Page 2 60 seconds with Ruth Andrews ITIC
Page 4 Chatting with Denyse Campbell new IHF president
Page 8 The Music Man, Brian Kennedy
Page 10 7 great breaks in Co Kerry
Page 14 Summertime festivals in Ireland
Page 16 Ten of the best things to do in Waterford
Page 18 The Best Wild Atlantic Way beaches
Page 20 Chatting with Nuala Mulqueeney Aillwee Caves
Page 22 Just Go Wild
Page 24 24 Hours in Ennistymon /Lahinch
Page 26 The Burren Discovery Trail
Page 28 48 Hours in Galway
Page 32 The Global Irish Festival
Page 34
Conversations with friends
Page 36 Top ten reasons to enjoy Ireland
Page 38 Discover Clean coastlines and beautiful beaches
Page 40 Things to see & do in the North West
Page 42 60 Seconds with Ruairi Spillane, Moving 2 Canada
Page 44 Where the stars get married in Ireland
Page 46 Dromoland Castle host Women’s Irish Open Golf
Page 48 Go Surfing in Sligo
Page 50 Top things to see & do in Donegal
Page 52 Malinká Moves, Meet George Karbus
Page 56 New Hotels to lay your head in Dublin
Page 58 Wicklow – The Garden of Ireland
Page 60 In conversation with Margaret Molloy in New York
Page 64 Go Wild Gin Tour
Page 66 Travel Durrus to Kinsale
Page 68 48 hours in Cork
Page 70 48 hours in West Cork
Page 72 Staycation choices Cork & Kerry
Page 74 Cut From the Same Grain Ruariri & Niamh Dooley
Page 76 Take a boat tour on the Wild Atlantic Way
Page 78 The Beara Peninsula West Cork
Page 80 A Golfers Paradise
Page 82 Things to see & Do East Coast
Page 84 Waterways to discover
Page 88 Seven Jaw Dropping wonder on the Wild Atlantic Way
Page 90 48 hours in Doolin
Page 94 Couple land dream job on the Blasket islands
Page 98 7 walking trails in Wicklow
Page 102 A Giant Taste of Northern Ireland
Page 104 Wexford the Sunny South East
With a career spanning over 35 years in Irish tourism, Chairperson of ITIC Ruth commenced her tourism career in the Hotel sector as a marketing/sales professional. She established her own tourism marketing/sales consultancy service in the late ‘90’s, providing marketing communications, coaching and mentoring plus business development expertise to a wide range of Irish Tourism industry businesses in almost all sectors. She is currently chairperson of ITIC – Irish Tourism Industry Confederation and Chief Executive for the ITOA – Incoming Tour Operators Association and was appointed Special Advisor to AVEA – The Association of Visitor Experience and Attractions in 2017. In 2020 she was appointed by Government to chair the Tourism Recovery Taskforce and now serves on its Recovery Oversight Group. She is a Director of Tourism Ireland and continues to serve on many industry advisory boards.
Q 1 How does your normal day begin?
With a strong cup of co ee, taking care of the dogs and getting everyone else out of the house! Always have Morning Ireland on, with BBC Breakfast news in the background too – I’m a bit of a news/ current a airs junkie. Then to the desk ‘to do list’.
Q 2 What are your biggest daily challenges?
Staying on top of the ‘to-do list’ while thinking ahead to the next project. In tourism, you live in the moment and the year ahead at the same time!!
Q 3 What do you love most about your job?
The people, the constant variety, learning something new every day and problem-solving. Tourism has given me so many career opportunities. It’s an addictive industry, even when holidaying I spend my time comparing the experiences to the Ireland o er.
Q 4 What do you do to relax?
Walking, swimming, Pilates and being around family and friends. I love to travel when I can and I am always in the company of people that I enjoy being around. I’m so lucky to live where I do, in the heart of beautiful countryside, which I appreciate now all the more, post pandemic.
Q 5 Favourite staycation destination in Ireland and why?
My latest favourite is West Cork. It’s stunningly beautiful and where you
can totally switch o . Amazing beaches and seascapes, wonderful villages and towns, with amazing food and hospitality o ers. It was our destination of choice during the pandemic years and not least because Crookhaven has better WIFI than my home o ce in Wicklow! But honestly, my staycation list is endless as Ireland has it all!
Q 6 Favourite holiday destination worldwide?
The Maldives so far! It’s desert island living with incredible service. Best of all its a complete switch o because you have to. It’s probably the one and only holiday where I could easily have extended my stay, as normally I am ready to come home by day 12.
Q 7 Favourite Business motto?
The only place where success comes before work is in the dictionary!
Q 8 Advice for young businesses entering the tourism industry Remember those you meet on the way up as you may need them on the down days. Trust your instincts and take advice from those you trust.
InMarch, Denyse Campbell was named the 39th president of the Irish Hotels Federation (IHF). With a career in hotel management going back more than two decades, she balances this role with her general manager position at the Maldron Hotel Dublin Airport. She admits the last couple of months have been busy, but she’s loving every minute. “I feel very privileged and am really looking forward to the next few years.”
As IHF president, what are her goals for the year ahead? “At the moment, it’s all about rebuilding the tourism sector. We’ve had a trying time over the last two years. While 2021 was the year of the staycation, there were 9 million bed nights lost that year. It’s about getting international tourists back. That will be a key focus for me, as well as supporting and representing the industry.”
What challenges does she feel lie ahead for the sector? “Like every other business, we’re faced with spiralling cost increases, so we’re working with our members on that. A big factor at the moment would be trying to maintain the VAT at 9%. We need to sell Ireland as an attractive destination. Back in 2019, one in every ten jobs was tourismrelated, 70% of which were outside
of Dublin – tourism a ects every town and county in Ireland, so it’s important that we remain competitive. And if as a country we have a higher VAT rate than the majority of other European countries, we will no longer be an attractive proposition.”
As a GM, Denyse is very focused on her sta at the Maldron. “My job is to make sure my team are happy and have everything they need so they can provide the best service to the customer, and we continue to give that ‘Ireland of the Welcomes’ message to everyone that comes in the door. I’d also be focused on upskilling and providing a good career progression for sta – they’re the managers of the future. It’s a wonderful industry with great opportunities, and I’d like to highlight that during my presidency.”
Denyse first caught what she calls “the hospitality bug” when she began waitressing in Clifden in fifth year. She went on to study hotel management, doing work placements at Sheen Falls Lodge in Kenmare and Ballymaloe House in Cork, and worked her way up in all aspects of the business. After receiving her qualification, she travelled to the States to work in Texas, then onto the UK to work in Jurys, where she remained for two years before returning home to Ireland, where she worked in hotels
in Dublin and Wexford before taking on her first general manager role 16 years ago. “You nearly have a passport to travel anywhere, and if you have languages, then all the other European destinations are available to you. The possibilities are endless, and we need to shout about that. If you’re willing to learn and travel, and like people, it’s a great career. Once you get to general manager level, you need to be patient and understanding. If your team know you’re genuinely there to support them and help them do their job, then everything else falls into place and you create a positive work environment for everyone to thrive.”
And who’s supported Denyse during her own career journey? “I’ve had several mentors along the way, from my parents to the people I’ve met as I progressed within the industry –ones I’d call on when I need advice. You create great friendships in hospitality. We stay in touch and are there to help each other. Mentors are really important because they can see things you can’t when you’re trying to make decisions.”
So with two busy roles, how does Denyse spend her downtime? “I’m from Strokestown in Co Roscommon and try to get home whenever I can. The Irish Heritage Trust is developing Strokestown Park House, which is a Famine museum that’s going to be a fantastic tourist attraction for the town, and I can’t wait to visit. I live at the foot of the Dublin Mountains with my husband and 13-year-old daughter and we enjoy walking our dog together. And I love to travel as much as I can. I was recently in Belfast, and as I was driving up from Dublin, I thought, ‘I need to come back here and spend time on this route and in all the counties in between.’ So I’ll get back there when I can.”
President of the Irish Hotels Federation, Denyse Campbell, shares her thoughts on the current tourism landscape and why hospitality is a sector that opens many doors.
For more than three decades, Brian Kennedy has been moving audiences around the world with his angelic voice and positive outlook on life. The Belfast-born singer-songwriter talks to Meg Walker about his new album, his health battles and the amazing feeling that comes from returning to the stage.
Brian Kennedy sounds like he has a pep in his step as he chats down the phone line to me while walking to the chiropractor on a sunny morning in Dublin. “It’s an ongoing thing,” he says cheerfully when I say that I hope it’s nothing too serious. “Just when you’re in your fifties and a guitar player… he just puts my shoulder right when it gets a bit out of sorts.”
Many would agree that Brian has had well over his fair share of health issues in recent years. In 2016, he was diagnosed with rectal cancer, which led to an arduous three-year-long treatment period before he was finally given the welcome news in 2019 that he was cancer-free. Then, in June of 2021, he suffered a massive heart attack and went through quadruple bypass surgery. To add insult to injury, he later contracted Covid the following September. His recovery over the last few years involved Brian having to learn to walk again three times. But through it all, Brian has remained a beacon of positivity, counting his blessings and keeping his focus firmly on the path ahead.
In fact, he’s just released a new album – Folkie, his 17th solo album in a career that spans more than three decades. That’s some achievement. “It’s mad. It’s my 17th studio album, which is a lot of music.” This new album is a real “return to roots” project, so I ask him what inspired it? “I started listening to things during lockdown – I was on YouTube, staying up half the night. You delve deeper into YouTube and it starts to make suggestions… I had just recorded ‘I Wish I Had Someone to Love Me’ – I’d heard Imelda May and The Dubliners sing it before, and that just started this hunger in me for that kind of song. And then my friend, Neil Martin, who has a group called The West Ocean String Quartet, sent me a recording of a gig we’d done a few years
back with strings that I had completely forgotten about. So, I thought, maybe we should try and do something with those. Very quickly, the album Folkie was born.”
The lead track, “John Condon”, is a really moving, emotional piece that Brian had wanted to record for some time. “Mary Dillon is an incredible singer who I really admire. She’s from Derry. I first heard that song when she sang it, and the late, great Gerry Anderson played it on the radio. It was always in the back of my mind. And then, given the anti-war sentiment of the song – just the waste of war and how absolutely pointless war is… and how weird and timely that yet again, in 2022, we need an anti-war song. So that song just seemed to really anchor the whole record.”
Summer 2022 sees Brian performing again in front of live audiences, giving him a little thrill – something many artists can relate to after the last two years. “It’s absolute magic [being back on stage] and it just reminds me why I do it. As much as I loved the Facebook Live stuff we did [over lockdown], there’s nothing quite like looking out at a sea of faces. It’s one of the most exciting things in the world.”
Brian is an absolute ray of light in a world that can sometimes seem a bit grey. Where does he get that energy and positivity?
“As I say to friends, what’s the alternative? What am I going to do, sit around the house and weep and moan and say, ‘oh, poor me’? With the war in Ukraine and all the other things that are going on in this country, let alone the rest of the world, there’s always somebody a lot worse off. Even when I’m in the hospital, getting checked up, or recovering or learning to walk again… And certainly, those things are unbelievably difficult, of course they are but at the same time, there’s a little fella in me that goes, ‘It could be worse, things could be worse. I could be dead. So, I suppose I’m able to just draw on a well of positivity that I
didn’t even realise was there myself. Until you go through these things, you don’t really know what reserves you have. And honestly, music really is medicine for me. When I get up on stage and sing for people or when I chat with people – I just love being around people – ultimately, I just think, well, look, I’ve got another shot here. I’ve lived beyond this cancer diagnosis. I’m now living beyond the heart attack and quadruple bypass surgery, so I feel pretty lucky.”
He may feel lucky, but it would also appear as though that resilience has been building up since Brian was a young lad. Growing up on the Falls Road in 1970s and ’80s Belfast, he’s both witnessed and been on the receiving end of violence (he’s spoken in the past about the difficulties he experienced growing up “different from all the other boys” at a time when homosexuality was still criminalised). I wonder, what is it like for him to revisit the city after it’s seen so much change over the decades?
“It’s like there are two movies happening at once. In my mind, I have a black and white movie of all the old footage and all the old damage of the buildings; and then in front of me in full Technicolor, there’s this new Belfast emerging. I call them the ‘children not of the Troubles’ – the Untroubled Generation. It’s a gorgeous sight to see people just outside cafés and going to bars and concerts… It’s a strange feeling to feel like somebody, who obviously was born and grew up there, and yet also, I sometimes feel like I’m a visitor; like I’m a stranger. Because the Belfast that exists now is so new and so in its early infancy, really. I feel very excited about it. I feel very glad that we’ve moved on so much. There’s still lots of work to do and certainly, we’re not moving at the same pace as the rest of the world, but it’s great to see something so damaged become so
well again. It’s wonderful.” Brian left Belfast at the age of 18 to live in London and follow his dream to become a singer. He was discovered by entertainment mogul Simon Fuller and the legendary Van Morrison, who invited Brian to sing on tour with him and continued to collaborate with him on recordings and live performances over a period of six years, taking him as far as New York’s Madison Square Garden and seeing him perform alongside such notable artists as Joni Mitchell, Bob Dylan, John Lee Hooker and Ray Charles. It was just the beginning of what would develop into a musical career that would make any artist proud to look back on.
After living in Dublin for more than 18 years now, Brian considers Ireland’s capital home. Are there other parts of the island he enjoys visiting? “In terms of performing, that’s really down to the audience. I’ve just been to Donegal recently – I feel very at home there. I love Cork, Sligo… Galway has a special place in my heart just because I’ve had so many lovely experiences and concerts there. Our country has so much to offer, especially when the weather’s nice; but even when it’s not, if you’re out for a walk on the strand in Galway, or anywhere really… there’s so much rich history. I spent a long time in Killaloe near Limerick, and that was a really magical time in my life too. We’re spoilt for choice here.”
Aside from performing and promoting the new album, what are Brian’s grand plans for summer 2022? “I’ve just recorded a podcast series with comedian Katherine Lynch, which will be launched during Pride Week at the end of June. I’d like to travel a bit and want to go on a decent holiday for the first time in many years.”
I think we can all agree, he’s earned the break.
For tour dates and details, visit briankennedy.co.uk
The vibrant town of Killarney is known for its rich heritage and hospitality. Sitting on the shores of Lough Leane and flanked by the National Park, the town is an epicentre of incredible scenery and world-famous attractions. Base yourself there for a couple of days if places like the Gap of Dunloe, MacGillycuddy’s Reeks, Torc Waterfall or Ross Castle are on your must-see list.
Killarney National Park
Just minutes from the centre of town, Killarney’s National Park is a magnificent 26,000-acres of unspoiled, rugged landscape. The Park encompasses Ireland’s highest mountain, Carrauntoohil, which stands at over 1,000-metres high.
Muckross House and Gardens
In the National Park you’ll find the beautifully maintained Muckross House and Gardens, which you can explore on a tour. A fine example of a 19th century Victorian mansion, the house contains original period furniture and artworks.
Surfing at Inch Strand
From Killarney, travel towards the Kerry coast for 40-minutes and jump on a sur oard at Inch Strand. The iconic 5-km stretch of sand is just one of Ireland’s many Blue Flag beaches, popular with swimmers, surfers and anglers.
The South Pole Inn at Annascaul
Ten-minutes from Inch, The South Pole Inn in Annascaul, is named after world-famous Antarctica explorer, Tom Crean’s adventures. A native of the small Kerry village, Crean’s legacy is displayed triumphantly throughout the pub, with newspaper articles, photos and memorabilia in every corner and, outside, a bronze statue of the man himself.
Foodie fun in Dingle
Just 15-minutes from Annascaul, you’ll reach the colourful port town of Dingle, which is known as much for its incredible scenery, as its legendary welcome. Here you can really enjoy authentic food and drink like a local.
Discover Dick Mack’s where they have been serving up drinks since 1899, in typical Dingle style, Dick Mack’s also functions as a shop.
While you’re there, head along to the neighbouring Dingle Whiskey Distillery for a tour and a taste.
The Slea Head Drive
Leaving Dingle, set out on the Slea Head Drive for views of the Atlantic roaring below dramatic cli faces. This scenic, circular route brings you right back to Dingle.
Take a boat to The Blasket Islands
Just 25-minutes outside Dingle on the Slea Head route, The Blasket Centre is a heritage centre and museum that tells the story of a tiny Irish community who lived on the remote Blasket Islands until 1953. Learn what life was like for the islanders and, if you have time, take a boat trip to the island and explore this hidden treasure for yourself, with an overnight stay in a restored cottage.
Visit a Star Wars location at Ballyferriter
Not too ‘far-far-away’ from Dingle, George Lucas’s crew were based in the town while filming ‘Star Wars’. At Ceann Sibéal, they recreated the monastic settlement of Skellig Michael, featured at the end of ‘The Force Awakens’ and in ‘The Last Jedi’.
Drive through Conor Pass
Take a drive through the incredible Conor Pass on your short break in Kerry. Head towards Tralee as you drive the dramatic route through Conor Pass, one of the highest mountainpasses in Ireland. The narrow, twisting roads, also make for an unforgettable experience by bike, for experienced cyclists only. Unmissable views along the route include stunning glaciated landscapes in the sweeping valley below. You won’t be disappointed.
Despite the buzzy atmosphere, zen zones are possible. Noteworthy is The Irish National War Memorial Gardens at Islandbridge, boasting stone structures, sunken rose gardens and a tow path dotted with rowing clubs. If thirsty after, slip into the snug at The Old Royal Oak. Nearby, the grounds of the Royal Hospital Kilmainham, also home to IMMA (the Irish Museum of Modern Art), are worth a wander. Take time in the gardens at Dublin Castle or download the Dublin City Heritage Park app and explore art intertwined with leafy loveliness in Merrion Square Park. Around the corner in Fitzwilliam Square Park, outdoor yoga and film screenings are not uncommon. For a fresh air fix by the sea, the Great South Wall Walk is recommended or saddle up on a Dublin Bike and meander along the banks of the Grand Canal. On sunny evenings lingering at the lock
outside The Barge pub and Portobello is tempting. There on a Thursday? The Irish Village Markets at Mespil Road will satisfy hungry tummies. For fabulous food overlooking canal life, board La Paniche, look to Locks or sit into Southbank or Grove Road for the best brunch. No seats? Cross over to South Circular Road - the ‘posh’ eggs home to half a dozen excellent eateries including neighbourhood champion Bastible. Perpendicular is Clanbrassil Street, now known for its co ee and global gastro o erings. Sushi fans are spoilt on Capel Street with Parnell Street also providing Asian cuisine. Put the Italian Quarter, north of Millennium Bridge on the list too. Need an evening ca eine fix? Head to Accents on Meath Street or Il Fornaio Enoteca Ca etteria on Li ey Street, for some Cannolo and possible canoodling given the cosy, Italian vibe. Or chill out with an array of herbal teas, shisha and board games a few steps down at The Tea Garden on Ormond Quay. Areas guaranteeing good times day or night on the southside include Camden Street, Baggot Street, South William Street, Fade Street, George’s Street, Dame Lane and The Liberties with nineties themed bar,
Jackie’s. Go left or right o Grafton Street for great Guinness, shimmy to Dawson Street for glamour galore and late-night shenanigans are no stranger on Harcourt Street or Leeson Street. Noteworthy northside haunts include Stoneybatter and Smithfield or hop on the Red Line Luas to watering holes in the CHQ. Floating fun can also be found quayside on former tender ship the MV Cill Airne. For a unique theatrical experience book The Crypt Theatre below Dublin Castle while gigs galore happen in Whelan’s, The Button Factory, the Sugar Club, Sin É and The Academy. Memorable movie moments occur in the Lighthouse Cinema and the Irish Film Institute, and for shopping sprees in stunning surrounds visit Powerscourt Townhouse Centre.
Drury Street, Wicklow Street and Cows Lane have plenty to ponder too. Antique collectors should pop to Francis Street or browse the abundance of charity shops on Capel Street. Or, escape the metropolis madness and jump on the DART or a Dublin Bay Cruise for coastal treats.
Looking to avoid tourist traps?
Niamh Wade has the inside track on where to go in the Capital City.
From the quintessentially Irish to the quirky and the downright unforgettable, Ireland’s festivals bring fun, laughter, good times and great memories
Among the key dates to look out for this summer is the Galway International Arts Festival (11 – 24 July), which has been described as “the biggest, most exciting, most imaginative explosion of arts activity” in Ireland. This year it features artists from Africa, America, Asia, Australia, Europe and of course, Ireland and Galway, in a major programme of theatre, music, comedy, visual art, dance and literary events.
For a taste the salt-air, try Derry-Londonderry’s magical Foyle Maritime Festival (20 – 24 July), where Northern Ireland’s famous Walled City will welcome the sailors taking part in the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race.
Held on the stunning Causeway Coastal Route and surrounding areas in Northern Ireland, SuperCup NI (24 – 29 July) is a world-renowned international youth football tournament. With teams from Mexico, Bermuda and the English Premier League, including Manchester United, taking part, it offers a unique opportunity for fans to spot some of football’s most promising talent and future stars in the making.
Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann (Music Festival of Ireland) is the biggest traditional Irish music festival on the planet. This year it takes place in Mullingar, County Westmeath, in Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands (31 July – 7 August).
The week-long jamboree of Irish music, song and dance, not to mention late nights and family fun, is the ultimate summer highlight for music fans and culture seekers alike.
Set in buzzing Belfast,
the August Féile (4 – 14 August) is part of Féile an Phobail, the island’s largest community festival. A celebration of diversity, passion and creativity, it draws people from around the world to west Belfast. Head here to see the carnival parade on Saturday 6 August and to take in concerts, comedy, talks, tours, theatre, debate, family and above all, great community craic.
