Travel Ireland Volume 5 Issue 51

Travelireland Volume 5 Issue 51 July 2018

magazine

Wicked

the Musical at Bord Gais Energy Theatre

Riverdance at Gaiety Theatre

Comeraghs Wild Festival

Queen with Adam Lambert at Marlay Park

Killarney Races A Winning Formula

Wexford hosts Art In The Open

CONTENTS

4 Welcome To Leinster 6 Wicked 8 Riverdance 10 Theatre 12 Iveagh Gardens 14 Bus Éireann New Express Service 16 Shopping 18 Explore Leinster 19 Leinster Bars 20 Leinster Restaurants 22 Art in the Open 25 Queen & Adam Lambert At Marlay Park 26 Welcome to Munster 28 Killarney July Racing Festival 29 Blarney Hotel & Golf Resort 30 Munster Bars 31 Munster Restaurants 32 West Cork Literary Festival 34 Dingle Crystal 36 Explore Munster 38 Cobh Heritage Centre 40 Welcome to Connaught 41 Connaught Bars 42 Connaught Restaurants 43 Waterford’s Comeraghs Wild Festival 44 Explore Connaught 45 Welcome to Ulster 46 Ulster Bars 48 Explore Ulster 49 Ulster Restaurants 50 New Irish Writers

Ellen Media Communications Ltd Suite 4, Talbot Business Centre, 19 Talbot St , Dublin 1.

Tel: 01 561 2431 / 087 911 3732 www.travelirelandmagazine.com Travel Ireland Magazine @traveliremag

Willkommen-Bienvenida-Bienvenue-Welcome! To our July issue Whether this is your first time visiting our shores or you are returning once again to trace the steps of your distant ancestors, here at Travel Ireland we hope in some small way to be able to gently guide you as you plan your stay here.

This month we’re looking forward to the return of Wicked The Musical at Bord Gais Energy Theatre, the unique Art In The Open is taking place this month in Wexford and Queen+Adam Lambert are set to rock Marlay Park in Dublin.

Down in Kerry the Killarney Races are taking place while Dublin sees the return of Riverdance at The Gaiety Theatre. It’s certainly the month for taking in the beauty of the country’s parks and outdoor amenities and Pat Liddy takes us on a stroll around Dublin’s Iveagh Gardens. Whatever you end up doing, we at Travel Ireland wish you a hefty and heartfelt Céad míle fáilte and hope you enjoy your stay.

Taisteal sásta (Happy Travels)

6

43

25

Published by Ellen Media Communications Ltd Publisher John Carey Features Writer Jade Cox (jade@travelirelandmagazine.ie) Design & Art Direction Outburst Design Advertising John Carey (john@ellenmediacom.ie, 01 561 2431, 087 911 3732) Contributors: Pat Liddy, Angeline Le Mercier, Adam Patterson Photography, John McCurdy, Paula Moore, Patrick O’ , Stephen Walker, Ivan Donoghue, Joleen Cronin, Richard Eibrand, Padraig O’Donnell, Michael McLaughlin, Roma Keeley.

We wish to record our thanks to Michael Bates, Failte Ireland, The Office of Public Works and the National Monuments Service, Dept of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, the Northern Ireland Tourist Board and the National Trust-Giants Causeway (NI) for their help and guidance in the production of this edition.

We would also like to thank Paddy Donovan, Ed Reeve, Carr Cotter and Naessens, jonandlauren.wordpress.com and 10bestpubsingalway.wordpress.com for the use of their images.

Ellen Media Communications Limited. All rights reserved. Ellen Media Communications Limited does not accept responsibility for any advertising content. All unsolicited manuscripts will not be accepted or returned. No material may be used in whole or in part without the publishers prior consent. Whilst every care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of all the events information or recommendations on this site, no responsibility will be accepted by Ellen Media Communications Ltd, its editorial team, designers, authors or agents acting on their behalf for alterations, errors or omissions which may occur.

JULY 2018 - TRAVEL IRELAND MAGAZINE

3

Leinster - The East Coast Province Leinster is the most easterly of the four provinces of Ireland, and is the most populated with the city of Dublin at its heart. The province is made up of counties Dublin, Louth, Meath, Carlow, Kildare, Wicklow, Laois, Offaly, Longford, Westmeath, Kilkenny and Wexford. These counties have a host of historic monuments, a picture perfect coastline and cities and villages thronged with things to do and see.

County Dublin is the home to the capital city. Dublin is the administrative, cultural, and economic capital of the country. It is one of the most exciting places to visit with a thriving arts, musical and theatrical nightlife.

All roads lead to Saint Stephen’s Green in the very centre of the city. You’ll find it at the top of Grafton Street, with Trinity College down at the other end. And just around the corner you can stroll around the cultural quarter of Temple Bar between Dame Street and the river that, famously, divides the North and the South of the city.

If you want to escape to the country without

GPO, Dublin actually leaving the city, then you can head north to Howth Head, or south to the charming and culturally vibrant villages of Dalkey and Killiney. Half an hour on the DART train will take you from the centre of the city to what feels like the heart of the country.

County Meath formerly known as the Royal County is the ancient seat of the High Kings of Ireland who were based around the Hill of Tara. Meath is also one of the most archaeologically important counties on the island with its Neolithic sites at Newgrange, Knowth and Dowth. These ancient religious sites (built before the Pyramids) have been excavated and restored in recent years making them some of the busiest visitors’ attractions in the country. The sites are all only less than an hour’s drive out of Dublin and are accessible

4

TRAVEL IRELAND MAGAZINE - JULY 2018

Phoenix Park, Dublin through the Bru Na Boinne Visitors Centre.

The county also features the site of the Battle of the Boyne which was one of the great battles fought on Irish soil. For horse racing lovers, Meath has the wonderful Fairyhouse Racecourse, and there is also summertime horse racing on Laytown Beach.

County Wicklow has several world famous sites and attractions, from the Glendalough monastic settlement with its Abbey and Round Tower, to the fabulous Powerscourt House and Gardens. The Wicklow Hills rising majestically over the county and the seaside town of Bray are just some of its many attractions.

Offaly is situated in the centre of Ireland.

Nestling between the Shannon River to the West and the Slieve Bloom Mountains to the East, Offaly is one of the lowest lying counties in the country. Any visitor should travel along the Royal Canal where one can experience a peace and tranquillity little known in our busy world.

Kildare is the home of the National Stud, Newbridge Silverware and Maynooth College.

Couple all these with Mondello Park motor racing, Naas horse racing course and Lullymore Heritage and Discovery Park and there is something for everyone.

Westmeath is a county which has at its heart the town of Athlone which is exactly situated in the middle of Ireland. It is home to the RTÉ

St Kevin’s Church, Glendalough

All-Ireland Drama Festival, the oldest pub in Ireland and some of the finest golfing, fishing and health spas on offer throughout the land.

Louth is known as “the wee county” as it is the

smallest county in Ireland but what it lacks in land mass it makes up for in places to see. It is the home of the Cooley Mountains, the Boyne river which is famous for its salmon fishing and the beautiful Carlingford area. If it is a leisurely drive you seek Louth is the place to go. Carlow is where you will find three of Ireland’s key national walking routes – the South Leinster, the Barrow and the Wicklow Ways. Carlow is blessed with hundreds of miles of excellent and varied walking trails, and hosts a wonderful arts festival every June.

Laois is where you can try your hand at a

Round Tower, Glendalough range of activities from paintballing in the Stradbally Woods to western-style riding at Fossey Mountain, bowls at the only indoor bowls stadium in the Republic or tie a fly at the unique Irish Fly-fishing and Game shooting Museum.

Kilkenny City was voted Ireland’s Top Tourism Town for 2013 by Failte Ireland which is Ireland’s main tourism body. It was voted Cleanest Town in Ireland at end of 2013 by Irish Business Against Litter (IBAL), and has also been voted 9th friendliest city in the world by readers of Conde Nast Traveler. The city was in addition voted Most Friendliest City in Europe. Couple all these awards with a huge countywide cultural heritage trail and it is a must see destination for any visitor.

Longford is situated in the basin of the River Shannon and the upper catchment area of the River Erne. It is ideally located in the heart of the Lakelands region within easy reach of many stunning and historic tourist attractions. The county’s accessibility to many of Irelands main towns and cities make it a prime location as a holiday base.

Finally, Wexford is famous for its glorious sandy coastline and together with County Waterford is known as ‘The Sunny South East’. You can also visit the oldest lighthouse in Europe which stands on the Hook Peninsula.

So now you know, whether you are a family group, a couple, or a single traveller, there is something for everyone in Leinster!

GOURMET FRENCH CUISINE PRE-THEATRE & EARLY-BIRD DINING VEGETARIAN, COELIAC & GLUTEN FREE OPTIONS PRIVATE DINING ROOMS AVAILABLE

81 - 82 TALBOT STREET, DUBLIN 2 |TEL: 01 704 0126 |EMAIL: INFO@LEBONCRUBEEN.IE |WWW. LEBONCRUBEEN.IE

Celtic Lodge Guesthouse

In the Heart of Dublin City Centre

Celtic Lodge is located on Talbot Street in Dublin City Centre.

Recently refurbished throughout, the rooms are decorated in modern colours and fabrics with luxurious touches, to make your stay in Dublin as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.

The Celtic Lodge Guesthouse is located just 5 minutes walk from both Connolly Train Station and Busáras, the main bus station in Dublin. Popular Dublin attractions such as the Guinness Storehouse, Dublin Zoo, Book of Kells at Trinity College, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Dublin Castle and the Old Jameson Distillery are also close by. Celtic Lodge offers quality Dublin accommodation at great rates and is an ideal choice for your stay in Dublin.

81-82 Talbot Street, Dublin 1 . Tel: 01 878 8810 Email: info@celticlodge.ie www.celticlodge.ie

Dublin’s Finest Traditional Irish Pub Traditional Irish Music Every evening from 9pm. Come on in for a pint and the craic!

Come along and experience the authentic atmosphere found only at The Celt Bar, the traditional Irish pub in Dublin that’s as full of life as it always has been. Friendly faces, a classic bar menu, the finest selection of Irish whiskey’s, beers, ales and stouts, ciders and not to mention the goodness of real Guinness.

www.thecelt.ie

The Celt Bar 81-82 Talbot Street, Dublin 1

d e k c i W The West End and Broadway musical phenomenon that tells the incredible untold story of the Witches of Oz will fly back to Bord Gáis Energy Theatre in 2018. This spectacular, multi record-breaking and critically acclaimed touring production will return for a strictly limited 6-week run from 17th July to 26th August 2018. This will be Irish theatre-goers second chance to experience a true modern classic and one of the most successful productions to appear in Bord Gáis Energy Theatre, WICKED was previously seen by over 130,000 people during its celebrated engagement here in Dublin from November 2013 to January 2014.

6

TRAVEL IRELAND MAGAZINE - JULY 2018

A

cclaimed as “One of the most successful musicals this century”, WICKED tells the incredible untold story of an unlikely but profound friendship between two sorcery students at Shiz University: the blonde and very popular Glinda and a misunderstood green girl named Elphaba. Following an encounter with The Wizard, their friendship reaches a crossroads and their lives take very different paths. Glinda’s unflinching desire for popularity sees her seduced by power while Elphaba’s determination to remain true to herself, and to those around her, will have unexpected and shocking consequences for her future.

Their extraordinary adventures in Oz will ultimately see them fulfil their destinies as Glinda The Good and the Wicked Witch of the West.

Based on the acclaimed, bestselling novel by Gregory Maguire that ingeniously re-imagines the stories and characters originally created by L. Frank Baum in The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, WICKED has become a global phenomenon featuring astounding technical wizardry, stunning costumes and show-stopping songs by threetime Academy Award winner Stephen Schwartz. Stephen Schwartz is the recipient of three Oscars, four Grammy Awards, a Golden Globe Award and an Honorary Tony Award. In addition to the globally successful WICKED, he is best known for his songwriting collaborations with Alan Menken on films including Disney’s Pocahontas, The Hunchback of Notre Dame and Enchanted as well as for Dreamworks’ The Prince of Egypt, for which he wrote both music

and lyrics. The Broadway revival of his legendary musical Pippin won the 2013 Tony Award for ‘Best Musical Revival’ and his 1971 musical Godspell continues to be performed all over the world.

His latest musical, Schikaneder, recently premiered in Vienna, Austria to huge acclaim.

WICKED is already the 17th longest running show in West End theatre history and recently celebrated a decade of performances at London’s Apollo Victoria Theatre, where it and has played over 4000 performances and continues an open-ended run. WICKED has already been seen by over 50 million people around the world and is one of the most celebrated and successful musicals of all time. Winner of over 100 major international awards, the original production has already been performed in over 100 cities in 15 countries around the world (United States,

Canada, United Kingdom, Ireland, Japan, Germany, The Netherlands, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, South Korea, The Philippines, Mexico, Brazil and China) and has also been translated from its original English into six other languages: Japanese, German, Dutch, Spanish, Korean and Portuguese.

This show features 350 stunning costumes, 140 wigs, 244 pairs of shoes, 110 hats, 125 pairs of gloves and 30 prosthetic masks.

It takes 100 people, both on-stage and behind the scenes, to delivery every single performance of this gigantic touring production that has been acclaimed as “every bit the West End show”.

Tickets for this unmissable production are on sale from Friday 30th June through Ticketmaster outlets.

JULY 2018 - TRAVEL IRELAND MAGAZINE

7

Riverdance

Riverdance comes home to Ireland this year with a run of shows at The Gaiety Theatre in Dublin and the INEC Killarney.

For over two decades, nothing has matched the energy, the sensuality and the spectacle of Riverdance, the international Irish Dancing phenomenon. Having played over 11,500 performances to over 25 million people throughout 47 countries, the stage spectacular Riverdance comes to Dublin to the Gaiety Theatre from the 12th of June to the 9th of September and the INEC Killarney for one week only from the 12th to the 16th September.

As the interval act of the 1994 Eurovision Song Contest, a worldwide audience of over 300 million saw the birth of Riverdance. The 7-minute performance earned a standing ovation from the 4000 strong audience.

This, ahead of its time dance piece

was then developed into a full stage show by producer Moya Doherty, composer Bill Whelan and Director John McColgan. With its fusion of Irish and International music and dance, Riverdance broke all box office records during its world premières in Dublin, London and New York and continued to set new records in packed theatres and arenas throughout the world.

