menu from 12pm, there’s every

and dance every night of the week. Get there early (around

reason to get down early and indulge in everything that is great

9pm) to get a good seat for the music to start around 9.30pm.

about this newest , hugely successful addition to Galways’ social

Recognised internationally as the best pub for traditional Irish

scene.

music in Donegal, The Reel Inn is perfectly situated in the centre

The bar and restaurant, incorporating the Loft venue, is the

of Donegal Town.

perfect location for a date, a catch-up with old friends or a

Bridge Street, Donegal Town, +353 86 251 2004

celebration and has HD coverage throughout, which, together with quality giant screens, make live sports as close as it gets to being at the game itself! But if sport isn’t your thing, Seven has much more to offer. (091) 563 804 info@sevenbridgestreet.ie

JJ’S Craft Brewing Co. JJ’s Brewery in Co. Limerick is run on a simple philosophy - their

Matt Malloy’s, Westport, Co. Mayo

product will do the talking. Like the Limerick men of old, who

Matt Molloy’s has old world charm and is probably the best

braved the Atlantic to supply their neighbours across the water

known pub in Japan, Alaska, and probably Timbuctoo. The

with Irish produce, they now brave the market to supply the

owner is one of the famous Chieftains, so it is no surprise

people of Ireland with the best product out there.

that traditional music flows from this pub – dark, deep and

Based in Kilmallock, Co. Limerick, the Craft-Brewery began a

unpasteurized, like its pints. The venue overflows all year

year ago and is going from strength to strength.

long with visitors from Ireland and around the world, yet it

So what’s the story behind the company? It began with two

has managed to keep the sense of intimacy which is vital for

men who had a love of craft beer and the skills to make quality

the music to flourish. Knowing that traditional musicians, like

beer from their garage as a hobby. It has since blossomed into

starlings, prefer cosy nooks and crannies, Matt has purposely

a Craft-brewery that aims to deliver quality Irish made produce

kept the pub small, so that they can congregate – as they do,

to consumers.

from all 32 counties – to enjoy a pint and a tune. If he’s not on

“Our goal is to supply the highest quality beers to the people

tour Matt joins in the session, and if you have been dazzled by

of Ireland and to also give the public a choice, to show them

his flute playing with The Chieftains, you can sit down here for

that they don’t have to stick to the same old beers”, said John

the price of a pint and hear the same music more electrifyingly

Coughlan

pure, more hair-raisingly personal. The magnet at Molloy’s is the

JJ’s Craft Brewing Co. currently supply their original two drinks,

atmosphere.

Hugo’s Pilsner and Abbey Stout along with their newer beers, www.mattmalloy.ie , (098) 27663

Balbec IPA and Bill’s Red Ale. They keep their ingredients simple and imaginative, which helps to insure a natural and unique taste. By doing this they also insure that people know exactly

Furey’s Pub Sligo

what they are consuming. The craft beer scene is huge currently in Ireland and JJ’s want

Close to the banks of the Garavogue Furey’s Pub on Bridge St.

to be known for producing the best best. If any craft beer

is one of Sligo’s Traditional Irish Pubs. Set in the Heart of the

enthusiast would like to sample their beer, check out facebook.

town, Furey’s is a cosy pub frequented by locals and enjoyed by

com/JJs-Craft-Brewing or www.jjscraftbrewing.ie to see where it

visitors and tourists alike. If you like a cosy ambiance with a lively

is on offer, or, if you are near, drop in for a tour and a taste.

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Glorious GLAMPING For glamper s and podder s , c amping no longer has to involve scrimping on comfor t . You c an enjoy the be st of both worlds . We round up some of the be st podding and glamping options along the Wild Atlantic Way and finds her self a glamping conver t .

BELLMULLETT CGS

Looking to escape from it all? Then a stay in a luxury pod on Claggan island is for you. Located in the heart of Erris, our pods are ideal for couples or families looking to spend time in a unique location. The pods offer not only comfort & luxury, but spectacular scenery & beautiful beaches in every direction. So, let the sights & sounds of the Atlantic take you away this summer. Prices from €80 per night. Belmulletcgs.com

Go Wild Magazine - Summer Edition 2016

Po d U m na Vi l l ag e

Like the name suggests, it’s all about staying in ‘pods’ at Pod Umna Village near Portumna in East Galway. Forget the canvas, poles and tent pegs, Pod Umna prides itself on having all the fun of camping, without the hardship of damp or draughts. The unique pod village is situated close to a castle, abbey, historic workhouse, forest park, Lough Derg and the River Shannon, so you won’t be short of things to do. The functional pods, which sleep five, are laid out in a tree-lined village landscape and each is fully insulated with mattresses, power, heating, bbq and deck area, and table and chairs. They are charming, very comfortable and functional. They make a great daytime base, they sleep five, and each fully insulated Pod comes with mattresses, power and heating, and its own bbq and deck area, complete with table and chairs. On-site facilities include toilets, hot showers, drying room, meeting rooms and workshops. For those who like to eat there, there are a range of cafes and restaurants nearby, while for authentic podders, there’s a kitchen and dining room on site. fpodumnavillage.ie

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PO DS I R E L AN D The Pod – A world of Amazing

Spaces to Enjoy! Pods Ireland, founded by David Griffin in 2011, is the exclusive distributor of the camping Pod™. All our Pods are built right here in county Kerry by Cisco Woodframe Homes, Irelands only licensed manufacturer. Our Pod™ range includes the standard, family & Mega Pod. Fully insulated & wired for heat & light, they provide the perfect alternative accommodation solution for camp sites, hotels, guesthouses, pubs & back gardens! www.podsireland.com

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LE AVE NO TR ACE ALONG TH E WI LD ATL ANTIC WAY B Y

C L A I R

C O L L I N S

With the lure of the Wild Atlantic Way being as much about the fresh sea air, unspoilt coastal beauty and the verdant green that is synonymous with the Emerald Isle, it is not surprising that there is an emerging market along the route for tourism that is a little greener and a bit more socially conscious.

ut what is Ecotourism I hear you

thing we do in our daily lives through

Donegal has some great eco spots.

ask? You could be forgiven for

recycling, energy efficient homes,

Why not stay at the Creevey Holiday

thinking ecotourism is just a marketing

electric cars, bike to work schemes and

Cottages in Ballyshannon? These

strapline for something a bit hippy and

why not aim to be just as green and sus-

reconstructed traditional stone cot-

but trust me when I say, that the modern

tainable in our holidays and staycations?

tages, which are 4 star Failte Ireland

Irish tourism product is highly sophisti-

and Eu Flower Ecolabel approved,

cated. Ecotourism operators place an em-

Beyond the altruistic side whereby

are pet friendly and offer boat char-

phasis on enriching personal experienc-

ecotourism locations interact with and

ters, sea fishing and coastal walks.

es, increasing environmental awareness

enhance their community, there is a

and promoting an appreciation of na-

further tangible benefit as ecotourism

Another great spot is the Ard na Breátha

ture, environment, heritage and culture.

is good business. It provides effective

Farm Guesthouse located on a quiet

economic incentives for conserving

edge of a real working farm just outside

There are many varying definitions from

and enhancing diversity and helps

Donegal town. It is also Eu Flower

a myriad of sources but the official line

keep pristine the natural and cultur-

Ecolabel rated and offers fantastic

from The International Ecotourism soci-

al heritage of our beautiful island

hospitality. For an eco-themed activity,

ety is “responsible travel to natural areas

nation for generations to come.

why not harness wave power and learn

that conserves the environment, sustains

to surf in Bundoran, County Donegal?

the well-being of the local people, and

So armed with this knowledge, where

involves interpretation and education.”

does one go to find such a holiday

When doing research on eco destina-

destination along the Wild Atlantic

tions, Galway was a county that just

Why is ecotourism important? Well, in

Way? Do these places even exist here?

kept cropping up. Head to Clifden for

this day and age people have recognised

Gleefully I can attest that yes, they do.

Eco Camping on the beach at Ireland’s

the need to create enterprises and ex-

Nothing tops up North.

first climate neutral eco Campsite, which

periences that are sustainable. It is some-

offers visitors a sustainable, cluster free

WHY IS E COTO U R I S M I M P O R TA N T ?

‘real camping’ experience, with unparal-

geology to botany. This area is home to 7

ral detoxifying process for the skin.

leled panoramic Atlantic seascape views.

Wild Atlantic Way Discovery Points in-

While in Sligo why not also take in

Detour to Inishbofin island, only 90 mins

cluding Flaggy Shore and Fanore Beach,

some of the local beauty spots which

away from Galway city. With several

Poulnabrone megalithic tomb, Lough

include Glencar Lake and waterfall,

daily sailings on the ‘Island Discovery’

Bunny, Lisdoonvarna Spa Wells and of

Knocknarea, Strandhill beach, Ben-

this island is a veritable haven for eco

course the captivating Cliffs of Moher,

bulben mountain and Rosses Point.

escapes. Designated as a special area

which stand at 214m tall at their highest

for conservation due to its variety of

point. While in Clare get close to nature

Tóg Go Bog é (take it easy) is a Pod

flora and fauna, it is a ‘leave no trace’

at the award winning ‘Purecamping’

campsite located in the Cork Moun-

island. Activities here include guided

eco-campsite which comprises of bell

tains, Ireland. Situated in rugged

walking tours, angling, birdwatching,

tents set in the small village of Quer-

beauty, it’s a great option for outdoor

hillwalking, cycling, scuba diving

rin, which is nestled on the south side

enthusiast, with cycling routes and

and more. Stay at the Dolphin Hotel,

of the Loop Head Peninsula. Here you

hiking galore. There are even oppor-

Inishboffin which as well as being rated

can make homemade pizza in the clay

tunities to go fresh water fishing

by Eco Tourism Ireland offers a range

oven, and unwind in the outdoor sauna.

of eco experiences including nature

Needless to say there are so many

photography, seaweed harvesting, half

For an eco-experience that will soothe

more locations, attractions, natu-

day sheep farming and potato planting.

mind and body take a soak in the Voya

ral points of beauty and innovative

Seaweed Baths based in the beautiful

accomodation solutions we could

Clare the moment I met you I swear...

coastal village of Strandhill County

mention, so for more information on

In County Clare your first port of call

Sligo. VOYA Seaweed Baths and organic

eco breaks in Ireland check out www.

has to be the Burren and Cliffs of Moher

treatments are especially recommended

ecotourismireland.ie, where you can

Geopark which offers everything from

for those who are overworked, stressed

search for spots along the Wild Atlan-

archaeology to adventure and from

or simply seeking an effective natu-

tic Way via their interactive map.