Or you could go for charming summer nights of music, comedy, film and theatre in the beautiful seaside town of Bangor in Northern Ireland, which has just been awarded UK city status. The Open House Festival (11 – 29 August) will set up in the gorgeous Bangor Castle Walled Garden and will see headline acts such as Beth Orton, Paul Brady, Eddi Reader and the Hothouse Flowers perform, with classic film screenings including ‘Thelma & Louise’ and ‘Cabaret’.
Integral to an Irish summer is one of the greatest showjumping events in the world, the Dublin International Horse Show (17 – 21 August). A celebration of Ireland’s affinity with the horse and all things equine,
Running since 1959, the Rose of Tralee International Festival (19 – 23 August) is another ever-present Irish festival must-do. It sees the streets of Tralee transform into a feast of parades, music, circus, funfair, markets and traditional Irish entertainment.
The Antrim Coast Half Marathon (28 August) awaits. It takes place against a backdrop of the Causeway Coastal Route, voted by Lonely Planet as “one of the top five greatest drives on Earth”. The World Athletics certified course is flat and quick, promising one of the fastest half marathons in the world.
If you like exceptional street art, the Viking city of Waterford serves up Spraoi Waterford (29 – 31 July), which offers fourdays of non-stop fun in the heart of Ireland’s Ancient East.
With these and many more, non-stop festival fun can be found all around the island of Ireland this summer. Festivals are the Irish way. You just have to be there.
A summertime trip to Ireland isn’t complete until you take in at least one of the many kinds of music, arts and culture festivals the island is renowned for.
Céide Fields , Co. Mayo
The newly refurbished visitor centre at the Céide Fields is opening in June, 2022. Just one of the many heritage sites across Ireland that you can visit with our wonderful Heritage Card. Full details heritageireland.ie
The Waterford Greenway is a ‘must-do’ when you’re in Waterford. Visit the birthplace of its world-famous crystal or climb ancient towers to take in stunning seascapes. Here are the ten best things to do.
Uncover the story of Ireland’s oldest city, founded by the Vikings in 914, at Waterford Treasures. A trio of museums, each set in historic buildings, the Viking Museum, Medieval Museum and Bishop’s Palace Museum, are all within a minutes walk in Waterford City’s Viking Triangle.
Get up close and personal with the Viking warlords who founded Waterford City at King of the Vikings, just steps from The Viking Museum. The dynamic, virtual reality experience is set in a replica Viking house within the atmospheric ruins of a medieval monastery.
The most extended off-road walking and cycling route in Ireland, the Waterford Greenway runs from the city, along the scenic way of an old railway line, to Dungarvan, a pretty quayside town. Bike or walk a section or all 46km.
The ancestral home of the 9th Marquess of Waterford, Curraghmore House and Gardens near Portlaw, is Ireland’s most extensive private demesne, with over 1,000 hectares of formal gardens, woodland and grazing fields.
A Sitka spruce planted on the estate in the 1830s is said to be one of the tallest in the country and stands guard over King John’s Bridge, the oldest bridge in Ireland. The estate opens to the public from May until September. Make sure you book a tour of the house or gardens in advance.
Plant lovers adore Waterford’s Mount Congreve Estate, known as one of the ‘Great Gardens of the World’. Explore 30 hectares of colourful, planted gardens and the equally impressive walled garden outside Waterford City in Kilmeaden, where you’ll find more than 3,000 species of trees and shrubs and thousands of rhododendrons camellias, conifers and climbers.
6: Tramore Strand
Tramore is one of the most aptly named towns in the region, meaning ‘big strand’ is famous for its 5km stretch of golden, sandy beach lapped by the Atlantic Ocean. Approach along the coast from Annestown for the most spectacular views of the bay, peninsula and promenade, with Brownstown Head beyond.
7: Lafcadio Hearn Japanese Gardens
Five minutes from the beach in Tramore is Lafcadio Hearn Japanese Gardens, a homage to the life of a local writer, Patrick Lafcadio Hearn. Each garden contains elements of the style and planting traditions of the countries that played a part in Hearn’s life, including an American Garden, a Greek Garden and a Victorian Garden, representing his childhood summers in Tramore.
8: Lismore Castle Gardens and Heritage Centre
Although Lismore Castle is a private family home, everyone is welcome to enjoy the beautiful Lismore Castle Gardens. Overlooking the Blackwater Valley, enjoy stunning views of rolling, wooded hills to the Knockmealdown Mountains beyond. The gardens sit on the outskirts of the heritage town of Lismore, with its pictureperfect streets steeped in stories.
9: The Copper Coast Geopark
A 25 kilometre stretch of spectacular coastline consisting of scalloped beaches and coves enclosed by rocky headlands, The Copper Coast gets its name from the 19th-century copper mines hidden belowground. Now a UNESCO Global Geopark, the park extends along the Waterford coastline from Fenor in the east to Stradbally in the west and up to Dunhill in the north.
10: House of Waterford Crystal Factory tour
The House of Waterford Crystal Tour is more than a factory visit. Its a journey into the world of crystal. You’ll get to see each stage of the process that goes into making these pieces of art. Watch as craftsmen transform glowing balls of molten crystal into elegant shapes and master craftsmen use industrial diamond-tipped wheels to cut the crystal. Your tour ends with a visit to the retail shop, where you’ll see the largest display of Waterford Crystal in the world.
With bracing Atlantic winds, breathtaking vistas and miles and miles of undisturbed beaches, the Wild Atlantic Way is a beachlover’s paradise.
One of West Cork’s most beautiful beaches, Barleycove is the ideal spot for families, with its many sand dunes providing hours of fun for kids. Officially declared a Special Area of Conservation by the EU, this is the perfect spot to enjoy the stunning views and discover the natural wildlife of the area.
With its crystal clear waters and over a mile of white sandy beach, the crescent shaped Dog’s Bay (beside Gurteen Bay), is one of Galway’s best beaches. Ideal for windsurfing and kitesurfing.
Stunning views, golden sand and with a certain wildness about it, Fanore Beach is great for surfing, body boarding and swimmers. It’s also a botanist’s haven, with its proximity to the Burren.
Breathtaking scenery and with over four miles of beach, Inch is an ideal spot for walkers. Made famous for its scenes in Ryan’s Daughter, Inch Beach is popular with surfers, anglers and swimmers.
With its blue flag status, Inchydoney Beach is the ideal spot for swimming in the calm, and surfing when the wind is up. Inchydoney is yet another of Ireland’s most stunning beaches, with miles of sandy beach to walk or jog along and take in the breathtaking views.
Surrounded by stunning vistas of the Minaun Cliffs, green fields and the Atlantic, this 4km beach, also known as Trawmore Strand, is a haven for watersports enthusiasts. Expect lots of windsurfers, bodyboarders and surfers living it up on this Blue Flag beach.
Voted the second most beautiful beach in the world by readers of the Observer Magazine, Ballymastocker, on the shores of Lough Swilly, is a spectacular milelong beach of beautiful sand and stunning views. Never over-crowded, this Blue Flag beach is one of Ireland’s top gems.
This horseshoe-shaped secluded beach is an ideal spot to relax and take stock. Stunning views and protected from winds, Silver Strand is a beach lover’s paradise with its golden sands and peaceful ambiance.
Aillwee Cave has been mesmerising visitors for more than 45 years and 2022 sees the Co. Clare attraction reopening with a whole new look to offer and experience to remember. Nuala Mulqueeney of Aillwee Burren Experience takes us on a tour…
Whether you’ve visited Aillwee Cave – situated in the heart of the Burren in Co. Clare – in the past or have yet to experience this unique geological wonder, you might want to make 2022 the year you venture to Ballyvaughan for a tour. Why? The attraction has just reopened after a €1-million renovation, transforming the way visitors experience one of Ireland’s oldest caves.
The all-new Aillwee Burren Experience incorporates the famous cave, which is newly illuminated to offer visitors an 850-metre round trip tour and show the full size and scale of the cave and its various chambers, the Birds of Prey Centre plus the Farmshop, where you can sample the delicious Burren Gold Cheese and learn how it’s made.
“We’ve really opened up the underground in a very accessible way, with footpaths throughout,” says managing director Nuala Mulqueeney, who’s been involved in Aillwee Cave
since its beginnings, when she was a young girl helping her father – secondary school teacher Micheál Mulqueeney, who first opened the cave in 1976 with mining engineer Roger Johnson – during the summer, delivering brochures up and down the west coast “to be sure people knew where we were”.
“We are a Geosite within the UNESCO Global Geopark of the Burren and Cliffs of Moher and look at ourselves as a snapshot of the Burren destination,”
Nuala explains, adding there are further changes to be discovered outside the cave, including new aviaries in the Birds of Prey Centre and a biodiversity walk. “We also make our Burren Gold Cheese here, which is a sustainable partnership between the people we get our milk from – the Davoren family, five kilometres up the road. We renamed the brand as Aillwee Burren Experience because we think the whole package really gives people an insight into the Burren region and how we live.”
Given the long history of this familyrun business, I wonder what changes Nuala’s witnessed since the cave first opened. “I’ve seen a lot of changes over the years. As regards the site, we’ve adapted it from being just a show cave to adding the cheesemaking facility in 1985, Santa’s workshop in 2000, and the Birds of Prey Centre in 2008 and now we have this new rebrand and upgrade. I’ve seen a lot of changes in the outside world, too, like the onset of budget airlines, which
resulted in a lot of Irish people leaving the country [for their holidays] but also a lot of European families coming in the other direction.”
Nuala’s also witnessed her fair share of ups and downs over the decades and she and her team are used to riding out a storm. “We’ve been through foot and mouth disease, the ash cloud, and of course, like everybody, we endured the global pandemic, which gave us time to really make decisions about things we’d spoken about for years – like a rebrand and relighting the cave. When you’re open all year round, you tend to just go with the flow, and think, ‘If I close, I’d miss out on too much business.’ We were just on the brink of the traditional tourist season in 2020 [when the initial lockdown was announced]. The idea of closing before Patrick’s weekend, when we should be going up a notch, was so strange. To see my team going home was very emotional. That was hard to take. But this forced closure gave us time to really think and plan. We’re now working with others in the region to try and get people to slow down and spend a bit of time having a real Burren experience.”
The Burren is certainly an area unlike any other. I ask Nuala what she feels makes the region so special? “The limestone karst landscape that we have is unique to this region. The rock was formed 350-million years ago but the
landscape was formed by moving ice sheets at the end of the last ice age, circa 10,000 to 12,000 years ago.”
With the new rebrand and facilities to work with, Nuala’s hopes for this summer are optimistic. “I’d love for it to be somewhere close to 2019’s numbers. If we had 70% of that figure, I’d be delighted. We’re building back – we have a new concept here so it’s not just business as usual. We have work to do to get that message out.”
Are there other attractions she enjoys visiting? “I’ve recently visited Scattery Island, just off the west coast down by
Loophead, where there’s a beautiful monastic settlement. If I had a half a day, I’d go to Caherconnell or hop over to the Cliffs of Moher or call in to Moher Cottage. When you revisit the spots you went to in your childhood, taking the next generation with you, it can be quite surprising how things have moved on and yet that sense of nostalgia is still there.” aillweeburrenexperience.ie.
At Ireland’s Most northerly point, Malin Head in Co. Donegal, has epic views over the ocean. Think you have to travel to Scandinavia to see the Northern Lights? The Aurora Borealis is visible in all of its splendour from Malin Head at di erent times of the year-You might just be lucky enough to catch them.
A world famous surfing spot, Mullaghmore is probably best known in surfing circles for its “Prowlers” – a wave that can swell up to 100 ft. The rugged coastline o ers views of Sliabh Liag and Benbulben.
With great views of the Atlantic and the Staggs of Broadhaven, folklore has it that Dun Briste, the large sea stack rising from the sea o Downpatrick Head, was formed when St. Patrick struck the ground with his crozier in anger after a pagan chieftain, Crom Dubh, refused to convert to Christianity.
Over 700 ft (200m) high and 8 kilometres long the Cli s of Moher o ers spectacular views of the Aran Islands and Galway Bay, The Twelve Pins, Loop Head, The Dingle Peninsula and the Blasket islands in Kerry. The Cli s of Moher (Moher meaning ruined fort in Irish) are named after a 1st century BC fort that used to be located on the cli s.
On the very Western tip of the Wild Atlantic Way, just o the Dingle Peninsula in Co. Kerry, you can see the famed Blasket Islands. The largest of the islands, the Great Blasket used to have 176 people living there, but by 1953, the last of the inhabitants moved to the mainland. Today you can visit the deserted villages on the islands by boat.
Known for its dramatic cli s and breathtaking scenery, Mizen Head, the most south westerly point of Ireland, used to be the last and the first place that seafarers would see on their trip across the Atlantic. From the cli s you can see Fastnet Lighthouse on a rock called “Ireland’s teardrop”.
Discover a Cave Tour, Birds of Prey & Cheesemaking all in one Multi Award-winning destination at Aillwee. Explore Aillwee when visiting the Burren and unlock many secrets through unique underground and overground Experiences. Be educated, engaged and entertained at Aillwee Burren Experience! Accompany the guides to the surprising Aillwee Burren underworld, unlocking an intriguing, timeless story. Closely appreciate the silent and majestic Birds of Prey. Daily interactive Flying Displays reveal varied Raptor species that delight and excite. The Farm Shop is a ‘Hidden Gem’. Watch traditional, sustainable farmhouse methods used in creating the unique Award-Winning Burren Gold Cheese. For the Adventurer, Foodie and Explorer in you, discover it all at Aillwee Burren Experience.
Visit www.aillweeburrenexperience.ie & get your #aillweeadventure underway today
Whether it’s seafood chowder with a view, or active days in the wild turning to wilder nights you are craving, Ennistymon, Lahinch and Liscannor will have you spoilt for choice, as Niamh Wade found out.
Driving along the N67 on route to well-known coastal hubs in County Clare, one might not think to stop in the market town of Ennistymon. Do stop! Saunter along the colourful shopfront streets and have cameras ready to capture the Cascades - the little rapids of the River Inagh, rushing over the ridges of rocks. Stroll along the riverside walkway or take time on the terrace at Byrne’s serving meat and vegan fare, or perch outside Pot Duggan’s boasting a Middle Eastern menu and home to the ultimate quiz and music bingo nights every Friday. Or pack a picnic with goodies from The Cheese Press, Unglert’s Bakery, Oh La La Creperie or This is It. Nightlife won’t disappoint either with authentic Irish pubs renowned for the craic and traditional Irish music. Leaving Ennistymon over the narrow bridge and arriving into Lahinch, it’s hard to know if it’s the sound of the sea
or the happy hum around the village that instantly pulls you in. Should you book a surf lesson? Go stretch the legs along the promenade? Or go straight to one of the atmospheric pubs? These are the ‘tough’ questions you will likely ask yourself once checked in. Or if golf is your game, Lahinch Golf Club, complete with eighteenholes, expands over the sandy dunes.
For the curious culture seekers, wishing to explore more than just the thrills of wild waves and bustling bars, Liscannor is a few minutes north of Lahinch, just around the photogenic headland. Art lovers will be drawn to the Atlantic Way Gallery, while works of talented weavers are showcased in the Woolen Market. A fascinating display of fossils, gemstones and collectible rocks can be perused at The Rock Shop or simply pause on their patio café, overlooking Liscannor Bay. The Cliffs of Moher Coastal Walk can also be accessed from this fabulous fishing village and Clahane Shore proves popular with sunset swims recommended. Warm-up courtesy of Sauna Suaimhneas, with location times posted every Tuesday and Wild Atlantic Seaweed Baths, often pop-up at this location too.
Finding fresh, seafood cuisine
is easy with a handful of excellent eatery’s lining the village, including award-winning Vaughans Seafood and Oyster Bar. Traditional Irish music sessions in Egan’s Bar, The Cliffs of Moher Hotel and Joseph McHugh’s, all offer excellent entertainment.
Be it for family fun, a romantic break or a group getaway, these three scenic-spots, on the road that keeps on giving, won’t disappoint.
Wild Atlantic Way looped route to encourage visitors to explore further and stay longer in the region.
Fáilte Ireland has unveiled the first viewing points along the Burren Discovery Trail, a new looped route off the Wild Atlantic Way designed to encourage visitors to explore more and stay longer in the Burren.
Developed with an investment of €340,000 from Fáilte Ireland, the 95km Burren Discovery Trail takes visitors through the Burren Highlands in Co. Clare and Lowlands in Co. Galway encouraging them to engage with the stories of each local area and explore the many wonderful towns and villages in the region.
The Burren Discovery Trail is one of the catalyst projects identified through Fáilte Ireland’s Visitor Experience Development Plan for the Burren and Cliffs of Moher which was published earlier this year. The plan aims to create a sustainable tourism destination by extending the tourism season and spreading business across all parts of the region over the next five years.
Commenting on the Burren Discovery Trail, Miriam Kennedy, Head of the Wild Atlantic Way at Fáilte Ireland, said:
“The Burren is famous for its stunning karst natural landscape but it is also a living environment with its own unique culture and traditions. The Burren Discovery Trail was designed
to bring the stories of the region to life and encourage visitors to explore more of the area and stay longer. With the support of Clare and Galway County Councils, the National Parks & Wildlife Service (NPWS), the Office of Public Works (OPW) and Coillte, we’re delighted to unveil the first of our new viewing points, which will enhance the visitor experience and increase dwell time, supporting revenue generation and job creation in local communities across the region.”
Leonard Cleary, Director of Service at Clare County Council, said:
“Clare County Council is delighted to work in partnership with Fáilte Ireland, other statutory bodies and the local tourism industry and community on the Burren Discovery Trail. This project delivers on the Clare Tourism Strategy 2030 and aims to distribute visitors across the wider North Clare area for the economic and social benefit of local towns and villages.”
Liam Hanrahan, Director of Services at Galway County Council said:
statutory bodies and the local communities and tourism industry, to ensure the success of the trail, in its aim to both protect and invite people to experience and stay in the Burren.”
Nuala Mulqueeney, Managing Director of the Aillwee Cave & Birds of Prey Centre in The Burren and Geraldine Enright, Director of the Cliffs of Moher Visitor Experience, Co-Chairs of the Visitor Experience Development Plan for the Burren and Cliffs of Moher, said:
“We’re delighted to see the Burren Discovery Trail come to fruition. A catalyst project in the Visitor Experience Development Plan for the Burren and Cliffs of Moher, it will help distribute visitors more evenly across the Burren and encourage visitors to stay longer and spend more within the region.”
The theme of the trail is mythology and folklore. Constructed of the same Corten Steel as the Wild Atlantic Way Discovery Points, each viewing point along the trail features a doorway interpreting the Dolman, a signature image of The Burren. Storyboards highlight the unique stories and flora of the local area as well as follow on steps encouraging visitors to explore the route further.
our towns and villages are to the fore in trust will stay and spend in local businesses as exciting continued partnership with Fáilte Ireland, Clare County Council, the National
“The continued protection of the Burren and uncovering unique stories associated with this part of Galway, Galway Bay and Clare underpins this project. The Burren Discovery Trail recognises the international reputation of the Burren and offers visitors additional reasons to visit, providing clear connected alternative routes throughout the Burren. In particular, we welcome how our towns and villages are to the fore in maps and promotion and we trust visitors will stay and spend in local businesses as a result. It’s an exciting opportunity for continued partnership with Fáilte Ireland, Clare County Council, the National Parks & Wildlife Service (NPWS), other
Viewing points have been installed across the Burren Highlands in Co. Clare in Lisdoonvarna, Corofin, Gragan’s Wood, Corkscrew Hill and Kilfenora and further viewing points will be installed across the Burren Lowlands in Co. Galway over the coming weeks, ensuring the trail is market ready for the beginning of the 2022 tourism season.
with an epic view of the Atlantic. The island of Inishbofin resonates with the sounds of music and storytelling. Some of the best food and trad music in Ireland are on this proud island, at the edge of the ocean.
Take a walk along the Claddagh in Galway Galway is a glorious contradiction. This is where you’ll find the untamed, stunning and compelling wilds of the West, from the rugged Aran Islands to the Connemara coastline. But it’s also a hub of modern culture and cuisine; a magnet for the finest artists, musicians and chefs in Ireland.
It’s time for the first hike of the day. Explore the famous streets of Galway City.
The Latin Quarter is home to lots of cute shops and cosy pubs, but it also has that elusive quality that many cities don’t have; it’s a pleasure to just wander around and savour the atmosphere.
O’Connell’s Bar is one of the most interesting pubs in Galway. Pop into the pub for lunch and just enjoy the laidback charm of a real old Irish pub that was converted from a grocery store from 50-years ago. It even has a beer garden!
Across three-floors and several exhibitions, you can trace Galway’s evolution from medieval times to more recent historical events.
The Aran Islands remain stubbornly, gloriously unchanged through the years, giving you the chance to escape modernity and experience majestic sea views. Board the ferry at Rossaveal, which is about 45-minutes west of Galway City, passing through Salthill and Spiddal.
Highlights of the Aran Islands include Dún Aonghasa on Inis Mór. This is a prehistoric, cliff-side stone fort
Known as the capital of Connemara, Clifden is a jumping-off point for plenty of the region’s riches, with many highlights of a visit to the west, within an hour of the seaside town. The coast of Connemara is one of the most striking places in the country and what better way to experience the landscape than on an outdoor kayak adventure, with Real Adventures Connemara.
People flock to Kylemore Abbey from far and wide to bask in the peaceful solitude: the main building is a magnificent structure, reflected beautifully in the water. You can take a fascinating tour of the abbey and its impressive interiors. The real jewel though, is the walled garden. This is an impeccably manicured Victorian Garden, where only flowers from that era are cultivated. Time seems to stand still in this magical place.
About an hour beyond Clifden, to the north, Killary, one of Ireland’s only fjords, is not just incredibly scenic, it’s also a place where you can enjoy world-class seafood. The Atlantic is a rich source of fish, as you might expect, and local businesses like Killary Fjord Shellfish, specialise in mouth-watering mussels, clams and oysters. You can also take a tour of this famous mussel farm.