Featuring the unbelievable talent of the Riverdance Lead Dancers, the Riverdance Irish Dance Troupe, the live Riverdance Band and International artists from Russia, Spain and the USA, the show is guaranteed to mesmerise audiences of all ages and cultures.

Since Riverdance began performances in Dublin in 1995, the show has travelled 750,000 miles, or

30 times around the world, played to a global television audience of 3 billion people, sold over 3 million copies of the Grammy Award winning CD and sold over 10 million Riverdance videos and DVDs. Riverdance holds the Guinness World Record for the ‘Longest Riverdance Line’ which featured 1693 participants! There have been 2,000 performers from 29 countries, 22,000 dance shoes worn, 17,500 costumes worn, 500,000 gallons of water consumed, 6,000,000 pounds of dry ice used onstage, 64 marriages between company members, 98 Riverdance babies born (with more on the way!), 50,000 rolls of self-grip tape used by company physiotherapists, 20,500 hours of rehearsals on tour, 1,000,000 pounds of ice in post-show ice buckets used by the dancers to aid muscle recovery and 80,000 pounds of chocolate consumed (for energy) by the cast!

Ticket info: Riverdance Gaiety Theatre Dublin 12 June – 9 September Tickets €21 - €71 www.Riverdance.com VIP Experience Tickets: €96 Immerse yourself in Riverdance and meet with the Lead Dancers and the cast for individual photos, conversation & more INEC Killarney September 12th - 16th Tickets: €35 - €43.70 VIP Tickets: €100 www.inec.ie

8

TRAVEL IRELAND MAGAZINE - JULY 2018

Theatre

Mermaid Arts Centre

Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland

Also at the Abbey this month; Ulysses 11 June – 21 July, Jimmy’s Hall 26 July – 8 Sept

Smock Alley Theatre The Good Father

The Gate Theatre The Snapper

The Snapper offers a wickedly funny account of the ups and downs of family life and pregnancy in Northside Dublin of the late 1980s. It is salty and sweet and the Gate Theatre sits right next door to the Rotunda Hospital where Sharon’s baby ‘the snapper’ is born.

Take a trip down the rabbit hole with Chapterhouse Theatre Company this summer as they present the classic tale of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland. Join Alice as she stumbles into the magical world of Wonderland and meet a whole host of colourful characters. From the unforgettable White Rabbit and the madcap Mad Hatter to the terrifying Queen of Hearts, Alice’s journey couldn’t be filled with more adventure. Taking place offsite at Powerscourt Gardens.

Dates: 15th July Tel: 01 2724043 or visit www.mermaidartscentre.ie

Bord Gáis Energy Theatre Wicked

See Main Feature Dates: 17th July – 1st Sept Tel: 01 6777999 or visit www.bordgaisenergytheatre.ie

The Abbey Theatre Come on Home

Dates: 14th June – 15th Sept Tel: 01 8744045 / 01 8746042 or visit www.gatetheatre.ie

The Gaiety Theatre Riverdance 2018

Riverdance returns home to Dublin to the Gaiety Theatre from 12 June 2018.

The worldwide phenomenon which is Riverdance began its journey as the interval act in the 1994 Eurovision Song Contest. This electrifying and innovative seven minute dance piece was then developed into a full-length stage show by Producer Moya Doherty, Composer Bill Whelan and Director John McColgan.

With its fusion of Irish and International music and dance, the show broke all box office records and has continued to set new records in packed theatres and arenas throughout the world

New Year’s Eve. A house party like any other, in a suburb like any other. Two very different strangers meet, each looking for a new start and to shake off the disappointments of the past.

But champagne, cheap lager and their chance encounter leads this unlikely couple to an unplanned pregnancy. Against all odds, can they make their newfound family a success? Winner of the Stewart Parker Award, this heartfelt, moving drama charts their journey of love, loss and redemption.

Dates: 10th – 16th July Also at Smock Alley this month; She Kills Monsters 3rd – 7th July, Cardboard Coffin 17th July, No Borders 2 - 27th July, Idlewild 29th July – 11th Aug Tel: 01 6770014 or visit www.smockalley.com

Theatre Royal

Misterman by Enda Walsh

Dates: 12th June – 9 Sept Tel: 0818 719 388 or visit www.gaietytheatre.ie

The Olympia Theatre

Copper Face Jacks: The Musical

Inishfree might seem like a quaint Irish town, but Thomas Magill knows better. He knows that jovial Dwain Flynn is a miserable drunk, that Timmy O’Leary enslaves his lovely mother, and that sweet Mrs Cleary is a blasphemous flirt. It is down to Thomas, with God on his shoulder, to save this sinful place…

Dates: 13th July – 4th Aug

A new musical about a girl from Kerry and a boy from Dublin who fall in love despite the language barrier. A celebration of a club that started out life as something of a Culchie Embassy in Dublin but has since been embraced by its home city, as regardless of your county colours you’ll always find a welcome in the club that has become synonymous with having a good time for three generations of Irish night clubbers.

Copper Face Jacks: The Musical is written by Ross O’Carroll Kelly creator Paul Howard and is a love story set on the eve of a Dublin Kerry All Ireland Final, when a sweet Kerry girl, who’s moved to the big smoke for her dream job in The VHI, ends up falling head over her flatshoes with a true blue Dublin team member.

Tel: 01 8872200 or visit www.abbeytheatre.ie

Dates: 5th July – 12th Aug Tel: 01 679 3323 or visit www.olympia.ie

Tel: 051 874 402 or visit www.theatreroyal.ie

Michael hasn’t been home in almost twenty years. Having been kicked out of the seminary and exiled from his family home, he found himself in London, by accident rather than design. But now, the death of his mother sees him back in the small town where he grew up.

The place that chewed him up and spat him out. Come On Home is a new play about faith, family, place and desire.

10

TRAVEL IRELAND MAGAZINE - JULY 2018

Dates: 25th – 27th July Also at Theatre Royal this month; The Good Thief by Conor McPherson 12th – 14th July

Newly refurbished Peploe’s New York style meets Parisienne charm on Dublin’s St Stephens Green

Pre Theatre Menu 12.30 – 6.15pm

16 St. Stephen’s Green

peploes.com

353 1 676 3144

IVEAGH GARDENS

By Pat Liddy

E

very city has a secret park, an oasis of green and seclusion not generally noticed by the locals and totally overlooked by the tourist. In Dublin that elusive park is Iveagh Gardens. It is located behind and surrounded by Earlsfort Terrace, Hatch Street, Harcourt Street and St Stephen’s Green with almost hidden gateways leading off the first three. Only private entrances from a couple of premises on St Stephen’s Green give access to the park.

For the sake of this article we will direct you into the park from Earlsfort Terrace (named after the Baron Earlsfort, a title of the Earl of Clonmell, who we will meet later).

Walk up towards the block containing the National Concert Hall and enter in through the first gate of the complex.

Don’t walk to the entrance of the concert hall but rather walk between the side of this building and a large red-bricked structure all the way to the rear and pushing a bit further on you will see a small gate opening in a stone wall directly ahead. Once you enter through here you are in the Iveagh Gardens.

You will initially encounter a statue

12

TRAVEL IRELAND MAGAZINE - JULY 2018

to Count John McCormack, Ireland’s best-known tenor, whose international career spanned the first half of the 20th century. Continue straight on ahead (with the entrance behind you) until you reach a large sunken area on your right. Walk across to it and enter onto this plot of ground, either via the steps or by clambering down the tiny slope.

This is a good place to ponder the history of the park. The grounds were

once part of the medieval St Stephen’s Commonage, a place where the English colonists of Dublin could freely graze their sheep. Later they were known as Lesson’s Fields until a notorious judge by the name of John Scott built his mansion on nearby Harcourt Street in 1777. He bought over the fields to turn them into his gardens which he called Clonmell’s Lawns after his title, the Earl of Clonmell. His ruddy complexion earned him the name of Copper Face Jack, a title today of a famous night club situated near to his former home.

After Scott’s death the family sold the gardens in 1810 and they were opened to the public under the name of Coburg Gardens (the German ducal family of Saxe-Coburg from whence came Prince Albert, the future consort of Queen Victoria). By the 1860s the gardens had become quite derelict. Then along came Benjamin Lee Guinness, a member of the famous brewing family, who bought the property in 1862 to attach the gardens to the back of his house on St Stephen’s Green (today’s Iveagh House, the present government offices of the Department of Foreign Affairs). Employing the famed landscape

designer, Ninian Niven, the gardens were fundamentally reshaped. A year later Guinness sold much of the land to the Dublin Exhibition Palace and Winter Gardens Company to "provide a permanent exhibition of Irish arts and manufactures and also reading rooms, flower gardens, and a gas-lit winter garden, for public enjoyment" and it was to be modelled on the celebrated Crystal Palace of London. It was officially opened by Albert Edward, Prince of Wales, on 9 May 1865.

Initially an outstanding success, the Exhibition and its successor, the National Exhibition and Portrait Gallery, eventually ran out of steam and were wound up with the gardens returning

to the Guinness family. The great glass hall was dismantled but the remaining large stone building was adapted and partly rebuilt to accommodate the Royal University of Ireland in 1883. In 1908 this institution was reformed into University College Dublin (UCD) with the gardens being added on in 1939 as a gift from Rupert Guinness, 2nd Lord Iveagh. In 1991 the Government purchased the gardens and opened the 3.4-hectare site as a public park.

The Sunken Garden you may be standing in while reading this article was once the boating pond for the Guinnesses and is now an archery ground. Strangely, it is also the last resting place for an elephant which

died in 1922 and had been brought for examination to the veterinary students of UCD. A stroll around the rest of the gardens will reveal several pieces of statuary and two fountains, all survivors from the Great Exhibition and the Winter Gardens. Another leftover is the impressive water cascade, an immense rockery composed of limestone, sandstone and granite gathered from every corner of Ireland. More than one thousand three hundred litres a second plunge over the rocks and into the pool below.

On the opposite or south side of the park are the rosarium featuring Ireland’s largest collection of Portland Roses.

Nearby is the maze comprised of box hedging and containing a sundial in the centre. It is a miniature version of the maze at Hampton Court Palace in the UK. The East end of the park represents wilderness and woodland so the whole plan combines the best of Italian, French, English and American styles of landscaping and horticulture.

The opening hours for the Iveagh gardens are Monday-Saturday at 08.00 and Sunday and Bank Holidays at 10.00.

Closing times vary with the time of the year but approximate to 15.30 from December – January, 16.00 February & November and 18.00 March-October.

dodublintours

TED VO

R

O

TR

IP

Whether you want to sit back and soak up the culture at Dublin’s historic sites or get out there and explore the streets, meet the people and sample the Guinness, our guides can help you make the most of your holiday and see the city like a local.

ON

AS

Dublin’s No.1 Bus Tour A D VIS

FREE Kids FREE Hotel Shuttle FREE Walking Tour FREE Little Museum of Dublin

Book a Tour

The Dubliner’s Guide to Dublin

Book online dodublin.ie

Buy in person at Dublin Bus Head Office 59 Upper O’Connell St, Dublin 1 Hop on and pay driver

dodublin.ie JULY 2018 - TRAVEL IRELAND MAGAZINE

13

New express service between

Newry and Dublin Airport/Dublin City

B

us Éireann, in conjunction with Translink, has introduced a new express route between Newry, Dublin Airport and Dublin City. Expressway route X5 will have 12 return services a day between Newry and Dublin, and started operating on Sunday June 10th.

When combined with route X1 (Dublin – Belfast) it will provide 42 services daily between Dublin City, Dublin Airport and Newry - a near 24-hour service. The service will benefit both commuters and airport customers.

Route X5 offers a journey time of just over 90 minutes from Dublin City, and 70 minutes from Dublin Airport. It will expedite travel times for those commuting between Newry and Dublin, who can also avail of complimentary on-board Wi-Fi. Airport customers can forget about fuel, parking and

14

TRAVEL IRELAND MAGAZINE - JULY 2018

toll costs and enjoy extra comfort seats and charging points. Travel is stress free and comfortable. Tickets are available to purchase on board but a 5% discount is applied to online bookings at expressway.ie “The New X5 service is being introduced in response to customer demand for a dedicated high frequency route between Dublin City and Dublin Airport to Newry,” said Seán Forde, Expressway Product Manager. We are delighted to offer an increased service level on this busy travel corridor, with near round-the-clock departures to and from Dublin and Newry.”

For more information and to book check out www.expressway.ie

Recommended Shopping Powerscourt Centre

Located in Dublin’s Creative Quarter on the bustling South William Street is the Powerscourt Centre. Housed in a stunning Georgian townhouse, the Powerscourt Centre has over 40 shops and restaurants and offers shoppers a wonderful city centre shopping experience.

The centre offers a range of fashion stores, such as All Saints, French Connection and Mary Grant and if antiques are your thing then the Powerscourt Centre is the place to go. There are a number of antique stores in the centre, including Courtville Antiques, Delphi Antiques, Lilly Fine Art, The Silver Shop and Monte Cristo. If you’re planning a wedding in the near future, the Centre also offers a number of superb wedding outlets www.powerscourtcentre.ie

Stephen’s Green Shopping Centre Located at the top of Grafton Street, in the heart of Dublin city centre, Stephen’s Green Shopping Centre hosts a wide variety of top retailers.

Household names such as Dunnes Stores, Argos, Boots, Eason, United Colors of Benetton, Mothercare, Elverys, Golden Discs and TK Maxx can be found here. When you’re finished shopping, you can relax in one of the many lovely cafes, head for a pint in one of the many nearby pubs, or take a stroll across the road in St Stephen’s Green. www.stephensgreen.com

Jam Art Factory

Jam Art Factory was set up in 2011 by brothers John and Mark to showcase the work of Irish artists and designers. It specialises in digital art prints, street art, ceramics and some witty Dublin themed work. It has been shortlisted in The Irish Times “Best Shops in Ireland” 4 years in a row.

64 Patrick Street, Dublin 8 14 Crown Alley, Temple Bar, Dublin 2 Tel: 01 616 5671 www.JamArtFactory.com and www.JamArtPrints.com 16

TRAVEL IRELAND MAGAZINE - JULY 2018

Cinders

Cinders is an Irish owned footwear store stocking a carefully collated collection of beautiful shoes, sandals and accessories from leading labels around the world. Brands include Rieker, Marco Tozzi, Tamaris, Steve Madden, Pitillos and their own trend collection. They are located at 22 Wicklow St, Dublin 2 and also have concessions in a number of Dunnes Stores: St. Stephen's Green, Henry St, Liffey Valley, Blanchardstown and Cornelscourt in Dublin, Bishopstown Court and Patrick's St in Cork, Headford Road in Galway and Monread Shopping Centre in Naas.