“Trace the music & history of The Kilfenora Band at The Burren Centre.”

Thevisitor visitorcentre centreininthe thehistoric historic village village of of Kilfenora Kilfenora The boasts afantastic fantastic exhibition, audio visual film exhibition, visual film Theboasts visitora centre in the historicaudio village of Kilfenora theatre, localcraft craft show and and teavisual room.film theatre, local show tea room. boasts a fantastic exhibition, audio theatre, local craft show and tea room.

Explorethe theflora, flora,fauna, fauna, archaeology archaeology and and natural natural Explore history offlora, theBurren Burren in the the Burren Burrenand Centre. history of the Centre. Explore the fauna, in archaeology natural Services: Tourist Information Point, Services: Point, history of theTourist BurrenInformation in the Burren Centre. Free parking, Beside Kilfenora High Services: Tourist Information Free parking, Beside KilfenoraPoint, High Crosses, all BurrenBeside reference Maps & & Guides Guides Freeall parking, Kilfenora High Crosses, Burren reference Maps available in craft craft shop. shop. Crosses, all Burren reference Maps & Guides available in available in craft shop.

openingtimes: times:Mid MidMarch MarchtotoMay May10am 10am toto 5pm; 5pm; opening opening times:toMid MarchSeptember to May 10am to 5pm; 10am to 5pm; June,July July & august 9.30am 5.30pm; october June, toto5.30pm; September toto october 10am June, July&&august august9.30am 9.30am 5.30pm; September to october 10am to to 5pm; 5pm; Last Admission 30 min before closing Last Admission 30 min before closing Last Admission 30 min before closing Burren Centre, Kilfenora, Co. Clare BurrenCentre, Centre,Kilfenora, Kilfenora, Co. Co. Clare Clare Burren Telephone:065 0657088030 7088030Fax: Fax:065 065 7088102 7088102 Telephone: 065 7088030 Fax: 065 7088102 Telephone: E-mail: info@theburrencentre.ie Website: www.theburrencentre.ie E-mail:info@theburrencentre.ie info@theburrencentre.ie Website: Website: www.theburrencentre.ie www.theburrencentre.ie E-mail:

Lucy Hunt Sea Synergy

owever, it wasn’t until she went swimming with basking sharks in Ballinskelligs Bay that she realised she didn’t need to travel to exotic and farflung locations in search of the beauty and biodiversity of the underwater world. A marine biologist, Lucy has worked on marine research projects in warmer climes  such as Fiji, Madagascar, Mauritius, Seychelles and the Maldives, but she always knew she Growing up in the small coastal wanted to return home to research and raise village of Waterville on the Ring awareness of the marine biodiversity in Ireland. of Kerry, Lucy Hunt developed “I was back home in 2008 when I got a call a love and fascination with to say there were over 100 basking sharks off the sea and its inhabitants Hogs Head and in and around Ballinskelligs from a very young age. Bay. Myself and my brother jumped into the water and went snorkelling with them. Even t e x t: M I C H E L L E M C D O N AG H though I am a marine biologist, I had not fully realised until that moment with the basking sharks, what amazing sea life we have at home.” Lucy, who has been scuba diving since the age of 12, was not worried about being attacked by the sharks who flock to Irish seas in the summer to feed on the lush plankton blooms that grow here. She explains: “Basking sharks are generally docile plankton feeders, but they are big animals and if you got a whack off one of their tails, you would know all about it. Their skin is very rough, like sandpaper, so you have to be careful not to get too close. It’s amazing that we get to encounter these creatures feeding in Irish waters every year.” In 2014, Lucy set up the Sea Synergy Marine Awareness and Activity Centre in Waterville with the aim of enabling people to discover what lies beneath the Wild Atlantic Way through an informative and interactive marine interpretive centre and lots of activities for all ages. The interpretive centre holds some very rare whale and dolphin skulls and bones, models of fish, live animals in tanks, a touch pool, an Irish marine life audio visual, exhibits on Irish whales and dolphins and lots more interactive displays of what lies beneath the Wild Atlantic Way. A marine biologist is available to explain the amazing sea life there and in Irish waters. During the summer, Sea Synergy organises fun and interesting activities for both kids and adults to discover Ireland’s marine life and the importance of the sea in our daily lives. These include Exploring the Seashore and Rocky Shore Rambles Workshops, Beach Art and Litter Awareness Workshops, Discover Snorkelling courses and Be a

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 Marine Biologist for the Day Workshop. Lucy herself grew up in her family’s beachfront guesthouse, the Smugglers Inn in Waterville. She inherited her love for the sea and travel, her adventurous spirit and her entrepreneurial genes from her parents. “My dad was a chef who worked very hard in the restaurant. He used to rush out on his breaks and take us swimming or out in a small boat to catch mackerel. Those are some of the best memories of my life, being out on the beach and the water.” Through her marine research and awareness consultancy, LH Marine, Lucy has worked on a dynamic range of marine research projects over the past five years in both tropical and temperate climes. This research has ranged from baseline studies of tropical coral reefs and water quality to marine mammal observation, photo identification and distribution of marine mega fauna. Lucy believes increasing awareness and appreciation of the marine environment is one of the main methods of conserving such a vulnerable and valuable environment. She raises awareness and appreciation of the marine environment with innovative and fun approaches spreading enthusiasm and interest through engaging presentations, signage and interactive workshops. Lucy, who is also a certified health coach with the Institute for Integrative Nutrition, believes an integral part of a healthy society is very much connected with a healthy sea. She is interested in the whole concept of eco-therapy which uses nature connection to treat depression, and blue gym concept which uses blue space like the sea to help improve health and wellbeing. She points out: “For centuries, people have ventured to the coast to rest and recuperate from illness, and many resorts were established due to the benefits the sea air offers. Water is very healing and research has shown the very positive effects that connecting with nature and water can have on the mind and body. This is an area that is probably going to take off over the next few years.” Lucy has teamed up with Carey Yoga and Nutrition to organise health and wellness retreats by the sea to promote wellbeing and happiness though nature connection, yoga, meditation and more. For more information on Sea Synergy, contact Lucy on seasynergy@gmail. com or call her on 353 87 7850929.

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 My dad was a chef who worked very hard in the restaurant. He used to rush out on his breaks and take us swimming or out in a small boat to catch mackerel. Those are some of the best memories of my life, being out on the beach and the water. Lucy Hunt

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Ma gazine

N ews WAW PA S S P O R T  A Wild Atlantic Way Passport is being launched this month by Fáilte Ireland and An Post. It will not only give you a special momento of your visit to the Wild Atlantic Way, but you can get stamps along the way to track your visit as you return year after year. Locals will provide insights and stories to visitors which will contribute to your unique holiday experience.

D E R R I G I M L AG H , CO N N E M A R A  This exciting and innovative project sees the development of an interpreted looped walk on the site of the Marconi Wireless Station and Alcock & Brown Transatlantic Landing site bringing two of the most important industrial stories of the twentieth century to life for visitors.

CO N N E M A R A C U LT U R A L C E N T R E @ P E A R S E ’ S COT TAG E  Phase one of this project includes an enhanced walkway from the new developed car park to the exiting national monument of Pearse’s Cottage. The Connemara Cultural Centre which is currently in development is scheduled to come on stream in September 2016.

S P E C S AV E R S TO R A I S E A N OT H E R € 1 0 0 K F O R O U R L A DY ’ S C H I L D R E N ’ S H OS P I TA L  Specsavers Ireland are extending its commitment to Our Lady’s Children’s Hospital, Crumlin by pledging to raise an additional €100,000 for their ophthalmology unit. The announcement was made as Specsavers presented the hospital with a cheque for €120,000 following extensive fundraising by its employees. Specsavers have now launched their next initiative the ‘Climb for Crumlin’. This will see Specsavers staff member Tony Power embark an epic journey to climb Mount Everest base camp. CEO at CMRF Crumlin, Joe Quinsey added, “Fundraising is essential to ensure that we can deliver on our objective of giving every sick child every chance every time and Specsavers is enabling us to make a tremendous difference to the lives of children and their families across the country.” Go Wild Magazine - Summer Edition 2016

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THE BEST OF W AW

LIFE AS A HEAD CONCIERGE

Highlights

ike Considine is the Head Concierge at The Savoy Hotel in Limerick and a member of Les Clefs D’or, which is the International Association of Professional Hotel Concierges. He tells Go Wild Magazine all about life as the front face of one of Ireland’s top hotels…

Explore Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Garden

ylemore Abbey and Victorian Walled Garden, just one hour from Galway, is one of Ireland’s top tourist attractions. Experience woodland and lake shore walks, magnificent buildings and Ireland’s largest Walled Garden! Enjoy wholesome food and delicious home-baking in their Café or Garden Tea House. History talks take place three times a day in the Abbey and you can enjoy tours of the Walled Garden throughout the summer. Browse their Craft and Design Shop for unique gifts including Kylemore Abbey Pottery and award winning chocolate handmade by the Benedictine nuns. The best day out in the West. www.kylemoreabbey.com

ike Considine finds meeting new and interesting people from around the world stimulating and exciting, so it’s no

surprise that he chose a career in hospitality. As Head Concierge of the prestigious Savoy Hotel in the heart of Limerick, Mike has an incredibly varied and enviable career. He has seen and heard it all.