Restored Period Rooms
Multimedia Displays
Victorian Walled Garden
Neo-Gothic Church
Dining & Retail
Walking Trails
The Teeth of the Storm, the coast of the Beara Peninsula Cork Courtesy of Sean Reidy photography
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When the Wild Atlantic Way bares its teeth, we can only stand and admire its awesome power in shaping Ireland’s coastline
Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media, Catherine Martin TD and Minister of State for Overseas Development Aid and Diaspora, Colm Brophy TD, joined together to announce that the Global Irish Festival Series will take place along the Wild Atlantic Way in Mayo, Donegal, Limerick and Kerry this year.
A joint initiative between Fáilte Ireland and the Department of Foreign Affairs, the Global Irish Festival Series aims to encourage diaspora to return home to visit Ireland and provides funding and support, through Local Authorities, for events that tap into international diaspora networks.
The annual Global Irish Festival Series was initially launched in 2018, supporting events in Donegal and Limerick. With an investment of up to €300,000, the series returns after a twoyear hiatus due to the pandemic with two additional locations, Mayo and Kerry.
Minister Catherine Martin TD, said:
“It’s great to see the Global Irish Festival Series return this year with a fantastic line-up of events over the coming months showcasing the culture and heritage of each county. Festivals provide a unique reason for visitors to choose a destination, increasing footfall for local businesses and supporting jobs and revenue generation. The Global Irish Festival Series enables local communities to further build upon diaspora networks, deepen connections around the world and attract more visitors.”
Colm Brophy, added:
“I warmly welcome the members of our Diaspora
who will be returning for the Global Irish Festival Series. Those with a connection to Mayo, Donegal, Limerick and Kerry will have a wonderful opportunity to reconnect with home and to rediscover the vibrancy of the Wild Atlantic Way. Through the Global Irish Festival Series, we will reaffirm our sense of solidarity and common identity and celebrate our shared culture and history.”
The Global Irish Festival Series kicked off in Mayo with Home to Mayo, a series of events incorporating existing festivals from celebrating Mayo’s rich history and natural heritage.
In Donegal, Donegal Connect takes place from 23rd to 25th September, offering visitors a diverse itinerary of food, genealogy, sport, business, arts and culture. More information will be available soon on www.donegal.ie.
Global Limerick will take place from 16th September to 31st October and will feature the world-famous Richard Harris International Film Festival, celebrating the unique talent of Richard Harris, in the city where he was born and raised and showcasing the work of young filmmakers from Ireland and
across the world. More information will be available soon on www.limerick.ie.
And closing the Global Irish Festival Series, An Turas Mór – The Journey Home will take place in Kerry from 1st to 31st October. Featuring established world class festivals such as the Dingle Food Festival and the iQuest Adventure Series, there is plenty on offer for all festival goers from the high-octane sport enthusiast to the foodie connoisseur. More information is available on www. homecomingkerry.com
Speaking about the Global Irish Festival Series, Fáilte Ireland’s Head of Festivals, Ciara Sugrue, said:
“We are pleased to work with the Department of Foreign Affairs once again on the annual Global Irish Festival Series after a two-year hiatus. The festivals and events supported through the series will help drive tourism to specific locations, including regional areas outside of current hotspots, creating new economic benefits for local communities. This will be hugely important as we drive recovery across the tourism sector.”
Following the stratospheric
school Lir Academy (whose graduates include Normal People star Paul Mescal) plays Frances, a 21-year-old college student who faces her vulnerabilities as she navigates a series of relationships.
Sasha Lane (American Honey) will star as Bobbi, while Joe Alwyn (The Favourite) plays Nick, and Jemima Kirke (Girls) will play Melissa.
Street, as well as in the cultural hub of the Temple Bar area, on Lower Abbey Street and in cafés and bars in the city.
The gorgeous coastline of Dublin Bay also features in the series, when the characters enjoy a swim at picturesque Seapoint. The beach is a popular bathing spot and is also well-known for its Napoleonic-era Martello Tower.
Once again, Sally Rooney’s native Ireland forms the backdrop to the eagerly awaited TV adaptation of her acclaimed debut novel ‘Conversations with Friends’.
The new series started airing on Sunday 15 May, with the 12-part drama premiering on BBC Three in the UK. All 12 episodes – each 30 minutes long – are available to stream now on BBC iPlayer, and Hulu in the US.
From the team behind the global success of the TV adaptation of Rooney’s book ‘Normal People ‘ in 2020, ‘Conversations with Friends’, has director Lenny Abrahamson return alongside co-director Leanne Welham with Oscar and Bafta-winning Dublin company Element Pictures, again producing the 12-part series.
The TV drama centres on two Dublin college students, Frances and Bobbi, and the strange and unexpected connection they forge with a married couple, Melissa and Nick. It’s been described as both a complex coming of age drama and a very modern love story.
Cork actress Alison Oliver, an emerging talent from Irish drama
As was the case with Normal People, the film locations and settings for Conversations with Friends , skilfully reflect and contrast with the internal landscapes of Rooney’s characters.
The main setting is Dublin, with the textures of everyday city life shining through on screen and the author’s alma mater Trinity College reappearing in a lead role. Rooney wrote the book while studying for her master’s degree in American Literature at Trinity.
Trinity is home to The Book of Kells, a beautifully illuminated Gospel manuscript and one of Ireland’s greatest cultural treasures and is famous for its history and architecture. Trinity includes a collection of elegant Georgian and Victorian buildings, cobbled squares and gardens. Its barrel-vaulted Long Room library, housing over 200,000 ancient books, is also one of the most photographed places in Dublin.
The lead characters appear in front of Trinity’s classical eighteenthcentury front gate, in the grounds and at the university’s cricket pitch, while Frances spends time studying in the modernist 1960s Berkeley Library.
Frances’s flat is in the centre of Dublin, filmed on Hardwicke Street. She is seen on the streets nearby, including Blessington
Standing in for Dublin, filming also took place in Belfast in Northern Ireland. Stranmillis College and Campbell College were used to fill in scenes set at Trinity College, while filming also took place at the Sweet Afton Bar in Belfast’s Linen Quarter, at the Ormeau Road’s Canteen Café, plus at the well-known No Alibis bookshop on Botanic Avenue.
In one scene where Frances watches Nick perform in a play, the production used Belfast’s historic Lyric Theatre on Ridgeway Street, rebuilt in 2011 in the modern style seen on screen.
Conversations with Friends was Rooney’s breakout novel and has so far been succeeded by Normal People and last year’s Beautiful World, Where Are You.
Normal People became a literary sensation when it was released, and spawned the 12-part TV show that skyrocketed the careers of Paul Mescal and Daisy Edgar-Jones.
Through her work, the County Mayo native has taken readers and viewers from Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way to the streets of Dublin and back again.
For anyone wanting to explore her fictional world, some beautiful filming locations are waiting to be discovered. www.ireland.com
Many, many moons ago, in the misty past of Cratloe’s rolling countryside, there lived a buxom lady, tall in stature, but shapely and appealing to all. She was known simply as Durty Nelly, a name that puzzled all who had the good fortune to meet her – but soon became apparent Times were hard in Ireland but the wily Nelly always found a way to make ends meet. She was the keeper of the toll bridge over the river Owengarney, which flowed outside her window on its way to join the Shannon.
All visitors who sought to cross the bridge had to pay their dues to Nelly – those who could not pay in cash paid in kind with the presentation of a chicken, a few eggs, a piece of homecured bacon or even, legend has it, a bit of ‘comfort’ for the lady herself.
Durty Nelly was a woman of considerable charm, known to the
virile men of the day from Galway to Cork, Dublin to Limerick. Nelly’s
Nelly’s Blessing
May the road rise up to meet you.
May the wind be always at your back. May the sun shine warm upon your face, the rains fall soft upon your fields and until we meet again, may God hold you in the palm of his hand.
400 Years Of Fun – Waiting To Be Explored, There’s always something happening at Nelly’s
The Emerald Isle is renowned for its tepid and somewhat disappointing weather during the summer, but every now and then, a heatwave turns the island into a true summer paradise.
These are ten of the reasons that make Ireland the best place to be on a glorious summer afternoon.
1.It’s as if there has been a nationwide miracle when the sun shines in Ireland, as a result everyone is in a good mood.
2.If you think Ireland is green, wait until the sun comes out - everywhere looks beautiful!
3.The farmers take advantage of the good weather, so they can cut the turf and save the hay.
4.Sun worshippers get a chance to work on their farmer’s tan.
5.Finally, there’s an occasion to stuff your face with the best ice cream going - which one is your favourite?
6.Ireland has a maritime-influenced climate, which means there is little to low humidity.
7. A long stretch in the evening means it stays bright until around 11pm.
8.There are not any mosquitoes in Ireland, so no need to worry about getting destroyed by bug bites.
9.There’s finally an excuse to do more than just walk on the beach.
10.People finally get a chance to use their BBQ and outdoor seating.
There are few better places to be than in Ireland on a sunny day.
when the sun shines
Carrygerry Country House, near Newmarket-on-Fergus and just minutes away from Shannon, is a 200 year old Manor tastefully restored to its former glory, set in a idyllic mature country setting. On arrival, you will experience a relaxed and unique country house atmosphere with open fires and antique furniture. There are 11 bedrooms, all individually styled in keeping with the house.
Our Conservatory Restaurant is open for Dinner from Saturday from 6.30pm to 9.30pm. Our Á La Carte Menu fresh, locally sourced produce and a complete well balanced Set Dinner Menu for €29 (3 courses plus Tea/Coffee) 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
Near Newmarket-on-Fergus and just minutes away from Shannon, is a 200 year old Manor tastefully restored to its former glory, set in a idyllic mature country setting. On arrival, you will experience a relaxed and unique country house atmosphere with open res and antique furniture. ere are 11 bedrooms, all individually styled in keeping with the house.
Our Conservatory Restaurant is open ursday, Friday & Saturday evenings for dinner from 5.00pm-8.30pm. Sunday Lunch served from 1pm-3.30pm. Our dishes o ers fresh, locally sourced produce and a complete well balanced menu
Set Dinner Menu for €40 (3 courses plus Tea/Co ee) is served
Carrygerry Country House, near Newmarket-on-Fergus and just minutes away from Shannon, is a 200 year old Manor tastefully restored to its former glory, set in a idyllic mature country setting. On arrival, you will experience a relaxed and unique country house
Carrygerry Country House, near Newmarket-on-Fergus and just minutes away from Shannon, is a 200 year old Manor tastefully restored to its former glory, set in a idyllic mature country setting. On arrival, you will experience a relaxed and unique country house
Our Conservatory Restaurant is open for Dinner on Friday and Saturday Evening from 6.00pm to 9.00pm. Our dishes o ers fresh, locally sourced produce and a complete well balanced menu
For enquiries call 061 360500 or email: info@carrygerryhouse.com | www.carrygerryhouse.com
Our Conservatory Restaurant is open for Dinner from Tuesday to Saturday from 6.30pm to 9.30pm. Our Á La Carte Menu o ers fresh, locally sourced produce and complete well balanced menu.
We cater for Birthdays, Anniversaries, Weddings, Christenings, etc.
Our Conservatory Restaurant is open for Dinner Saturday from 6.30pm to 9.30pm. Our Á La Carte fresh, locally sourced produce and a complete well
Our Conservatory Restaurant is open for Dinner from Saturday from 6.30pm to 9.30pm. Our Á La Carte Menu fresh, locally sourced produce and a complete well balanced
Set Dinner Menu for €29 (3 courses plus Tea/Co ee) is served
85 beaches and 10 marinas around Ireland have been awarded prestigious Blue Flags by An Taisce - one of the world’s most recognised eco-labels. Fáilte Ireland says the Awards have huge significance for tourism and for local communities as the summer and bathing season approaches.
Fáilte Ireland research shows that outdoor water-based activities such as kayaking, surfing, paddle-boarding and open water swimming are popular attractors for international and domestic visitors.
“It’s a trend that is likely to continue to grow year on year, and not just during the summer months,” according to Fiona Monaghan, Fáilte Ireland’s Head of Product Development - Activities. Welcoming the Awards announcement, Fiona Monaghan added:
“Fáilte Ireland is really pleased to welcome this year’s Blue Flag awards, and we congratulate the Local Authorities for achieving the excellent standards required by the Blue Flag criteria. We would also like to commend the Clean Coasts volunteers right across the country, who act as custodians for our beaches, seas and marine life in Ireland, ensuring that they are managed appropriately and are litter and pollution-free for our visitors to enjoy.
It is a testament to their hard work that 62 beaches have been awarded a Green Coast Award for 2022 and we are proud to continue to support An Taisce’s Clean Coast Programme and the Green Coast Awards.”
“The quality of our bathing waters is vital for tourism. Fáilte Ireland’s work developing and promoting water-based recreational activities is a strategic priority and we very much welcome the Environmental
Protection Agency (EPA) Bathing Water in Ireland report for 2021 that shows that 78% of bathing sites have excellent water quality, while 97% meet the minimum standard.”
“Covid19 has accelerated people’s increased interest and appreciation for the outdoors, and we are fortunate that Ireland has some of the most natural and unspoilt environments in the world. Our stunning coastline, rivers and lakes are the bedrock upon which Irish tourism has been built and are now being enjoyed more and more by local communities and visitors.”
Fáilte Ireland partners with An Taisce annually to sponsor the Green Coast Awards and support hundreds of volunteerled beach clean-ups each year around Ireland. These clean ups remove large quantities of marine litter from the Irish coastline and the banks of rivers, canals and lakes. The sponsorship also funds a number of environmental awareness and education initiatives nationwide.
Fáilte Ireland also made significant investment in developing water-based activity tourism around Ireland, with €19million allocated in April 2021 for 20 world-class Facilities Centres for Water Based Activities, funded under the *Platforms for Growth 2 Scheme. This scheme was designed to capitalise on this change in visitor behaviour and ensure high quality, sustainable facilities are available to visitors as they enjoy activities along Ireland’s coast.
Bike hire and guided tours are available for groups of all ages and abilities. The organic kitchen café utilising local produce serves an array of snacks and picnics can be arranged also.
Mob:087 9904234
2629078
Get away from it all and explore the unique beauty of Lough Boora Discovery Park. With 50 km of tracks and trails relax with friends and family amidst breath taking landscapes. Enjoy the simple things and spend quality time making memories to treasure. Connect with nature to revitalise mind and body.
Croagh Patrick is a well-known mountain and an important site of pilgrimage in Co. Mayo. You can find it 8km from Westport, above the villages of Murrisk and Lecanvey. It is the third highest mountain in Co. Mayo after Mweelrea and Nephin. If you visit, you may be joined by pilgrims who make the journey, which Saint Patrick himself once did.
Just a few miles north of Ballycastle village, is the windswept outcrop of Downpatrick Head. This is the perfect place to park up and stretch your legs with an invigorating coastal walk. The name Downpatrick is derived from a time when Saint Patrick himself founded a church here. You can still see the ruins of the church building, a stone cross and holy well today.
Achill Island is the largest island off the coast of Ireland and situated off the west coast. It has a small population of 2,700 and is attached to the mainland by Michael Davitt Bridge. Achill Island occupies an area of some 57sq miles but its actual coastline, including all the inlets and spars, measures over 80 miles. Two particular stretches of road have been designated as Achill’s Atlantic Drive; a spectacular journey with breathtaking views, which can be completed in a vehicle, by bicycle or on foot.
Keem Bay is a heavenly secluded valley at the very western tip of Achill Island. It is extremely popular during warmer months when the strand is a magnet for beach-goers and those interested in scenic walks. This bay was formerly the site of a basking shark fishery and a British Army lookout post.
Want to see an amazing island formation without having to travel to the Caribbean? Then go to Clew Bay, a natural ocean bay, which contains Ireland’s best example of sunken drumlins.
Land and sea come together to create something truly special at Mullaghmore Head. This is the home of big wave surfing in Ireland, and surfers come from all over the world to test their skills against epic waves. But there’s more to Mullaghmore. There are boat trips to the 6th century monastic ruins on Inishmurray Island, Classiebawn Castle dominating the
surrounding landscape with its Gothic splendour and nearby Ben Bulben, the flat-topped mountain famed in Irish mythology and the poetry of W.B. Yeats.
Drumcliffe, Co. Sligo is set against the striking backdrop of the Benbulben Mountains. It is best known as the final resting place of W.B. Yeats. Found in the churchyard, his grave is marked with a simple headstone with the inscription, “cast a cold eye on life, on death, horseman, pass by.”
Glenveagh National Park
From the big wave thrills at Mullaghmore and Strandhill’s consistent breaks, to the familyfriendly swell at Enniscrone, no trip to Sligo is complete without a go on a surfboard. Surf schools can help newbies paddle out with confidence, while pros can hunt for secret spots.
Glenveagh National Park is one of the six beautiful national parks in Ireland. Situated in the Northwest of Co. Donegal, Glenveagh encompasses some 16,000 hectares in the heart of the Derryveagh Mountains. Such a great wilderness is the haunt of many interesting plants and animals. These lands were managed as a private deer forest before becoming a national park in 1975. With the completion of public facilities, Glenveagh National Park was officially opened to the public in 1986.
Benbulben
Benbulben is known as Co, Sligo’s ‘Table Mountain’ and is part of the Dartry Mountains. It was originally merely a large ridge, however the moving glaciers cut into the earth, leaving a distinct formation, now called Benbulben. It is possible to climb Benbulben as there is a looped access trail but it is strongly advised that you have a guide to hike Benbulben.
This amazing waterfall is located at the top of a short 2km hike through the woods in Clonmany. There are picnic areas on the way to the waterfall, which blend in beautifully with the natural landscape. Footbridges towards the waterfall are dotted along the track as visitors criss-cross the stream using the stepping stones.
Malin Head is located on the Inishowen Peninsula, Co. Donegal. Here you will find the most northern point of the whole island of Ireland. The northernmost tip is the headland named Dúnalderagh (Banba’s Crown). The views in this area are spectacular and it is a place that any tourist must visit when they come to Donegal.
The attraction for all the family. Nestled in the green hills of south Sligo, Ireland’s largest sanctuary for raptors and owls, the Irish Raptor Research Centre/Eagles Flying is situated on more than 27 hectares of mature parklands near Ballymote. Currently it is the home of more than 100 eagles, hawks, owls, falcons and vultures. For the ones who prefer it more cuddly, there is also a large supervised petting zoo, where visitors can get hands-on with guinea pigs, pigs, rabbits, lambs, goats, donkeys, ferrets, and many more.
Mount Errigal is a beautiful mountain near Gweedore in Co. Donegal. It is both the tallest peak of the Derryveagh Mountains and of all the peaks in the county. Errigal is also the most southern, steepest and highest of the mountain chain, called the Seven Sisters by locals. The mountain is beautiful in both summer and winter and is a must-see.
Ruairi immigrated to Canada in February 2008. Initially working in finance, he became frustrated with the industry after the Global Financial Crisis and wanted to do something more meaningful. Ruairi began researching the success factors that allowed newcomers to settle quicker and realised that access to independent, quality information about immigration, settlement, and employment had a huge impact on newcomers’ transition to life in Canada.
Instead of being another gatekeeper of information (immigration, employment and settlement agencies that monetize information), Ruairi set out to change the game and build a free, independent information platform, working with partners who value being a part of the newcomer experience. In 2012, Moving2Canada.com was born. In the decade since, millions of people around the world have used Moving2Canada to learn more about Canada and the success factors that go into building a dream life there.
Ruairi’s other business, Outpost Recruitment, also has a distinct newcomer focus - placing international
talent with Canada’s leading construction and engineering firms.
Winner of the 2019 Best Immigrant Entrepreneur award by BC Small Business
Q 1 How does your normal day begin?
Much of my work overlaps with Ireland / Europe and most of our team are in Eastern Canada so I typically start my working day at 8:00 AM and take personal time later in the day. In summer months I have much better balance and start my day with a run / swim.
Q 2 What are your biggest daily challenges?
Prioritization. There’s huge demand for Canada given it can offer great opportunities and excellent lifestyle but we’re razor focused on working with candidates who are pro-active and willing to put the time and effort into the process.
Q 3 What do you love most about your job?
Freedom of time and location. I started remote working in 2012 and never looked back. Being able to spend a few months in Ireland every year with
family and friends is a dream come true as I get the best of both worlds.
Q 4 What do you do to relax? Anything outdoors helps me switch o …snowboarding, yoga, cycling, hiking, golf, camping… Vancouver is unique given you can golf, ski and sail / kayak all in the one day. We have big mountains that are snow-capped all year round.
Q 5 Favourite staycation destination in Ireland and why? Visiting home, the Gap of Dunloe in the Kingdom. I wish I’d appreciated the slow pace of Kerry more when I was younger!
Q 6 Favourite holiday destination worldwide?
Hawaii - always wondered if it would meet my expectations and it did. Only explored Maui so far (two trips) and there are so many di erent islands!
Q 7 Favourite Business motto? Fortune favours the brave.
Q 8 Advice for young businesses entering the tourism industry Life begins outside your comfort zone. Learn to embrace vulnerability and failure.
What do Victoria Beckham, Pierce Brosnan, and Tony Hawk have in common? They all got married in Ireland!
Take a look at some of the STUNNING
A-list venues across the island where celebrities said “I do.”
The Mulranny Park Hotel are delighted to announce that Padraic & Aishling Dempsey, who were already existing partial owners, will now take over sole ownership and management of the hotel and its team.
The hotel is fortunate to have already had an investment from Padraic & Aishling of almost €350,000 as part of the phase one acquisition in 2022. Our second floors accommodation o ering has been entirely refurbished along with the accommodation corridors on both floors.
The hotel has engaged Nigel Howard of Nigel Howard Creative to lead the design. This fascinating period for the hotel and its team will also see the expansion of the Leisure Centre facilities to include exclusive Seaweed Baths Further development will include the remaining accommodation, ground floor refurbishment, outdoor spaces, and woodland cabins, with additional food & beverage facilities in future phases.