22 Wicklow St, Dublin 2 Tel: 01 6777 491 www.Cinders.ie

Tights Department Tights Dept. is an Irish owned store specialising in Italian legwear.

They offer a full range of classic and fashion hosiery: tights, socks (men and women), hold-ups, stockings, leggings and more, they also stock a collection of tops and vests. Top brands: Omsa, Emilio Cavallini, Trasparenze, Omero and Happy Socks.

Celtic Whiskey Shop

Ireland’s premier Irish whiskey specialists with a remarkable selection of beloved, rare and hard to find bottlings and shop exclusives. It boasts a knowledgeable and friendly staff who are proud and passionate about products, and are always on hand to offer advice. Feel free to pop in where we serve up in-store whiskey tastings all day everyday! If you're travelling, our staff can either wrap your purchases in protective wrapping or arrange shipping to national and international destinations.

27 – 28 Dawson Street, Dublin 2 Tel: 01 6759744 www.celticwhiskeyshop.com

Mitchell & Son Wine Merchants

Unit 108, 1st Floor, Stephen's Green Shopping Centre, Dublin 2, Ireland D02 VF67 Shop online: www.tightsdepartment.ie (deliver worldwide)

Designer Exchange

Ireland’s only dedicated pre-loved and authentic designer handbag and accessory store, Designer Exchange stock all the leading designer brands such as DKNY, Louis Vuitton and Chanel. They offer incredible savings on these top designer brands.

53 Dawnson Street, Dublin 2.

35 Exchequer Street, Dublin 2.

Tel: 01 612 8080 www.facebook.com/DesignerExchangeLtd

Since 1805, family-owned Mitchell & Son have been providing Fine Wines & Spirits to the people of Ireland. Now in the hands of the 7th generation, they offer a high quality selection of New & Old World Wines, Champagne, & fortified wines. Home to the Green and Yellow Spot Irish Whiskeys, they also have a wide selection of Irish, Scotch, & Japanese whiskies, and other fine spirits. With a superb selection of Riedel Glassware and decanters, Coravin Wine System, and Le Creuset wine accessories, they are one of the most diverse independent wine merchants in Ireland. Mitchell & Son also offer Wine and Whiskey Appreciation courses that provide an understanding of the Irish market and a chance to explore your tastes.

CHQ Building, IFSC, Dublin, D01 FC89 Tel: 01 612 5540 www.mitchellandson.com

Recommended Shopping The Donegal Shop

The Donegal Shop is an independently owned and family run Irish business. They are specialists in Donegal homespun tweeds and knitted products. The store offers a range of knitwear, aran sweaters and accessories for both women and men, all crafted using techniques handed down through generations of Donegal artists.

Mention Travel Ireland to get a 10% discount 2nd Floor, St Stephen’s Green Shopping Centre, Dublin 2 01 475 4621 www.thedonegalshop.com

James Fox

Puro

Puro offers innovative collections of contemporary urban-wear and luxury sneakers from emerging talents as well as world renowned designers. Brands include Pal Zileri, Joop!, Baldessarini, Guess, Philippe Model, Gold Brothers, Android Homme, Mallet and many more.

Puro is the only Irish stockist of many of these brands and while we feel a visit to this beautiful store is a must to truly appreciate the collections, you can also shop or browse first online at puromenswear.com 34 Wicklow Street, Dublin, Ireland info@puro.ie Call (01) 558 1406

The Kilkenny Shop

Amelia’s is home to a selection of beautiful gallery pieces that are perfect for the home or a present for someone special. They stock a range of art and studio ceramics lovingly handcrafted by makers from all over the country, specialising in local makers from the North-West of Ireland.

There are little gifts and keepsakes for the everyday too! All pieces are handpicked by owner Frances Spears. She has over 20 years experience in the design and antiques business so you know you’re in good hands when you pay a visit to Amelia’s Irish Design.

29 Upper Main Street, Letterkenny Co. Donegal 087 2434060 www.amelias.ie

Mackintosh by Francis Campelli

Mackintoshes were first produced in Ireland in 1889 and Francis Campelli has been involved in the production of them for almost 40 years so you know you’re in the most experienced hands The Kilkenny Shop is Ireland’s largest emporium when you visit this store. for Irish designed products; from fashion and They offer the finest quality, waterproof jewellery to homeware, handmade crafts and crystal. For over five decades, the Kilkenny Shop has Mackintoshes for men and women from stock or made to measure been supporting Irish design talent, stocking top designers like Waterford Crystal, Orla Kiely, Aideen from €485, as well as a range of leather bags, satchels and accessories.

Bodkin, Nicholas Mosse and Stephen Pearce.

6 Nassau Street, Dublin 2 01 6777066 www.kilkennyshop.com

Irish Linen House

For over 135 years, James Fox Cigar and Whiskey Store has been Dublin’s focal point for lovers of Irish whiskey and premium Cuban cigars. Here you will find Ireland’s largest selection of handmade Cuban cigars, including rare and vintage stock.

James Fox also stock a large range of premium Irish whiskeys and spirits to satisfy the most discerning palates. Tax-Free shopping available in-store and online.

119 Grafton Street, Dublin, Ireland.

Tel: (01) 677 0533 Email: info@jamesfox.ie Website: www.jamesfox.ie

Amelia’s Irish Design

Irish Linen House create handmade tablerunners, placemats and napkins made from the finest Irish linen. Each piece of the collection is uniquely made, fusing historical elements with a modern, contemporary edge and has caught the attention of worldwide stores including Barneys of New York. Just up the road from the Jameson Distillery, their Smithfield store is the perfect place to pick up a unique piece of Ireland.

Nr. Jameson Distillery, Bow Street Smithfield Village, Dublin 7 www.irishlinenhouse.com 01-5329572 / 083-3010502 01 820 8774

46 South William Street, Dublin 2 01 6088608 www.franciscampelli.com

Article

This charming store in the Powerscourt Townhouse Centre is the perfect place to pick up a unique souvenir of your time in Ireland.

They stock homeware from around the world, including Irish designers - with everything from Irish woollen throws, glass vases and stationery on offer and the friendly staff are always on hand to offer help and advice.

Powerscourt Townhouse, South William Street, Dublin 2 01 679 9268 www.articledublin.com JULY 2018 - TRAVEL IRELAND MAGAZINE

17

Explore Leinster

The Chester Beatty Library

EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum EPIC is a state-of-the-art museum that tells the moving and unforgettable story of the 10 million people who left Ireland – and how they influenced and shaped the world.

Experience this breathtaking story in the world’s only fully digital museum. This top-rated attraction houses the Irish Family History Centre, helping visitors uncover their Irish roots. Top 10 Things to Do in Dublin on TripAdvisor and shortlisted for European Museum of the Year 2018.

Open daily 10am to 6:45pm (last entry 5pm).

The CHQ Building, Custom House Quay, Dublin 1. epicchq.com +353 (0)1 906 0861

Glasnevin Cemetery Museum and Guided Tours Glasnevin is one of Ireland’s most popular attractions. Located 2.5km from Dublin centre, this is a hauntingly gorgeous Victorian Garden cemetery where over 1.5 million are buried. Guides are passionate about sharing their love of history and recount the stories of Ireland’s fascinating past through daily walking tours. A history lesson made fun and memorable by guides who know their stuff, be prepared to enjoy yourself. Awarded Best Cultural Experience in Ireland and listed at no. 2 on Tripadvisor, Glasnevin is a cemetery of historic importance. Museum, genealogy, gift shop and café on site.

Open daily for guided tours and re-enactments museum@glasnevintrust.ie

Pat Liddy Walking Tours of Dublin

If you really want to get to know the city, then walking around with an entertaining and professional guide is the best way to discover its history and hidden treasures. Pat Liddy’s Walking Tours of Dublin have been offering their famous tours for over a decade. The tours are described as entertaining and full of history. Even for someone who lives in Dublin, the tours surprises with loads of hidden facts. You can choose from a wide range of scheduled tours (all year round), including three brand new tours designed to get you off the beaten path. Docklands – The New Old Dublin, Hidden Gems of the Northside and The Tempting Whiskey Trail around the historic Liberties. Private tours can be arranged at any time geared to the topic of your choice. Tours are offered in main European languages.

Find Out More Book at: www.walkingtours.ie Contact: Info@walkingtours.ie or 00353 10832 9406

Kilmainham Gaol (Jail) Kilmainham Gaol may seem like an unusual place to spend a morning or afternoon but despite its sometimes grim past it makes for a fascinating visit.

Built in 1796, Kilmainham Gaol served as a prison for 128 years, and tours detail some of the most heroic and tragic events in Ireland’s emergence as a modern nation. The tour of the prison includes an audio-visual show. Tickets are sold on a first come first served basis and cannot be booked in advance.

Tel: 01 453 5984

The only museum in Ireland to win ‘European Museum of the Year’ and described by the Lonely Planet as not just the best museum in Ireland, but one of the best in Europe, the Chester Beatty Library opens a window on the artistic treasures of the great cultures and religions of the world.

Egyptian papyrus texts, beautifully illuminated copies of the Qur’an, the Bible, European medieval and renaissance manuscripts are among the many highlights that you’ll find on display here. And be sure to avail of the excellent guided tours that the loquacious and extremely well-informed guides provide there, free of charge. They take place on Wednesdays at 1pm and on Sundays at 3pm and 4pm.

Opening hours: 10am-5pm Mon-Fri, Sat 11am-5pm, Sun 1pm-5pm.

Tel: 01 407 0750

The National Museum of Ireland

The Museum is recognised as Ireland’s premier cultural institution and home to the greatest collections of Irish material heritage, culture and natural history in the world. With three locations in Dublin covering Archaeology, Natural History and the Decorative Arts and one location in Mayo covering Country Life, you can lose yourself for hours in the many exhibitions detailing all aspects of Irish life down through the ages. Don’t miss the fantastic new exhibition Shadow of Sodeisha; Japanese and Irish art in Clay, celebrating 60 years of Japanese/Irish relations which runs in the National Museum of History Decorative Arts until February 2018.

Admission to the museum is free all year round.

Tel 01 677 7444

Baggot Street welcomes a beautiful modern Italian restaurant!

Open for lunch from 12pm to 3pm, Dinner 5pm 'til late, Mon- Sat www.cirillos.ie

Phone | +353 1 676 6848 Location | No. 140, Baggot St., Dublin 2 18

TRAVEL IRELAND MAGAZINE - JULY 2018

Recommended Bars in Leinster

The Duke

Ideally situated close to Grafton Street, this old watering hole has been providing liquid refreshment and sustenance to the people of Dublin since 1822. They have a great selection of craft beers, whiskeys and gins for you to try, along with amazing food. The Duke is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of busy Grafton Street.

9 Duke St, Dublin 2 016799553

Dingle Whiskey Bar Sin É

Sin É on Ormond Quay is Dublin’s original late night alternative music venue. Whether it’s bluegrass, ska, alternative rock or open mic night’s that you’re looking for, Sin É caters for a range of eclectic tastes. The staff are warm and friendly and will serve you a range of incredible craft beers and cocktails at agreeable prices. If you’re looking for a great atmosphere and some of the best musicians in Dublin then Sin É is

ǧ

definitely the place to be. ĆĞnj ĎĒĊ ĊĚē ċėĔĒ ͕͖ ēĔĔē

the celt

The Dingle Whiskey Bar is a delightful bar nestled beside Porterhouse Central on Nassau St. Walking into the bar, you are welcomed by a beautiful oak interior and a warm welcoming feel. The bar staff are very helpful, recommending many whiskeys and offering samples. And every Tuesday they host a Whiskey Tasting Class from 7pm with whiskey guru Fionnån O’Connor. Learn everything you ever wanted to know about the brown stuff and enjoy some delicious whiskey. Tickets available at the bar for ₏18.

44 Nassau Street, Dublin 2 01 677 4810 www.theporterhouse.ie

strolling14 into-15 theOrmond celt is likeQuay taking a trip to the west, play boys and chailĂ­nĂ­ payfor attention and& dance along the way to the early light Tel: 01 555 4036 01 555 4037

www.sin-e.ie

ÍœÍ•ÇŚÍœÍ– –ƒŽ„‘– •–”‡‡–ǥ †—„Ž‹Â? …‹–› …‡Â?–”‡ ™™™Ǥ–Š‡…‡Ž–Ǥ‹‡ –‡Žǣ ͔͕ ͛͜͜ ͚͙͙͜

The Hairy Lemon

The Hairy Lemon is based in the centre of Dublin and located in the Creative Quarter in Dublin 2.

The interior is a little unconventional with years of memorabilia, a sitting room suspended in mid-air, high nellies, wellies and even Granny’s Kitchen serving traditional Irish food. Unknown to itself, the Hairy Lemon has become one of Dublin’s trendiest bars and hosts The Hairy Lemon Trad Sessions every Sunday from 7pm onwards.

The Stag’s Head

A beautiful Victorian pub in the heart of Dublin city, The Stag’s Head is nestled just off Dame Street and is a firm favourite for Dublin pub-goers and tourists alike. Original Victorian features include mahogany and marble tabletops and stained glass windows. The Stag’s Head recently won Best Tourist Pub at the inaugural Irish Pub Awards.

41-42 Stephen Street Lower, Dublin 2.

(01) 671 8949

1 Dame Court, Dublin 2.

Phone: (01) 679 3687

The Celt The TapHouse

The mission at TapHouse Bar and Kitchen is to give the finest Irish and International flavour through craft beers, spirits, fine wines and tasting plates of exciting foods that complement and accompany their beers wines and spirits. The TapHouse also have their own beer philosophy and the TapHouse standard pour is in the Munique 400ml glass, to keep your beer cool, carbonated and fresh to the last drop.

60 Ranelagh, Dublin.

Call (01) 491 3436 info@taphouse.ie

Situated on Talbot Street in the heart of Dublin, The Celt Bar is always thronged with locals and visitors thanks to the authentic Irish experience that is on offer there. Visitors can sample the finest Irish whiskeys, beers, ales and stouts and enjoy live traditional music seven nights a week.