Embrace the spiritual home of Irish rugby at Thomand Park

His primary mission is to simply make guests’ travel effortless. If you tell him once you are allergic to peanuts, he will ensure nothing with peanuts is ever served to you from that point forward. It is the very essence of the Savoy Hotel luxury that is anticipatory rather than

imerick has often been referred to as the spiritual home of Irish rugby and part of that is due to the fearsome reputation of the provincial team, Munster Rugby, and their base at the mighty Thomond Park Stadium. The humble provincial pitch was transformed into a world-class stadium in 2008. Holding nearly 27,000 on match days, the venue is famed for its unique atmosphere for games and events such as concerts with the likes of Bruce Springsteen and Elton John. For an opportunity to follow in the footsteps of the players, there is a stadium tour available, which gives visitors unprecedented ‘back stage’ access. You can see the home and away dressing rooms, press conference areas, the Munster dug-out and walk down the tunnel to stand on the hallowed pitch. The tour also includes a visit to the Munster Experience museum. The history of Munster and Thomond Park is outlined with lots of memorabilia and interactive/ multimedia exhibits that allow you to practice your line-out skills, among other things. The museum and stadium tour is open on a daily basis (groups can be catered for too). The stadium also includes a first class range of conference and banqueting facilities. It can host conferences, gala dinners, exhibitions, weddings and all types of functions, large and small. For more information, see www.thomondpark. ie, email: info@thomondpark.ie. For fixtures/ match tickets, see www.munsterrugby.ie.

reactive to give guests a personalized experience. A typical week for Mike is spent arranging theatre tickets, transfers, dinners, flights and car rentals, recommending sightseeing tours and shopping trips, organising room service and valet parking. He has also produced many romantic surprises with stunning floral arrangements for special occasions. One of the most enviable parts of his job is getting to meet celebrities and high profile business clients, some of which have included Elaine Paige, Billy Connolly, Richard Harris sons Jared & Jamie, and JP Mc Manus. The role is demanding and Mike needs to continually educate himself so that he can provide up-to-date, in-the-know insight that helps his guests enjoy a stress-free trip. It is that service that keeps the same guest coming back time and again. Through his vast contacts, he is able to open doors that no others can. It is challenges of truly unique requests that he relishes the most. A few weeks ago one of his VIP repeat guests from Riyadh arrived requesting a private Yacht with bar service, a chef, and a full staff, to sail from Limerick to Killaloe. He only wanted to deal with Mike, who was on a day off, so the amenable concierge came into the hotel and arranged the full trip for him, through his contacts in Killaloe. Now that’s what we call service! “If I can achieve something extraordinary for my clients, my day is made”, says Mike. The luxurious Savoy Hotel is a gateway to The Wild Atlantic Way and has some wonderful attractions on its doorstep such as the Cliffs of Moher, King John’s Castle & of course, Thomond Park.

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Limerick city’s best loved traditional Irish PUB Come to the waters edge

Come to the waters edge

LIVE TRAD MUSIC 7 NIGHTS A WEEK

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SEAFOOD CLEGGAN, COUNTY GALWAY

Feast your eyes on the wonders of Connemara and then feed your belly with fresh seafood in Oliver’s in the unspoiled fishing village of Cleggan on the edge of the Atlantic. It’s the perfect base for a holiday, with a ferry running from here to Inishbofin, a must-see for visitors. Or just stay put and enjoy their specialities: seafood straight off the boat, and the finest Connemara lamb and prime beef to satisfy any appetite. With homemade desserts and Irish coffees a speciality, you won’t want to leave. For reservations contact 09544640 / oliverscleggan@gmail.com

F O O D S E R V E D A L L D AY UNTIL 10PM The Locke Bar, 3 Georges Quay Limerick. Tel: 061 413733 | www.lockebar.com

Highlights Go wild Purecamping

o Wild glamping or camping on the beautiful Loop Head Peninsula, Co. Clare at Purecamping eco-campsite. An ecoconscious campsite with grassy tent pitches, woodland camping and a healthy spread of glamping options, Purecamping is the perfect waymarker as you explore the west coast. Book now at www.purecamping.ie

Commemorate 1916 at Galway City Museum

alway City Museum showcases the rich archaeology, history, and heritage of Galway. Special exhibitions for 2016 include, Revolution in Galway, 1913-1923, Galway & the Great War and Sea Science. Visitors can soak up Galway’s maritime history in The Galway Hooker exhibition and re-live some of its greatest sporting moments in GAA: The Three-in-a-Row 1964-66. Prehistoric and medieval Galway can be explored through artefacts and interactives. The Museum boasts amazing views of the Claddagh, where the river Corrib flows into the sea. www.galwaycitymuseum.ie

Pick up a gem at The Rockshop

At The Rock Shop we have an exciting range of Gemstones and Gifts sourced from Ireland and all over the World. Jewellery and jewels to suit all tastes and budgets, and of course Rock, Fossil and Mineral Specimens for collectors young and old. With displays of precious and semi-precious stones, onyx, Connemara marble and crystals, you are sure to find something unique. Whether you are interested in Geology, Crystal Healing, and Palaeontology or just want to treat yourself with one of life’s little luxuries you will find a beautiful and timeless treasure here.

Go Wild Magazine - Summer Edition 2016

THE BEST OF W AW

Take a Killaloe River Cruise of the River Shannon and Lough Derg

tep on board a Killaloe River Cruise on the idyllic shores of Lough Derg, Ireland’s pleasure lake, for a fantastic tour of Ireland’s finest waterway, The River Shannon. Enjoy stunning sightseeing with breathtaking views of Counties Clare and Tipperary. Killaloe River Cruise passenger boats are modern, clean, safe and comfortable. To book, contact James Whelan on 0868140559. www.killaloerivercruises.com.

Watch Eagles Flying in Sligo

agles Flying is an attraction for all the family that offers great excitement and fantastic photo opportunities. Situated amid the beautiful landscape of North-West Ireland, Eagles Flying is the largest Centre for Birds of Prey and Owls in the country. You will get up close to the masters of the sky and make memories that will last a lifetime as you watch these majestic raptors soar over one of the most lovely locations to be found. Experience some of the biggest birds of prey in the world flying right over your head or landing next to you. Watch different species of eagles hunting on prey-dummies in their natural environment. Be astonished about the arrow-like flight of the falcons and the amazing intelligence of the vultures. During the flying demonstrations, scientist discuss the biology of the raptors and their important role in nature and questions will gladly be answered. Educating you about these birds also means safeguarding these endangered species for future generations as you will learn how to do your share in protecting our Nature. www.eaglesflying.com

Walk through time at the Burren Centre

iscover the unique magic of the Burren Region in ‘A Walk Through Time’ at the Burren Centre. Located in the historic village of Kilfenora, situated beside the ancient Kilfenora Cathedral, the visitor centre encompasses an exhibition, audio visual film theatre, craft shop and tea room. It is Ireland’s first Interpretative Centre rebuilt on the site of the old school, and is the best place to explore the flora, fauna, geology, legends, archaeology and natural history of the Burren. +353 65 7088030, www.theburrencentre.ie

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N PE Y O AIL D

VOUCH E AVAILA FOR M B USE VOUCH E & STA AVAILA RS DIU FOR M BLE USEUM TOURS & STADIU M TOURS

Go Wild Atlantic Way in

Donegal

Abbey & Central Hotels, The Diamond, Donegal Town, County Donegal

Phone:- +353 (0) 74 97 21014 Abbey Hotel | Phone:- +353 (0) 74 97 21027 Central Hotel www.abbeyhoteldonegal.com

www.centralhoteldonegal.com

Best of the Go Wild

Authors

EVERY MUM HAS MAGIC KISSES Ber Collins A deeply moving, honest and raw account of Ber’s journey from a childhood of abuse and bullying to becoming the mum she wanted to be to her two children. Full of wisdom and practical advice, with every reviewer giving it 5 stars, you won’t be able to put this book down.

WANDERING IRELAND’S WILD ATLANTIC WAY Paul Clements The Wild Atlantic Way is now two years old. Some feel it has democratised the west of Ireland, others think we may end up killing the goose that lays the golden egg. Journalist, broadcaster and writer Paul Clements travelled this road in 1991 before it was a Fáilte Ireland campaign and revisits to see if the essence of the way still exists.

The book can be bought from www.bercollins.ie/book ONLY EVA Judi Curtin Curtin has a light touch but does not shy away from strong themes, in this case the treatment of elderly people, and direct provision centres and the difficulties children face living there.

THE REUNION Roisín Meaney Caroline escaped the small town where she grew up as soon as she finished her final exams. Now a successful knitwear designer in England, she tries not to remember her school days, or the trauma that changed everything just before her final year. But in the weeks before the reunion she receives a letter which brings her back to that momentous time, and suddenly she has agonising choices to make. Meanwhile Eleanor has her own worries: a long-held sorrow, a son who is barely speaking to her, and a husband keeping a secret. The reunion invitations stir up the past for both sisters – but will they find the courage to return to the town where they grew up and in doing so, face what they’ve been running from for all these years?

Go Wild Magazine - Summer Edition 2016

FEEDING JOHNNY Colm O’Brien Colm O’Brien is an entrepreneur, businessman and author. His first book How to Build a Business Despite the Roadblocks entered the Best Seller list in its first week. Feeding Johnny chronicles the author’s journey from the corporate world through self-employment, to catastrophic business failure to significant business success - an ideal take-home gift for the entrepreneur near you. Buy a copy here: http://colmobrienmotivation.com/book/

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Situated on the Wild Atlantic Way the 4 Star ‘Strandhill Lodge and Suites Boutique Hotel’ located with Mount Knocknarea as its backdrop and located in the heart of Strandhill villageof this Crystal sleepySee yet vibrant village Exquisite Pieces of Crys See Exquisite Pieces is a must visit location. The award manufactured before your eye manufactured before your eyes winning 22 room boutique hotel has rooms with stunning sea-views and offers a relaxing base for your visit to See Exquisite Pieces of Cryst See Strandhill.

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The House of Waterford Crystal brings a visit to Waterford to a whole newThe level,House of Waterford Crystal brings a visit to Waterford to a whole new level, visitors can witness the Factory creation ofTours crystaldaily masterpieces right before their very as visitors can witness the creation of crystal masterpieces right before theirasvery Guided eyes. The factory tour isBrand a unique and captivating experience that allows people eyes. The factory tour is a unique and captivating experience that allows people Waterford & Visitor Experience go behind the scenes for over anDaily hour and see exactly how Waterford Crystal go behind the scenes for over an hour and see exactly how Waterford Crystal Open pieces are made and they can witness every stage of production, from the initial pieces are made and they can witness every stage of production, from the initial design stage right up to the final engraving of the piece. design stage right up to the final engraving of the piece.