Following the ownership change, the hotel’s General Manager said, “This
is a unique period for the hotel with substantial investment in the property, with a long-term vision for its future. Its benefits will be felt by the hotel, the community, its valued team, and it’s many returning and new guests in 2022 and beyond. We are very excited to have Padraic & Aishling take over the property.”
This Award-winning hotel recently received the AA Courtesy & Care Award and the Georgina Campbell Award for Best Activity Break Four Star in 2021, and the McKenna’s Guide Exclusive list for 2022, despite the challenges faced by the hotel during COVID, which they owe to the hotels warm and welcoming team. Visit www.mulrannyparkhotel.ie or Follow us on Instagram, Twitter or Facebook.
For further details contact dmadigan@mulrannyparkhotel.ie
Luxurious Dromoland Castle on Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way has been selected as the host venue for the prestigious €400,000 event, which will be staged from 22 – 25 September.
Held 15 times between 1994 and 2012, the Women’s Irish Open has been won by some of Europe’s top players, including Norway’s Suzann Pettersen, Sweden’s Sophie Gustafson and England’s Laura Davies.
Scotland’s Catriona Mathews last captured the title at Killeen Castle, County Meath in 2012 but in the intervening years Irish women’s golf has gone strength to strength, producing a line-up of exciting young talent.
With growing participation at grassroots level and a wave of momentum now behind the women’s game, Irish golf has been particularly inspired by the success of LPGA stars Leona Maguire and Stephanie Meadow, who are likely to be in the field for their national championship.
They will be joined by a host of other elite Irish and international players at Dromoland, where the Women’s Irish Open promises to be an unmissable event in the Irish and global sporting calendar.
The golf course at Dromoland has been around for more than half a century and the setting for the tournament, on one of the finest parkland courses on the island of Ireland, will be nothing short of spectacular.
Located on the shores of Lough Dromoland in County Clare, the championship course was designed by American Ron Kirby and Irishman J.B. Carr, internationally renowned course architects.
Its 18-enchanting holes sweep through 450-acres of shady woodland, open rolling pasture and feral lakes and streams, with the magnificence of the sixteenthcentury castle presiding over the estate.
The course and accompanying practice facilities, currently undergoing
a €2-million upgrade, will present a demanding and exhilarating test for the game’s top female golfers.
The castle itself is the ancestral home of the O’Briens of Dromoland, whose lineage dates back 1,000 years to Brian Boru, one of the last High Kings of Ireland. From the imposing baronial facade to its startling interiors, a world of historic grandeur underpinned by the finest modern comforts awaits.
With lavish decor, indulgent dining, relaxing spas, fabulous views and magnificent bedrooms, it is a place to feel at home for the golfer and those looking for the five-star VIP treatment.
The Women’s Irish Open will be the second ladies tournament to be held on the island of Ireland in 2022.
The ISPS Handa World Invitational, a co-sanctioned event on the LPGA Tour and the Ladies European Tour, is being held at Galgorm Castle in County Antrim from 11 – 14 August.
As we open our doors for the 55th year we are delighted towelcome you to the Glencolmcille FolkVillage. Glencolmcille FolkVillage is located in one of Donegal’smost idyllicvalleys,situated along thedramaticcoastline of Glen Bay with its spectacular views of Glen Beach and Glen Head. visit the FolkVillage,you will experience a genuine Irish welcome with Ireland from 1750 onwards. Tour booklets are available in several languages.
to Sliabh Liag cli s we are only 20 minutes along the coast.Tá
Chlachán Ghleann Cholm Cille.
ar scéal saoil an Athair Mhic Daidhir.
Gleann Cholm Cille, Contae Dhún na nGall
Call (074) 973 0017
folkvillage@eircom.net
www.glenfolkvillage.com
Your next surf break is waiting for you on Sligo’s beaches. The towns and beaches of Sligo welcome surfers of all levels with open arms. With so many wonderful surf schools and traditional pubs to warm up in afterwards, you’ll be planning your next trip here before you leave.
Picking the right beach is one of the most important things to consider when learning how to surf in Ireland. Long, open, sandy beaches tend to have predictable waves that can make it easier to paddle out and catch your first wave. Beginners have lots of options for learning to surf in Sligo.
Learn to surf at Strandhill Beach
Strandhill is one of the most popular surf towns in the country. While the areas around Strandhill are known for their big waves, Strandhill Beach itself is actually one of the best places in Ireland to learn how to surf. The long stretch of sandy beach sees small, consistent waves rolling in all summer long, making it easier to master standing up on your board.
Start your first day with a lesson at Strandhill Surf School, where you can also just hire your board and wetsuit for the day and have a go yourself. The lively streets of Strandhill are dotted with fantastic restaurants and traditional, welcoming pubs.
Beginner friendly surfing at Enniscrone Beach
Enniscrone Beach is the ideal destination for the beginner surfer. Another great place to learn how to surfer in Sligo is Enniscrone Beach with an amazing 5km of beach-breaking waves along its golden sands. Paddling out at Enniscrone is a breeze thanks to the gentle waves, yet they’re powerful enough to pick you up and carry you back to shore.
Experienced surfers tend to look for reef breaks and large sand breaks further out to sea. These are usually riskier places where you really need an in-depth knowledge of the
sea. These types of waves should only be attempted by experienced surfers and there are plenty of them in Sligo.
Surfing barrels at Easkey
More advanced surfers will be drawn to the two reef breaks at Easkey which have been attracting surfers to Sligo since the late 70s, and even hosted Surfing World Championships events. The right-handed reef break is the more popular of the two waves here. Dependable year-round and in the right conditions it can be one of the best in the world. Epic barrels, crystal clear waves and reef breaks are the order of the day at Easkey.
Big wave surfing at Mullaghmore Head
Mullaghmore Head, Ireland’s most popular big wave surfing spot, is for experts only. Expect to see huge waves, some as big as 40ft, exposed rocky reefs and surfers being towed in on jet-skis. With lots of lookouts all along the coastline, Mullaghmore Head is a brilliant place to come watch talented and brave surfers take to the water.
After an afternoon of watching giant waves crashing against the shore, stop by Eithna’s By the Sea in Mullaghmore for a tasty meal of locally sourced seafood. Eithna’s lobster dish is well known and much-loved in the area.
No matter what level of surfer you are, Sligo has the perfect beach. So, zip up your wetsuit, grab your board and get into the water.
SCIENTIFICALLY MANAGED SANCTUARY FOR BIRDS OF PREY AND OWLS
Ireland’s largest Bird-of-prey Centre. The attraction for all the family. Get up close with Eagles, Hawks, Falcons, Vultures and Owls. Learn from the scientists about their biology during our fascinating and interactive shows. You have never been that close to Eagles…
From rugged mountains to wave-hewn sea cliffs, Donegal is one of Ireland’s most memorable counties. Donegal has 1,134-km of sandy beaches, cliffs and craggy inlets to explore. Here are ten of the best places to visit in Donegal.
Blow away the cobwebs with a visit to some of the highest sea cliffs in Europe at Slieve League (Sliabh Liag). This holy mountain was a Christian pilgrimage site for over 1,000-years and it’s easy to see why it was regarded as a sacred place. Pop in and say ‘hi’ to Mary in Sliabh Liag Visitor Centre and tell her Go Wild sent you.
One of the most beautiful lighthouses in the world, a visit to Fanad Lighthouse is a perfect way to finish off a trip to Fanad Head, where the views are unbeatable. Perched on a rocky outcrop at the mouth of Lough Swilly, the lighthouse has helped seafarers to negotiate the local waters since 1817.
Steeped in ancient myths and legends, Tory Island is a magical place with a rich heritage, deep culture and a real sense of community. The island’s remote location has probably helped the locals to preserve old Gaelic customs, such as the appointment of an island king. From its renowned trad musicians to the catch-your-breath scenery, a trip to Tory is a chance to experience a unique way of life.
With over 481-hectares of woodland and beaches, the lush green reserve at Ards Forest Park is a perfect place for a romantic walk or a fun day out with the family. This biodiverse park offers a rare combination of landscapes and habitats teeming with all sorts of local wildlife.
5.
A visit to the Doagh Famine Village is a chance to step back in
time and get a real sense of what life was like in Donegal, from the Famine up until a couple of generations ago.
One of Ireland’s most distinctive megalithic sites, the stone ringfort of Grianán of Aileach dates back to 1700BC and it’s said to have been built by the Tuatha de Danann. The hilltop structure has been very well-preserved, and you can climb up on its walls to take in glorious, panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
Climbing the magnificent Errigal is a rite of passage for Donegal natives and visitors can join their ranks with a couple of hours of effort.
In the shadow of Errigal, deep in the Derryveagh Mountains, the 16,000-hectares of Glenveagh National Park are a haven for wildlife and visitors should keep an eye out for its large herd of red deer.
Where else but Donegal would you find such a ravishing coastline as the one at Narin-Portnoo? This super-sized, white sand beach seems to go on forever and it’s just as spectacular in the winter.
Combining the peace of its outdoor attractions with buzzing nightlife, the Gaeltacht island of Arranmore, near Burtonport Harbour, is the largest inhabited island in Donegal. A trip to Arranmore is a chance to immerse yourself in local culture and relax at a different pace in nature.
As a teenager growing up in the Czech Republic, George always had a dream to move to California and become a surfer. Aged nineteen and with American visas tough to get, he ended up joining a friend in Majorca for four years, where he met his partner Kate. Together they moved to Tenerife and while there he read a magazine article about Ireland and surfing, illustrated with beautiful, very refreshing photos of Irish landscapes, waves and culture. “Those photos really touched me and at that time Czech Republic entered the European Union and Ireland opened the work market for Czechs and it looked like a beautiful place with the ocean and waves. So, we came here by car. We fell in love with the nature, the people and eventually we met Dusty, the solitary dolphin and she taught us pretty much everything. From diving, to how to move in the sea, and how to approach animals to take photos of in the sea, how to read their body language and it changed our lives”.
Despite having to be patient for good
weather conditions at times, County Clare is home for the Karbus family for the foreseeable future thanks to its, “good vibes, good people, stunning seascapes, landscapes, and of course Dusty the dolphin,” George says. “We call her ‘Malinká’ which means little girl in Czech because we thought Dusty was too rough a name for such an amazing, gentle creature. It has been eighteen years since we met her and done over 2,000 hours of freediving with her in the sea. I have taken some incredible photos and we are currently working on a film about it. She was the main inspiration for me. She inspired me to go into the water and find out more about whales and dolphins.”
His mother’s passion for photography sparked George’s love of the camera but when he was getting into wildlife photography he was inspired by Paul Nicklen because “his pictures of Artic Regions were pretty amazing at that time and even now he is still such an inspiring person.”
Not growing up by the sea, the couple had to be educated about it. George
explains how Kate learned from Dusty and how her enthusiasm for the water motivated her to become a baby swimming instructor, so she could teach young people to love the water and sea life. While they both possess licences to scuba dive, George explains that “freediving is a very gentle approach to the animals and I can get closer without disturbing them”.
Their devotion to the wilds of the Atlantic Ocean have also been inherited by their two children. “Surfing is my big passion and it is a great sport which
I have passed to my son Josh. He has become one of the top Irish surfers, and on international levels he is one of the best in Europe. He became very comfortable in the water as a baby and he stood up on a surf board when he was two years old. When he was five he was freediving with dolphins in the Bahamas and joined us diving with Humpback whales in Tonga when he was eight. He has been home-schooled for the past three years and dedicates his spare time to surfing in Lehinch and we often travel to Portugal, Hawaii and to the wave pool in Bristol. Our daughter Natalie is eight and getting better at surfing too and adores animals, especially horses and our Labrador dog also loves the sea!”.
For stunning shots, see georgekarbusphotography.com
Famed for its cobbled streets, culture, historical landmarks, picturesque architecture, coastal beauty and lively nightlife, Dublin is well worth the visit. The perfect combination of a big city and friendly community, Dublin is a collection of villages that over time have come together to create something special.
The secret to planning a successful trip to the Fair City is picking a great place to lay your head, and with a host of newly opened hotels available, and more to come on stream in 2022, the choice is wide and deep.
A perfect base to discover Dublin, the new Arthaus Hotel exhibits a rich tapestry of art and design woven throughout by a series of artists, craftsmen and skilled workers. Honouring the spirit of the worldfamous Bauhaus School of Art and Design, which aimed at uniting art and people, this unique boutique hotel is located in the city centre near St. Stephen’s Green. The city’s main attractions are all within easy walking distance. Stroll back to the comfortable Arthaus after shopping on Grafton Street, sampling the cuisine and entertainment in Temple Bar or exploring the Guinness Storehouse.
Also designed for creative minds and social spirits, the Dublin One Hotel o ers unique and stimulating stays for guests. Situated on the corner of Dorset Street and North Circular Road, there are cosy rooms, great co ee and a courtyard to soak up some culture in the heart of one of Dublin’s most creative neighbourhoods.
Celebrating the life and work of Irish Nobel Laureate Samuel Beckett, The Samuel is a bold new addition to Dublin’s hotel accommodation. With its modern, best-in-class architecture and central location in the city’s rejuvenated and dynamic docklands, it’s the perfect base for a Dublin break. This four-star property is located in Spencer Place, overlooking the River Li ey and o ers modern, comfortable accommodation, in both deluxe and executive rooms, and there is an on-site restaurant, bar and a co ee shop.
Another exciting addition to Dublin’s hotel scene, StayCity is a new aparthotel that opened in January 2022. Located in the historic Liberties area, that’s fast becoming Dublin’s hippest neighbourhood,
this brand-new property o ers a total of 246 studio and one-bedroom apartments that all come with a fully equipped kitchenette. The aparthotel is surrounded by a medley of antique shops, vintage boutiques, art galleries, bars and cafés. This is where old Dublin meets new. Also, look out for the new Hampton by Hilton Dublin City Centre Hotel, currently due to open at the beginning of July. This three-star hotel o ers a good location just across the street from the historic Four Courts complex and just a quick walk to Dublin Castle and Christ Church Cathedral.
The iconic Temple Bar, Henry Street shopping and O’Connell Street are all a mere 500m walk from the front door and other city attractions such as the Jameson Distillery, Trinity College and Phoenix Park are all easily accessible. www.ireland.com
You know you’re going to have a lot of fun exploring Dublin, but first you need to line up a place to stay.Arthaus Hotel Samuel Hotel Dublin One Hotel Dublin One Hotel
For three generations Beshoffs have been serving Dublin with the finest fish & chips. Well known for both the taste and quality of our offer, it is quite simply a taste of Dublin not to be missed.
We specialise in freshly prepared fish which is cooked to order, coated in our secret recipe batter, served with our hand cut chips from only the finest potatoes & all cooked in pure vegetable oil. We also cater for most dietary requirements, gluten free food, vegetarians & halal which means nobody has to miss out on enjoying our tasty food.
We are situated on Dublin’s main thoroughfare O’Connell Street, Our first floor seating area overlooks the spire of Dublin & the GPO, watch the world go by in comfortable surroundings. We cater for large groups with seating for up to 140 people in our restaurant. We also serve breakfast Monday – Saturday until 11am.
Visit County Wicklow, a place with endless natural beauty and captivating history. See one of our most important monastic sites in Glendalough and learn about St. Kevin, who lived and worked here. Follow in his footsteps as you walk the trails and see panoramic views of Glendalough’s Lakes.
Powerscourt Waterfall
Powerscourt Waterfall is one of Ireland’s unique places. You can watch water cascade down the rocky outcrop of Ireland’s biggest waterfall at any time of year. It’s a must-see when in County Wicklow.
There are lots of beautiful beaches all along the scenic coast of Wicklow but there’s something special about Bray and its Victorian promenade. Start your visit to Wicklow in the lively town centre, parallel to the Blue Flag beach and boardwalk.
With its historic house, beautifully manicured gardens, and a pretty tearoom, you could easily spend a morning or afternoon in this 800-acre estate.
Take a quiet walk through the Walled Garden and Beech Circle, or let the
kids run free in the Squirrel’s Scramble Adventure Tree Park with 50 di erent challenges and a dozen zip lines.
Blessington Lakes
Just over the border with Dublin, the glassy water and dense woodland of Blessington Lakes feels like a world away from the buzz of Ireland’s capital. Pack a picnic and enjoy some quality downtime by the lake or check out kayaking, zip-lining, archery and more at The Avon.
Just ten minutes from Glendalough, the assault courses, boating lakes, tree houses and woodland playgrounds of Clara Lara have formed magical memories for Irish children for decades. This is home to Ireland’s biggest water slide. Still, if you prefer a more relaxing experience, there are riverside picnic areas, barbecues and miles of hill walking with spectacular countryside views.
Brittas Bay’s White Sand Dunes
Drive along the coast halfway between
Wicklow Town and Arklow and you’ll find Brittas Bay, one of the best beaches in Wicklow. With over 5km of white sand dunes, this Blue Flag beach is a perfect spot for a warm sunny day, so don’t forget your bucket and spade. Kids can learn to surf or stand-up paddleboarding at Brittas Bay Surf School.
Tour Wicklow on a fat bike with a trip along the Avonmore River with Fatbikes Adventure Cycling. The 12km Avonmore Way Forest Trail is a good option for anyone new to o -road cycling and families with older children.
A working hill farm that includes two mazes, Greenan Maze is a great place to bring a family of all ages. The fullsized Celtic hedge maze is a puzzle well worth solving, while the solstice maze is a more contemplative and relaxing experience. There are three museums on-site showcasing what farm life has been like for more than 200 years.
visit, but now, it’s more about spending quality time with family and friends. We had a wonderful trip one year to Kerry, another to Belfast, and another to Donegal, but this time I feel we don’t need to go everywhere and see everything, we just want to be with the people we love. And maybe we’ll catch an attraction along the way.
The essence of Irishness, in my view, is conversation. I love Irish food and enjoy going into a little café. You can have a great chat in Ireland. No matter who you meet, it’s always authentic. People are very curious and eager to chat. That’s what I miss – just going into a shop and talking to a random person.
Originally from Co. O aly, Margaret Molloy is based in New York, where she’s the global chief marketing o cer and head of new development at renowned brand consulting, experience, strategy and design firm, Siegel+Gale. She’s also the creator of WearingIrish, a platform she started in 2016 to promote Irish fashion design. Here, she shares her thoughts on what makes her native home so special…
Zoom is no compensation for a hug from a parent. Family time is what I miss most living abroad. My parents live in O aly and I’m the eldest of six – four of us are still in Ireland. I visited last August with my two teenage sons, Finn and Emmet. We had loads of catching up to do after all the lockdowns, only seeing family through a screen. We’re going back this summer. In the past, we tried to squeeze a lot of sights into a short
My Irishness definitely stands to me. Work ethic was huge in my family. Respecting everyone’s dignity was also crucial. I sense that those are two important values that are instilled in many Irish families. In my school in Ireland, the core skills of being able to give a presentation, to stand up in front of a classroom and defend your point of view; the social skills, or softer skills – they’ve stood to me and have been instrumental in my career.
I’d always try to get some shopping in when I’m back. I appreciate Irish fashion and like to support the designers. I visit Helen McAlinden’s boutique or Madigan Cashmere in Dublin, and I love to peruse Arnotts and Kilkenny Design. I’ll pick up a few pieces every time I go home. Because I’m in marketing and branding, I’m very aware of the power of colour, and Irish designers do a great job of bringing colour to their collections. I’m often on stage hosting a conference. During Covid, the stage was smaller –it was a rectangular box, but the power of colour is still tangible. When I’m the host, I strive for balance – you want to be visible on screen or stage, but you don’t want to be distracting. I choose a nicely cut, bright dress or top in a solid. When I’m a guest I have fun with accessories and more novel pieces.
I started WearingIrish as a way to tell the untold story of Irish fashion design. In 2019 and 2020, I was busy organising events to provide Irish designers more visibility in the US market. I’d look at my di erent networks, not limited to people of Irish heritage – my intention was to give the designers access to people who are not buying the product from cultural a nity, but on the merit of its design and beauty. PostCovid, I continue to run the blog at wearingirish.com, profiling clothing and accessory designers I come across and regularly post photos on the @ WearingIrish Instagram. It’s gratifying when you hear the success stories. I often get messages from designers letting me know that someone from America reached out after seeing their piece on my Instagram. I get energy from these messages.
I believe we should double down on promoting Irish fashion design abroad. I worked in economic development back in the ’90s, and as a marketer and a strategist, I fundamentally believe that if Ireland shows its creativity in the fashion industry, every industry will benefit from the multiplier e ect of the perception of Ireland as a place of creative makers. Ireland has done a wonderful job of promoting the country as a place for hospitality and tourism and a location for foreign direct investment, as well as our philanthropy and performing arts. I think there’s an opportunity to tell a story about our creativity in the physical product, to show our makers. Increasingly, consumers want to know where a product is made. So, if I were working on the narrative on positioning the country of Ireland, I’d lean into fashion because it’s a very accessible way to show creativity.
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As a family day out you can’t get much better than Newbridge House and Farm. Step into an 18th century rambling Georgian mansion that has been impeccably restored. Experience the opulence and grandeur of the rooms, then through ambient audio and interpretative graphics learn about life in the Servants Quarters. Explore the 35 acre working farm, engage with the animals, traverse the woodland parklands, check out the playground and café and grab an ice cream, sit back and take it all in... so many memories waiting to be made!
Visit
Only 10 mins from Dublin Airport
Come to the picturesque village of Malahide for your next family day out and visit one of Ireland’s oldest castles, its beautiful botanical gardens and let the kids explore 250 acres of lush parkland. Malahide is bursting with things to do for the whole family. Go visit the exotic Butterfly House, meander through the magical Fairy Trail and lose yourself in the West Lawn. Pack a picnic from the Avoca Foodhall. Let’s start making memories again.