The Celt also offer traditional Irish food seven days a week. The classic bar menu includes beer battered haddock and traditional beef and Guinness stew. There’s no better place to go to for the full Irish experience than The Celt Bar. 81 Talbot St, Dublin Tel: 01 878 8655 www.thecelt.ie

Grogan’s

This is the regular hang-out for Dublin’s finest writers and painters, or the great unwashed, and the walls inside are decked out with paintings and drawings which can, for a small sum, be purchased.

Improbably, it is also part of one of the most fashionable mini crossroads in the city centre. And at weekends, the place is humming.

15 S William St., Dublin 2. Tel: 01 677 9320 JULY 2018 - TRAVEL IRELAND MAGAZINE

19

Recommended Restaurants in Leinster Corfu Greek Restaurant

Corfu Greek Restaurant is a hidden gem situated on Parliament Street. Here, the friendly and attentive staff will serve you some of the finest Greek food at incredibly reasonable prices. Choose from a range of starters, such as calamari and dolmadakia, and then tuck into some delicious traditional Greek main courses, including moussaka, kleftiko and stifado, all washed down with a nice glass of wine from their varied wine list.

12 Parliament St, Dublin 2 Tel: 01 675 0050

Le Bon Crubeen

Silken Thomas

Silken Thomas is a family operated business, established for over 40 years. Focussed on giving that warm Irish welcome, Silken Thomas has a proven record in quality and service. Silken Thomas is where you can eat, drink, dance and sleep.

Silken Thomas brings to you the traditional Irish Pub Lils, the more sports-orientated Squires and the contemporary Flanagan’s Lounge. For whatever occasion you are celebrating or a place to simply relax for a drink, Silken Thomas is the choice for you.

The Square Kildare Town Co. Kildare +353 (0) 45 522232 info@silkenthomas.com

Camden Kitchen This is one of the best value restaurants in Dublin, with a brasserie menu to suit all tastes.

It has won Best Value Restaurant Dublin in the Dubliner, Best Pre-Theatre listing in Hot Press and Best Casual Dining in the Restaurant Awards Value and Quality.

Peploe’s

Peploe’s Wine Bistro is a chic and ambient restaurant located in the heart of Dublin City Centre. With it’s cosy lighting and comfortable spacious dining area, it is the perfect place to enjoy a fine meal in a relaxed atmosphere. All produce is sourced from only the best Irish suppliers and prepared to the highest standard. Located opposite St Stephens Green, Peploe’s is the perfect place to visit for a glass of wine to greet the evening after a twilight stroll in the park.

16 St Stephen’s Green, Dublin 2 Tel: 01 676 3144 www.peploes.com

Cliff Townhouse

Fine dining in Dublin city centre with seafood focused menus, including the innovative Afternoon Sea. The Cliff Townhouse restaurant serves brilliantly executed Dublin classics, menus are equally suited to a threecourse celebration or a light bite in the middle of the day. Staples include generous salads, eggs Benedict, Galway oysters, Irish lobsters, dressed Yawl Bay crabs, wild sea trout and 10oz Hereford rib eye steaks.

22 St Stephen's Green, Dublin 2 +35316383939 info@clifftownhouse.ie

81-2 Talbot Street, Dublin 1 Tel: 01 704 0126 www.leboncrubeen.ie

Mexico to Rome

Zaytoon

20

Zaytoon gives you the chance to choose a healthy eating option and indulge in the guilty pleasure of treating yourself to a scrumptious kebab. More a casual diner than a fast food place, they offer the very best of Persian cuisine. And as well as the one in Temple Bar they’ve opened a second one at the top of Camden Street.

A culinary gem in the heart of Dublin, Camden Kitchen is the place to go to for lunch or dinner. Their menu changes daily to reflect the best seasonal ingredients available, meaning you know that you’ll be served fresh, seasonal food every time. Diners can choose from beautiful starters such as Irish Line Caught Mackerel, Connemara Crab Meat or Whipped Goats Cheese and then move on to delicious main courses, like Breckland Duck Leg, Irish Rib Eye Beef and Smoked Haddock Risotto, all served up in a wonderful cosy atmosphere by the friendly staff.

14/15 Parliament St., Dublin 2 Tel: 01 677 3595 www.zaytoon.ie

3 Camden Market, Grantham Street, D8 Tel: 01 476 0125 www.camdenkitchen.ie

TRAVEL IRELAND MAGAZINE - JULY 2018

Located in the heart of Temple Bar, Mexico to Rome, Bandito’s Grill House offer a new twist on Mexican dishes such as sizzling Fajitas, their unique Burritos, Tacos, Chili Con Carne, and Tex-Mex Baby Back Ribs in a Southern Comfort BBQ Sauce. They also offer a range of European and Asian dishes. They boast one of the best value earlybird menus in Dublin at €13.50 for a starter and main course, while their lunch special of a starter, main course and a soft drink or a glass of wine for €9.95 is superb value.

23 East Essex Street, Dublin 2 Tel: 01 677 2727 www.mexicotorome.com

Recommended Restaurants in Leinster Kafka Restaurant

Whether it’s for an Italian coffee, a sweet or savoury snack or a full meal with wine, you can call in here for continental cuisine, exemplary service and great value. They serve lunch, brunch and dinner, offering a fresh healthy menu of delights including Spinach and Ricotta Cheese Ravioli, Jamaican Jerk Chicken and Tiger Prawn Risotto and as they’re just a short walk from the City Centre, it’s the perfect place to start your night out.

236 Rathmines Rd Lwr., Dublin 6 01 497 7057 www.kafka.ie

ASADOR

Café Topolis

The Left Bank Bistro

Situated on Parliament St, Café Topolis is one of the best Italian restaurants in town with an extensive menu offering superior Italian cuisine.

Best of all, it’s one of the very few places where they cook their pizzas in the traditional wood fired oven.

The Left Bank Bistro is 23 years in business, a true testament to its popularity. This modern restaurant is situated in the heart of Old Athlone, a stone's throw from the Athlone Lock on the River Shannon with views of the Norman Castle and its ancient architecture.

The food is exciting and innovative. You can savour fresh fish and dishes such as beef carpaccio, chicken satay and an array of decadent, delicious desserts.

37 Parliament St, Dublin 2 Tel: 01 670 4961

Cirillo’s

Fry Place, High St, Athlone, Co. Westmeath Call (090) 649 4446 Email: info@leftbankbistro.com

La Ruelle Wine Bar Cirillo’s have gone to great lengths to ensure that their customers enjoy an authentic Italian meal.

All of their pizzas are made to the traditional Vera Pizza Napoletana standards, using San Marzano tomatoes, 00 flour and fresh mozzarella all finished in a wood fire oven that they imported from Naples. All of their pasta, bread, pizza dough and ice creams are made in-house every day and they offer a wide variety of Italian wines, craft beers and aperitifs that beautifully compliment their seriously tasty meals.

140 Baggot Street, Dublin 2 +353 1 6766848 www.cirillos.ie

Toscana ‘ASADOR’ A Spanish word meaning barbecue, grill or spit. ASADOR Haddington Road opened its doors in November 2012 to great critical acclaim. The idea behind ASADOR is simple; take the best meats our fields can provide, the freshest seafood landed on our shores and cook this great Irish produce over a bespoke built 7 foot barbecue or ‘Asador’.

ASADOR was the first restaurant operation to bring premium level barbecue to the Dublin dining scene. Customers flocked to sample signature dry-aged steaks, lobster, fish and game cooked in the most ancient of ways. Guests can expect the best of old and new world wines, craft beers and of course a range of cocktails from the experienced team of mixologists - the perfect partner for premium barbecued food.

Tucked in opposite the Mansion House, on Joshua Lane, La Ruelle is the ideal venue for an intimate drink, with over 100 different international wines of which 40 are served by the glass. Their menu includes a variety of mouth watering nibbles, tapas and bites served small or large to accompany your wine of choice. Catering for private parties with free car park facilities in R.I.A.C for all customers.

Perfect for the festive season or any events.

3/4 Joshua Lane, Dublin 2 laruelleadmin@laruelle.ie www.laruelle.ie

Salamanca

ASADOR, the balance of flames, flavour and food.

Multi award winning Toscana Restaurant specialises in authentic Italian cuisine with emphasis on fresh organic produce from their Wicklow Garden. They pride themselves on creating menus around locally sourced produce and stock an extensive selection of fine wines from Italy and from other choice regions around the world. Toscana Restaurant is located on beautiful Dún Laoghaire seafront where you can enjoy panoramic sea-views overlooking Dublin Bay and Dún Laoghaire harbour. Toscana Restaurant offers a relaxed dining experience with impeccable service and a relaxed atmosphere. A visit to Toscana is a must.

1 Victoria House, Haddington Rd, Dublin 4.

Tel: 01 254 5353 www.asador.ie

5 Windsor Terrace Dún Laoghaire E dunlaoghaire@toscana.ie Tel No 01 2300890

Located on Andrews Street, near the new home of the Molly Malone statue, Salamanca was one of the first Tapas Bars in the city and remains one of the best. Their Tapas dishes are served by authentic Spanish chefs and they use only the finest quality fresh ingredients. Diners can choose from a wide range of quality Tapas and carefully selected Spanish wines for a truly authentic taste of the Mediterranean in the heart of Dublin City.

1 St. Andrew’s Street, Dublin 2 Tel: 01 677 4799 www.salamanca.ie JULY 2018 - TRAVEL IRELAND MAGAZINE

21

T

Art in the Open

he 11th Art In the Open Festival takes place this month in Co. Wexford. The festival has grown to a 10 day internationally recognized event with close to 200 artists taking part.

Wexford's Art In The Open attracts some of the best outdoor painters from around the globe. Renowned for its friendliness and relaxed atmosphere festival participants can be seen painting the wonderful Sunny South-East's landscapes leading up to the massive exhibition in Greenacres Gallery which opens at 3pm Bank Holiday Sunday 5th and continues throughout Bank Holiday Monday 6th with something to appeal to all tastes and budgets.

Selected works by up to 200 artists taking part in the 11th Art in the Open plein air painting festival go on show in Greenacres Gallery, Wexford on Sunday 5th August. This event has grown to become the largest outdoor landscape painting festival in Europe and attracts internationally known professional artists as well as many amateurs eager to learn.

For each of 7 days, busy artists will visit a different location throughout the south east, painting the landscapes they find there and dealing with whatever the weather may hold. There is even a nocturnal session planned on Thursday 2nd August on Wexford Quayside. At the end of the week each artist makes a selection of their best work to include in the show. The exhibition offers awards totalling €5000 and a prestigious first place purchase award to become part

22

TRAVEL IRELAND MAGAZINE - JULY 2018

of the mayoral collection of Wexford County Council. Visiting artists in 2018 include watercolourist Keiko Tanabe from Japan, oil painter Haidee-Jo Summers from the UK, Finland's Antti Rautiola and Stewart White from the USA. For members of the public it is a unique opportunity to see artists at work and the exhibition offers the chance to see and purchase the best of the work. The festival will sign off with a paint-out in Merrion Square, Dublin on Tuesday 7th August, as the artists make a special visit to the National Gallery to take in the Roderic O'Conor exhibition. Look out for a forest of easels to celebrate Ireland's great postimpressionist in Merrion Square in the afternoon.

The paint out locations this year are Duncannon Beach, Artramon Country House & Farm, the picturesque village of Clonegal & Huntington Castle, Rosslare Harbour & Safe, Bunclody, incorporating the beautiful Newtownbarry House and grounds. The festival will top and tail in Wexford town and on Saturday 4th August it will host the popular charity event, The Quick Draw, which is a timed 2-hour paint out in the Bullring and surrounding area of Wexford town, the proceeds of which will go to the Wexford Cottage Autism Society this year. This is a very popular event with both the artists and public and raises awareness and funds for its chosen charity each year. The finished paintings are judged for prizes and available to purchase from the easel at bargain prices.

The workshops/masterclasses are very popular with the artists and are tutored by some of the world's finest Plein Air Artists. These are available to book in advance and fill up quickly, so don't miss out. Another new departure for Art in the Open is the introduction of a Sketching & Vlogging Workshop at the beginning of the festival on Saturday 28th July at Wexford Library.

A major highlight for all the visiting artists is the annual BBQ hosted by T.Morris Pub in Wexford Town and the night continues with lots of Guinness, dancing and a chance to make new friends or rekindle friendships from the previous festivals. Art in the Open is renowned for its friendliness and wonderful painting landscapes so it's no wonder artists from all over the globe return regularly.

www.artintheopen.org

FRENCH COURSES AND ACTIVITIES FOR TODDLERS, CHILDREN TEENAGERS & ADULTS

ALL SUMMER LONG! alliance-francaise.ie 1 kildare street, dublin 2

Dublin

Persian Cuisine

44/45 Lr. Camden St., Dublin 2 Delivery Number 01 4005700

with freshly made traditional Persi Persian Cuisine having th

Request online for a Zaytoon Our food is rich and varied. We use spices such as saffron and discount card and you could enjoy Enjoy our special offers: instant 10% discounts on all ourfresh corriander.

Welcome t We Welcome to Zaytoon, the home of For Taxi Drivers free chips and meals.

Visit us and try our delicious amazing P softdrink with every dish ALL DAYd freshly prepared Kebabs. amazing Persian Cuisine.

Our food Welcome to Zaytoon, the home of might be f EVERY DAY! Great Food delivered your door Persian Food datestoback many amazing Persian Cuisine. Our food within our delivery from 18:00customers centuries and is zone, culturally might be fast, but we provide you, our Lunch special from Mon-Fri 12pmmight be fast, but we provide you, our 14-15 Parliament Street, Temple Bar, Dublin 1 - 01 677 breast of chicken, fresh3595 salmon 14-1 24:00. informationStreet, please basedFor on further the freshest Parliament Temple Bar, Dublin 1 quality me 15pm Free chips and softdrink with customers, with truly nutritious with and 44/45 Lr. Camden and St., Dublin 2 - 01 400all 5006 customers, truly nutritious or vegetarian, served with check: www.zaytoon.ie ingredients in season. ervey dish!

44/45 Lr. Camden St., Dublin 2 quality meals. baked bread.

Delivery Number freshly 01 4005700 Request on quality meals. Our food is rich and varied. We Request online for a Zaytoon discount c use spices such as saffron and discount card and you could enjoy instant 10 Enjoyaour special offers: opening hours: Request online for Zaytoon fresh corriander. hours: Mon-Thurs, Sun 12pm–4.30am • Fri-Sat 12pm–5a instant 10% discounts on all Opening our opening hours: meals.