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The House of WaterfordLocated Crystal brings aon visit to Waterford new level, the Mallto ainwhole the heart of the Viking The House of Waterford Crystal brings a visit to as visitors can witness theTriangle creation of crystal masterpieces right beforethe their House very Guided Factory Tours dai in Waterford City, Waterford as visitors canof witness the creation of crystal ma Book onlineatour at www.waterfordvisitorcentre.com and receive a 10% discount on Exper adul Book online at www.waterfordvisitorcentre.comeyes. and receive 10% adult tickets The factory is a discount unique andon captivating experience that allows people Waterford Brand & Visitor eyes. The factory tour is a unique and captivatin Crystal brings a visit to Waterford to a whole new go behind the scenes for over an hour and see exactly how Waterford Crystal Open Daily go creation behind the scenes over an hour and see Visitors witness theinitial of for crystal pieces are made and theylevel. can witness every stagecan of production, from the pieces are made and they can witness every stag design stage right up to stemware, the final engravinggiftware of the piece. and masterpieces right before design stage right up to the final engraving of t Phone +353 (0) 51 317000 www.waterfordvisitorcentre.com Phone +353 (0) 51 317000 www.waterfordvisitorcentre.com HoWC advert_200 x 297mm - Go Wild Magazine - Wild Atlantic Way.indd 1

their very eyes. Every year the House of Waterford Crystal factory melts down more than 750 tonnes of Book online at -www.waterfordvisitorcentre.com and receive a 10% discount on adult t HoWC advert_200 x 297mm Go Wild Magazine - Wild Atlantic Way.indd 125/09/2015 10:50 online at www.waterfordvis crystal and produces more thanBook 50,000 pieces using traditional manufacturing techniques. The factory tour is a unique and captivating experience that Phone +353 (0) 51 317000 www.waterfordvisitorcentre.com is sure to enthral visitors of all ages, both national Phone +353 ( and international. The tour lets people go behind HoWC advert_200 x 297mm - Go Wild Magazine - Wild Atlantic Way.indd 1 the scenes and see exactly HoWC how Waterford Crystal advert_200 x 297mm - Go Wild Magazine - Wild Atlantic Way.indd 1 pieces are made. The House of Waterford Crystal is also home to the largest collection of Waterford Crystal in the world. The House of Waterford Crystal is open to the public all year round, with guided tours available.

Escape to Carrygerry Country House for a Relaxing Getaway with Someone Special

Carrygerry Country House, near Newmarket-on-Fergus and just Our Conservatory Restaurant is open for Dinner from Tuesday to minutes away from Shannon, is a 200 year old Manor tastefully Saturday from 6.30pm to 9.30pm. Our Á La Carte Menu offers restored to its former glory, set in a idyllic mature country setting. fresh, locally sourced produce and a complete well balanced menu. On arrival, you willNewmarket-on-Fergus experience a relaxed and unique country house Near and just minutes away from Shannon, atmosphere with open fires and antique furniture. There are 11 Set Dinner Menu for €29 (3 courses plus Tea/Coffee) is all a 200 year old Manor tastefully restored tofrom its6.30pm former glory, bedrooms, individually styled in keeping with the house. is served to 9.30pm Tuesdayset to Saturday.

Carrygerry Country House,

in a idyllic mature country setting. On arrival, you will experience a We cater for Birthdays, Anniversaries, Weddings, Christenings, etc. relaxed and unique country house atmosphere with open fires and For enquiries call 061 360500 or email: info@carrygerryhouse.com | www.carrygerryhouse.com antique furniture. There are 11 bedrooms, all individually styled in Escape Carrygerry keepingtowith the house. Country House

for a Relaxing Getaway with Someone Special

Our Conservatory Restaurant is open for Dinner from Tuesday to Saturday from 6.30pm to 9.30pm. Our Á La Carte Menu offers fresh, locally sourced produce and a Carrygerry Country House, near Newmarket-on-Fergus and just Our Conservatory Restaurant is open for Dinner from Tuesday to well balanced menu. minutes away from Shannon, is a 200 year oldcomplete Manor tastefully Saturday from 6.30pm to 9.30pm. Our Á La Carte Menu offers

restored to its former glory, set in a idyllic mature country setting. fresh, locally sourced produce and a complete well balanced menu. On arrival, you will experience a relaxed and unique country house Set Dinner Menu for €29 (3 courses plus Tea/Coffee) is served atmosphere with open fires and antique furniture. There are 11 Set Dinner Menu for €29 (3 courses plus Tea/Coffee) from 6.30pm to 9.30pm Tuesday to Saturday. bedrooms, all individually styled in keeping with the house. is served from 6.30pm to 9.30pm Tuesday to Saturday.

We cater for Birthdays, Anniversaries, Weddings, Christenings, etc. For enquiries call 061 360500 or email: info@carrygerryhouse.com | www.carrygerryhouse.com

Explore the Wild Atlantic Way

Michael Monastry, photograph by Caspar Diederik

Award winning photographer Paul Mullins took this stunning silhouette of 3 french students enjoying the sunset while smoking their pipe on the edge of the Cliffs Of Moher, images are available to purchace through pmullinsphotography@gmail.com or 0872362859

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Slieve League Panorama

Blasket Peninsula

Cork City Hall

Coumeenoole Beach, Slea Head

Lahinch Golf Club, Co. Clare Pictures courtesy of FailtĂŠ Ireland Go Wild Magazine - Summer Edition 2016

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Go Wild Magazine presents

Food Havens By Clair Collins

CORK Many leading Irish food brands and producers hail from West Cork including Clonakilty Black Pudding, Gubbeen Cheese, Glenilen Farm and Irish Yoghurts to name a short few! If you visit in September, you’ll be in for a treat with A Taste of West Cork Food Festival, where you can enjoy a mix of food markets, demonstrations, cookery competitions, special dinners, brunches and banquets, food-tastings, talks, exhibitions, children’s events and more. Top places to dine in West Cork include Richies Bistro Clonakilty, The Mews Baltimore, Toonsbridge Dairy and The Fish Kitchen Bantry. Idyllic Kinsale town in West Cork is every food lover’s dream. It recently held a Taste of the Wild Atlantic Way Street Food Festival and will host its 40th Annual Gourmet Festival in October. Our top picks for this area are The Steakhouse, Bastion, Fishy Fishy (an iconic Seafood Restaurant owned by Celebrity chef Martin Shanahan) and the consistently great Man Friday. A hidden gem here is The Short Quay Café serving contemporary healthy options and homemade confectionary, great for lunch. Of course, a foodie trip to Cork would not be complete without a visit to the English

Go Wild Magazine - Summer Edition 2016

If you plan on going wild along the Wild Atlantic Way this summer, then all that sightseeing, outdoor adventure and fresh coastal air is sure to work up a serious appetite. The food along this stretch is as good as the views, so let your taste buds be your GPS with this round-up of some of the best foodie havens along the way …

Market, situated in the heart of Cork City. This roofed food market has been trading since 1788, and is one of the oldest municipal markets of its kind in the world.

CO. KERRY The stunning Dingle Peninsula is a foodie temple for fresh, local and artisan produce. Home to the Blás Na hEireann Irish Food Awards, top eateries to try include Grey’s Lane Bistro and Out of the Blue. For something immersive try a tour of The Dingle Distillery and brew up some artisan whiskey, vodka or gin. For dessert don’t miss award winning Murphy’s Ice-cream, handmade using milk from the rare indigenous Kerry Cow, absolutely scrumptious! Another great spot for a casual lunch of fine dining is the Smugglers Inn in Waterville.

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LIMERICK Whether you are looking for fine dining or casual pub grub, you’ll find it in Limerick. Our favourites include 1826 Adare and The French Table, Adare Manor Oakroom restaurant, Brasserie One @ No. 1 Pery Square and the Cream Room Curry House at the South Court Hotel, for those who want an Indian influence. Or why not head to their Milk Market and pick from their wide selection of local organic produce? At Hamptons we are proud to have custom designed our own wood fired Robata oven and grills, unique to Limerick & Ireland. Built to ensure the maximum in flavor and succulence in all our steaks, chicken and seafood dishes. We use the best beech and wood charcoal in all our cooking which imparts its unique signature in a slow release formula. All of our meats are marinated overnight in our secret recipe rubs and dressings before being grilled or roasted for your delectation. We are located next door to Limerick’s five star Savoy Hotel on Henry street.

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GALWAY A list of foodie havens would not be complete without a touch of Michelin Star dining and for this we head to ‘Aniar’ in Galway, self-described as a terroir style restaurant for its local and seasonal ingredient led menu. The food is excellent and the experience is memorable. Olivers Seafood in the fishing village of Cleggan is also a must, and the Guinness and Oysters in Padraicins in Furbo are to die for. We couldn’t depart the county of Galway without also giving a hat tip to a Connemara eatery Mitchels of Clifden.

MAYO Mayo’s Great Western Greenway is a 42km walking and cycling route with views over Clew Bay and out to the Atlantic making Westport an ideal spot to whet your appetite in salty spray, especially if you land during the annual Westport Food Festival in June. Embrace the hottest food trend and go foraging along the Killala. Do not overlook other Mayo beauty spots including Ballina which is Irelands Salmon capital and home to the ‘Ice House Hotel’ which has an exceptional restaurant, and Cong Village where ‘The Hungry Monk’ is located, is well worth a visit.

CLARE Go for more than the Cliffs of Moher. Clare is a culinary destination in its own right. Our top tips include the delicious modern bistro style of Wild Honey Lisdoonvarna or for a bit of a luxury, treat yourself to the Ocean View Restaurant at the five-star Trump International Hotel. Why not go for something completely different and try the Medieval Banquet at Bunratty Castle, a popular experience if you enjoy a bit of pageantry? For the best in food produce make sure to divert to the Burren Smoke House for a delectable assortment of hot and cold smoked salmon, mackerel and trout.

DONEGAL The most northerly section of the Wild Atlantic Way coastal route is by no means the least! The drama of Malin Head, Fanad Head and Slieve League is echoed in the food which is undergoing a bit of a revelation in recent years. Our hot tips include family run Harry’s Bar and Restaurant Inishowen, Yellow Pepper in Letterkenny, and The Cove Dunfanaghy. You can take it a step further and catch your own dinner on one of the An Duanaí Mara Boat Charters before enjoying the fruits of your labour cooked at the world famous ‘Kitty Kellys’ in Killybegs.