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If you fancy a short detour from the castle take a stroll to Ireland’s only model railway. Step back in time and explore one of the world’s most unique model railway collections. Housed in a beautifully restored Casino cottage and located in the village you will be blown away by the workmanship and exquisite collection. If you have time indulge in one of the many award winning bars and restaurants in Malahide. Dart and bus routes to Dublin city centre.
Malahide is picturesque Dublin at its best. Just half an hour’s drive from the city centre, take a stroll along this scenic stretch of sandy beach and enjoy the coastal trail all the way to Portmarnock. The village itself has a Medieval history and plenty of charm that just invites you in. The Green in Malahide, a plaza, lawn and seaview esplanade just off the main street, has also recently been opened after some major redevelopment so grab a picnic, take a seat and watch the world go by.
Photography: Brian Morrison/Tourism Ireland
Co. Kerry I www.DingleDistillery.ie
Dingle Original Gin is the product of a considerable amount of research, both technical and historical, and experimentation. Their aim was to create a totally unique gin, one which worked within the great tradition of gin distilling but which also came with a degree of innovation. In terms of its broad style, this is what is categorised as a London Dry Gin but the unique character and flavour come from their painstaking and original choice of botanicals.
Director & Founder Peter Mosley sums up DOG’s unique character in a few words: “The uniquely Irish botanicals give a fabulously fresh, floral character that perfectly balances the traditional juniper. But, to be honest, you really have to taste it for yourself.”
Dingle Original Gin is a totally unique gin, in the style of London Dry Gin. Dingle Original Gin is best served with large cubes of ice, a wedge of fresh orange and a sprinkling of juniper berries.
Co. Galway I www.TribeGin.ie
Tribe Gin is a small batch craft Irish Gin. It’s a premium spirit who’s recipe was inspired by ingredients local to the west of Ireland along with a blend of citrus and spice to give Tribe Gin its unique flavour. It has all natural ingredients with no added sugars, flavours or preservatives. Some of the ingredients include: Lemon, Heather, Cassia, Cardamon and Connemara Seaweed.
Co. Leitrim I www.TheShedDistillery.com
It was during the solar transit of the Winter Solstice sun in 2014, that saw the revered tradition of distilling Irish Whiskey, return to the Western province of Connacht. PJ and Denise Rigney, along with their dedicated team of distillers, laid down the first whiskey in Connacht in over 101 years. He created The Shed Distillery of PJ Rigney, with its medieval copper pot stills, and began
a quest to fuse oriental botanicals with the local Irish ones. As it turned out, they got on very well indeed. The result of this passionate exploration is Drumshanbo. Gunpowder Irish Gin – unique, extraordinary and as remarkable as the elusive creature PJ has occasionally glimpsed in the fields, the Drumshanbo Jackalope
Co. Donegal I www.Runway28Gin.com
If life gives you Juniper berries, make Gin!”
Take one Irish Aviation company, with two aviation professionals, then add a turbulent pandemic to the mixture, what do you get? Well in Kilbarron Aviation’s case, a brandnew Aviation themed premium Irish Gin, with a just a hint of pepper.
Co-director Marie Ann McLoughlin Dwyer, with a background in both aviation and product development, and wife to one of Ireland’s many grounded commercial airline pilots, researched, studied and blended in collaboration with master distiller & recipe experts at Listoke Distillery in Co. Louth, to craft and create Runway28 Premium Irish Gin.
Co. Louth I www.ListokeDistillery.ie
Listoke 1777 Original Gin has received several awards, including; Best Irish Gin and Best Gin in Europe. As the largest Gin Distillery in Ireland, they work with many other smaller distillers, which
has helped them perfect their brand. It has subtle Orange and Spice flavours that lead to a robust, refreshing gin that can be served neat with ice or with a peel of orange and a good quality tonic water! This Gin is the perfect gift - for a loved one or yourself!! Pairs deliciously with Poachers Wild Tonic and Poachers Light Tonic Looking for a little kick: Listoke Sloe Gin is soaked in Sloe Berries for one year before being diluted with Irish Honey, which gives it its beautiful natural colour.
Co. Meath I www.HeadFortArms.ie
The Kells Gin brand bears reference to the Victorian era (the first era of Gin houses) when Kells Lace manufactory thrived adjacent to the Headfort Arms Hotel. This was an era when handmade crafted items were created by the women of Kells - in much the same way that this gin has been handcrafted using unique botanicals alongside grains of paradise, elderflower, sumac and cubebs - all complemented by citrus orange notes. Enjoy a Kells Gin with a premium tonic on ice - plus a slice of orange and a hint of orange zest in order to amplify the citrus flavor.
Co. Dublin I www.DublinCitySpirits.com & www.IrishMalts.com
Although they’re a young company to this new world of distilling in Ireland, they have striven to produce the best premium Irish product available. Their first distributor challenged them to get one gold medal to help with sales introductions. Today, Dublin City Gin has been acclaimed for quality and taste as a multiple award winning gin with over 16-GOLD medals to their credit.
Co. Cork I Facebook.com/ GrahamNortonsOwnUK
Following on from the success of Graham’s award-winning GN Wine range, which includes Sauvignon Blanc, Shiraz, Rosé and Prosecco, the renowned TV presenter has launched his own Irish gin which celebrates the beauty and unique flavours of West Cork.
Partnering with an Irish distillery was very important to Graham and an extensive search led to a distillery near Graham’s West Cork home. West Cork Distillers have worked with Graham and the team to create the great tasting gin. Distilled and produced using 100% Irish grain Graham Norton’s Own Irish Gin draws its flavour from a combination of 12 botanicals including angelica, fuchsia flowers, orris roots, rose hip, basil and liquorice root – all of which contribute to a Gin which is as unique as the man himself!
Tonic Waters - Poachers Drinks I www.PoachersDrinks.com/
The inspiration for the Poachers range of premium natural mixers was found in the ingredients grown on a centuries-old family farm by the sea in County Wexford, Ireland.
Their range of drinks embraces the best of natural Irish ingredients. They are lower in sugar with natural herbal finishes that delicately enhance and never overwhelm premium spirits. Made to be mixed with best of Irish and International spirits they can also be enjoyed on their own as no alcohol alternative. We hope you have fun mixing with them!
Co. Tipperary I www.flanagansonthelake.ie
They are delighted to be partnered with Schweppes Ireland for their 2022 gin cruises.
Join them on board to explore the Schweppes signature collection and discover the perfect twist for your gin.
Now open for distillery tours as well as being the only gin School in Ireland, Listoke 1777 has become one of Ireland’s most sought after visitor experience. Visit the school for a history of gin, gin tasting and an introduction to all that is gin.
The Mizen Peninsula, located in the South-West of Ireland, is a special trip and tip. It encapsulates all the special elements that makes the Irish West-Coast so unique: wonderful beaches, dramatic cli s, magical fishing villages and a light tower, majestically standing watch over a raging Atlantic.
Fastnet Rock, was known as “The Teardrop of Ireland” as it was the last image of Ireland the emigrants had when sailing for the New World and it houses Ireland’s highest lighthouse at 54-metres.
The very pleasant village of Durrus is located at the head of Dunmanus Bay, where the Sheep’s Head and Mizen Head Peninsulas meet.
The Wild Atlantic Way continues along in an easterly direction towards Baltimore, where the ferries depart to the islands of Roaring Water Bay (also available from Schull, Mizen Head Peninsula). Baltimore Beacon, a signal tower, o ers the perfect view over the islands in the bay.
Set in the centre of an area of outstanding natural beauty, Schull is one of the finest villages in West Cork, an idyllic place to stay or visit along the Wild Atlantic Way. The prevailing SouthWesterly winds travel over 2,000-miles (3,000-km) of open sea and the air is marvellously clear and clean.
On a visit to Crosshaven you can relax at one of its many cafes or bars or take a beautiful walk to enjoy the mixture
of views of land, river and sea.
BALTIMORE & BALTIMORE BEACON
The historic village of Baltimore and the enchanting islands of Cape Clear, Sherkin and Heir, lie near the very Southerntip of Ireland, where the Wild Atlantic Way meets Carbery’s Hundred Isles, o the beautiful coast of West Cork.
Skibbereen is the ideal base from which to discover the choice of beautiful fishing villages – all within 10 to 15-minutes drive away. Mizen Head, Baltimore, Glandore, Union Hall, Ballydehob and Castletownshend: all quaint and remarkably unspoilt.
Clonakilty is a multi-award winning, cosmopolitan and friendly seaside town, at the heart of West Cork. Voted ‘Best Town in Europe 2017’, you can also visit the newly opened Clonakilty Black Pudding Visitor Centre.
The Island Spa at Inchydoney Lodge is home to Ireland’s first Seawater Spa, o ering a unique experience in Seawater Therapies as well as more traditional Spa Treatments and Rituals.
Courtmacsherry, often referred to by locals as ‘Courtmac’, is a seaside village in County Cork, on the Southwest-Coast of Ireland. It is about 30-miles (50-km) Southwest of Cork, and a 15 to 20-minute drive East, from the town of Clonakilty.
Garretstown Beach is an extensive sandy beach located along the coast of County Cork. It enjoys stunning views of The Old Head of Kinsale and is a great spot for walking, bathing and swimming. Garretstown Beach is located within a short distance of Ballinspittle Village by car and is worth it to feel the sand between your toes
The Old Head of Kinsale, a narrow tongue of land, is flanked by precipitous rocks and with a lighthouse at its most southerly tip. An idyllic, dramatic promontory, mostly enjoyed by golfers, as this land is owned by the local and well-known, Old Head Golf Course.
Located at the start of the Wild Atlantic Way, Kinsale town is famous for its colourful streetscapes and rich history, that’s fuelled by great people. Kinsale is a vibrant coastal town with an energetic personality that will keep you entertained all-year-round. you can see Fastnet Lighthouse on a rock called “Ireland’s teardrop”.
WHETHER YOU ARE INTERESTED IN THE IRISH EMIGRATION STORY, TRACING YOUR ANCESTORS, LEARNING MORE ABOUT THE ILL-FATED TITANIC AND LUSITANIA OR SIMPLY IMMERSING YOURSELF IN HISTORY, COBH HERITAGE CENTRE IS WELL WORTH A VISIT.
This informative and sometimes emotive experience is situated within Cobh’s beautifully restored Victorian railway station, a building with its own unique story.
Because so many people from Ireland’s past traveled through Cobh, visitors to the heritage center can learn about the stories of these emigrants, over three million of whom emigrated from here. Many were forced to leave due to the famine, many left in search of a new life in a land of opportunity and many more had no choice, being transported as convicts to Australia or forced labor in British colonies in the West Indies.
The Irish Emigration Story relates the maritime, naval and military history of the area and the fortification of the harbor with forts such as Haulbowline, Spike Island and Fort Camden. It takes visitors on a journey of exploration of the lives of millions who left Ireland from the 1600’s right through to the 1950’s. Tales of the early emigrants to Virginia, the Carolinas and Canada; the forgotten Irish who endured forced labor in the Americas and the sinking of the Titanic and the Lusitania are all explained in a variety of interesting and artistic ways.
Throughout the exhibition there are individual stories to be found such as that of Jeremiah Burke and the message in a bottle from the Titanic. Learn about Margaret Drury and her voyage on a convict ship to Australia, and of course Father Frank Browne who took the last photographs of Titanic as it journeyed from Southampton to Cobh. He was directed to disembark early from the luxury Atlantic voyage in the port of Cobh by his bishop. Disappointing at the time for Father Frank but what a lucky man!
This is a moving, educational, interesting and evocative experience which enables visitors to walk in the footsteps of our ancestors who left these shores and whose last sight of Ireland was the town of Cobh.
www.cobhheritage.com
Explore cosmopolitan Cork City with its 17th-century alleys and revitalised stretches of waterfront. Check out the Cork Opera House and indulge in local food, drinks and retail therapy in the pubs, shops, cafés and restaurants on the charming narrow streets. Here’s the best way to spend a getaway to Cork City.
The best way to get an overview of Cork is from the top of one of the open-top tour buses. These frequent bus tours give you the lay of the land from the start of your trip, so you can plan your stay and decide on which of the many attractions to visit.
Cork City Gaol
This is a great choice for a first stop. See what 19th and early 20th century life was like in Cork, both inside and outside of historic prison walls when you visit the Cork City Gaol
Lewis
Glucksman Gallery Follow up your trip to the Gaol with a coffee
at the Lewis Glucksman Gallery in University College Cork (UCC). This gallery places education at the heart of its activities with screenings, workshops and tours exploring art in greater depth.
Crawford Gallery
Visit The Crawford Gallery, Munster’s regional art museum and much loved cultural institution. Admission to the Gallery and exhibitions is free.
The English Market
For food lovers, a visit to this fascinating market with origins that trace back to the times of King James I in 1610. A mix of traditional Cork fare and exciting new foods from afar feature in this wonderful market with long-standing family-run stalls contributing to its unique atmosphere.
Indulge in a theatrical night out
Take in a show or performance in one of Cork’s local arts venues. The Triskel Arts Centre hosts astonishing exhibitions and is a regular event space in the old Christchurch building.
For a more luxurious night out, The Cork Opera House is a national cultural institution with a world-class programme of events. Or, head along to The Everyman, a much-adored intimate Victorian theatre with a vibrant programme and stunning décor.
Just across the River Lee, the Shandon area of the city is a maze of winding streets just waiting to be explored.
Take a food and drink break
Don’t miss the locally roasted coffee at Cork Coffee Roasters in Bridge Street, before choosing the perfect spot for lunch in the area. The Liberty Grill on Washington Street, Idaho Café on Caroline Street or the Quay Co-Op, a vegetarian restaurant on Sullivan’s Quay, are some of the local’s favourites.
Cork City Walking Tour
After lunch, take a walking tour to hear about Cork’s intriguing merchant and maritime past. Go explore the 7th century Saint Fin Barre’s Cathedral, just a five-minute walk from the Grand Parade. Step into the warmth of the Mutton Lane Inn or the Long Valley Bar for its poetry and open mic sessions. Kick back and chat with the locals, which is the perfect finish to an action-packed short break in Cork City.
It’s all about you now, and from the moment you walk through the beautiful oak doors at Fota Island Resort, you already know that you may never want to leave. Whether you are arriving to this five-star Resort for a relaxing break away, planning quality time in the luxurious self-catering lodges or taking time out to enjoy Fota Island Spa, Fota Island Adventure or on one of the Resort’s three championship golf courses – you are in for a real treat.
To book your stay T 021 488 3700
Polished and sophisticated, with beautiful bedrooms, a bistro style restaurant, luxury spa, and an extensive Health Club, The Kingsley has everything you will need for a relaxing escape with a loved one this Summer.
Set in a stylish and distinctive riverside location on the banks of the River Lee, The Kingsley is the perfect option for a luxurious getaway, no matter the occasion.
Admire the golden sands of Inchydoney Beach.
The magic of West Cork is that there’s always something more to see and do along its spectacular coastline. The glorious seascape between Kinsale and Skibbereen is peppered with dramatic forts, lighthouses and arresting views around every bend. With tales of invasion and shipwreck, this historic part of Ireland holds many stories for visitors to uncover as they wind their way along its stunning coast. You can cover a lot of ground in a couple of days or stay in the one place and explore.
Get your West Cork stay off to a great start in Kinsale.
On a calm day, the harbour in Kinsale reflects colourful shopfronts and historic buildings like a picture-perfect postcard. Kinsale is the first (or last) stop on the Wild Atlantic Way and is an unmissable haven for foodies, with plenty of history and interesting walks to help build up your appetite.
Charles Fort
As you wander along the harbour watch out for the signposted Scilly Walk which takes you along a coastal trail to picturesque Summercove. Stop at the Bulman Restaurant and take in the views with a coffee, before heading up the road to Charles Fort, a star-shaped military fortress that was constructed in the 1600s.
Kinsale Harbour Cruise
You also discover spectacular views of Charles Fort aboard ‘The Spirit of Kinsale’, as you finish off your evening with a harbour cruise. Of course, you cannot leave Kinsale without trying one or two (or let’s be honest, three or more) of its famous restaurants. On Market Street, Bastion is an intimate wine bistro that like most Kinsale restaurants makes the most of superb local seafood to earn itself a Michelin Star.
The Old Head Kinsale & Signal Tower
If you continue on your journey from Kinsale to Clonakilty, make sure to take the road south along the coast to Old Head of Kinsale, a stunning peninsula jutting over three-kilometres into the Atlantic Ocean, with a sense of history to match its spectacular setting.
Clonakilty, shortened to ‘Clon’ by locals, is a vibrant and colourful town and a real must-see on your trip. True to another West Cork tradition – great food with a distinctly local flavour - ‘Clon’ also enjoys a special place in Irish history as the birthplace of Michael Collins.
Inchydoney Beach
If you’re visiting Clonakilty on a Friday don’t miss the Farmer’s Market where you can assemble a ‘locally-grown’ picnic before heading to the stunning white strand of Inchydoney, just tenminutes away. A true highlight of the region, you could easily spend an afternoon wandering the beach or trying your hand at surfing, kayaking or stand up paddleboarding.
Skibbereen, as you’ve probably guessed, is “Skib” to the locals, whose easygoing attitude to life has no time for multi-syllable names. ‘Skib’ is the acknowledged capital of West Cork with colourful streetscapes and a buzz that’s palpable in the air.
Farmer’s Market
This part of West Cork is all about the food, so you won’t want to miss some of the best local produce at Skib’s famous Saturday Farmers Market. Mingle with the locals, sample craft foods and find all you need for a picnic on Tralispean’s sandy beach just ten-minutes along the road.
Lough Hyne
Experience stunning Lough Hyne. Lough Hyne, the only salt-water lake in Europe, is a ten-minute drive (or a 40-minute cycle) from Skibbereen and a scenic haven of kayaking, snorkelling and generally exploring the wonderful marine life of the region.
City Gaol, which opened in 1824 and closed in 1923. Originally the prison housed both male and female prisoners who committed crimes within the city borders. In 1878, the City Gaol became an all-female prison, which it remained until men opposed to the 1920 Anglo-Irish Treaty were incarcerated there in 1922-1923. The complex then deteriorated until its restoration and re-opening to the public as a tourist attraction in 1993.
In the heart of Cork City and with an eye-catching fountain at its centre, this quirky roofed food market has been trading since 1788. Under the possession of the Cork City Council, it’s one of the world’s oldest municipal markets. Artisan breads, fruit, and freshly caught seafood are just some of the specialities on offer. In recent years, the market gained worldwide fame when Queen Elizabeth II of Great Britain dropped by on her first-ever state visit to the Republic of Ireland in 2011.
A two-minute walk from St. Patrick’s Street, art-lovers may like to take in this regional museum dedicated to the visual arts, both historic and contemporary. The gallery receives in excess of 200,000 visitors per annum and hosts a range of permanent exhibitions including 18th Century European and Irish sculpture, a collection of Greek and Roman sculpture casts, and contemporary video installations.
The Islands once had a thriving Irish-speaking population but were evacuated to the mainland due to harsh Atlantic conditions in the 1950s. Jokingly called ‘next parish America’, this spot is as ‘battered west coast’ as you can hope to see. There’s a stunning beauty in that.
Given a modern makeover in the 1990s, this leading venue has been entertaining the city for more than 150 years with everything from opera and ballet to stand-up comedy, pop concerts and puppet shows. Around the back, the Half Moon Theatre presents contemporary theatre, dance, art and occasional club nights. Check online for what’s coming up once theatres reopen. Get those dates in the diary.
Another of Cork City’s must-dos, is the atmospheric and historic
It was two startling facts relating to food manufacturing which inspired the O aly based business. Namely, that approximately one-third of all food produced ends up as waste and by 2050 that food demand is expected to increase by 60%. With a focus on minimising food waste while maximising nutrition, they collect the key ingredient of brewers spent grain from local breweries and upcycle it into the Milled Grains. “Repurposing food already in the system seemed like the perfect solution to the problem. For both of us, nutrition and sustainability were fundamental to our product development.” Says Ruairi, formerly a Project Manager based in Australia before returning home to begin the new venture.
From winning the Irish Times Innovation Awards for Manufacturing and Design earlier this year to having stockists in nearly every county, the hard work is clearly paying o but not without sacrifices. “Business is our life now. We both try and stay active, like going to the gym or on a run but that’s mainly just to clear our heads,” says Niamh, who previously worked as a project manager for Food Dudes, a Bord Bia healthy eating initiative for primary school children. “Starting a business requires an enormous amount of time and as a result you have less time for friends, family and socialising in general.
Food Solutions, BiaSol is the success story of siblings Ruairi and Niamh Dooley. Niamh Wade caught up with the proactive pair who are succeeding in making highly nutritious, zero-waste food products that are easily accessible in Ireland.
We’re just lucky to have had amazing support from everyone close to us and the LEO, Enterprise Ireland and Westbic, otherwise it wouldn’t be possible”, she continues.
Helpful advice along the way has been much appreciated too. “One of our mentors told us ‘’If it is a no, it’s just a not now’’. Basically don’t give up if you hear a few ‘no’s’ along the way; persevere”, Niamh says.
Speaking about why they are passionate about the business, Ruairi states, “I love how it’s embedded in the circular economy. We need to get away from the take, waste, make model. We are recycling a by-product and it’s exciting to know there is still so much nutritional value left after we put it through our upcycling process.”
What makes all-this natural flavour and nutrition enhancer so successful?
“It’s definitely the delicious malt and nutty flavour profile in terms of our B2B product range. For our retail products it’s the really high levels of fibre, Super Milled Grains is a really convenient way to increase fibre consumption and help with
digestive issues”, enthuses Ruairi.
With regards to the pros and cons of working in a family business, Niamh says, “as a sibling team, we know we don’t need to worry about trust or commitment to BiaSol and we really understand each other’s strengths and weaknesses.” That said, “We can both agree we have slightly shorter fuses with each other than your traditional working relationships!”