Sun Thurs: 12pm 4am on 14-15 Parliament Street, Temple Bar, Dublinmeals.

1 - 01 677discount 3595 For you Taxi Drivers freeenjoy chips12pm and - open end could Visit us and try our delicious h Parliament Street, Temple Bar, Dublincard 1 and Welcome to-Zaytoon, the home of Fri Sat: 12pm 4.30am softdrink with every dish ALL DAYGreat FooF Persian 44/45 Lr. Camden St., Dublin 2 - 01 Great 400 5006 freshly prepared Kebabs.

Food delivered your door Food many instant 10% discounts on all our amazing Persian Cuisine. Our food within 44/45 Lr. Camden St.,Persian Dublin 2datestoback EVERY DAY! our centuries Delivery Number 01 4005700 within our delivery zone, from 18:00centuries and is culturally might be fast, but we provide you, our 24:00. basedFor on meals.

24:00. information please Lunch special from Mon-Fri basedFor on further the freshest 12pm- with truly nutritious and customers, breast of chicken, fresh salmon check: ww ingredien check: www.zaytoon.ie ingredients in season.

15pm Free chips and softdrink withmeals. quality or vegetarian, all served with ervey dish! delivered to your door Persian Food dates back many baked bread.

Our food is Great rich andFood varied.

We freshly Our food Request online for a Zaytoon Established in January 2000 Zaytoonuse restauran use spices such as saffron and spice within zone, from 18:00centuries and is culturally Enjoy our special offers: our delivery discount card and you could enjoy Enjoy oura Welcome to14-15 Zaytoon, theStreet, home of Bar, Dublin 1 - 01 677 3595 fresh corriander. two branches in 14/15 Parliament street Parliament Temple fresh cor Parliament Street, Temple Bar, Dublin 1 instant 10% discounts on all our Established in January 2000 Zaytoon restaurants have 24:00.

For further information please based on the freshest For Taxi Drivers free chips and 44/45 Lr.and Camden St., Dublin 2 - 01 400 5006 amazing Persian Visit Cuisine.

Our food 44/45 lower Camden street. us try our delicious For Taxi D 44/45 Lr. Camden St., Dublin 2 meals. softdrink with every dish ALL DAYDelivery Number 01 4005700 two branches 14-15 Parliament Street, Temple Bar, 1 -check: 01you, 677Kebabs.

3595 Visit us a might be fast, but weDublin provide our freshly prepared www.zaytoon.ie ingredients in season.

Sun - 1Thurs: 12pm - 4am in 14/15 Parliament street and Parliament Street, Temple Bar, Dublin softdrink w EVERY DAY! 44/45 Lr. Camden St., Dublin 2 - 01 400 5006 freshly p 12pm open end Great Food delivered to your door Persian Food dates offering back many 44/45 lower Camden street. customers, with truly nutritious and 44/45 Lr. Camden St., Dublin 2 Fri - Sat: 12pm - 4.30am They are casual diners delicious kebab EVERY DA Delivery Number 01 4005700 within our delivery zone, from 18:00centuries and is culturally Lunch special from Mon-Fri 12pmquality meals. breast of chicken, salmon Our fresh food is rich and varied.with We freshly made naan bread which is cooke 15pm Free chips and softdrink with 24:00.

For information please based on further the freshest Lunch spe or vegetarian, all served with They are casual diners offering delicious kebabs served breast of Welcome to Zaytoon, theas home of ervey dish! traditional Persian clay oven.

Often referred use spices such saffron and check: www.zaytoon.ie ingredients in season.

15pm Free Request online for a Zaytoon freshly baked bread. or vegeta 14-15 Parliament Street, Temple Bar, Dublin 1 - 01 677Enjoy 3595amazing Persian Cuisine.

Our foodmade naan bread which is cooked in a our special offers: with freshly Parliament Street, Temple Bar, Dublin 1 ervey dish having the best kebabs in Ireland. discount card2 and you 5006 could enjoy fresh corriander.

Our food is rich and varied. We freshly b might be fast, but we provide you, our 44/45 Lr. Camden St., Dublin - 01 400 Welcome to Zaytoon, the home of Persian clay oven.

Often referred to as and 44/45 Lr. Camden St., Dublin instant 10% discounts on all 2our customers, with trulytraditional nutritious and use spices such as saffron Delivery Number 01 4005700 14-15 Parliament Street, Temple Bar, Dublin 1 - 01 677 3595 For Our Taxi Drivers free chips and amazing Persian Cuisine. foodmeals.

Enjoy special we offers: hours: Here atour Zaytoon pride ourselves on sourci quality Parliament Street, Temple Bar,opening Dublin 1hours: the best kebabs in Ireland. fresh corriander. meals.

Visit and try ourhaving delicious opening might be 12pm fast, but- we provide us you, our 44/45 Lr. Camden St., Dublin 2 - 01 400 5006Sun Thurs: 4am softdrink with every dish ALL DAYproviding the highest quality For Taxi Drivers free chips and products. All ou 44/45 Lr. Camden St., Dublin 2 Request online for a Zaytoon customers, withend truly nutritious and 12pm - open freshly prepared Kebabs.

Visit us and try our delicious Delivery Number 01 4005700Great Food delivered to your door Persian dates many FriFood - Sat: 12pm - back 4.30am softdrink with every dish ALL DAYdiscount card and you could enjoy andprepared poultry are Irish and fully traceable Here at Zaytoon we pride ourselves on sourcing and EVERY DAY! quality meals. freshly Kebabs.

Sun - Thurs: 12pm within our delivery from 18:00instant 10% discounts on all our centuries and is zone, culturally EVERY DAY! 12pm - open- 4e providing the highest quality products.

All our meat Welcome to Zaytoon, the home of Request online for a Zaytoon meals.

Fri Sat: 12pm 24:00. information please basedFor on further the freshest day Zaytoon is full of tourists Lunch special from Mon-Fri Lunch special from Mon-Fri 12pm- and business amazing Persian food enjoy discountCuisine. card andOur you could andfresh poultry12pmareByIrish and traceable. breast offully chicken, fresh salmon breast ofFood chicken, salmon check: www.zaytoon.ie ingredients inbut season.

Great Food delivered your door Persian datestoback many 14-15 Parliament St 15pm Free chips andtosoftdrink with by night it’s packed the gills with midnight might be fast, we discounts provide you, instant 10% on allour our 15pm Free chips and softdrink with Parr or vegetarian, all served with within our delivery from 18:00centuries and is zone, culturally Welcome to Zaytoon, customers, the home of erveyjostling dish! to get one of our famous or vegetarian, all served with meals.

44/45 Lr. Ca with truly nutritious and kebabs bread. people, 24:00.

For information please is full offreshly Our food is rich and varied.

We based on further the freshest ment Street, Temple Bar, Dublin amazing 1 - 01 677 3595 Cuisine.

By day Zaytoon touristsbaked and business ervey dish!

44/ Persian food Parliament Street, Temple Bar, Dublin quality 1 Our meals. check: www.zaytoon.ie ingredients in season.

Deli freshly baked bread.

5 Lr. Camden St., Dublin 2 - 01 400 5006 use spices such as saffron and Great Food delivered toback your door Persian Food dates many by night it’s packed to the gills with midnight revellers might be fast, but Enjoy we provide you, our offers: 44/45 Lr. Camden St., Dublin 2 our special Delivery Number 01 4005700 within ouradelivery from 18:00centuries and is zone, culturally Request online for Zaytoon fresh corriander.

Our food is rich and varied.

We customers, with truly nutritious and jostling 24:00.

For further information please such as saffron based onyou thecould freshest Bar, Dublin 1 - 01 677 3595 use spices andto get one of our famous kebabs! card and enjoy Fordiscount Taxi Drivers free chips and reet, Temple Bar, Dublin quality 1 Enjoy our special offers: meals. check: www.zaytoon.ie ingredients season.

Visit us and try our in delicious fresh corriander. blin 2 - 01 400 5006 instant 10% discounts on all our Sun - Thurs: 12pm - 4am softdrink with every dish ALL DAYmden St., Dublin 2 Taxi Drivers free chips and - open end freshly Kebabs. For 01 4005700 meals.prepared Visit usWe and try our deliciousFri 12pm Request online forEVERY a Zaytoon DAY!Our food is rich and varied. softdrink with every dish ALL DAY- - Sat: 12pm - 4.30am freshly prepared Kebabs. use spices such as saffron and Welcome to Zaytoon, the home of you could enjoy discount card and EVERY DAY! Great Food delivered toback your door Persian Food dates many Enjoy our special offers: corriander. amazing Persian Cuisine.

Our food Lunch from 12pminstant 10% discounts on special all our ourfresh within delivery zone, from 18:00centuries and isMon-Fri culturally breast of chicken, fresh salmon Lunch from Mon-Fri 12pmmight be fast, butmeals. we provide you, our For Taxi Drivers free chips and special breast of chicken, fresh salmon 15pm FreeFor chips softdrink with 14-15 Parliament Street, Temple Bar, Dublin 1 - 01 677 3 24:00. further information please Visit us and try ourwith delicious based on theand freshest 15pm Free chips and softdrink with Parliament Street, Temple Bar, all served customers, with truly nutritious andor vegetarian, softdrink with every dish ALL DAYor vegetarian, all served with 44/45 Lr. Camden St., Dublin 2 - 01 400 5006 freshly prepared Kebabs. ervey dish!www.zaytoon.ie check: ingredients in season. me to Zaytoon, quality the home of ervey dish!

44/45 Lr. Camden St., Dublin 2 meals. Great Delivery Number 01 4005700 freshly bread.

EVERY DAY! freshly baked bread.

Food delivered toback yourbaked door Persian Food dates many

iament Street, Temple Bar, Dublin 1 - 01 677 3595 Parliament Street, Temple Bar, Dublin 1 45 Lr. Camden St., Dublin 2 - 01 400 5006 44/45 Lr. Camden St., Dublin 2 Delivery Number 01 4005700

Here at Zaytoon w providing the high and poultry

Persian Cuisine

Welcome to Zaytoon, the home of amazing Persian Cuisine. Our food might be fast, but we provide you, our Sat 12pm–5amcustomers, with truly nutritious and 1 677 3595 e Bar, Dublin quality 1 meals.

5006 ublin 2 Request online for a Zaytoon discount card and you could enjoy instant 10% discounts on all our meals. the home of Great Food delivered your door Persian Food datestoback many ne. Our food within our delivery from 18:00centuries and is zone, culturally provide you, our 24:00. information please basedFor on further the freshest nutritious and check: www.zaytoon.ie ingredients in season.

Cuisine

By day Zaytoon is by night it’s packed Opening hours jostling to ge

Persian Cuisine

Persian Cuisineopening hours: opening hours:

Persian Cuisine

Persian Cuisine

opening hou opening hou

Persian Cuisine

ersian CuisineOur food is rich and varied. We

opening hours: Zaytoon opening hours: use spices such as saffron and u could enjoy Enjoy our special offers: opening hours: fresh corriander. hours: Mon-Thurs, Sun 12pm–4.30am • Fri-Sat 12pm–5am s on all Opening our opening hours: Sun -and Thurs: 12pm - 4am Persian Cuis For Taxi Drivers free chips 12pm open end Visit us and try ourFri delicious - Sat:DAY12pm - 4.30am softdrink with every dish ALL freshly prepared Kebabs. to your door sngback many Persian Cuisine.

Our food EVERY DAY! within our delivery from 18:00Our food is rich and varied. centuries and is zone, culturally Requestyou, online Lunch special from Mon-FriWe 12pmbe fast, but we 18:00provide ourfor a Zaytoon ne, from ulturally breast ofas chicken, fresh salmon 14-15 Parliament Street, Temple Bar, Dublin 1 - 01 677 3595 use spices such saffron and 24:00. information please basedFor on further the freshest Free chips and softdrink with Parliament Street, Temple Bar, Dublin 1 discount card mers, with truly nutritious and and you could enjoy Enjoy our 15pm special offers: or vegetarian,opening all served with 44/45 Lr. Camden St., Dublin 2 - 01 400 5006 hours: fresh corriander. check: www.zaytoon.ie ormation please ingredients in season. hest ervey dish!

Opening hours: Mon-Thurs, Sun 12pm–4.30am • Fri-Sat 12pm–5am Lunch special from Mon-Fri 12pm44/45 Lr. Camden St., Dublin 2 Welcome to Zaytoon, the hom instant 10% discounts on all our opening hours: opening hours: y meals.

Delivery Number 01 4005700 freshly baked bread.

Sun Thurs: 12pm 4am breastopening of chicken, fresh For Taxi Drivers free salmon chips12pm and - open end meals. amazing Persian Cuisine. Our hours: Visit us and try our delicious est online for a Zaytoon son.

15pm Free chips and softdrink OurSun food rich and varied.

Weevery dish - isThurs: 12pm -with 4am Friwith - Sat:DAY12pm - 4.30am might be fast, but we provide softdrink ALL or vegetarian, all served with freshly prepared Kebabs.

Great Food delivered your door Persian Food dates back many 12pm -asopen end customers, with truly nutritiou use to spices such12pm saffron and EVERY DAY! unt card and you could enjoy ervey Fri Sat: 4.30am dish! our special offers: opening hours: quality meals. within our delivery from 18:00centuries and Enjoy is zone, culturally fresh corriander. freshly baked bread. nd We Opening hours: Mon-Thurs, Sun 12pm–4.30am • Fri-Sat 12pm–5am t 10%varied. discounts24:00. on all our Welcome to Zaytoon, the home of opening hours: information please Lunch basedFor on further the freshest special 12pm from Mon-Fri 12pmRequest online for a Zaytoon Sun Thurs: 4am breast fresh salmon For Taxi Drivers free chips andof -chicken, amazing Persian Cuisine. Our food 12pm open-and endsoftdrink ingredients in Visit season. discount card and you could e us and try our 15pm Free12pm chips with saffron check: andwww.zaytoon.ie Fridelicious - Sat: 4.30am might be fast, but we provide you, our10% discounts on all o or vegetarian, all served with softdrink with every dish ALL DAYinstant rs: ervey dish! freshly prepared Kebabs.

Food delivered your door an Food datesto back many customers, with truly nutritiousmeals. and Our food is rich and varied. We freshly baked bread.

Persian Cuisine

EVERY DAY! n our delivery 18:00uries and is zone, culturally usefrom spices such as saffron and Enjoy our special offers:special from Mon-Fri 12pminformation please Lunch d. For on further theand freshest chips fresh corriander. breast of chicken, fresh salmon ur delicious www.zaytoon.ie dients in season.