 THE FOOD ALONG THIS STRETCH IS AS GOOD AS THE VIEWS, SO LET YOUR TASTE BUDS BE YOUR GPS WITH THIS ROUND-UP OF SOME OF THE BEST FOODIE HAVENS ALONG THE WAY

Tuscany Bistro

ANNACOTTY & KILLALOE

D E R U T A E F s t n a r u A R ES T Richys Restaurant

CLON AKILT Y, WEST CORK Found in the West Cork town of Clonakilty, Richy s Restaurant offers visitors a warm setting and special dining experience. Along with a full Al a Carte Menu, there are also tempting weekl y special featuring local fresh seafood. The food is perfe ctly paired with wines from their extensive wine list and they also carry local craft beers and labels . Split into two sections, with one used as a Café by day, serving a delicious lunch menu and a selection of homemade cakes. Being located along the Wild Atlantic Way Richy is blessed with the local supplier’s available right on his door step which are showcased in each of his dishes. ‘Simplicity is the greatest asset of any chef – let the local produ ce speak for itself’ Richy Virahsawmy. A taste of Richy s can also be sampled at home , thank s to Richy ’s cookbook which features some of the most popular dishes from the restau rant. There are also cooking classes held during the autumn and winter, for an alternative night out. Richy ’s is a popular destination for locals and newcomers alike. www.richysrestaurnt.com, Tel 023 8821852

The New summer menu kick s off in May in Tuscany Bistro’s with some excitin g new additions to tantalize your taste buds. Maintaining the ethos of fres h, simple and delicious dishes, Tuscany continues to cater for locals and visitors alike in both of the ir bistro’s In Cas tletroy, Limerick and Killaloe in Co Clare. You can now purchase the ir renowned Amodeo Salad dressing, made from a ver y old Italian family receipe, from their newly launched website ww w. tusany.ie . This recipe has won many awards and is admired for its distinctive taste and unique bot tle presentation. If you find yourself in Cas tletroy or the beautiful heritage village of Killaloe and fancy a taste of real Ital y, then pop in and say hi to Sabrina Amodeo and her friendl y team.

fé Louis Mulcahy Pottery Ca DINGLE , CO. KER RY

ry’s finest produce Sample some of West Ker re locally smoked at Louis Mulcahy’s Café, whe Dingle Peninsula cheese, salmon, Dingle crabmeat , ure on the menu. Daily and local spiced beef all feat s, fish-cakes, and a specials include savour y tart d bread. wee chilli-crab sandwich on sea ilable, and the ava Gluten free options are also ed bak cakes will always café ’s selection of freshly free options. Café include at leas t two gluten rry and dark chocolate favourites include Raspbe e, and freshly baked Brownies, Kerry Apple Cak The café sits in the heart scones and brown bread. staff are happy to use of the Kerry Gaeltacht and cus tomers through Irish. the cúpla focail and ser ve by Georgina Campbell The café is recommended was recently nominatand McKenna’s Guides, and rd. Check out the Awa ed for an Irish Res taurant upcoming events. and s facebook page for special ne 066 9156229 pho , om Email cafe@louismulcahy.c s. king boo for further information and

Experience the ultimate getaway on the

fossils

gems

Clare Island Lighthouse Liscannor, Co. Clare. T: (065) 7081 930 e

w No

L oN

jewellery

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ireland’s outstanding treasure house

Accommodation like no other in a spectacular cliff top lighthouse located on Clare Island in Clew Bay, Co. Mayo Vouchers available online at www.clareislandlighthouse.com Or call Roie for bookings or vouchers 087 6689758

Browse and buy from our shelves packed full of the earth’s natural treasures and other unforgettable gift items. Visit our presentation room with a FREE audio visual outlining the history of quarrying the famous Liscannor flagstones from the nearby Cliffs of Moher.

Enjoy a welcome break at our relaxing Tea Room, now open all year round.

www.therockshop.ie

Clew Bay, Westport, Co. Mayo Boutique Guesthouse

2016 Spanish Parade, Galway. Email: museum@galwaycity.ie Tel: 091 532460 Web: www.galwaycitymuseum.ie Open Tue-Sat: 10am-5pm & Sundays Easter - Sept. 12pm-5pm

GREAT WAR GAA REVOLUTION

SEA SCIENCE

SPANISH ARCH

FEATU RED

RES TAu rants The Smugglers Inn WATERVILLE, KERRY

has It is not surprising that The Smug glers Inn s writer nomic gastro many been praised by so recom guide food good it , throughout the world One r. winne award Failte mended and a Bord to the could almos t tee-off from The Smug glers Inn Golf ville Water hip pions cham hole world famous 18 Course. beside Situated right on the Golf Links Beach and ideal an is Inn glers Smug The Water ville Golf Club, , ience Exper g Dinin Fine a , Lunch spot for a casual ion. Occas or for that Special Rooms Every detail in their Sea and Mountain View s, towel fluffy from out ht thoug lly have been carefu g Makin e Coffe / Tea TV, , Areas to free WiFi in Public / http:/ e. nienc conve your for Facilities all laid out 30. www.the-smugglers-inn.com/ +353 66 94743

1826 Adare

ADARE, CO. LIMERICK If you find yourself down Limerick Way, make sure to check out 1826 Adare, which resides in a picture postcard thatched cottage. Elaine and Wade Murphy are extremely genial hosts and their menu changes seasonally with Irish ingredients like Dooughmore Bay Crab, Inch House Black Pudding and Ballyhoura Mountain Mushroom to the fore. With signature dishes like Warm Chicken Liver Salad with Piccalilli, Pickles & Bally Greens, a Head to Tail Tasting Plate of Free Range Pork with Salt Baked Turnip and daily specials chalked up on the blackboard, it really is a gem of a place. The restaurant has had a year that most restaurants can only dream of, securing a Bib Gourmand, RAI Best Restaurant in Munster 2015 and a place in the McKennas Guide 100 Best Restaurants 2016. 1826 Adare so special: the setting, cosy real Irish but highly professional service and dishes that are cooked with modern and classical techniques using quality, seasonal and local ingredients as the centre piece of each dish. Peruse the menu and book at 1826adare.ie.

Pádraicin s

FUR BO, C

O G A LWA Y Enjoy Guin ness & O ys ters at Pád Co. Galway raicins in Fu . You will re rbo ceive a war ‘fáilte ’ welc m and frie ome in this ndly b ar and bis tro has a stro . T heir lou ng maritim nge e theme an food throu d serves e ghout the xcellent d ay . Relax at th edge on Fu e water’s rbo beach or enjoy a traditional pint or tw bar. o in their Pádraicins is your ide al meeting touring an place for cy d walking. cling , P eople ofte talk , plan, n stop here relax, eat to and drink. minute dri It ’s also on ve from ne ly a fi ve arby Barn break fast a Golf Clu in the morn b. From ing to late they serve evening d food all day inner, . A s they ar the sea, yo e located u will find beside a wonderf You will al ul seafood so enjoy th se lection. e beautifu outs tandin l surround g view s of in g s with Galway Bay Clare. and the hill s of

Olivers Seafood

CLEGGAN, CO. GALWAY set Cleggan in Co. Galway is a lovely fishing village on region ful peace and iful beaut in an incredibly y the Atlantic Coast , a very popular activity holida oking overlo pier the on is ’s destination. Oliver ess the working harbour. Their family run busin moda accom and drink food, y offers high qualit ly home and warm ly, friend a in tion to customers s, Higgin Peter and n Noree by d environment. Owne the oking overlo rtable comfo and t the pub is brigh men bustling Cleggan Harbour, busy with fisher going and g comin s ferrie and catch unloading their all on fire open cosy their Enjoy s. from the island Tradir regula and days er Summ but the warmest ion of tional music sessions.They offer a wide select their ing includ s dishe od seafo t fresh, locall y caugh best the serve also They der. Chow famous Seafood arveget as well as lamb, a emar Irish beef and Conn for base ound year-r ideal an is ’s ian dishes. Oliver oms a break in Connemara. They have five bedro rtcomfo and clean t, brigh are , which, though small / http:/ wifi. and TV with ite en-su are able. All rooms / pier.ie oliversoncleggan

View of the Aurora Borealis in the night sky above Malin Head on the Wild Atlantic Way. Photographer Michael Gill

SCENIC CYCLES Discover the Wild Atlantic Way on two wheels

For most visitors this loop is best enjoyed over multiple days, however keen cyclists C YC L I N G A DV E N T U R E

EXPERIENCE NORTHERN

could complete it in less. Here we have

If you are looking for a cycling adventure

LEGENDS AND L ANDSCAPE

broken it down into four days, which makes for a very leisurely exploration.

with dramatic landscapes, patchwork fields, winding trails, charming villages

1 - 4 DAYS L O O P, 1 6 0 K M ,

and welcoming locals, nowhere lends itself

L E V E L D I F F I C U LT

better than the Wild Atlantic Way with its

Highlights: Inch Island, Grianán

many routes, loops and terrains, perfect for

of Aileach, Malin Head, Stroove

those seeking a challenge or leisure cyclists.

At the most northern tip of Ireland’s Wild

DAY 1 : M U F F - B R I D G E N D

There are lots of different routes to

Atlantic Way, you willl find the Inishowen

- SPEENOG - INCH ISL AND

explore from the Ring of Kerry Cycle to

Peninsula, a diverse and beautiful

- BUNCR ANA / 2 HOURS 20

the Great Western Greenway in Mayo,

landscape with a 160km round-route of

M I N U T E S C YC L I N G / 3 8 K M

the Loop Head Cycle in Clare, Yeat’s

sea-sculpted coastline. Bordered to the

Start your adventure in Muff and head

Country Cycle in Sligo or the Beara

north by the Atlantic Ocean and to the

south west on the R239 to Bridgend. About

Peninsula through Cork and Kerry.

east and west by loughs, its home to low

5km in, you’ll see a sign for Letterkenny

This month we’re featuring the

mountains, bog lands and wild weather.

at the old schoolhouse at Drumhaggart.