Discussing future plans, Ruairi says, “we are expanding our current retail o ering adding to our Super Milled Grains range and launching our baking mix range. There are a few more exciting products in our pipeline too! We understand there is a long road ahead of us of building a successful food brand. It will take dedication, patience and maybe a little longer than what we initially thought! We’d love to continue to grow our retail brand and continue to develop and launch great tasting products that are good for you and for our planet.”
If you are a business looking to try their products or collaborate with the pair, get in touch via www.biasol.ie.
What better way to spend the day than a spell out on the water? Discover the magic of Ireland’s waterways, choosing from cruising, powerboats, ferry transfers and luxurious overnight accommodation.
From short trips to all-day experiences, here’s a selection of some of the most popular cruises and day trips that can be enjoyed by all the family.
Running trips to the magnificent Sliabh Liag Cliffs, Sliabh Liag Boat Tours take you to see one of the highest sea cliffs in Europe standing at 600-metres.
Take a stunning journey along the 6-km of coastline from Doolin Pier, with daily cruises from Doolin2Aran and the Doolin Ferry. With the cliffs reaching a height of over 214m, visitors are in awe of these natural creations with the nearby Great Sea Stack (Branaunmore) equally as exciting to see.
Corrib Tours run daily sailings on The Corrib Princess from Woodquay and the 90-minute journey is a relaxing break from the bustle of the nearby city. See the majestic River Corrib as it flows into Ireland’s largest lake with unsurpassed views of this breathtaking waterway.
Take a 90-minute trip on a luxury boat with Killary Fjord Boat Tours for uninterrupted views of Killary Fjord.
The inlet has some of the finest scenery in the West of Ireland and because of its sheltered nature, the waters are always calm.
5 Seafari Fun Eco Nature & Seal Watching Cruises, Kerry
Book in with Seafari Fun for a wildlife experience aboard a comfortable passenger vessel. Join a friendly captain and guide to hear all about the history and ecology of the area while taking in the dramatic scenery of Kenmare Bay.
6 Cork Sea Safari
Learn all about the wonderful history and culture of Cork harbour through exciting tours from Cork Sea Safari. Enjoy the Grand Harbour Adventure with a trip around islands, coves and beaches or book in for the Dolphin Discovery to see bottlenose and common dolphins up close.
7 Scattery Island Tours
Come Explore Scattery Island with Scattery Island Tours. Located just off Kilrush in Co. Clare, and recently awarded The European Destination of Excellence for 2017 (EDEN), Scattery Island is truly a unique visitor experience on Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way.
8 West Coast Rib Adventure - A BREATHTAKING EXPERIENCE!
See amazing wildlife and a unique views of the stunning Shannon Estuary. West Coast Rib Adventure trips are unforgettable experiences. Come see the amazing west coast and discover how magical the trips really are.
9 Aran Islands and Cliffs of Moher Tour from Galway Docks
Aran Island Ferries are thrilled to announce the full details of their new route from Galway City Docks to Inis Mór and the Cliffs of Moher this summer.
1: What is the Ring of Beara?
The Beara Peninsula Drive, also known as The Ring of Beara, snakes its way along the endless coastline from the village of Glengarri in Co. Cork, to Dursey Island at its tip, and on up to Kenmare in Co. Kerry. It doesn’t really matter if you turn left or right, you’ll find dramatic scenery whichever way you go.
2: The Beara Way Cycle Route
The Beara Way Cycle Route, sign-posted with a logo and bicycle symbol, hugs the coastline on quiet country roads. Cyclists can relax in the natural beauty, coasting from the summit of The Healy Pass on a shorter route from Lauragh to Adrigole.
3: Walking the Beara Way
Walkers can hike 184-km along the peninsula on the well-marked Beara Way, which winds through rugged mountains and seacoast scenery. The route can be broken into 18-sections, mainly rated from moderate to easy with only one hard section from Adrigole to Castletownbere.
4: Glengarri and Garnish (Garinish) Island
Just ninety-minutes from Cork City
past the town of Bantry, Glengarri , makes a good base for exploring. Check out the dramatic sea on your left as you head south along the coast. Glengarri is warmed by the Gulf Stream so it enjoys a unique micro-climate. You can see it for yourself in the world-renowned sub-tropical gardens on Garnish Island
5: The Healy Pass South of Glengarri is the village of Adrigole, which leads you through The Healy Pass to Lauragh. It’s like ‘The Land that Time Forgot’ with views of the forest fringed Glanmore Lake across Kenmare Bay.
6: Castletownbere
Further down the coast is the bustling town of Castletownbere –the largest white fish port in Ireland and the biggest on the peninsula.
7: Bere Island
A ten-minute ferry trip from Castletownbere takes you to Bere Island with its great forts, Martello Tower, Ardnakinna Lighthouse and a number of looped walks.
8: Dursey Island
The most western point of the Beara Peninsula (and the tip of County Cork) is the sparsely inhabited Dursey Island. A ten-minute ride on Ireland’s only cablecar takes you there. As you swing 250-m above the Atlantic, six passengers at a
time. Bring food and water as there are not any shops or restaurants on the island.
9: Allihies and Eyeries
You’ll also want to stop at the pretty villages of Allihies and Eyeries, with their brightly painted buildings. Allihies was a site of copper mining since the Bronze Age and you can uncover the story in The Copper Mine Museum.
10: Ardgroom and Kilmakilloge
As you journey towards Kenmare, you’ll reach Ardgroom, a magical and mystical place with an impressive stone circle and the world’s tallest ogham stone, in nearby Kilmakilloge.
11: Kenmare
Kenmare links the Beara Peninsula to the Ring of Kerry and is equally known for its stunning setting and gourmet food. And in the very unlikely event that you still haven’t seen an archaeological site on your trip around the Beara Peninsula, we can guarantee you’ll find one at Bonane Heritage Park in Kenmare.
Why you’ll want to visit West Cork’s
Stand at the edge of the world on the majestic 2,500km-long Wild Atlantic Way. Set your spirit soaring along the Great Western Greenway, feel the rush of crashing waves in Clare, or savour the tastes of Kinsale. Uncover the hidden histories of Achill Island, or witness the dawn of a spectacular new day at Sliabh Liag’s towering sea cliffs.
Adventurous thrills, exciting tastes, bustling cities and roaming where eagles soar: Our country is open, ready and waiting and there’s no limit to what you can discover this Summer. And the best thing about it? It’s all just down the road.
Uncover stories bold and brave in Ireland’s Ancient East. Explore epic landmarks and spectacular sites in a place where legends are born. Take the road less travelled along the Waterford Greenway, or wander through the sweeping grounds of Wexford’s Johnstown Castle where time stands still. Feel the vibrancy of Kilkenny, with winding streets and a medieval castle open for discovery.
Unearth this land’s best kept secrets with a trip to Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands. Wind your way through the heart of the country, and let the river Shannon’s sparkling waters lead you from Carrickon-Shannon through Athlone into the spectacular Lough Derg. Set adrift on cruise boats and kayaks or meander through mystical boglands and open valleys.
For great ideas of things to see and do, visit
Visit Dublin, where there are countless stories to be told. Feel the buzz of the city centre and get a different perspective on Croke Park’s Skyline or in the Gravity Bar at the Guinness Storehouse. You can also set your heart racing with water sports at Grand Canal Dock, or take in the views of Dublin’s shimmering bay in picturesque coastal villages.
Stunning vistas, rolling sand dunes, dramatic cliff edge backdrops - golfing along the Wild Atlantic Way’s world-class championship golf courses is every golfer’s dream.
Having gained a reputation as one of the best links golf courses in the world, The Old Course, Ballybunion, is covered with rolling sand hills and grassy dunes. The challenging layout features narrow, contoured fairways that feel as though they are tunneled through the dunes. The already beautiful landscape is further enhanced by the stunning views of the Atlantic.
Set in the picturesque seaside village of Rosses Point, the 27-hole complex County Sligo Golf Club course is regarded as one of the great championship links courses. The club is home to the famous West of Ireland Open Amateur Championship (since 1923), and has hosted many other prestigious events including the Home Internationals, the Irish Close and the Irish Professional Matchplay Championship
Continually rated among the top five courses in Ireland, and in the top 20 links courses in the world, Waterville Golf Links is an exceptional experience. Over 100-years old, Waterville combines sand dunes, gorse and native grasses, firm fairways, sod faced bunkers and subtle putting surfaces, all intertwined by the ever-changing weather.
Built on 220-acres of land and jutting out into the Atlantic, Old Head Golf Links offers stunning ocean views, and an exceptional golfing experience. The links and practice area occupy 180-acres, with the remaining 40-acres taken up with unspoilt cliffs, which frame the course. With the ever-changing sea breezes, the course provides a stern test to the touring pro and the high handicapper alike.
Designed by two-time British Open Champion Greg Norman, the world renowned 18-hole championship, Trump International Golf Links & Hotel™ Doonbeg (formerly the Doonbeg Golf Club), spans 1.5 miles of crescent shaped beach and century old sand dunes along Doughmore Bay. The County Clare golf course was officially opened in 2002 and immediately earned the prestigious title of Golf Digest’s Best New International Course.
Repeatedly a top-20 links course in Golf Digest’s review of Irish golf courses, Enniscrone Golf Club’s Dune course is now considered one of Ireland’s top-ranked championship links courses. Set against the spectacular backdrop of the Nephin and Ox Mountains, and the Atlantic Ocean, Enniscrone is a must-play for golf enthusiasts.
Ranked among the world’s greatest links courses, The Old Course, one of two 18-hole courses at Lahinch Golf Club, is a classic seaside links layout with rolling greens and undulating fairways. The towering sand dunes that cover the landscape guarantee that golfers will encounter several blind shots. The unpredictable winds coming off the ocean add an interesting twist to the round.
Celebrated golf architect Tom Fazio has taken what was already an award-winning course and transformed it into a parkland paradise befitting a country in the top tier of global golfing destinations. The new course has been created in harmony with the outstanding natural beauty of its surroundings: lush, softly rolling terrain, mature tree scaping, and the sweeping banks of the River Maigue.
Killarney Golf & Fishing Club is one of Ireland’s most prestigious and historic golf clubs. Located in Killarney National Park, surrounded by the lakes of Lough Leane, Killarney Golf & Fishing Club is a Four-Time host to the Irish Open and home to two 18hole championship courses. Without a doubt, a world-class destination, a warm welcome awaits when you visit Killarney Golf & Fishing Club.
Lying amidst one of the most beautiful, breathtaking and unspoilt of areas in Ireland, Carne Golf Links is famed the world over for its exceptional golf course and the surrounding white sandy Atlantic beaches that stretch for miles. Overlooking Blacksod Bay and the Atlantic Ocean, Carne Golf Links was the last links course to be designed by the late Eddie Hackett and it is now believed by many who have played it to his greatest challenge.
One of the oldest golf courses in the world, with golf being played here since the 1880s, the Portsalon Golf Links is ranked as one of the top courses in Ireland by Golf Digest. The club was one of the founder members of the Golfing Union of Ireland, the oldest golfing union in the world. Stretching along Ballymastocker Beach, which was voted the second most beautiful beach in the world by Observer readers, golfers at Portsalon are in for a treat of the senses and a true golf links test.
Built by Arnold Palmer, Tralee Golf Course has all the ingredients of an exceptional Irish golfing experiencebeautiful surroundings, stunning views of the Atlantic, and a challenging course. One of the finest courses in Ireland, Palmer chose it to be his first golf course in Europe.
With the Atlantic to one side and a forest of evergreen to the other, the challenging Murvagh Links golf course offers wonderful views and satisfying golf in abundance. One of Ireland’s most outstanding championship links golf courses, the course was designed by the legendary course architect, Eddie Hackett, and further enhanced in recent years by master of Links design, Pat Ruddy.
Located in the rugged and scenic land between the Twelve Bens and the Atlantic Ocean, the Connemara Golf Links offers some of the finest golf in the country. Designed by Eddie Hackett, the course offers a challenge for all levels.
Malahide Castle
Malahide Castle, set on 250-acres of park land, was both a fortress and a private home for nearly 800-years and is an interesting mix of architectural styles. The Talbot family lived here from 1185 to 1973, when the last Talbot died. The house is furnished with beautiful period furniture, together with an extensive collection of Irish portrait paintings, mainly from the National Gallery.
ensure that there is something to interest visitors of all ages.
Originally set up as a cutlery manufacturing company in 1934, Newbridge Silverware today offers a unique tourism experience at its visitor centre. With one of the world’s greatest collections of authentic couture style, Hollywood glamour, music memorabilia and other artefacts, the Museum of Style Icons is a treasure that has to be seen to be believed.
Glendalough Visitor Centre
Malahide Marina
Sitting just inside the sheltered broad-meadow estuary, Malahide Marina is the ideal location from which to enjoy sailing the waters of the Irish Sea. This seaside village is the jewel in the crown of this scenic stretch of Ireland’s magnificent eastern coastline. There are 350 fully serviced berths in the Marina, located in a well-protected inlet, and vessels of up to 75-metres can be accommodated.
The Irish National Stud and Gardens
The Irish National Stud and Gardens is the home of equine royalty, immaculately-bred stallions, protective mares, frolicking foals and athletic yearlings. It is the only stud farm in Ireland open to the public and offering daily tours..
Donadea Forest Park
Donadea Forest Park is situated in northwest Kildare and comprises of approximately 243 hectares of mixed woodland. There are many different walks through the forest, including the 5km Aylmer loop, the lake walk (wheelchair accessible) and a nature trail with stops.
Lullymore Heritage and Discovery Park
Lullymore Heritage and Discovery Park is a family day out attraction set in the heart of Ireland’s largest bog land, The Bog of Allen in Kildare. There is a great mix of fun, leisure and education activity to
Go back in time to the golden age of Irish history, to the Ireland of scholars and saints. Here you can follow in the footsteps of St. Kevin, founder of Glendalough. The audio-visual show is available in many languages as well as guided tours of the permanent exhibition. Glendalough is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Wicklow and indeed the island. Unsurprising given the stunning landscape, historic ruins and beautiful walks on offer at this unique location.
Set amidst the beautiful Wicklow hills on a pretty countryside farm, Grennan Maze has plenty of fun for all ages. It has two mazes, three museums, nature walks, woodlands, ponds, wildlife, farm animals, play areas, treasure hunt and fairy tree walk. Families enjoy spending the day at this heritage hotspot that’s been described as ‘an antidote to urban living within easy reach of Dublin.
Mount Usher Gardens
Described by Monty Don as one of his favourite gardens ever, Mount Usher is one of only three Irish gardens with a top rating from the UK’s The Good Gardens Guide. Mount Usher is also a world-
class example of a so-called Robinsonian garden, with its relaxed informality and natural layout.
People first began visiting these gardens over 30 years ago as part of the Co. Wicklow Gardens Festival. This modern sacred space is a one-acre garden that includes a stream, two ponds on different levels, a patio, gazebo, seating areas, shrub beds and undulating lawns. From the joyful sound of birds singing to the calming trickle of water, you can enjoy a host of Modern Irish sculptures
If you fancy taking in a tour of the capital city, perhaps some of the following places will be right up your street?
Temple Bar
Temple Bar is located in the secluded area between Dame Street and the River Liffey. Take a tour off the beaten path and don’t be disappointed. Temple Bar is one of the oldest areas in the city and home to one of Europe’s oldest built theatres (Smock Alley Theatre). This area of the city is now a hive of activity for those who are looking for an atmosphere of street art, craic and comedy.
The Ha’penny Bridge, known for a time as the Penny Ha’penny Bridge, and officially the Liffey Bridge, is a pedestrian bridge built in May 1816 over the River Liffey. Made of cast iron, the bridge was cast in Shropshire, England. Originally called the Wellington Bridge (after the Dublin-born Duke of Wellington), the name of the bridge changed to Liffey Bridge (Irish: Droichead na Life) and remains the bridge’s official name to this day. Take time for a photo on the capital’s most iconic bridge.
Trinity College
Spend an entire day going through the beauty and majesty that is one of the most famous buildings in Dublin. Trinity College is the earliest building to date to Georgian times. Pay a visit to its magnificent Long Room, which measures nearly 65m and houses in excess of 200,000 books. A must for any visitor is the Book of Kells, which is displayed on the ground floor of the Old Library building and is one of the most beautifully illuminated manuscripts in the world.
Located at St. James’ Gate and one of the most popular attractions for tourists, this is an important part of the Guinness family empire. The production of Guinness and the family’s fortunes have been
central to the development of Dublin since 1759 and the brewery has played a major part in employment – 2009 marked 250 years of Guinness production. The Gravity Bar not only offers you great Guinness but also a wow factor 360 degree view of Dublin
EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum, located in Dublin’s Docklands, covers the history of the Irish diaspora and emigration to other countries. It was designed by the London-based design firm Event Communications, and was voted as “Europe’s Leading Tourist Attraction” at the 2019, 2020 and 2021 World Travel Awards.
Highlights at the main library buildings on Kildare Street are the award-winning Yeats exhibition, and moving World War Ireland exhibition. All locations are free to visit and within a short walking distance of the Grafton Street shopping area and St. Stephen’s Green.
Duckett’s Grove is a ruined 19th-century great house and former estate in County Carlow, Ireland. Belonging to the Duckett family, the house was formerly the focal point of a 12,000-acre estate, and dominated the local landscape of the area for more than two centuries.
is located in Carlow’s Cultural Quarter. Admission is free and is entered through the tourist office. Spanning four galleries, the museum has a wide collection of items and artefacts from Carlow county including the original gallows trapdoor from Carlow Gaol & the 6m carved pulpit from Carlow Cathedral.
The Hub, Graiguenamanagh , Co. Kilkenny
PYOC offers you the opportunity to rent canoes with associated gear and camping gear and take a multi day adventure along the beautiful Barrow river trail, south east Ireland. It is possible to paddle from 1 to 6 days between Monasterevin & New Ross,(shorter trips on a more southerly part of the river) and you may stop and set up camp anywhere you desire along the way on the bank.
The key to Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands is the River Shannon. The gentle shrug of water across the surface of Lough Derg makes you want to put down anchor and just float for a few hours. Lap up the quiet, cast out a line, or tuck into your picnic basket for a lazy lunch. Cruise along the waterways of the mighty Shannon and explore the quaint towns of Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands.
1: RENTING A BOAT ON THE SHANNON Carrickcraft, Emerald Star and Silverline Cruisers have a great range of rental options from 2-10 berths. The sta are happy to share tips on things to do, from a leisurely cruise to Banagher to a tour of Athlone and Hodson Bay. Most of the rental companies along the Shannon allow you to bring your pet along on your cruising adventure. Stay every night in a town or village or escape to the wilderness on remote jetties where you can cook and eat on board in the well-equipped onboard kitchen.
2: CHINESE DRAGON BOATING, CARRICK-ON-SHANNON
Canoe boats with ferocious dragon heads on either end, roar down the clear waters of Carrick-on-Shannon. These Chinese Dragon Boats can be spotted on the river with a helmsman from Leitrim Surf Company steering the course, while the crew rows in unison to the rhythm of the onboard drummer. This is definitely one of the most unique ways to explore the waterways of Carrick-on-Shannon.
3: STAND-UP PADDLEBOARDING (SUP), KILLALOE
Strap on a life jacket and set o
on an adventure aboard your paddleboard. Stand-up paddleboarding is a memorable and surprisingly simple way to witness the indigenous beauty of the Shannon. Set o from the still waters of Killaloe and float under old bridges and into the wilds of the countryside.
The calm waters of Lough Key are dotted with small, lush islands and none are more intriguing than Castle Island. The abandoned, striking McDermott’s Castle stands solely on this uninhabited island surrounded by mature trees and stone walls. Nearby Lough Key Forest and Activity Park is the place to go for anyone looking to learn more about the legend of Úna Bhán and makes a great base for a couple of days by the water.
5: BAYSPORTS, LOUGH REE
For something equally adventurous in Westmeath head to Baysports, just outside Athlone. It’s an exciting place that’s perfect for families of all ages with an inflatable water park, kayak tours and pedalos. Kids, and adventurous adults, will love playing on the largest floating slide in the country. Watch the sunset and pastel sky as you stroll along the Floating Boardwalk at Acres Lake just outside Drumshanbo. It’s a truly magical and memorable way to end your day.
6: ENJOY ONE OF THE GREAT SHANNON CRUISES
Rent a boat with friends and cruise the Shannon.
Experience Ireland’s longest river on a fantastic cruise of the River Shannon. Set sail from any of the hubs along the
route and enjoy unbeatable craic in Carrick-on-Shannon, gorgeous views as you sail from Athlone and tasty lakeside meals in Banagher and Killaloe.
7: WALK THE FLOATING BOARDWALK ON ACRES LAKE, DRUMSHANBO
Head to the Shannon Blueway, just outside of Drumshanbo, and experience one of the most unique walks in Ireland. Making up part of a longer 6.5km walk, is a wonderful 600m long stretch, where you stroll on a floating boardwalk across Acres Lake. Listen to the water gently lapping against the boardwalk and birds singing in the sky, this relaxing walk is ideal for your next trip to Leitrim.
8: PLAN A DAY FISHING ON LOUGH DERG
Pack your rod and visit Lough Derg for a great fishing holiday. Base yourself in Portumna at the north of Lough Derg or stay in Killaloe and Ballina to the south. The waters here are well stocked with salmon and bream, but as every serious angler knows, it’s the brown trout and pike that attract people from all over the country. Rent a fishing boat from Shannon Boat Hire and cast your line in every nook and cranny of this gorgeous lake.
9: GO SWIMMING IN MOUNTSHANNON
Visit a stunning award winning beach in Clare and go swimming in Lough Derg. The chilly and clear waters of Mountshannon Beach are perfect for an early morning swim with friends, and afterwards, warm up a co ee and treat at the nearby bakery. Remember to be safe when you swim, never go alone and make sure to always swim within your ability.