15pm Freeand chips and softdrink with For Taxi Drivers free chips opening hours: orour vegetarian, all served with dish ALL DAYVisit us and try delicious softdrink with every dish ALL opening DAYervey dish! hours: Kebabs. freshly prepared Kebabs. baked bread. 12pm - 4am ood is rich and varied.

We freshly Sun - Thurs: EVERY DAY! 12pm - open- 4.30am end pices such as saffron and Fri Sat: 12pm our special offers: special from Mon-Fri 12pmcorriander. Lunch breast of chicken, fresh salmon 15pmand Free chips and softdrink with Mon-Fri 12pmaxi Drivers free chips ordelicious vegetarian, all served with fresh us and trysalmon our ervey dish! ink with every dish ALL DAYfreshly baked bread. softdrink with ly preparedwith Kebabs.

Sun - Thurs: 12pm - 4am served Y DAY! 12pm - open end

opening hours: opening hours: Sun - Thurs: 12pm - 4am - open- 4.30am end Fri 12pm - Sat: 12pm opening hours: opening hours:

Fri - Sat: 12pm - 4.30am

ad. special from Mon-Fri 12pmst of chicken, freshhours: salmon opening Free chips and softdrink with opening hours: getarian, all served with- 4am Sun - Thurs: 12pm

dish! 12pm - open end ly baked bread.

Fri - Sat: 12pm - 4.30am

hours: hours: 2pm - 4am

end men- 4.30am

quality meals.

Great Food delivered your Persian Food datestoback

Request online for a Zaytoon within our delivery from centuries and is zone, culturall discount card and you could enjoy 24:00. information basedFor on further the freshest check: www.zaytoon.ie ingredients in season. instant 10% discounts on all our meals.

Our food is rich and vari

use spices such as saffron Great Food delivered your door Persian Food datestoback many Enjoy our special offers: within our delivery from fresh 18:00-corriander. centuries and is zone, culturally Taxi Drivers free chips an 24:00. informationFor please basedFor on further the freshest Visit us and try our delic softdrink with every dish ALL check: www.zaytoon.ie ingredients in season. freshly prepared Kebabs EVERY DAY!

Our food is rich and varied. We Lunch special from Mon-Fri 1 use spices such as saffronbreast and of chicken, fresh s 15pm Free chips and softdrink Enjoy our special offers: or vegetarian, all served fresh corriander. ervey dish!

For Taxi Drivers free chips andfreshly baked bread.

Visit us and try our delicious softdrink with every dish ALL DAYfreshly prepared Kebabs.

EVERY DAY!

opening hours:

opening hours: Lunch special fromSun Mon-Fri 12pm-12pm - Thurs: - 4am breast of chicken, fresh salmon 15pm Free chips and softdrink with 12pm - open- 4.30am end or vegetarian, all Friserved - Sat: with 12pm ervey dish! freshly baked bread.

opening hours:

opening hours: Sun - Thurs: 12pm - 4am 12pm open end Fri - Sat: 12pm - 4.30am

o o Sun

Fri

F

QUEEN Adam Lambert & at Marlay Park

ollowing a phenomenal 3Arena show last November, which sold out in minutes, Queen + Adam Lambert have made the surprise announcement that the band will play new European dates, including an open-air concert at Marlay Park on Sunday 08 July, subject to licence. Queen + Adam Lambert return to Dublin this summer following unprecedented demand from Irish fans left unable to attend their incredible sold-out 3Arena show last November which boasted a set list packed with hit after hit. Queen + Adam Lambert have confirmed The Boomtown Rats and The Darkness as special guests for this open-air concert at Marlay Park.

Brian May said: “The almost unanimous reaction to our last round of dates in Europe was this is absolutely the best production we’ve ever mounted. There has been a great demand for us to go back. So, while we're still physically able to perform at those high energy levels

on this massive scale, we thought... ‘YES!! One more around the block!’ It’s live, it’s dangerous, and it takes every ounce of fitness we can muster. But it’s still fun!"

Adam Lambert added: “I enjoyed every second of the recent European tour and really felt the love in every city. I can’t wait for us to get back there again in the summer!”

The summer concert will again showcase Queen + Adam Lambert’s spectacular new stage production which was conceived around the 40th anniversary of Queen’s News of the World album and drew rave reviews across the media.

Queen + Adam Lambert’s magnificent 2017/2018 touring show has been custom tailored for the band by some of the world’s most cutting-edge creative talents.

Responsible for design and production is Ric Lipson from Entertainment Architects Stufish Productions, renowned worldwide for their innovative work with artists such as Pink Floyd, the Rolling Stones, and U2, as well as the opening and closing ceremonies

of the 2008 Beijing Olympics.

Making use of over 300 moving lights during the show is the highly acclaimed lighting designer Rob Sinclair, who has illuminated tours for major artists including Adele, Peter Gabriel and Kylie Minogue. The production’s genuinely eye-popping laser elements are the work of ER Productions, behind both the opening and closing ceremonies of the London 2012 Olympics and seen by over 900 million people worldwide.

On the musical side, the Queen + Adam Lambert touring band also features Spike Edney on keyboards, Neil Fairclough on bass, and Tyler Warren on percussion. Since first sharing the stage for the American Idol final in May 2009, Queen + Adam Lambert have proved to be a hugely successful global partnership, having now played more than 130 shows in every corner of the world.

Tickets €79.50 available now via Ticketmaster

JULY 2018 - TRAVEL IRELAND MAGAZINE

25

Welcome to Munster Munster is the most southerly of the four provinces of Ireland and stretches from Tipperary in the South Midlands to Waterford in the South East, and from Clare, Limerick and Kerry down to Cork in the South.The entire area is famed for Irish traditional music, song and dance. There are many ancient castles and monasteries in the province, and coupled with the vast green countryside and its three cities (Limerick, Cork and Waterford) Munster is a must see destination for tourists.

Lismore Castle Bunratty Castle in County Clare is the most complete and authentic medieval fortress in Ireland. Built in 1425 it was restored in 1954 to its former medieval splendour and now contains mainly 15th and 16th century furnishings, tapestries, and works of art which capture the mood of those times.

Travelling down the coast, Limerick is the next port of call which this year has been designated as Ireland’s first City of Culture.

From theatres to outdoor music events, museums to festivals, Limerick has an eclectic mix of sights and sounds to suit all tastes.

Cork at night Flying Boat anywhere in the world.

The Rose of Tralee is the most famous Festival in Kerry and this internationally acclaimed festival comes with all the bells and whistles you would expect from a truly Irish experience.

The festival celebrates its 55th year this year and commences with the International Rose Ball on the 15th of August before culminating with the selection of the 2014 Rose of Tralee in the magnificent dome four days later. There is a packed programme of events during the week for all to enjoy.

One of Munster’s most famous landmarks the Rock of Cashel, in County Tipperary is the historical seat of the Kings of Munster. The outcrop on which the Castle and grounds stand is one of the most photogenic spots in all of Munster. The spectacular group of medieval buildings are set on an outcrop of limestone in the Golden Vale and include the 12th century round tower, the High Cross and Romanesque Chapel, the 13th century Gothic cathedral, the 15th century Castle and the restored Hall of the Vicars Choral.

Tel: 062 61437 Email: rockofcashel@opw.ie

County Cork is well worth the drive as it has sandy beaches, the wonderful Blarney Castle, Foto Wildlife Park and golf course, wonderful coastlines and a city nightlife to rival any of that in Europe. Travel from east to west or north to south in this sprawling county and there is a view, an historical point of interest or an adventure to explore.

Finally at the extreme South East of the island of Ireland is Waterford. Waterford is the capital of the ‘Sunny South East of Ireland’ and Ireland’s oldest city. The city and county is famous throughout the world as the home of Waterford Crystal. A visit to the House of Crystal visitor centre includes an opportunity to choose from the world’s largest selection of Waterford Crystal. The factory tour offers first hand access to all areas of traditional crystal production.

County Waterford offers a dazzling 147 kilometres coastline, with 49 beaches, beautiful river valleys, lakes and two dramatic ranges of very accessible mountains.

Reginald’s Tower

County Limerick also incorporates the Foynes Estuary with its world famous Foynes Flying Boat Museum. The museum tells the story of the Pan Am Clipper aircraft which brought commercial flights from America to our shores, landing in the estuary itself. It includes the only full-scale model of a Boeing B-314

La Boheme La Boheme offers a unique experience for lovers of fine dining, with its location in the basement of one of Waterford’s foremost prestigious buildings. Head Chef Eric Theze uses fresh locally sourced produce, providing guests with exquisitely presented delectable dishes. Christine ensures that all are greeted with a warm welcome, with the belief in treating each guest as if they are being welcomed into their own home. A blend of fine dining and wine bar with bistro menu options, qualifies La Boheme as a hidden gem in the heart of Waterford City.

Open Monday - Saturday 5.30pm until late (Open Bank Holiday Sundays) 2 George’s St., Waterford. Tel: 051 875645 www.labohemerestaurant.ie 26

TRAVEL IRELAND MAGAZINE - JULY 2018

KillarneyRacing JULYFestival I

reland’s Most Scenic Racecourse is the place to be this month for the Killarney July Racing Festival. The festival offers four days of top class racing from 15th – 19th July in the beautiful County Kerry town. The racecourse is situated in Killarney town and looks out onto the magnificent scenery of Killarney National Park, making it the perfect venue for racegoers to enjoy some thrilling summer racing. Killarney has a long, established history of racing, with the first race recorded there in 1822. The present course opened in 1936 and remains the home of racing in Killarney.

The Killarney July Racing Festival offers four great evenings of racing, with a range hospitality and BBQ options available for groups who wish to enjoy racing in style. And speaking of style the undoubted highlight of the festival is sure to be Ladies Day on Thursday 19th July.

Ladies Day is always a highly anticipated day on the racing calendar and will once again see Killarney Racecourse become a hub for the latest style and fashion trends. This year’s best dressed competition will be judged by The Saturdays’ Una Healy and her husband Ben Foden. There are amazing prizes up for grabs in each category. The Best Dressed Lady will win a trip for two to Paris while the Best Dressed Gent will win a trip for two to Milan. What better reason to glam yourself up and head to the races than the chance to win one of these amazing holidays? Or maybe you’re feeling lucky and fancy a flutter on one of the big races. Whatever you decide to do, you’re sure to have a ball at this year’s Killarney July Racing Festival. www.killarneyraces.ie

28

TRAVEL IRELAND MAGAZINE - JULY 2018

Treat Yourself at the Blarney

The 4 star Blarney Hotel & Golf Resort is set in a stunning location, close to Cork City and the famous village of Blarney, steeped in history, legend and natural beauty.

The Hotel is surrounded by breathtaking scenery of Shournagh valley and is set among 170 acres of beautiful wooded area.

The Blarney Hotel & Golf Resort includes superb facilities and services including: 62 large guest bedrooms and 40 self-contained lodges with spacious interiors. Each lodge has 2 en suite bedrooms, fully equipped kitchen and living area and is a perfect fit for

families or groups.

The Award winning Inniscarra Restaurant offers contemporary Irish cuisine and quality wines; Cormac’s Bar welcomes you with calm & cosy atmosphere and friendly service, and a top notch afternoon tea.

Alternatively choose the superb Lion’s Den clubhouse bar where you can relax and enjoy great food from the balconies overlooking the 18th green The Health Club includes 20 metre heated swimming pool, sauna, steam room, Jacuzzi and fully equipped gymnasium. Kids facilities include kids pool, outdoor playground area, go karting and games room. Relax &

Hotel

rejuvenate in our award winning YonKa Spa, offering full range of Yon-Ka treatments and products.

The Resort includes the impressive signature championship golf course, co designed by two-time Major winner, John Daly.

If you’re looking to treat yourself this summer, then a stay in this amazing hotel - one of the finest in Ireland - is the perfect place to spend a relaxing break. blarenyhotel.ie reservations@blarenyhotel.ie 021 438 4477 Social media: @TheBalrneyHotel

JULY 2018 - TRAVEL IRELAND MAGAZINE

29

Recommended Bars in Munster Jack Meades (under the bridge)

Set on 5 acres of impeccably kept lawns, this sprawling complex boasts a number of bars. The old world bar it has dates back to 1705, whilst its lime kiln and ice house were built around 1860. But there is also a modern bar, and an extensive beer garden looking down over the gardens and streams.

And good quality food is served here throughout the day.

Dunmore Rd, Waterford Tel: 051 850 950

The Bierhaus

Celtic Whiskey Bar & Larder, Irish Whiskey Experience

Pope’s Quay, Cork Tel: 021 455 1648

Developed by whiskey lovers as a first class destination for whiskey enthusiasts and novices alike. Guests will be amazed by shelf upon shelf of Irish, Scottish & international whiskies and a wide variety of Irish craft gin & vodka, craft beer and cider, eclectic wine list, and creative cocktail menu. Fresh, locally sourced food served daily. Irish Whiskey Experience offers the chance to discover more about the history, production & renaissance of Irish whiskey, with 10 masterclasses to choose from, running every day.

Dolan’s Pub and Restaurant

93 New Street Killarney, Co. Kerry Tel: +353646635700 www.celticwhiskeybar.com www.irishwhiskeyexperience.net

The Original Durty Nelly’s

Buckley’s Bar

The oak panelled walls and turf fire are the perfect accompaniment to the many musicians who drop in here for the impromptu sessions that seem to be forever going on here. Both bar and hotel have been welcoming visitors since it opened in 1926. And many people either begin their trip around the kingdom there, or base themselves there for its duration.

The Arbutus Hotel, College St, Killarney, Co Kerry.

Tel: 064 663 1037

30

Dick Mack’s

There are over 220 different beers to choose from here, including 6 rotating guest draught taps and a cask. So whether you are looking for a bottle or draught, an international or an Irish beer, there’s a reasonably good chance you’ll find it here. And they spend as much time on getting the atmosphere right as they do on choosing their beers.

TRAVEL IRELAND MAGAZINE - JULY 2018

Dolan’s is made up of three venues, two outdoor areas, a traditional Irish pub and a restaurant. So there’s music here every day of the week, and they’ll serve you your breakfast, lunch and dinner as you require. Some of the many guests who’ve enjoyed their hospitality include Kasabian, Franz Ferdinand, Sharon Shannon and Imelda May. 3-4 Dock Rd, Limerick Tel: 061 314 483 (ext 1)

Named after the leather craftsman, this small and gloriously “busy” pub still sells hand made leather ware inside at the shop to one side. Its walls are drowned in archaic photographs, and outside there’s a star studded pavement where the likes of Robert Mitchum, Sean Connery and Julia Roberts have left their mark. For many, many people, this is what they imagine when they conjure up the image of an Irish pub.