Northern Legends, with this fantastic

Its unspoilt beauty means you can really

Follow this sign to Bridgend and along this

1-4 day loop from Fáilte Ireland…

feel disconnected from modern life.

road, you’ll see the ancient fort of Grianán of Aileach in the distance. Situated on a hilltop 250m above sea level, the view from the stone fort of Aileach is breathtaking. The origins of the Grianán of Aileach fort date back to 1700 BC, the time of the Tuatha de Danann, who invaded Ireland before the Celts and constructed stone forts on top of strategic hills. It is thought that St. Patrick visited the site in the 5th Century to baptise the local chieftain. From here, you can cycle for 20 minutes to the Old Church Visitor Centre at Speenogue to learn about legends in Irish folklore – kings, queens, heroes and warriors of Irish past. Afterwards, head back up the turn for Grianán of Aileach and look out for the brown sign marked ‘Inch Wildlife Reserve’ before taking the R2389 and follow the signs along the Slab Road for Inch Island. You will come to a small car park where you will spot the causeway which links directly to the island. When cycling along

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the Slab Road, you may notice that it’s particularly flat. If you were standing there 200 years ago, you would either be stuck in the mud or buried under the water of Lough Swilly. The surrounding farmland was reclaimed from the sea over 160 years ago and eventually developed into some of the richest farmland in the country. If mythology isn’t your thing, travel from Bridgend towards Burnfoot along the R238, passing the small village of Burnfoot where you will see signs for Inch Wildlife Reserve on the left hand side of the road before reaching a slip road which connects to the island. If you are making the pilgrimage to Grianán of Aileach, know that it is a steep climb that will take 20 to 30 minutes extra to complete.

Bike Repair / Bike Fitting / Work Shop / Show room, Hybrids / Road bikes / MTB’s / Kids bicycles TRI & TT bikes.

Along the island’s causeway road, once again you’ll see Grianán of Aileach high on the hill above Burt. Enjoy spectacular views across Lough Swilly to the marina at Fahan and Inishowen’s main town, Buncrana. Inch

We have a spectacular range of both casual & cycle specific clothing as well a huge choice of parts, accessories and spares

Island is a birdwatcher’s paradise – due to its wildfowl sanctuary, the whooper swan, Greenland white fronted goose and greylag goose can be spotted roaming around. Leaving the island, head for the blue flag Lisfannon Beach to watch or take part in a spot of wind or kitesurfing. The town of Buncrana follows after a further 20 minutes travel time. With plenty of places to rest up, great food and drink and a vibrant music scene, it’s the perfect spot to kick back and spend the night.

E N J OY

S P E C TAC U L A R

V I E WS AC R OS S

LO U G H S W I L LY

TO T H E M A R I N A AT FA H A N A N D I N I S H OW E N ’ S M A I N TOW N ,

BUNCRANA. INCH ISLAND IS A

B I R DWATC H E R ’ S PA R A D I S E

Oranmore Business Park Oranmore ,Co Galway Tel 091 394 590

DAY 2 : B U N C R A N A - D U N R E E - B A L LY L I F F I N - M A L I N B A L LY H I L L I N B E AC H / 3 H O U R S 3 1 M I N U T E S / 52 K M

Leaving Buncrana, cycle 40 minutes to Dunree, before tackling the twisty Gap of Mamore on the way to Ballyliffin which is a further 40 minutes again. On the way through to Clonmany, you’ll come across Glenevin Waterfall. Ballyliffin itself is great base for exploring the area’s sights. Take your pick from Doagh Famine Village, Fort Dunree Military Museum,or Carrickabraghy Castle, which was built

500ft. The Strand takes its name from the

over an hour. Here you can stop to fish and

by the O’Doherty family to protect the

five sea stacks that are visible – especially at

learn how to fillet and cook your own catch

Inishowen lands in the 16th century.

low tide – at the northern end of the beach.

with Oliver from Go Fish(just email info@

The wreck of The Twilight, which sank in

gofish.ie in advance to book your place).

From here, it’s a further 30 minute cycle

1889 en route from Newfoundland to Derry,

Then it’s a further 30 minute cycle down

to Malin Head, the most northerly tip of

can also be seen when the water is low.

twisty roads to the remote Tremone Bay,

Ireland where panoramic views include

The dunes at the back of the beach are the

a great spot for rock and shore fishing.

islands of Inistrahull and Tory, as well as

largest of their type in Europe. From the cliff

the Scottish hills on a clear day. Rest a while

top view point at Knockamany Bens, you

Rest a while and enjoy a paddle, before

in the beautiful wagon at Caffe Banba, for

can spot dolphins or at a certain time of year

continuing to the long and sandy

a warming cup of coffee, hot chocolate

even the spectacular Northern Lights – sign

Kinnagoe Bay beach just a further 35

or tea, with some cake for sustenance.

up to Aurora Borealis alerts for Irelandhere.

minutes away. Here one of the Spanish

Just 18 minutes cycle from Malin town is

Treasure hunters should head east to

Armada’s ships sunk in 1588. Looking

Five Fingers Strand, a beautiful expanse of

Ballyhillin Beach, via Knockamany Bens,

down from the road to the beach and its

beach sheltered by high cliff edges that rise

where semi-precious stones line the shore -

wild waves, it’s not hard to see why.

serpentine, jasper and cornelian and more.

DAY 4 : K I N N AG O E B AY - S T R O OV E

FROM THE CLIFF

TO P V I E W P O I N T

AT K N O C K A M A NY B E N S , YO U C A N

S P OT D O L P H I N S

O R AT A C E R TA I N T I M E O F YE A R EVEN THE

S P E C TAC U L A R

DAY 3 : B A L LY H I L L I N B E AC H -

B E AC H - M OV I L L E - M U F F / 2

C U L DA F F V I L L AG E - T R E M O N E

H O U R S 1 4 M I N U T E S /4 0 K M

B AY - K I N N AG O E B AY / 2 H O U R S

From Kinnagoe Bay, follow down the

2 0 M I N U T E S C YC L I N G / 3 6 K M

road for 35 minutes to Stroove where the

From here, the only way is south! Along

Inishowen Lighthousewatches over this once

the route, there are lots of gorgeous bays

busy shipping lane that took emigrants to

and picturesque villages to break up this

America and Australia. Take in the glorious

leg of the journey. Set off to Culdaff village

views over Lough Foyle across to Magilligan

and its blue flag beach, which will take just

as you make your descent. Catch your breath onInishowen Head on the Inishowen

NORTHERN LIGHTS

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Head Walk or continue on towards Moville.

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The final journey from Moville to Muff is one hour. If you’d like to use your hands rather than your legs for a while, stop at Moville Pottery to decorate your own piece of local hand thrown stoneware as a memento of your trip. While in Moville, a visit to the Cooley Cross is essential. The historical site contains the ruins of an old church and the ‘Skull House’; a small building with a stone roof that houses human remains. The village of Quigley’s Point is the final option for a refreshment stop on the way back to Muff. For more routes see http:// www.wildatlanticway.com/getinspired/themes/cycling/

West Coast Cycles “Bike, hike, eat, repeat!” Join West Coast Cycle Tours for a day of fun, adventure, learning and discovery on Clare coast! Cycle along peaceful roads in the Burren, taste local delights and experience an Atlantic sunset like no other at the Cliffs of Moher! (All equipment included, adults only, pick up/drop off)

Eithna’s By the Sea

AWARD WINN IN RESTAURANT G

A mecca for seafood lovers By

Michelle McDonagh

verlooking the harbour in the charming coastal village of Mullaghmore, County Sligo, Eithna O’Sullivan’s awardwinning restaurant is a mecca for seafood lovers from all over the world. The unique exterior of Eithna’s By The Sea features a dramatically painted sea mural of the village above and below the sea, a picture postcard scene. Regarded as one of the top seafood restaurants in Ireland, the menu at Eithna’s By The Sea features Mullaghmore lobster, Donegal Bay fresh prawns, Wild Atlantic oysters, locally grown organic salad from Tattie Hoaker Organic Farm and delicious seafood combinations, platters and tasting plates. Seaweed and sea vegetables are an integral part of the menu at Eithna’s, popping up in breads, desserts, seafood dishes and in Eithna’s unique range of homemade Wild Atlan-tic seaweed pestos. This reflects the knowledge and expertise of Eithna, who has run her own restaurant business for over 30 years. Her jars of seaweed pesto, which

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distinctive flavours from the mix of wild herbs and grasses that abound close to the

contain organically grown seasonal herbs from local organic farmer Aidan Gillen at the Tattie Hoaker, have become popular, both with locals and as souvenirs and gifts for visitors to the area. The neglected old favourite dillisk, also known as dulse, with its distinctive flavour is roasted in the oven for crisps, flaked into salads, mixed into homemade mayonnaise or whizzed into sauces and Eithna’s unique pesto. Eithna explains: “Sea Spaghetti, like fine strands of pasta, is rarely used here. We use it in a dish of land and sea spaghetti with lobster, clams and mussels dressed with roast lobster stock, herbs and Donegal rapeseed oil. It’s tasty sweetish flavours are

Seaweed and sea vegetables are an integral part of the menu at Eithna’s, popping up in breads, desserts, seafood dishes and in Eithna’s unique range of homemade Wild Atlan-tic seaweed pestos. brought to the fore mixed with berries in a dessert served with chocolate and nori (laver) me-ringues.” Another old favourite, Carrigeen moss is revived in Eithna’s pudding, flavoured with lemon and lemon balm, and served in a shot glass with seasonal fruits like autumn blackberries and apple. “Seaweeds are seasonal, like the other produce used in the restaurant, and the mineral content varies too. I don’t gather seaweed myself, but buy it from local harvesters who must have foreshore licensing. I always source seaweed that has been tested and cor-rectly dried, which may

Go Wild Magazine - Summer Edition 2016

include ultra-violet treatment,” she adds. Over the last few years, Eithna has come together with local seaweed expert, Dr Prannie Rhatigan to run the successful Sligo Seaweed Days. The experience involves Prannie teaching visitors how to identify, harvest and cook seaweed, followed by a mouth-watering seafood buffet — featuring seaweed, of course — in Eithna’s restaurant. Eithna enthusiastically creates tasty nutritional dishes using only the finest raw ingredi-ents from fish, shellfish and seaweed to locally grown organic vegetables at their sea-sonal best. Beef and lamb are raised on local pastures with their own

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shore. Eithna can also provide variations of wholesome vegetarian dishes effortlessly as an addition to her daily menu. Happily located beside one of the west coast’s main centres for lobsters Fisheries Exports, Eithna’s daily supplies come through Mullaghmore Sea Farm and local landings. With lobsters on her doorstep, it’s no surprise that the restaurant has become known for specialities featuring the majestic crustacean. Not surprisingly, Mullaghmore lobster features highly on the menu in signature dishes like Eithna’s Lobster Thermidor/ Garlic, Lobster Americaine, and her unique Goan green curry. Her most tempting seafood platter is heaped with mountains of crab claws in the shell, Lissadel mussels, fresh Donegal Bay prawns in season and the succulent flavours of just-cooked lobster. Her scrumptious homemade cakes, served with Lavazza coffee, are a favourite in the mornings. When the sun is out, guests can take a table outside and watch the lobster fishing boats come and go from Donegal Bay and the tourists heading out to explore the monastic settlement at Inishmurray Island. Many people return again and again, so to get a berth in this wonderful homely local business and avoid disappointment, it’s advisable to reserve a cabin space. Eithna’s By The Sea is open on Thursday and Friday from 5 pm, Saturday from 11 am to 7.30pm, and Sunday from 11 am to 4 pm and Bank Holiday Mondays. For further information or to book a table, phone +353 (0) 71 91 66407 or email info@bythesea.ie

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Up Close & Personal With

Edible Seaweeds Seaweed has been used in food and farming in Ireland for centuries, long before it became the billion dollar global ‘sea vegetable’ industry dominated by China and Japan that it is today. However, most of us can’t tell one type of seaweed from the other and are unaware of the amazing health benefits of this nutritional edible marine life.