Wexford native Niamh Mahon tells Siobhán Breatnach about the inspiration behind her camper van renovation project and plans for a summer on the road
Ihavebeen wanting to own a camper van for the longest time. Last year my husband and I decided to go ahead and buy an empty van and convert it ourselves. With no holidays and none on the horizon it seemed like the time was right. Little did we know there would be another lockdown. The van was great to give us something to do together on the weekends. We researched a lot on what to do and how to do it. YouTube was a huge help and there are a few Facebook groups too, which are fantastic help with any questions, no matter how silly they seem.
We bought an Opel Movano medium-wheel base van. We decided to buy from our local garage as they had a full-service history and we felt more comfortable knowing that. Certain specs are needed to qualify the van as a camper, so we started from there as to what had to be done. I started following lots of Instagram accounts relating to van builds and we decided what the best layout was for us. My husband is fantastic at anything DIY and I learned so much by doing this conversion with him.
Search #vanlife on Instagram and you’ll discover over 10-million posts o ering idyllic views and ideas for a more minimalistic and simple way to travel and explore at your own pace. Given Ireland’s wide-open roads, its stunning rugged coastline and a network of lively cities, heritage towns and cosy villages, it’s no wonder we’re embracing the potential for fun and freedom in a whole new way.
Buying and renovating camper vans and motor homes became passion projects for many across the country during lockdown. Gorgeous driving routes like the Ring of Kerry, Wicklow’s Braveheart Drive or the Inishowen 100 in Co. Donegal, o ers perfect sunsets and picturesque backdrops showing Mother Nature at her best. The Wild Atlantic Way, untamed and natural, stretches gloriously for 1,550-miles along the entire west coast, while The Grand Tour links attractions in counties Wicklow and Kildare and is another great way to explore the stories of the Ancient East. Rolling hills, golden beaches, ancient castles, and medieval ruins, what’s not to love about hitting the road in your very own home on wheels.
I am a practice manager in a GP surgery and I also have a photography studio (Beehive Studios). I specialise in new-born photography. Obviously, with lockdown the studio was closed so converting the van was great, as I am used to being busy with both my jobs. We both love to be outdoors and having the van allows us to literally hop in the van and o we go. Even if it’s just down to a local beach, it doesn’t matter you still get that sense of freedom. We are very lucky we live in Wexford and have some of the best beaches in the country, so we are never stuck for a place to go.
Being back to work now we haven’t managed to go further afield as of yet but we are planning on doing the Wild Atlantic Way in a few weeks. I am very excited about this. There are lots of places in Ireland that I have not seen, which I would imagine, lots of people are in the same situation. This is a great opportunity to explore Ireland. One of my top places to visit is the Giant’s Causeway. Donegal is another on my list and I am just looking forward to finally seeing and exploring my country, finding places that are o the beaten track, eating in local restaurants and enjoying the freedom the van will give us on a very new type of holiday for us.
Your Staycation News, Industry interviews, things to see and do in 32 counties, great places to wine & dine, as well as the opportunity to download Go Wild magazine back issues for free. It’s all on the new Go Wild Magazine App, now available on both the App Store and Google Play Store. Download it now and Explore Ireland your way
Rugged coasts with pristine waters, golden beaches and looming cliff faces, dramatic mountains and valleys and glistening lakes, the wild west is a land of breathtaking beauty and extremes. The drama, the beauty, the untamed nature of the land and the people who live there have combined to create a magic unlike anywhere in the world...
Unique, friendly and steeped in traditional culture, Ireland’s islands are full of exceptional landscapes, prehistoric forts, Irish-speaking communities and a real sense of escape. There are those that can be easily accessed, connected by bridges to the mainland, such as Achill, County Mayo, and Valentia, County Kerry or abandoned gems such as Inishmurray off County Sligo and the Blasket Islands off County Kerry.
Which island should I visit?
Skellig Michael lies over 11-km off the coast of Kerry’s Iveragh Peninsula, a shard-like rock capped by a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a difference. Close to its peak sit several beehive-shaped huts in a monastic site that dates back to the 6th century, with sensational views of the Irish coast. As seen in Star Wars: The Force Awakens, history, myth and stunning scenery collide with monumental effect at this wilderness site but come prepared with food and water as there are not any facilities on the Island. Boats, both to the island and around the island, run from May to October and are weather-dependent. There are also wonderful views of the islands to be had from the Kerry Cliffs.
What is there to do nearby?
The Ring of Kerry is Ireland’s iconic touring loop around the Iveragh Peninsula or try the Dingle Peninsula for seafood, the Slea Head Drive and a celebrity dolphin called Fungie.
There’s an Irish island for every taste. Fancy a thrill? Take the cable car to West Cork’s Dursey Island, where the resident population is said to be just three! Clear blue waters meet secluded beaches on Inishturk, County Mayo; culture vultures can try a few words of Irish on Tory, County Donegal; and Inis Mór in County Galway is perfect for families.
Towering 702 ft/214 metres above the crashing Atlantic waves, County Clare’s iconic cliffs offer incredible views out over the ocean. The cliffs are more than 300 million years old and the walks they offer, the teeming birdlife and the interactive visitor centre make for an unforgettable few hours.
What is there to do nearby?
The Cliffs of Moher are close to the Burren National Park, a wonderland of karstic limestone formations. On your coastal drive, plan a stop in the lively music town of Doolin (where you can also catch a ferry to the Aran Islands) and, for a more remote Atlantic experience, take a car or bike around Loop Head, an awe-inspiring headland where you can spot dolphins and whales, as well as the Loop Head Lighthouse, which dates back to 1854.
Want to visit the ends of the earth? Ireland’s most northerly point is every bit as elemental as you would expect, with rock formations, ancient ruins and some of Europe’s largest sand dunes. Crowning the Inishowen Peninsula, Malin Head’s natural wonders include basking sharks and exotic birdlife. You might even see the Northern Lights, which are known to make an appearance in the skies above the peninsula. Steeped in myth and history, the area also boasts Banba’s Crown, a clifftop tower dating from 1805, and the ominously titled Hell’s Hole, where the Atlantic waves dramatically crash against cliffs.
Stretching nearly 3-km into the Atlantic off the coast of West Cork, this dramatic headland is one of Ireland’s most exceptional geographical formations. Although the tip of Old Head is now a private golf course, visitors can still take a stunning 4 mile/6.5 km walk around the base of the peninsula or discover your adventurous side with a sea-kayaking tour. In 1915, German U-Boats famously torpedoed the Lusitania offshore and the area also features a 30-metre lighthouse that guides ships to Kinsale Harbour.
What is there to do nearby?
Explore the foodie town of Kinsale (bring an appetite), which is packed with craft shops, pubs and seafood restaurants; take a tour of the star-shaped Charles Fort, dating from the late 17th century; or travel west for a mosey around Clonakilty. Its colourful shops, restaurants and nearby Inchydoney beach make this a firm favourite with visitors.
Located within the wilderness of Connemara, Killary Harbour stretches 16 km inland from the Atlantic to its head below the Aasleagh Falls and serves up some of the most dramatic views in Ireland. Cleaving the border between counties Galway and Mayo, activities in Killary range from sea kayaking to sightseeing boat tours. There’s a stunning 19th century road here too, the Green Road, that hugs the coastline tight above the waters of the fjord and is a leap into breathtaking scenery. Take a drive to Westport through the awe-inspiring Doolough Valley, set between the Connemara mountains; visit the charming villages and towns of Cleggan, Clifden, Letterfrack and Roundstone; and don’t miss Kylemore Abbey. This Benedictine Abbey, which casts a breathtaking reflection in its lake, is set on a 1,000- acre estate and is home to Ireland’s largest walled garden.
Downpatrick Head is one of the wildest, most glorious places on the island of Ireland. It may look modest on the map, but those who venture out from nearby Ballycastle, County Mayo, are rewarded with stunning views of the Dún Briste sea stack, rugged coastal scenery and wildlife. Dún Briste means “broken fort” in Irish and this piece of rock is believed to have broken away from the mainland in 1393. St. Patrick is also said to have founded a church on a headland where you’ll find a holy well and stone cross perched above the mighty Atlantic Ocean.
What is there to do nearby?
Visit the oldest known stone-walled farmlands in the world at Céide Fields; view the Staggs of Broadhaven – a set of five rocky islands off the shore of Mayo’s Benwee Head; take a walk around Sligo’s Mullaghmore Peninsula (in winter, watch the big wave surfers); or catch a wave yourself at Strandhill Beach.
LLooking for a decent dose of vitamin sea? You will find it and more in the colourful coastal hub of Doolin, Co. Clare renowned for its wild waves, traditional Irish music sessions and fabulous food.
While year-round surfing conditions attract wave riders looking to catch Ireland’s biggest wave Aill na Searrach, wetsuit wearing is not an essential pre-requisite for a visit to Doolin. It is possible to stay dry (rain depending) and jump on board one of the many boat trips available from Doolin Pier. From fishing trips, to Ferry’s over to the Aran Islands, to cruising cliffside, there is plenty to ponder. Set amongst the stunning surroundings of The Burren and Cliffs of Moher UNESCO Global Geopark, cyclists will approve of the roving roads, providing plenty of picturesque pit-stops.
A day’s meandering will likely have you stall for selfies at ‘Father Ted’s’ house before strolling up Mullaghmore hill for an up-close encounter with the fascinating terrain, or having a nosey at the Burren Perfumery, complete with cosy café and smells of the best kind. A stop-off at the Salmon Experience at the Burren Smokehouse is also encouraged. For sandy strolls head to Fanore or Lehinch Beach, but for a good stretch of the legs laceup for The Blackhead Loop, The Burren Way or clamber the Cliffs of Moher Coastal Walk leading to Lisacnnor. Twenty Kilometres long, it will take your
breath - and possibly your hat - away with views of the crashing Atlantic Ocean for miles. The full tourist experience can be found at the official Cliffs of Moher visitor centre while other noteworthy attractions include the Great Stalactite at Doolin Cave and the Ailwee Caves and Birds of Prey Centre. Foodie fiends will be in their element with a variety of enticing establishments using local artisan food producers. Favourites include Glas at Hotel Doolin, The Ivy Cottage with its tempting terrace and Russell’s Bar and Restaurant, which also provides perfect picnic provisions from their deli. Or, opt for a posh perch courtesy of Grá Picnics who will lavishly set you up in style! If pizza is your preference, check out Stonewall Café and Pizzeria. Popular pubs Fitzpatricks, Gus O’Connor’s, McDermott’s and McGann’s serve traditional feasts with a side of toe-tapping traditional music and all within walking distance of award-winning accommodation such as The Doolin Inn, The Doolin Hotel, the Fiddle + Bow collection, self-catering cottages and B&B’s.
Given the Atlantic coastal climate, cosying-up fireside in one of the village pubs with a hot brew is likely but with expert pint pourers and musicians never far away afternoons can easily flow into evening extravaganzas! Embrace it all and enjoy this coastal cure.
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“The Baltimore Beacon, a whitewashed tower guarding the entrance of the harbour, is Baltimore’s major landmark. The locals call him Lot’s Wife with a wink after a biblical figure that solidified into a pillar of salt.
If at first, you don’t succeed… This couple finally landed their dream job as caretakers of Great Blasket Island after unsuccessfully applying for the role on three previous occasions.
Brock Montgomery, 29, a well-known former Canadian ice-hockey player, and his Dutch partner Claire de Haas, 27, arrived on the island last week to take up the role of caretakers.
The job has become one of the most sought-after positions in the world in recent years, with more than 100,000
people applying for this year’s job.
De Haas described the job as a “unique opportunity” to learn about a new culture and surroundings.
“We know it’s going to be hard work, but we like the challenge,” she told the Irish Times.
Located off the coast of Kerry, Great Blasket Island has been uninhabited since the 1950s and possesses no running water or electricity.
However, Billy Hayes and his partner Alice Hayes, who operate three cottages
and a coffee shop on the island, are inundated with applications from all over the world for the role of caretaker on the island every year.
Hayes told the Kerryman Newspaper that Montgomery and de Haas remained in touch after their unsuccessful application over the last few years.
“They actually applied, I think it was two years ago now and they’ve kept in touch with us over the past few years, letting us know that they were still really keen and really interested in the position. Even throughout the seasons just gone, they’d always pop us a message letting us know they were up for it,” Hayes said.
Montgomery and de Haas said their time on the island has been “spectacular so far”.
“We got pretty lucky the first two or three days we were out here, it was just gorgeous. It was beautiful and sunny and so we had a really great first impression, it was stunning. We were able to walk around and go see the seals and a lot of the island,” Ireland.com, The Kerrman Newspaper
Wind in your hair, sun on your face, the world whizzing by, there’s nothing like cycling to get all of your cylinders firing. Cycling is an amazing way to discover the delights of the Wild Atlantic Way, be it in the countryside, up the mountains, island hopping or just getting around towns and villages. There are numerous bike hire places from Donegal to Kinsale with both electric and manual options, and along with new Greenways being developed yearly, each county will have a self service Bike rental service with stations conveniently located throughout each county, making it easy to get around.
Discover the delights of the Atlantic Underwater world at Galway’s Atlantaquaria, Dingle Oceanworld Aquarium, or Lahinch Seaworld and Leisure Centre. You can also check out Letterfrack Sea Safari or choose from Baltimore or Dingle Sea Safari’s. It’s an amazing opportunity to learn all about the underwater world.
The Wild Atlantic Way terrain is perfect for horse trekking. There are numerous equine centres dotted right along the Wild Atlantic Way where you can take a horse out for a canter and really feel the wind in your hair Check out https://www.discoverireland. ie/irish-horse-riding-experiences
While we are exiting the current pandemic it’s always advisable to check out the latest festival happenings for every county on www.discoverireland.ie
WithvibrantBallinaatitsheart, NorthMayoisblessedwitha breathtakingAtlanticcoastline, stunningruggedlandscapesand thousandsofyearsofhistory.A hiddengemalongtheWildAtlantic Way,it’stheperfectdestinationto makeabreakforit,rechargeand reconnectwithnature. 1 2 3 4
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Best savoured slowly, North Mayo is not just a place to visit, but a place to truly feel alive. For more information, visit www.mayonorth.ie
Enjoy a lakeside walk in Wicklow National Park. As the sun rises over Glendalough Lake and glistens on the ancient round tower and monastery ruins, you know you are in a special place. This otherworldly land is Wicklow Mountains National Park, where for centuries people have come to find peace. Now it is a must-visit for walkers of all levels to explore wild beauty and stunning, rugged mountain scenery against a historic backdrop.
Despite its ability to immerse you in wilderness and isolation, Wicklow Mountains National Park is easily accessible, making it the perfect destination for a short walking break. You can explore endless trails with a Wicklow Mountain walk or join routes together for a longer walking break. Entry to Wicklow Mountains National Park and the information office are free. In Glendalough, there are two paid-car parks for visitors to the valley: the Visitor Centre car park and the Upper aLake car park. Here are 7 way-marked Wicklow walks, the jewels that sparkle in the crown of Wicklow Mountains National Park. Kick off your adventure at the National Park Information Office in Glendalough Valley, download a Nature Trails leaflet and follow your chosen route.
Miners’ Road Walk (Purple Route) - Time: 1 hour 10 mins
This easy 5km walk takes you along the Upper Lake at Glendalough with views across its dark glassy surface to St. Kevin’s Bed, the one-time retreat of Saint Kevin who founded the monastery in Glendalough in the 6th century. Park in the Upper Lake car park, which is near the start of the trail. As you amble through the Scots pine woodland path watch out for a peregrine falcon or feral goats. It’s not long before you reach the ruined Miners’ Village where you can stop to take in the views before returning back down the valley.
The Spinc and Glenealo Valley (White Route) - Time: 3 hours
From the Miners Village, climb up the valley along the river that feeds the lake, with some cool pools suitable for a dip. When you reach the boardwalk continue the moderate climb to 380 metres with jaw-dropping views over the Upper Lake. This popular route known as ‘The Spinc’, circles along the mountain edge with some fantastic viewing points before descending 600 wooden steps through the trees and along the side of the Poulanass Waterfall, to the car park. The loop walk takes around three-hours, depending on how long you stop to picnic and take in the views.
Poulanass and St. Kevin’s Cell (Bronze Route) - Time: 30 mins
Park in the Upper Lake Car Park and follow the edge of the lake until you hear the Poulanass Waterfall where you will climb steeply alongside the rushing waters. This short trail leads you through the Glendalough oak woodlands, then winds gently down to the site of St. Kevin’s Cell. Your efforts will be rewarded with a scenic viewpoint overlooking the Upper Lake, which is a favourite spot for birdwatchers. Explore Reefert Church before completing your walk.
Green Road Walk (Green Route) - Time: 50 mins
If you’d prefer a leisurely stroll on flat ground or have young children, the 3km easy Green Road Walk which goes from the Upper Lake Car
Park along the boardwalk is a good option. Discover Glendalough oak woodlands and marvel at the flora before arriving at the Lower Lake wetland edge. Unforgettable views of the majestic round tower and monastery are in the distance, and you may spy a lizard, dragonfly or frog.
Spinc and the Wicklow Way (Red Route) to Glenmalure
Time: 4 hours 30 mins
There are lots of incredible hikes along the Wicklow Way and the 13.5km route from Glendalough to Glenmalure is one of the easier ones. From the Glendalough Visitors Centre take the Green Road into the Valley and head up the steps at the majestic Poulanass Waterfall before you climb up to the boardwalk on Lugduff. You’ll descend down the valley on trails through the forest into Glenmalure. Watch for deer and birds such as ravens, merlins and kestrels along the way.
HISTORY AND HERITAGE: Glendalough Monastic Site and Visitor Centre, Glendalough, Co. Wicklow
Poulanass (Pink Route) - Time: 40 mins
After a short but steep climb by the Poulanass Waterfall and plunge pools cross above the waterfall stopping to take in the dramatic scenery below. Next, drop down through mixed woodlands to the valley floor. Listen for woodland birds, in particular jays, while you enjoy the sounds of nature. This is a moderate walk suitable for families with older children but is not ideal for pushchairs.
Woodland Road (Silver Route) - Time: 1hr 15 mins
The Woodland Road is known as one of the most secretive routes in Glendalough. Start your 4km ramble through trails and woodland from Glendalough into neighbouring Glendasan Valley where it joins St. Kevin’s Way. A track takes you back into Glendalough Valley along the Glendasan River to the boardwalk along the Lower Lake.
With all of that hillwalking, you’ll be ready to tuck into something tasty. Between Laragh and Glendalough, there are two hotels and a restaurant serving hearty meals and tasty snacks. In season, Glendalough has stalls for chips and ice creams at the Upper Lake car park and beside the Monastic City. In Laragh and other nearby towns, you’ll find shops selling groceries and ready-made food, as well as cosy tea rooms.
Before you set off on one of these great Wicklow Mountain walks, head over to Mountaineering Ireland and get some invaluable hiking tips. Enjoy these seven walks packed full of adventure, wildlife and panoramic scenery and after, discover their walking and hiking page for more spectacular treks and trails.
The online trading voucher is open to all businesses with ten or less employees, intends to trade online (provided that the business is located and operates within the area of an Enterprise Office) and whose website has a content management system that can be added to over time.
If you would like more information about grants available to you and your business or would like to discuss any of the points that you have read about here, please do not hesitate to contact us as we would be happy to help.
With delectable, sustainable and totally original food and drink on offer, Northern Ireland’s local produce delivers the ultimate platter of giant tastes.
As a destination Northern Ireland simply brims with gastronomic delights, great restaurants and a wide range of tasty and entertaining foodie tours.
Boasting a short and sustainable farm-to-fork supply chain, and with restaurants, pubs, hotels and more all dedicated to sourcing local, the ingredients on your plate – organic whenever possible – are always fresher, tastier and full of seasonal surprise.
Whether you visit a Belfast Michelinstarred eatery, a County Antrim ice-cream maker who believes Ireland’s dairy produce is the best in the world, or a craft brewery in the Lakelands of County Fermanagh, the outstanding Northern Irish food culture and wealth of local specialities you can try, shines through everywhere you go.
Among the absolute plethora of bars, farm shops, markets, festivals, restaurants, tour companies and food organisations bringing the best in sustainable local products to the plate is Taste Causeway, a collective of passionate artisans creating extraordinary food experiences all around the famous Causeway Coast and Glens of Antrim.
Head there to savour tours, gastro events and self-guided visits to the likes of the Truffle Shuffle Experience with chocolatier Geri Martin of the Chocolate Manor, who will guide you through making moulded and hand-rolled truffles. Or how about an exclusive luxury dining experience at Mussenden Temple, perched on the
edge of a cliff? With the dishes organised by and seasoned with Mussenden Sea Salt, a pure natural sea salt harvested by hand from the Causeway Coast, this is where sustainability meets great taste.
You can also head to Broglasco Farm, which makes the range of Broighter Gold rapeseed oils served to Her Majesty The Queen, when she visited Titanic Belfast, and distil your own gin with Giants Basalt Rock Gin located beside the world-renowned UNESCO Heritage Site of the Giant’s Causeway.
In Belfast, a founding member of the Sustainable Food Cities Network, the long established Taste & Tour has seven public food and drink tours all featuring sustainable local produce.
New for 2022 is their Spirit Circle, comprising of two radical and unexpected drinks experiences. Set across four floors of the prestigious National Bank Building on High Street, guests can currently choose to take part in ‘Belfast by the Glass’, highlighting the story of Belfast, and ‘Sensorium’, a fully immersive cocktail experience that challenges all the senses.
You could be in a seventeenth-century barn in County Armagh tasting cider and artisan foods with Armagh Cider Company, or you could be savouring the seafood of
County Down in Katch 27 in Kircubbin – café by day, restaurant by night.
County Down is also ideal for those with a sweet tooth. Discover the finest chocolate-making, chocolate tasting and chocolate storytelling at NearyNógs Stone Ground Chocolate, Ireland’s first bean to bar craft chocolate makers.