Greene St, Dingle, Co Kerry Tel: 066 915 1960

Durty Nelly’s can truly be described as one of Ireland’s landmark 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. Apart from the warm Irish welcome that you’ll find at Nelly’s, you’ll also enjoy the finest, freshest local produce – whether you’re just dropping in for a snack or staying for a fine dining experience.

The Original Durty Nelly's Bunratty West, Bunratty, Co. Clare +353 61 364 861 info@durtynellys.ie

Recommended Restaurants in Munster The Munster Room Restaurant

The Munster Room Restaurant at Waterford Castle Hotel & Golf Resort provides an opportunity to taste the best of traditional and contemporary Irish cuisine. The awardwinning restaurant is critically acclaimed in the Michelin Guide and holder of two AA Rosette accredited. The Resort’s Head Chef Michael Thomas was awarded “Best Chef of Ireland 2017” by Yes Chef Ireland. Under his direction the award-winning culinary team uses only the finest local produce and creates a truly memorable fine dining experience. All this set aside the Munster Rooms warm ambience, wonderful oak paneled and ornate ceiling it’s easy to see why it’s such a winning choice.

Waterford Castle offers an extensive wine cellar and cocktail hour in The Fitzgerald Bar with the winning mixologist Ilario is not to be missed. Start your magical evening with a short crossing over the King’s Channel by the Island Resort’s private car ferry, to the enchanted 310 acre Island Resort.

Waterford Castle leave your worries at the shore…

Waterford Castle Hotel & Golf Resort |The Island |Waterford | Ireland Castle Tel: +353 (0)51 878 203 http://www.waterfordcastleresort.com/ munster-room-restaurant

The Copper Hen

The Copper Hen Restaurant is situated above Mother McHugh’s Pub on the Copper Coast between Tramore and Dungarvan in County Waterford. The restaurant was opened in November 2010 by award-winning chef Eugene Long and his wife Sinead Frisby. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming and the food is reasonably priced.

Diners can choose from a range of locally sourced food, such as Kilmore crab claws, sautéed Tiger Prawns or Portobello mushroom bruschetta to start and Irish Hereford sirloin steak, grilled fillet of salmon or pan-roasted Dunmore Cod as main courses. The Copper Hen offers an unforgettable casual dining experience that visitors to Waterford can’t miss out on.

Open Wednesday to Saturday for dinner and Sunday for lunch.

Tel: 051 330 300 www.thecopperhen.ie

La Boheme

The Smuggler’s Inn

This ocean front family run (2nd generation) establishment opened in 1980. The restaurant has been praised by gastronomic writers worldwide. It’s not hard to see why as the Chef/Proprietor, Henry Hunt, takes pride in serving fresh local produce. Panoramic views from the dining room, and friendly service, will give you the perfect dining experience.

For total relaxation why not have an overnight stay in one of the comfortable guest rooms.

Cliff Road, Waterville, Co. Kerry Tel: 066 9474330, www.thesmugglersinn.ie

The Lobster

Whether you’re looking for lunch, a casual dinner or just a quiet pint, the friendly staff at The Lobster are sure to look after your every need. Situated in the seaside town of Waterville, it’s no surprise that The Lobster serve some of the best seafood in Kerry and their beef and Guinness stew is also spoken of very highly by all who have sampled it.

Waterville, Co. Kerry. Tel: 066 9474629

Momo

The Strand Inn

Overlooking Hook Head, The Strand Inn is the perfect place to enjoy lingering breakfasts, relax over a long lunch or enjoy intimate, romantic suppers. Diners can look forward to the finest Irish beef, lobster and line caught seafood in a luxurious setting, characterised by beamed ceilings, original stone walls and planked floors.

Dunmore East, Co.Waterford.

Tel: 051 383 174 www.thestrandinn.com

La Boheme offers a unique experience for lovers of fine dining, with its location in the basement of one of Waterford’s foremost prestigious buildings. Head Chef Eric Theze uses fresh locally sourced produce, providing guests with exquisitely presented delectable dishes. Christine ensures that all are greeted with a warm welcome, with the belief in treating each guest as if they are being welcomed into their own home. A blend of fine dining and wine bar with bistro menu options, qualifies La Boheme as a hidden gem in the heart of Waterford City.

Open Monday - Saturday 5.30pm until late (Open Bank Holiday Sundays) 2 George’s St., Waterford. Tel: 051 875645 www.labohemerestaurant.ie

Momo is a multi-award-winning restaurant in Waterford City, Ireland. They pride themselves on their fresh and healthy menu featuring ingredients from the local food producers of Waterford County. You will enjoy a wide range of international dishes including lots of vegetarian/vegan options as well as delicious meat and fish dishes. Momo featured in the McKennas’ Guides Top 100 Restaurants in Ireland 2018, 2017 and 2016, and won ‘Best Casual Dining’ in Munster at the Irish Restaurant Awards 2017.

47 Patrick Street, Waterford, Ireland.

Call (051) 581 509 kamila@momorestaurant.ie JULY 2018 - TRAVEL IRELAND MAGAZINE

31

CORK LITERARY

West

FESTIVAL M

ake the most of the summer and visit Bantry for the 2018 West Cork Literary Festival, taking place from the 13th to 20th of July. A spectacular line-up of guests has been announced including West Cork native Louise O’Neill, Bernard MacLaverty, Margaret Drabble, Joseph O’Neill, Ruth Padel, Imogen Hermes Gowar, Nick Laird, Zadie Smith, Fintan O’Toole, Catríona Perry, Inua Ellams and many more.

Journalist Sam Bungey and documentary producer Jennifer Forde, the couple behind the phenomenally successful West Cork podcast, an audio series about the unsolved murder of Sophie Toscan du Plantier, will discuss the making of this thoughtful and compelling

32

TRAVEL IRELAND MAGAZINE - JULY 2018

2018

podcast with journalist Justine McCarthy.

Eileen O’Brien, from Cork County Library and Arts Service says that it is a pleasure to play host to some of the many wonderful readings and discussions that take place during the West Cork Literary Festival, “readers get to see long-admired authors unmasked, people that have hitherto been a friend on their bookshelves taking shape in the reality of familiar and intimate settings. Just as exciting is the chance to discover new authors, thanks to the strategic groupings that have been conceived allowing unexpected connections to be made.”

In a week packed with readings, workshops, interviews, seminars and children's events, audiences can also enjoy a dip in Bantry Bay for the Festival Swim, zen out with yoga on the lawns of

Bantry House, enjoy the Festival Walk, or call into the West Cork Letter Café to let someone know that you’re thinking of them.

Those wishing to hone their writing skills can attend workshops on amongst other things, novel writing, journalism, or how to write a cookbook. Workshops will be given by Marie-Helene Bertino, Trish Deseine, Martina Evans, Sinéad Gleeson, Philip Hoare, Dave Lordan, Justine McCarthy, Billy Ramsell, Eimear Ryan, Katherine Weber and Dave Lordan with E.R. Murray.

Truly a highlight of the literary calendar the West Cork Literary Festival is one not to be missed. www.westcorkliteraryfestival.ie

Dingle Crystal F

rom humble beginnings, Dingle Crystal have established themselves on the world stage thanks to their commitment to producing mouth-blown, hand-cut crystal. In an era when many other brands have gone down the wholesale route, this family-run company still proudly produce unique, hand crafted pieces that can be found in the collections of the President of Ireland and Bono to name but two.

With every piece signed and dated, it’s not hard to see why Dingle Crystal’s work would be appealing to those visiting the country, looking for an exclusive souvenir of their trip to Ireland.

They also cater to those living abroad, shipping worldwide.

Their fantastic work in this field was recently recognised at the SME Awards 2016, where they won the award for Best Online Exporter.

If you do visit Dingle then a trip to the new Dingle Crystal Factory & Visitor Centre is a must. While there you can take a tour of their workshop where you will find company founder Sean Daly hard at work. This is a wonderful opportunity to observe a master craftsman and see how Dingle Crystal’s incredible designs are created. There aren’t many craftsmen left making pieces the way Sean and his sons do and the tour is fascinating and informative.

From bowls to glasses, candlesticks and vases, Dingle Crystal can create the perfect souvenir or gift that you won’t find anywhere else. They also offer beautiful whiskey glasses that have proved extremely popular all over the world. These glasses are the perfect match for Irish whiskey but make sure you get your order in early - these handmade glasses are in great

34

TRAVEL IRELAND MAGAZINE - JULY 2018

demand. It’s not hard to see why as they really are astounding creations that would stand out in anyone’s collection.

Visit their new Factory & Visitor Centre. They cater for groups of all sizes, with personal demonstrations with Master Craftsman Sean Daly and his sons. Please contact Adam on 0669151550 or email adam@dinglecrystal.ie to organise a tour.

Dingle Crystal Unit 4 Ballinaboola Industrial Estate Dingle Co. Kerry 066 9151550 info@dinglecrystal.ie www.dinglecrystal.ie

Explore Munster

The Hunt Museum Cliffs of Moher Loop Head Lighthouse This popular tourist attraction is located at the mouth of the Shannon Estuary on the Loop Head Peninsula, which is one of two “Signature Discovery Points” in County Clare along the route of the Wild Atlantic Way. It also is a landmark location on the Loop Head Heritage Trail and is one of 12 Great Lighthouses of Ireland. The lighthouse is steeped in history and rich in maritime heritage with its origins dating back to the 1670s. The existing tower style lighthouse was constructed in 1854 and was operated and maintained by a keeper who lived within the lighthouse compound. In January 1991, the lighthouse was converted to automatic operation, and today is monitored by the CIL.Open daily (10.00 a.m. to 6.00 p.m.) until 5 November.

The Hunt Museum has artefacts from Greece, Rome, Egypt and the Olmec civilisation. There is also an important collection of Irish archaeological material ranging from Neolithic flints, Bronze Age material, and Christian art.

One of the strengths of the collection is the medieval material, which include statues in stone and wood, painted panels, jewellery, enamels, ivories, ceramics, crystal and crucifixes. Plus work from Picasso, Renoir, Roderic O’Conor, Jack B. Yeats, Robert Fagan and Henry Moore.

Stretching for eight kilometres along the coastline and standing at 214 metres at their highest point, the Cliffs of Moher give the visitor a panoramic view out onto the Atlantic Ocean. It is said that on a clear day you can see the Aran Islands and Galway Bay, over the twelve pins and the Blasket Islands off the coast of Kerry.

When there you really should ascend O’Briens Tower which has been used as a viewing point for centuries past.

Bunratty Castle

Tel: 061 312 833 www.huntmuseum.com

Titanic Experience Cobh

The Burren

Bunratty Castle in County Clare is the most complete and authentic medieval fortress in Ireland. Built in 1425 it was restored in 1954 to its former medieval splendour and now contains mainly 15th and 16th century furnishings, tapestries, and works of art which capture the mood of those times. Browse the castle and marvel at the finest collection of medieval furniture in the country which brings to life a vital part of our Medieval past.

Blarney Castle

The Burren, from the Gaelic word Boireann is an area of limestone rock covering imposing majestic mountains, and tranquil valleys with gently meandering streams. With its innate sense of spiritual peace, extraordinary array of flora and wildlife, and megalithic tombs and monuments older than Egypt’s pyramids, the Burren creates a tapestry of colour and a seductively magical aura which few people leave without wanting to experience again.

36

TRAVEL IRELAND MAGAZINE - JULY 2018

Titanic Experience Cobh is located in the original White Star Line Ticket Office in the centre of Cobh town (formerly known as Queenstown) the departure point for the final 123 passengers who boarded the Titanic. The visitor experience is presented in two parts. The first is an immersive audio visual tour retracing the steps of the 123 passengers who boarded Titanic from Queenstown on April 11th 1912. The second part of the Titanic Experience examines how it all went wrong. The unbelievable and “almost” impossible sequence of events that occurred to cause Titanic to sink.

Blarney Castle was built nearly six hundred years ago by one of Ireland’s greatest chieftains, Cormac MacCarthy, and has been attracting visitors from all over the world ever since. Over the last few hundred years, millions have flocked to Blarney, making it a world landmark and one of Ireland’s greatest treasures. This is probably because of the famous stone you will see at the top of the tower. People from all over the world have climbed up there to kiss it in the hope of acquiring the gift of the gab.

www.titanicexperiencecobh.ie

Tel: 021 438 5252

An Unmissable Experience!

Cobh, The Queenstown Story An informative and emotive story of Irish emigration.

Learn about Cobh’s connection with Titanic and the Lusitania.

Cobh Heritage Centre, Cobh, Co. Cork, Ireland.

Open 7 days 9.30 – 5.30 (Sundays 11am) Tel 353 (21) 4 813591 Find Cobh the Queenstown Story on Facebook 237664_Cobh Heritage_AC_SCIT.indd 1

Email: info@cobhheritage.com Web: www.cobhheritage.com 01/12/2015 14:08

Cobh The Queenstown Story

Heritage Centre

T

he exhibition at Cobh Heritage Centre, known as The Queenstown Story, is inventively situated within Cobh’s restored Victorian railway station, a building with its own historic story.

The Queenstown Story will engage the visitor in a journey through time, recalling Irish emigration with real stories about real people. From the indentured servants of Virginia and the West Indies plantations in the 17th century, the early settlers in upper Canada, the famine victims of the 1840s to the large-scale emigration of the 19th and 20th centuries. The visitor will also discover the hardships endured by the convicts who were transported to Australia.

The present town of Cobh has its origins as a small village nestled in the hillside on the southern shores. The village was known as Cove, being situated in the cove, or harbour, of Cork.

The town did not begin to grow until the early nineteenth century, but its strategic importance was realised in the late eighteenth century during the American War of Independence. Vital shiploads of troops and supplies were needed by the British forces

38

TRAVEL IRELAND MAGAZINE - JULY 2018

fighting in America between 1775 and 1781.

The entry of France into the war in 1778 heightened the danger of these ships being attacked at sea. This large and safe harbour provided ideal conditions in which the ships could assemble and be protected. The wars against France from the 1790s to 1815 were to prove the catalyst which led to the future prosperity of the town as Cove and its harbour played an important role in this war at sea.