By Michelle McDonagh

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or some time now international seaweed expert, Dr Prannie Rhatigan, author of the award-winning book Irish Seaweed Kitchen, has come together with Eithna O’Sullivan, owner of one of Ireland’s top seafood restaurants, to teach visitors how to identify, harvest and cook seaweed during their Sligo Seaweed Days. Part of this experience is a mouth-watering seafood buffet — featuring seaweed, of course — in Eithna’s by the Sea, located in the charming coastal village of Mullaghmore, County Sligo. Throughout the season, Prannie takes participants on a guided shore walk, where she identifies the different types of edible seaweeds, including dulse (dillisk), Carrageen Moss and various kelps and wracks. She teaches people how to sustainably wild harvest the seaweed by “giving it a little haircut” with scissors and never pulling it off the rocks. Prannie, who works part-time as a medical doctor, inherited her passion for wild harvesting and cooking seaweed, and organic gardening from her parents. She has a deep interest in the connection between food and health. Her bible on seaweeds, Irish Seaweed Kitchen, is the first ever comprehensive cookery book on seaweeds with over 150 easy-to-follow, creative and delicious recipes on the everyday use of seaweeds, many handed down from her mother. Irish seaboard lore, recipes old and new, nutritional information and person-al anecdote combine with the faintest hint of nostalgia in this refreshingly original mix

Go Wild Magazine - Summer Edition 2016

of common sense and practical cookery. Sourcing, identifying, preparing and storing seaweed for culinary use are all clearly explained including tips and hints. Designed to educate seaweed users from novice to experienced, there is a full seaweed recipe index of the nutritional properties of each seaweed. Over 100 colour photographs and original line drawings represent not simply the foods featured, but also, provide a glimpse of a unique West of Ireland lifestyle and landscape. Beautifully written and illustrated, the compelling pages highlight seaweeds as a valuable, flavoursome and versatile food recognised for their positive impact on health. A book to cherish for both its presentation of seaweeds as a culinary component in a highly approachable way, and for its charming sense of time and place. Irish Seaweed Kitchen won a Gourmand Award Ireland for Best First Cookbook in 2009, the year it was published, and Prannie was awarded a Special Acknowledgement for her Outstanding Contribution to Irish Food by Euro-Toques 2012. Following the success of her book Prannie harnessed modern technology in her laminated Pocket Guide to Edible Seaweeds by giving each edible sea-weed featured in the guide its own special QR code which, when scanned by a smartphone, links directly to a short video of Prannie giving a detailed description of the seaweed and how to sustainably harvest it. Also included in the guide are handy tips on tides, moons and safety. The Guide has been internationally acclaimed and is being duplicated in other countries. Books

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and guides can be ordered from www. irishseaweedkitchen.ie ”She explains: “When we were kids, we were brought down here to the shore by my father, who was also a medic, and who knew the nutritional value of all the different types of seaweed. He brought us out harvesting every year following the first frost after Christmas. He was also into organic gardening when most people didn’t know what organic was, and we all had our own patches to attend to. He was totally against the use of pesticides in gardening or additives in food.“ Prannie, who grew up in Co.Sligo where she lives with her husband and daughters on the coastline of Streedagh has given lectures and workshops on sea vegetables both at home and abroad. She has also been featured on many TV and radio programmes, both nationally and internationally. She has long been an advocate of the health benefits of including a small amount of a wide variety of seaweeds in your diet. She is currently working on her next book Seaweeds on the Wild Atlantic Way which will be published next spring. “Seaweed is a powerhouse of nutrition; minerals, vitamins, trace elements and other extremely beneficial compounds. There is a lot of really interesting research going on internationally into the potential antiinflammatory properties of seaweed which could be huge as inflammation is the root of so many illnesses today. It is also being researched for its potential anti-obesity and anti-cancer benefits and we await the evidence on this,” she says. For those curious to learn more about seaweed, you could not ask for a more qualified or enthusiastic guide than Prannie. She holds Seaweed Identification Walks and Talks when the tides are suitable throughout the season. These take two to three hours and can be booked on her website. Groups by arrangement and enquiries to her website www.irishseaweedkitchen Those who attend the annual Sligo Seaweed Days get to spend a longer time learning about seaweeds. They bring a selection of their harvest to Eithna’s by the Sea where Prannie demonstrates how to use this nutritious food source in everyday dishes. They can then try their hand at preparing a simple seaweed dish. The Sligo Seaweed Day are a fun and educational day out and the 2016 dates are Wednesday, July 6 and Thursday, July 7. Full details on www. irishseaweedkitchen.ie

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the L AN D BY TH E SE A B Y

D A M I E N

O ’ M A H O N Y

The Wild Atlantic Way offers an opportunity to commune with landscape and people in a very special way.

A life on the ocean wave!



ere on the Wild Atlantic

A home on the rolling deep!

sailing clubs, marinas and sailing schools

Way, time moves a little

Where the scattered waters rave,

all along the route meaning that you can

more slowly than we’re

and the winds their revels keep!

enjoy as much time as you choose on dry

Like an eagle caged I pine,

land and intersperse your journey with

chance to indulge ourselves by kicking

used to and we get the

on this dull unchanging shore.

a day trip to the Aran Islands, a day long

back a bit and taking it all in - all the

Oh give me the flashing brine!

sailing course for the kids in Baltimore or

while creating memories that will linger

The spray and the tempest roar!

charter a yacht for a week. The choice is

for many a year. There is no doubt that the

yours. But one thing is certain - you’ll have

landscape is stunning - that combination

The west and south west coasts of Ireland

of land and sea is something very special

offer some of the most exciting cruising

enriched your experience immeasurably.

indeed. But I often wonder if we miss

waters in the entire world. Whether you

How? Well here’s just a sampling

out on something unique by staying on

sail from Cork to Lough Foyle or take

of what you can add to your

terra firma. Any sailor will tell you that

to the lakes in a dinghy, many areas of

personal WAW experience.

viewing the land from the sea is very

Ireland can best be experienced from

different from viewing the sea from the

the water. The coastline has been carved

The islands off the south and west

land. The coastal waters of the Wild

by the wild Atlantic over millennia and

coasts are home to stunningly unspoilt

Atlantic Way offer us a unique perspective

has an abundance of safe harbours for

landscapes and offer unique window on

on this fascinating and rugged landscape.

overnight stops -- there are more than

Ireland’s history and ancient traditions.

Whether you are already an experienced

140 between Cork Harbour and the

sailor or just willing to give it a go for

Dingle Peninsula alone. This dramatic

The cruising grounds of the Wild Atlantic

the first time, there are opportunities

coastline has some of the most rewarding

Way are one of the best places in Europe

a plenty to unshackle yourself from

sailing routes to be found anywhere and

to see whales and dolphins in their natural

the bounds of the earth, try out your

several companies offer yacht charters.

habitat. many different species visit our

sea legs and take to the ocean wave.

But you don’t have to spend all your time

shores, including minke, fin and humpback

Remember this from your schooldays?

on the briny sea. The Wild Atlantic way has

whales, and Risso’s and bottlenose dolphins. Coastal cruising provides a unique opportunity to observe rare birds. The high cliffs and rugged terrain offer ideal nesting locations for a wide variety of birdlife. Commonly sighted species

T H I S D R A M AT I C C OA S T L I N E H A S S O M E O F T H E M O S T R E WA R D I N G S A I L I N G R O U T E S TO B E F O U N D A N Y W H E R E A N D S E V E R A L C O M PA N I E S O F F E R YAC H T C H A R T E R S .

include Storm Petrels, Gannets, Fulmars, Kittiwakes, Guillemots, Artic Skuas, Puffins, Razorbills, Shearwaters, Corey’s, Manx, Sooty, and Peregrine Falcons. You will see many special places on your journey - The Fastnet Rock Lighthouse,

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the Aran Islands, “The Skelligs - made

Bridgetown, County Wexford base.

famous in the most recent Star Wars

Kinsale Yacht Charters, 2 Castlepark

movie. However the islands have a very

Marina Centre, Kinsale, County Cork (tel.

long monastic history dating back to the

087/271-0371; www.kinsaleyachtcharter.