Guided tours, tasting sessions and workshops showcase their amazing products and flavours – all with small batch processes, no additives, emulsifiers, or artificial flavouring.
County Down is also the home of three different and exceptional whiskey and gin distilleries, but elsewhere it might be goat’s meat and veal, Lough Neagh Eels, breads and bakes, rare-breed beef and pork and a series of award-winning cheeses. The Northern Irish menu goes on and on. So with so much choice, perhaps it is time to plan a visit to tantalise your taste buds? Best bring an appetite.
www.ireland.com
As they prepare to celebrate its 10th birthday, Judith Owens, Chief Executive of Titanic Belfast, who was recently awarded an MBE in the Queen’s New Year Honours for services to Tourism, speaks passionately about her beloved Belfast and why it should be on everyone’s ‘must visit’ list.
What is the best thing about Belfast?
As a Belfast native, I am incredibly proud of the vibrant city it has become over the years and I think a large part of that is down to the giant spirit of those who live and work here - you won’t find a friendlier bunch than the people of Belfast City!
Do you think history and the troubles still play a factor in people’s decision to visit?
Yes, I think this, like any other significant event in history, is all part of Northern Ireland’s story and there are some wonderful local tours that enable visitors to Belfast to delve deeper into the topic and learn more.
As we mark the 110th anniversary of RMS Titanic’s tragic sinking in April, having welcomed over 6-million guests from 145 countries worldwide, you can see how history and heritage play an important role in our tourism o ering and certainly provide a reason to visit.
Where would you tell people to visit in the city?
There’s so much to see and do but it’s always good to start at Belfast City Hall – from here it’s easy to orientate yourself and the city’s compact size means you can get around easily. If you’re visiting at a weekend, I love St .George’s market for a walk around the local food and craft stalls or from a Thursday to Sunday, the common market, which is a brand new (dog friendly) street food market in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter. Of course, and not to sound biased, but top of the list should be a visit to Titanic Belfast.
Have you noticed a lot more locals being tourists in their own city?
Yes, I think the pandemic really reignited a sense of civic pride in locals. It’s been a joy to see so many families enjoying spending quality time together with us and enjoying the superb experiences on their doorstep. We have been fortunate that the staycation boom has allowed us to continue welcoming so many guests over the last two years, albeit at lower levels, as pre-pandemic, over 88% of our visitors came from outside of NI.
Are there any new tourist attractions to keep an eye out for?
A Titanic Distillery is due to open in June this year, just down from us at Thompson Dry Dock and a new Game of Thrones Studio Tour has also just opened in Banbridge.
Would the city be lost without Titanic Belfast?
I think it would certainly be a very di erent place. Titanic Belfast opened in March 2012 with the vision of commemorating the centenary of the sinking of Titanic; to launch a world class visitor attraction and bring the story of Titanic back home to Belfast, where it belongs, celebrating the city’s maritime and industrial heritage, and showing the spirit that built Titanic remains today. In our first seven years we contributed £319 million to the wider economy and inspired £60-million, of wider heritage preservation across Titanic Quarter. Not to be overlooked, over the years our building has come to represent the giant spirit of the people of Northern Ireland; most recently having been featured in the opening sequence of Kenneth Branagh’s Oscar nominated film, ‘Belfast’ – an attest to just how iconic Titanic Belfast has become as a beacon for the city. Tourism in Belfast is something I am incredibly passionate about and as I look back at how much positive change there has been in the industry as we celebrate our 10th birthday at Titanic Belfast, I am immensely proud to have played a part in this. To find out more, visit titanicbelfast.com
There are few places in Ireland where you can stay in a ringfort, feed an alpaca and jump in a sea kayak - but the family fun never stops in Wexford. Escape to the County Wexford coast and discover the beaches in Curracloe and Tramore or head south to Kilmore Quay and use it as a launchpad to explore the Saltee Islands - one of the best places in Ireland to see pu ns in the wild. Plan your trip now and see why people love all the great places to visit in Wexford.
Just 20-minutes up the road, the white sands of the epic Curracloe Beach stretch from Raven Point to Blackwater. If you’re braving a dip, this is a Blue Flag beach, but exploring the nature trail and running through the enormous dunes is enough to keep everyone entertained.
Just ten minutes from Wexford Town, at The Irish National Heritage Park, you can bed down in an authentic wooden Viking House on the shore of the River Slaney. Keep an eye out for invaders, cook on an open fire and live like a Norseman within this wattle-walled, thatched-roof dwelling.
Dress up as knights at Enniscorthy Castle. The costume area will entertain the kids as they take the self-guided tour. Head up to the roof to take in stunning views as far as the battleground at Vinegar Hill and see authentic bullet holes – sure to impress the kids.
Another half-hour inland, board the replica 1840s emigrant boat at The Dunbrody Famine Ship Experience in New Ross. Immerse yourself in life below deck as costumed performers guide you through the fateful journey that was taken by far too many,
corner’ what to do, eat and where to stay
Located on the Hook Peninsula in Ireland’s ‘sunniest corner’, Fethard-on- Sea is a small and beautiful coastal village on the Hook Peninsula. The village has some lovely pubs and restaurants serving fresh seafood; some incredible family activities and magnificent beaches. This is a special village that will take you back in time and its endless charm will stay with visitors forever.
Hook Lighthouse
Continue south to Hook Head Peninsula, at Wexford’s southern-most tip. The iconic striped Hook Lighthouse is the main draw, with daily tours and epic sea views.
Take the Ferry to Dunmore East
Take the Ferry to Dunmore East
The Passage East Ferry will take the whole family, car and all, across the water to Dunmore East in Waterford. See who gets knocked out first at Wibit Wipeout, the country’s most significant inflatable obstacle course on water, at Dunmore Adventure.
GOOD HONEST HEARTY FOOD. Hearty food, great cocktails and friendly staff are what we dish out in abundance at the Texas Steakout. We have everything covered for meat eaters and vegetarians alike with our menu including, juicy steaks, sizzling fajitas, sticky pudding, and luscious chocolate brownies. At the Texas Steakout we are passionately committed to supporting local Irish produce and only serve the freshest selection of produce that Ireland has to offer.
Book your staycation along the Wild Atlantic Way in Donegal Town. Let the Abbey Hotel and Central Hotel be your “Home away from home” with Guestrooms overlooking Donegal’s Iconic Diamond, all within steps of the hotels. Enjoy strolls along the Pier, the Bank Walk, tour Donegal Castle, visit Triona to see how Donegal Tweed is made, cruise along the Bay on Donegal’s Waterbus and receive shopping discounts in Donegal Town. The Abbey Hotel and Central Hotel are part of Donegal Hotel Collection. Check out special offers online: www.donegalhotelcollection.com
Discover Ireland with The iNUA Collection. We understand that short breaks can be as rewarding as long ones. That’s why, at The iNUA Collection, we’ve handpicked the finest places to stay so you can get away and relax in style. Whether you’re looking for scenic parks, romantic breaks or luxury spa getaways, you’ll find it at any one of our ten hotels. With amazing midweek offers, come at stay at the iNUA Collection. The iNUA Collection Hotels - where the only thing missing is you. Book at www.iNUA.ie today for the best rate guaranteed.
Riverdance returns home to Dublin kicking off the summer run at the Gaiety Theatre.
The Riverdance troupe once again take to the Gaiety Theatre stage marking their return to Dublin after a break of over 2-years. Audiences have the chance to experience the magic of Riverdance live on stage this summer with an extraordinary new production which celebrates the 25th Anniversary of the show. The show runs at the Gaiety Theatre until 11th September. Tickets available on Riverdance.com and via Ticketmaster.ie.
Enjoy an accessible, easy-going hike through the mature, eightacre, native Holly, Ash and Hazel Woodland @ Aillwee. This unique landscape comes to life as you and your family explore the self-guided Biodiversity Walk. Discover terrific trees, amazing animals, gorgeous geology and fabulous flowers!
Located at the heart of Limerick’s medieval quarter, step inside the walls of Limerick’s most iconic landmark. Discover the stories of ruthless King John, the noble knights, and rebellious natives.
King John’s Castle brings to life over 800-years of dramatic local history. Explore the spacious outdoor courtyard where you’ll get a sense of the bustling activity that took place many years ago.
The National Museum of Ireland is home to the world’s greatest collection of objects related to Irish history and heritage. The collection spans from prehistoric times to the present day and is on display across four museums in Dublin (Decorative Arts & History, Collins Barracks, Archaeology, Kildare Street, Natural History, Merrion Street- closed for renovations - and Mayo (Country Life). Exhibitions explore a diverse range of themes from Bronze Age gold and extinct Irish mammals to 20th-Century revolution and contemporary design. The main aim of the NMI is to preserve, share, explore and celebrate Ireland’s history and culture and its place in the wider world.
Shannonferry Group Ltd. operates the Killimer-Tarbert Car Ferry, linking the main tourist routes of Ireland’s Shannon Region on the “Wild Atlantic Way” from Killimer, Co. Clare to Tarbert, Co. Kerry. With scheduled sailings every-day, this pleasant twenty-minute journey across the Shannon Estuary will save 137 km from ferry terminal to ferry terminal, providing a staging point for the many attractions of Clare, Kerry and adjoining counties. On disembarkation, enjoy the majestic scenery on either side of the Shannon Estuary from Killarney & The Dingle Peninsula to the Burren & the famous Cliffs of Moher.
Clew Bay Bike Hire offer rental bicycles and accessories for the Great Western Greenway. This runs between Westport and Achill Sound, Co. Mayo, along the Wild Atlantic Way. At Clew Bay Bike Hire, quality is never compromised. Our ‘Priority’ is for our customers to always have a safe and enjoyable experience on the Great Western Greenway. Therefore, all bikes will be sized and fitted for you and checked over by our professional staff for mechanical safety prior to each and every use. We also provide FREE roadside assistance, so if anything develops while on the trail, simply call our office and we will replace the bike immediately, wherever you are.
The Connemara Coast Hotel, located only minutes from Galway City on the Wild Atlantic Way, has 141 luxury bedrooms, a choice of restaurants & bars including the Coast Club Leisure Centre. A resort hotel, it is the perfect location for exploring the West of Ireland. Tel: 091 592108 Email: info@connemaracoast.ie Web: www.connemaracoast.ie
Just 10 minutes from Galway City in Moycullen, at the gateway to Connemara, Wildlands is a hotspot for thrill-seekers of all ages. Choose from indoor and outdoor adventures including Zip ‘n’ Trek, Celtic Challenge Rooms, Fun Walls, Archery, Bushcraft, Disc Golf, Yoga, Fairy Trails, Woodland walks and more! Enjoy a panoramic view of the park’s ziplines as you dine in the Olive Tree Kitchen restaurant. www. wildlands.ie
Nestled in the heart of Connemara, Kylemore Abbey is a haven of beauty, history, nature & serenity. Visit the restored period rooms and multimedia experience of the Victorian castle, the 6-acre Victorian Walled Garden and the romantic neo-Gothic Church. For more information and to book your visit, please see www.kylemoreabbey.com.
Boasting an award-winning 2AA Rosette restaurant, The Falls Restaurant, as well as a new contemporary concept, The Stables Brasserie and Bar, five-star Sheen Falls Lodge has crafted a reputation for outstanding Irish hospitality. Whatever the occasion this summer, dining at Sheen Falls Lodge ensures an unforgettable culinary experience.
Join us at Hugh Lane Gallery where art and ideas meet in the heart of the City. Hugh Lane Gallery houses the foremost public collection of contemporary art in Ireland, which includes marvellous examples of French and Irish impressionist painting, Harry Clarke stained glass, Francis Bacon’s Studio, and much more.
smoking process and the world of salmon, or dive deeper with an exclusive “Meet the Maker” tour through the production facility, guided by a member of the Curtin family. Nearby, you can taste the Craft Beers from the Burren Brewery, a microbrewery crowned one of the Three Best Craft Breweries in Ireland.
www.burrensmokehouse.ie
Phone: +353 (0)65 7074432
Visitors to the House of Waterford Crystal learn the history and stories behind one of Ireland’s most iconic brands. The guided factory tour showcases all stages in the creation of this fine crystal and afterwards, visitors experience the largest showcase of Waterford Crystal in the world! Relax in The Crystal Café, enjoy delicious breakfast, lunch, sweet treats or an indulgent Afternoon Tea experience.
Taste, Learn, Play & Shop in different visitor experiences at the Burren Smokehouse. Learn all about their history and salmon smoking.
In “Taste the Atlantic –The Salmon Experience” –a self-guided & interactive visitor experience – you can immerse yourself in the story of Irish Salmon through a shadow play, jigsaw puzzles and quizzes. Book a masterclass and learn more about the
Durty Nelly’s can truly be described as one of Ireland’s landmark Irish pubs. Nestling in the shadow of the magnificent Bunratty Castle, it is the first stopping off point for generations of visitors to Ireland arriving at nearby Shannon Airport. It’s a meeting place for both locals and tourists alike and the interaction between the two is what makes it such a unique Irish pub.
As Ireland’s first and only Forbes Five Star Hotel and the former home of the Guinness family, Ashford Castle is truly a once-ina-lifetime experience. We very much look forward to welcoming you to the Ashford Estate.
The extraordinary characters of the Castle passionately care about each and every guest, while our spectacular surroundings, exquisite interiors, delicious cuisine and unique local partnerships bring this corner of Ireland to life in the most beautiful way. A world-famous Irish welcome.
Fishers is a must-visit on any trip to County Wicklow, where a warm welcome awaits. Located in the heart of Newtownmountkennedy, this boutique department store has something for everyone! Stocking gorgeous clothing collections from Irish and European brands, homewares and gifts for every occasion. Their award-winning café offers mouth-watering brunch, lunch and treats indoors or on their sheltered patios.
TD active Holidays is a collection of adventure holidays full of amazing activities. Irish Owned and Operated, their holidays range from walking, yoga and photography to their Explore range of exciting small group tours. They take all the stress out of planning your adventure, taking care of everything from flights, transfers, accommodation to providing expertly guided excursions. Every holiday is accompanied by a passionate local guide.
Christmas in Killarney is a truly magical time and at The Brehon we go all out to create a wonderful and inviting experience for our visitors and guests. From our thirty-foot-tall Christmas Tree and open fires to our delicious seasonal food and winter warming festive drinks. Join us for a 2 or 3 night Christmas Break and see all that our beautiful hotel has to offer this upcoming holiday sea
Plan your escape to Fota Island Resort and bring together your loved ones in the beautiful East Cork Countryside. Keep discovering all East Cork has to offer with Fota Island Resort. Plan your stay your way with a wide range of activities and amenities available for your perfect break away. T: +(021) 488 3700. E: reservations@fotaisland.ie
Ireland’s only model railway is a labour of love. Step back in time and explore one of the world’s most unique model railway collections. Housed in a beautifully restored Casino cottage and located in the idyllic seaside village of Malahide and within easy walking distance of Malahide Castle.
The Cyril Fry Collection offers a close-up look at the exquisite workmanship of his hand-crafted models. All hand painted and considered the most elaborate in Ireland. Delve into the interactive display, marvel at the models and gasp at the wonder of the The Irish International Railway & Tramway System.
For more information visit www.modelrailwaymuseum.ie
Hooked Sligo, funky eclectic decor paired with creative locally sourced dishes. The perfect spot to watch Sligo life go by, and enjoy a Wild Atlantic Way foodie experience.
A proud list of local suppliers, the majority of which are Sligo based.
Breakfast Fri - Sun, Brunch & Dinner 7 days. Vegetarian & gluten-free menus.
Malahide Castle was home to the Talbot family for nearly 800 years and with a history dating back to 1185, there are plenty of stories to be told.
Enjoy a guided tour of Dublin’s most loved medieval castle just 10 minutes from Dublin Airport and 13km from Dublin City centre. See the splendour of Lord Milo Talbot’s walled botanical garden, The Butterfly House and West Lawn. Take a break and breath of fresh air on Avoca’s café terrace overlooking the walled garden, or engage in some retail therapy in the Museum Shop in the visitor centre For more visit www.malahidecastleandgardens.ie
Nestled in the green hills of South Sligo, Ireland’s largest sanctuary for raptors and owls, the Irish Raptor Research Centre
/ Eagles Flying is situated on more than 27-hectares of mature parklands near Ballymote. Currently it is the home of more than 100 eagles, hawks, owls, falcons and vultures. Altogether there are more than 450 birds and animals, encompassing nearly 100 different species, in the centre.
Situated overlooking the magnificent River Lee, The Kingsley is the perfect location to explore the abundance of activities Cork has to offer, including Cork City Gaol, Blarney Castle & Gardens and Nano Nagle Place, or hop in the car for a short drive to the coastal towns of Kinsale and Crosshaven – perfect for any day out.
T: +(021) 4800 500. E: reservations@thekingsley.ie
Newbridge House & Farm is an 18th Century hidden gem located in Donabate, North County Dublin, just 10 minutes from Dublin Airport.
If you’re coming from the north, we are just off the M1, so no major diversion needed for coaches travelling on the Belfast – Dublin route.
Nestled on 350 acres, Newbridge House was built back in 1736 by the Archbishop of Dublin, Charles Cobbe, as his country residence. Knowledgeable and passionate tour guides are on hand to bring the story of the Cobbe family to life for visitors, showcasing some of the finest examples of Georgian period architecture. The house and the 30-acre working farm are open daily for tours.
For more information visit www.newbridgehouseandfarm.com
Glencolmcille Folk Village is a thatched cottage coastal village in South West Donegal. Established in 1967, it tells the story of Glencolmcille through the ages. Original artefacts are on display in the cottages, which were constructed from stone taken from period cottages throughout the parish.
The tours are currently self-guided and are available in more than eight languages. There are three audio-visual programs that tell the story of Father McDyer, the local fishing tradition and cinefilm from the 1950’s. They have adapted a beautiful outdoor dining area and have a great family orientated eating area within this, with a safe area for children to play. They are world renowned for their beautiful vegetable soup and Irish breakfast. On special occasions you can Meet local crafts people and have a go at making a St. Brigid’s Cross or mending a fishing net.
Cork County Council has launched a new advertising campaign targeting inbound visitors to Cork Airport to help regenerate the tourism economy in Cork. The new campaign will feature the ‘Explore Cork’ app.
The first of its kind to be developed in Ireland, the ‘Explore Cork’ app features over 850 places to see and things to do in Cork.
Sliabh Liag Visitor Centre and Cliff Experience, where your Fáilte awaits, is a signature point of the Wild Atlantic Way in Donegal as Sliabh Liag Mountain boasts the highest sea-facing cliffs in Europe, reaching 1972-feet/801-metres. The famous ‘One-man’s Path’ and ‘Pilgrims Path’, are considered a hikers’ paradise.
Tel: 074 9739620 or email: info@sliabhliag.com for further information.
Mizen Head, Wild Atlantic Way Signature Discovery Point, at Ireland’s most South-Westerly point, in West Cork, is a dramatic place to visit. A Three-in-One must see Experience. Visitor Centre, Cliff paths with the Iconic Bridge and Signal Station. Café, Gift Shop and Washrooms. www.mizenhead.ie. / www.mizenhead.ie/guide
Dublin Express has quickly become established as the largest operator of scheduled shuttle services between Dublin Airport and Dublin City with coaches running every 30 minutes. We have built our success on a formula of great value fares for high quality, high frequency, sustainable public transport. See www.dublinexpress.ie for more information.
Elevate Marketing is a full-service digital marketing agency based in Naas, Co. Kildare. We provide a range of services including Digital Marketing, Website Development, Social Media Management, Branding, Digital Advertising and SEO for companies from a wide variety of sectors. Call us today on 087 7771983 for more information.
Eccles Hotel & Spa Glengarriff, your gateway to West Cork’s Wild Atlantic Way Steeped in 250 years of rich history and situated in the quaint village of Glengarriff overlooking Bantry bay on a stunning stretch of Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way, Eccles Hotel & Spa is a beautiful West Cork hotel offering the finest in charm, comfort and location.
For more visit www.eccleshotel.com
Established in 1913 –Three generations of quality! For three generations Beshoffs have been serving Dublin with the finest fish & chips. Well known for both the taste and quality of our offer, it is quite simply a taste of Dublin not to be missed. We specialise in freshly prepared fish, which is cooked to order, coated in our secret recipe batter. Simply Divine!
The GPO Museum is a must-see award-winning experience located within the historic GPO (General Post Office) in the heart of Dublin City. Explore the fascinating story of the 1916 Easter Rising and modern Irish History in an interactive and immersive setting. For bookings and further information visit www.gpowitnesshistory.ie
Get away from it all and explore the unique beauty of Lough Boora Discovery Park. Relax with friends and family amidst breath-taking landscapes. Enjoy the simple things and spend quality time making memories to treasure. Connect with nature to revitalise your mind and body.
Spike Island in Cork has been home to captains and convicts, rioters and rebels and sinners and saints. The former prison and fortress island is now a premier visitor attraction having been named ‘Europe’s Leading Tourist Attraction’ in 2017. Discover 1,300 years of history, see www.spikeislandcork.ie for more information.
You won’t find leprechauns or pots of gold here, but you’ll discover what it means to be Irish. EPIC expands beyond Ireland through the stories of emigrants who became scientists, artists and even outlaws. Discover Ireland from the outside in and learn why saying “I’m Irish” is a classic conversation starter.
• From right outside the airport door, straight to the heart of Dublin, and back again
• 15+ convenient stops, including O'Connell Street, Trinity College, Temple Bar & Heuston Station
• Premium onboard experience
• Free customer Wi-Fi
There’s a reason why visitors to EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum have voted us Europe’s leading tourist attraction three years in a row at the World Travel Awards. We could tell you that reason, but we think it’s better to experience it for yourself. This isn’t just a museum, it’s a totally unique and unmissable journey through the legacy of Ireland, centuries in the making. Book your tickets online at epicchq.com