6th century.” Historic homes and castles

com), is one of the largest charter firms in

and the seaside towns such as Killary

Ireland and also offers package deals. A full

Harbour, Westport, and Sligo Cork,

range of yacht sailing options is available

Kinsale, Glandore, Baltimore, and Bantry

from Sovereign Sailing (tel. 021/477-4145; www.sovereignsailing.com). They also

So go on - take the plunge. I can

offer racing charter packages if money is

guarantee it will be one decision

no object. Yacht charters are also available

that you’ll never regret.

from Shannon Sailing Ltd., New Harbour,

Almost all sailing schools hold courses

Dromineer, Nenagh, County Tipperary (tel.

for sailors at all levels of experience,

067/24499; www.shannonsailing.com).

and sometimes offer day sailing as well. Ireland also has more than 120 yacht and sailing clubs along the coast and lakes. The best sources for information are Tourism Ireland; the Irish Sailing Association, 3 Park Rd., Dún Laoghaire, County Dublin (tel. 01/280-0239; www. sailing.ie); and South and West Coasts of Ireland Sailing Directions (published by Imray, Laurie, Norie & Wilson Ltd. of Wych House) from the Irish Cruising Club (www.irishcruisingclub.com). The

THE ISL ANDS OFF THE SOUTH AND WEST C OA S T S A R E H O M E TO S T U N N I N G LY U N S P O I LT L A N D S C A P E S A N D O F F E R U N I Q U E W I N D OW O N I R E L A N D ’ S H I S TO RY A N D A N C I E N T T R A D I T I O N S .

guides give information on harbours, port facilities, tides, and other topics of interest. They are available in bookshops in Ireland or online at www.imray.com. The International Sailing Schools Association is an excellent resource for finding a sailing school; you can find links to members at www. sailingschools.org. Sailing Ireland (tel. 053/913-9163; www.sailingireland.ie) offer a wide variety of sailing courses, and also offers yacht charters from its

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5 minutes with

Sinead Dunphy Festival Manager, Cork International Choral Festival

inéad Dunphy is Festival Manager of Cork International Choral Festival, one of the biggest festivals in Ireland, which takes place every May bank holiday weekend in Cork City. Sinéad has been involved in the arts for over twenty years as a performer in theatre and contemporary dance as well as a producer, director and event organiser of many prestigious arts Festivals and events. In her current role she has seen the Festival double in size while also increasing its international profile. Her commitment to both the arts and tourism sectors has been apparent throughout her work and acknowledged by several national and local bodies through various awards and invitations to speak on an international level as a guest speaker and consultant.

Derrynane House & Gardens would be a personal favourite and of course Dingle, both in Kerry, home to Féile na Bealtaine, which is a particular gem, and of course as I’ve already mentioned Inchydoney and Kinsale which are absolute treasures!

What is it about the Wild Atlantic Way that you love?

What are the best locations for music lovers?

The Wild Atlantic Way has something special for everyone – it allows us get back to nature while also discovering hidden gems on our journey! We have over 5,000 singers arrive in Cork for the Choral Festival each year and the Festival team puts together not only an artistic itinerary for them but also a schedule that gives choirs ideas on where to explore in Cork’s beautiful coastline and beyond – creating WILD choral memories! So whether you’re sauntering along the coast in Kinsale or dipping your feet in down at Inchydoney Bay, you’re bound to hear voices coming together in song along the way…

Truly - Cork - as the gateway of the Wild Atlantic Way it consistently sees new and emerging talent coming through its ranks, and so, if you’re in Cork, both city and county – you’re assured of some amazing music! From the City Hall, to the Everyman, the Triskel and the free trad music Lee Sessions in a huge number of great pubs like the Corner House and the Oliver Plunkett in the city, Connolly’s of Leap and Clonakilty’s infamous DeBarra’s – everyone will be spoiled for choice in Cork for music!

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Your must visit spots?

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Where is your favourite Wild Atlantic Way Destination? Baltimore in West Cork is spectacular in its offerings and its views. Five best things about this place: 1.

2. 3.

The Ferry Trip to Cape Clear, Sherkin and Heir whilst spotting Dolphins along the way The magical sea lake Lough Hyne A fantastic Seafood Festival which happens at the end of May (Fri 27th May 2016 to Sun 29th May 2016 Bushes Bar located in the middle of the main square is famous for its welcome and its infectious good feeling! A calming walk along the coastline – pure heaven

Where is next on your wishlist: Once the madness of the Cork International Choral Festival dies down in June, I’ll be road tripping my way up the west and visiting Galway for some action both on land and off!

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CORK CITY & COUNTY

CHAUFFEUR DRIVE ALL EXECUTIVE CAR AND MINI

COACH TRANSPORT ARRANGED

WITH AIRPORT COLLECTION FROM DUBLIN, CORK, SHANNON, KERRY,

IRELAND WEST AND PRIVATE TOURS THROUGHOUT IRELAND

CONTACT JORDAN BRACKEN AT 087 2780700

Y A L O T S PL ACE EAD YOU R H TOP WAW HOTEL

The Brehon, Killarney Co. Kerry The Kerry section of the Wild Atlantic Way is one of the most scenic and rewarding areas of the west coast of Ireland. A welcome reprieve from your coastal drive, soaring cliffs and windswept beaches of the Wild Atlantic Way awaits in Killarney. The Brehon is an award-winning, family-run hotel which overlooks Killarney National Park. Here you can unwind, sleep well and rejuvenate before heading off again along the Wild Atlantic Way coastal driving route. Whether you are heading south to Cork and taking in the beauty of West Cork or are heading north through counties Limerick, Clare, Galway, Mayo, Sligo and Donegal you will head off feeling refreshed, revitalised and ready for more adventure. The Brehon & Angsana Spa, the perfect base for your stay in Killarney. For more see www.thebrehon.com or call 0646630700

TOP WAW HOTEL

Hotel Newport, Co. Mayo Hotel Newport is a jewel on the shore of Clew Bay, surrounded by the majestic Nephin Mountains. Hotel Newport offers the serenity of a peaceful

Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lots of country

town with easy accessibility, making it the perfect

and coastal activities

base for those wishing to explore the West Coast

for visitors, including

of Ireland. It is located just 15 minutes from the

walking to cycling,

county town of Castlebar, 10 minutes from Westport

golfing, fishing and

and 40 minutes from Achill Island. It is also less

water sports.

than 1km from The Great Western Greenway, the

www.hotelnewport.

longest off-road cycling/walking route in Ireland.

ie +353 98 42464

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TOP WAW HOTEL

The Oak Wood Arms Hotel, Shannon, Co. Clare The Oak Wood Hotel in Shannon offers the perfect mix of contemporary and classic.

It has just undergone an extensive renovation and is the perfect base for a range of local attractions – being only a 5 minute drive to the famous Bunratty Castle, a short distance from Thomand Park Stadium, and 2 minutes from Shannon Airport. Other must-see attractions in this area include Craggaunowen, Brian Boru Heritage Centre, Knappogue Castle and Walled Gardens, and Clare Heritage and Genaelogical Centre Corofin. The Oak Wood Arms Hotel has excellent service and gorgeous food. Their bar lunch menu is available daily until 9pm. For more see or call 061 361500

TOP WAW HOTEL

Killarney’s Holiday Village, Co. Kerry Killarney’s Holiday Village is the place to stay if you don’t want to compromise. Just minutes from Killarney town and the renowned Killarney National Park, Killarney’s Holiday Village is a cluster of 35 delightful holiday homes ideally located on the Kenmare Road (N71). You can choose from 3 and 4 bedroom holiday homes, with some sleeping up to 10. All have free wifi, and feature spacious lounges and open plan kitchen-dining areas. You can stroll around Muckross House & Gardens in the morning, have lunch in Killarney, take a trip on the Lakes of Killarney in the afternoon, and hit the town for dinner and live music. See https://killarneysholidayvillage.com, email info@ killarneysholidayvillage.com or call + 353 (0) 64 663 6667.

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

Clare Cullen

t e x t: M I C H E L L E M C D O N AG H

Irish Bucket List 

It was boredom that drove Clare Cullen onto YouTube for the first time over six years ago, but since then the young Mayo woman has become a social media influencer who runs her own YouTube channel and has a following of over 100,000 across her various social media platforms.

igital video producer Clare runs the multi-award nominated YouTube channel, Clisare, with nine million views on YouTube and seven million views on video entertainment network Vine. As part of the Clisare channel, she scripts, shoots and edits two videos a week, largely focusing on comedy and travel. Her video on How To Swear in Irish got nearly 500,000 views alone. Clare’s Irish Bucket List is a series on her Clisare channel with an audience of over 200,000. The series was a finalist in the Best Video Campaign award at the Social Media Awards 2015. Clare was also a finalist in the Stellar Shine Awards for Best vlogger 2014 and 2015, finalist in the BreakingNews.ie ‘Besties’ for Best YouTube Channel 2014 and 2015, and winner of Best Only In Ireland viral video 2015 at the BreakingNews.ie ‘Besties’. It all started one day when Clare, who had studied journalism and Irish, was out of work with a lot of

Go Wild Magazine - Summer Edition 2016

free time on her hands. She started watching Jenna Marbles, the American YouTube personality, vlogger and comedian, who has over 15 million subscribers and decided she would love to get into this area. One weekend in 2010 while all her friends were at Oxygen and Clare was at home, she made her first video, and she hasn’t stopped since. She taught herself how to plan, script, produce, shoot and edit digital video content. After a year as a YouTuber, Clare moved to Australia where she got a job in special media. A year later, she returned to Dublin with a newfound appreciation for her native country and the idea for her Irish Bucket List.

Irish Bucket List She says: “My aim with the Irish Bucket List was to travel round Ireland doing all the cool things there are to do here, and to promote it to people who live here and those who are visiting the country. I gave myself two years to complete the list and in that time, I did everything from drinking tea in Father Ted’s house to wrestling an alligator in Kilkenny. I went to the Irish Redhead Convention, and took part in a Guinness World Record attempt for the Highest Number of Clares in County Clare.” Clare focused on cool activities, events and things to do that were affordable with the average cost about €20. She went ziplining and zorbing in Westport, ran for the Rose of Tralee, got ‘brain hacked’ by Keith Barry, flew in a vintage plane, went cable wakeboarding, did archery in Winterfell, went to a sushi-making class in Galway and lots more. Her Irish Bucket List book is due to be published in September and will include a first person account of each bucket list experience, and recommendations for other activities and events for people to attend in Ireland. Hailing from Mayo, it’s no surprise that Clare’s personal favourite spot on the Wild Atlantic Way is in her home county, or off it at least — Achill Island. “We’ve gone to Achill once a year for the last couple of years camping. It’s great, it can be windy but I love the brisk, crisp weather. Sligo is another great place for camping,” she says. To watch Clare in action or to get information on her many social media platforms go to https:// www.youtube.com/user/Clisare

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TUSCANY

Savour the taste of the Mediterranean, right here on your doorstep! Enjoy the finest Italian food in the picturesque village of Killaloe. Come to Tuscany Bistro for mouthwatering food, an intimate environment and friendly ambience

Killaloe is a must see during your visit Open: Tuesday - Sunday

All meals are freshly cooked from quality locally sourced produce Tuscany Castletroy

Tel: 061 333 444

Contact

Email: info@tuscany.ie Web: www.tuscany.ie

Tuscany Killaloe

Tel: 061 376 888

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Ideally located in the heart of Limerick City Your gateway to The Wild Atlantic Way

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LEAVE NO TRACE ALONG THE WILD ATLANTIC WAY

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