Cove went on to become a major port with both naval and merchant shipping and was one of the major ports of emigration.

Cobh, or Queenstown as it was known at the time, has very close connections with the two great liners of the 20th century, The Titanic and The Lusitania - discover the human stories behind these tragic events.

The exhibition is a self-guided tour with audio tours available in French, German, Spanish, Italian, Dutch, Polish and Chinese. It is not just interesting and educational, but very emotive and thought-provoking.

“Take a glimpse into our storied past and walk in the footsteps of our emigrant ancestors”.

Cobh, or Queenstown as it was known at the time, has very close connections with the two great liners of the 20th century, The Titanic and The Lusitania - discover the human stories behind these tragic events.

Welcome to Connaught

Macnas Festival Parade This Fierce Beauty

The province of Connaught lies in the West of Ireland with its coastline on the Atlantic Ocean. The counties of Mayo, Sligo, Leitrim, Galway and Roscommon make up this geographically diverse region with the Atlantic Ocean to its westerly boundary, and the midlands of Roscommon to the East. It is the least populated with a population of just over 400,000.

Historically, Connaught has retained its rich Gaelic heritage and today still has communities where the Irish language only is spoken amongst them. But English is the primary second language. These regions are collectively called the Gaeltacht. The remote and beautiful Aran Islands off the mainland of County Galway are also part of the Gaeltacht.

The primary business centre of Connaught, and the most densely populated area is the thriving city of Galway to the south of the province. Although Sligo City, Carrick on Shannon, and Boyle are all fine business and shopping centres in their own right.

Galway city

40

TRAVEL IRELAND MAGAZINE - JULY 2018

Connaught has some Carrick on Shannon of the most scenic and unspoilt countryside to be found in Ireland, including the spectacular mountainous landscape of Connemara, the lock gates and river banks of the Shannon Waterway, the famed Galway Bay and the historic glens of County Leitrim.

Couple these with the beautiful Ashford the holiest mountain in Ireland. The tradition Castle in Mayo near to Cong where the of pilgrimage to this holy mountain stretches film The Quiet Man was filmed, and the back over 5,000 years from the Stone Age to natural serenity of Lough Key Forest Park the present day without interruption. Croagh in Roscommon, and a tour of this region is a Patrick is renowned today for its Patrician must for all.

Pilgrimage in honour of Saint Patrick, For those interested in a religious experience Ireland’s patron saint. It was on the summit Mayo is famed for Knock Shrine where on of the mountain that Saint Patrick is said to the 21st August, 1879, at about 8 o’clock, Our have fasted for forty days in 441 AD, and the Lady, St. Joseph, and St. John the Evangelist custom of trekking up the mountain has been are reputed to have appeared. The apparition faithfully handed down from generation to was seen by fifteen people whose ages ranged generation. Croagh Patrick is 5 miles from the from six years to seventy-five and included picturesque town of Westport, and its conical men, women and children. The shrine has shape soars majestically above the surrounding become so popular in modern times that the countryside with magnificent views of Clew Ireland West International Airport was built Bay beneath. especially in 1985 to cater for the hundreds So, whether it’s water activities on the Atlantic of thousands of pilgrims and visitors to coastline, cruising on the Shannon Waterway, Connaught. religious pilgrimages, chilling out amongst The county also features the pilgrimage site an unspoilt landscape or driving along roads known as Croagh Patrick, which overlooks where motoring is still a pleasure, Connaught Clew Bay in County Mayo. This is considered has it all.

Recommended Bars in Connaught Tigh Neachtain (Naughtons)

Monroe's

Just across the road from Galway’s justly celebrated Druid Theatre, the Neachtain family have been running this pub here since 1894. And the artsy crowd that congregate here are as likely to be treated to a live jazz trio as they are to the best in Irish trad.

This famous venue in the heart of Galway city is renowned as one of the best live music venues in the city. Across two stages, they host regular National & International acts. The friendly staff will assure you of a warm welcome and they serve great food in the Tavern along with free live music seven days a week.

17 Cross st, Galway Tel: 091 568 820

The Front Door

Dominick Street, Galway 091 583397 www.monroes.ie

Bosh Bar and Restaurant

Whether you are looking for a bit of good quality food, hoping to catch some live music, or just want to watch the match, this is the place you’re looking for when you find yourself in Castlebar.

Linenhall St., Castlebar, Co Mayo Tel: 094 925 0534

Matt Malloy’s One of Galway city’s most popular watering holes, The Front Door is a contemporary Irish bar with a late bar, live music and an extensive drinks menu. Located in Galway’s bustling Latin Quarter and spread across two floors The Front Door features five bars, including a stylish cocktail lounge and Sonny Molloy’s Whiskey Bar. The Front Door is the perfect spot to sample Galway’s nightlife.

8 Cross Street Upper, Galway, H91 YY06 Tel: (091) 563 757

This is exactly the kind of pub you’d expect the flute player with the Chieftains to have opened. And when he’s not on tour with them, you can expect to see Matt Malloy here in person, joining in on the sessions that take place within.

Bridge St., Westport Tel: 098 26655

The Quays Bar Galway

Roísín Dubh

It might have changed hands a few years ago, but the Roísín Dubh is still the premier music venue in the West. In the past they played host to Ray Davies, The New York Dolls and Townes Van Zandt and, more recently the XX, DJ Shadow and Dinosaur Jr. The only difference is, they’ve got a beer garden on the roof now!

Lower Dominick St., Galway Tel: 091 586 540

Located in the city centre in Galway’s vibrant ‘Latin Quarter’ The Quays Bar Galway is one of Galway’s most famous and historic drinking establishments. For close on 400 years The Quays has catered to both Galwegians and visitors to the city of Galway. The restaurant offers a carvery lunch and evening a la carte dinner. The Quays was awarded IMRO Connacht Live Music Venue of the year 2017.

11 Quay St, Galway Tel: (091) 568 347 JULY 2018 - TRAVEL IRELAND MAGAZINE

41

Recommended Restaurants in Connaught Venice Italian Restaurant

Upstairs at Wood & Bell

This is somewhere special to spend the evening, with a relaxing atmosphere and fine dining at its best. Experience Venice’s fine Italian cuisine, with their distinctive taste and beautiful aromas you’ll be sure to have those tastebuds tickled. With stylish facilities, they offer an elegant dining experience that their attention to detail and exceptional service will ensure. Venice is the best Italian restaurant in Galway City Centre and boasts a wide range of tasty Italian dishes.

A new restaurant by the celebrated former Ireland rugby player Keith Wood is now open in the lakeside village of Killaloe, Co Clare. Led by executive chef Paddy Collins, Upstairs at Wood & Bell features a succinct and assured menu offering classic, French-influenced dishes. Many of the fruit, vegetables and herbs are grown in the restaurant’s own gardens which overlook Lough Derg and are managed by Keith’s wife, avid gardener Nicola Wood.

11 Lower Abbeygate St, Galway City Phone: 091 530-751. Email: restaurantvenice@yahoo.ie

Main Street, Killaloe, Co Clare.

Wednesday to Saturday, 5.30-9.45pm. Advance booking is advised.

Tel: 061 517 480 Email info@woodandbell.com Facebook: / woodandbell

Eala Bhán

If it’s fresh seafood or a prime steak you’re looking for, this is the place for you. Situated in the heart of Sligo this restaurant is warmly recommended by one and all, including Lucinda O’Sullivan and Georgina Campbell.

Rockwood Parade, Sligo Town Tel: 071 914 5823

The Yew Tree Restaurant

Half way between Athlone and Roscommon, and a quarter of an hour’s drive from either, Aidan Murray has been head chef here for over 20 years. Superior bistro food.

Lecarrow, Co. Roscommon Tel: 090 666 1255

An Port Mór Restaurant

Roasted pig cheeks with black pudding, and apple and vanilla sauce is just one of this award winning restaurant’s specialities. One of the finest restaurants in the West.

1 Brewery Place, Bridge St, Westport, Co. Mayo Tel: 098 26730

Péarla na Mara

Péarla na Mara offer Irish-inspired cuisine with a Mediterranean touch in their restaurant in Oranmore. Using only the finest ingredients, locally sourced in the West and delivered daily specialising in fish, seafood, meat and poultry dishes, along with mouth-watering vegetarian dishes. Pair your meal with wines chosen from the carefully selected wine list. You are welcome to bring your own bottle of wine for a nominal corkage fee of €5 for any amount of wine bottles.

Unit 10, Howley Square, Dublin Road, Oranmore Tel: 091 483900 Email: info@pearlanamara.ie 42

TRAVEL IRELAND MAGAZINE - JULY 2018

Ashford Castle

Dating all the way back to 1228, this is one of the most imposing castles on the island. And where better to dine than in the George V dining room, built specially by the Guinness family when they hosted the Prince of Wales in 1906.

Cong, Co. Mayo Tel: 094 954 6003

Upstairs @ West Restaurant

Situated in the luxury 4 star hotel The Twelve in Barna, minutes away from the city centre, this is one of Galway’s best kept secrets and is well worth a visit.

The Twelve, Barna, Galway City Tel: 091 597 000

Brasserie on the Corner

Brasserie on the Corner on Galway’s Eglinton Street specialises in delectable seafood and steak dishes. They serve lunch and dinner and both menus are created with local, seasonal produce at their heart. These delicious offerings are created using produce from local suppliers. You will also be treated to an extensive and delicious wine and cocktail menu.

You will truly find pride and passion on the plate!

Brasserie On The Corner, Eglinton Street, Galway, Ireland Tel: +353 91 530333

Waterfords Comeraghs Wild Festival County Waterford’s much-loved Comeraghs Wild Festival is back from July 12 to 15 and it’s now bigger and better than ever with headline events like the Dublin Gospel Choir live in the mountains at Mahon Falls, a white-knuckle Nire Valley Summer Drop descent on bikes, surfing and more.

An extra day has been added, early bird offers are now available and several new communities are involved in the four day festival which celebrates all that is unique and authentic about the Comeraghs, Copper Coast and Nire Valley region in rural Waterford.

The centrepiece of this year’s festival will be the Sean Kelly Dawn Chorus Cycle for charity which is limited to 500 leisure and pleasure cyclists. Pre-registration closes soon and places are filling up fast for the two legs – which start at 4.30am and 5am along the completely off-road Waterford Greenway. Two local charities benefit – the Solas Cancer Support Centre and St John’s School, Dungarvan. The Sean Kelly Dawn Chorus East Route leaves Kilmacthomas for Waterford City’s Bilberry Car Park at 4.30am for a 46km return trip. The second group of cyclists sets off from the same starting point at Rainbow Hall, Kilmacthomas at 5am and travel the slightly shorter 43km West Route to Dungarvan and back.

Festival Chairperson, Mary Flynn, said: “We took a gamble last year when we moved the festival from its traditional September slot to July. And it paid off. We’re delighted to be starting the festival a day earlier this year and to welcome more communities on board. Lots of the popular attractions like surfing, walks,

the Hoolie in the Hills Céilí, seaweed foraging, historic talks and plays are back. We can’t wait to see and hear the Dublin Gospel Choir and Newfoundland perform in the open air at Mahon Falls.There are lots of free events too – including the street fete in Kilmacthomas, storytelling for adults and children with Pat Speight and the open air cinema and music ‘til late in Portlaw.”

Head of Enterprise with Waterford County Council, Richie Walsh, said: “The communities of the Comeragh Mountains and Copper Coast are incredible. This festival takes phenomenal voluntary effort and we, as a local authority, are delighted to support their annual endeavours. The country is full of festivals at this time of the year. But the Comeraghs Wild Festival is one of the most authentic out there.

This festival has evolved over the years and this year will be extra special with the Dawn Chorus Charity Cycle, the Dublin Gospel Choir concert and the surfing session at Bunmahon in particular bringing extra visitors and extra revenue into this region.”

For event and booking details see http://www.visitwaterford.com/ comeraghswild/comeraghswild/ JULY 2018 - TRAVEL IRELAND MAGAZINE

43

Explore Connaught

Westport House

Kylemore Abbey Few places on earth have the tranquillity and beauty of Kylemore Abbey and its majestic Victorian walled garden, which won the prestigious Europa Nostra Award in 2002.The garden comprises of roughly 6 acres and is divided in two by a natural mountain stream. The eastern half comprises of the flower or pleasure garden, glass houses and gardeners’ houses. While the kitchen garden makes up the other half of the garden and is predominantly given over to the growing of food.

Glencar Waterfall Glencar Waterfall is situated near Glencar Lake, 11 kilometres west of Manorhamilton, County Leitrim. It is particularly impressive after rain and can be viewed from a lovely wooded walk. The most dramatic waterfall descends from a 50ft rocky headland into a deep pool below in a haze of white spray. A paved path to the viewing area provides a wonderful vantage point from which to view the waterfall which is particularly spectacular during wet conditions.

Arigna Mining Experience Discover what coal mining life was like for coal miners in the Arigna Valley in Roscommon from the 1700’s until its closure in 1990. Visit the exhibition area to discover the history of the mine and then take an underground tour of the mine, where the methods used to extract coal are demonstrated, with lighting and sound effects added for authenticity.

Mullaghmore

44

TRAVEL IRELAND MAGAZINE - JULY 2018

www.WestportHouse.ie

Dún Aonghasa National Museum of Ireland - Country Life The National Museum of Ireland - Country Life in Turlough Park, Castlebar houses exhibits showing how rural people in Ireland lived from the time of the Great Famine right up until the 1950s. The museum features four levels of interactive displays and exhibitions that offer a fascinating insight into the lives of the rural Irish people in years gone by.

Connemara Mullaghmore is one of the surfing capitals of the Irish Atlantic coastline, and is recognised as one of the top surfing destinations in the world. Surfers and windsurfers from all over the world have ridden waves up to 15 metres (49 ft) high off Mullaghmore Head. The area is also safe for bathing, and has all the modern facilities that you could wish for to make your stay enjoyable.

Westport House is one of the finest country houses in Ireland and since it opened to the public in the 1960s, over four million visitors have passed through its doors.

There are over 30 rooms on show, where visitors can immerse themselves in over 500 years of history, going back to the time when the Pirate Queen Grace O’Malley ruled the estate. There is loads for the whole family to enjoy on the estate, including the Pirate Adventure Park, the Birds of Prey Centre and the Westport Train Tour.

Connemara is a world of unspoilt natural beauty, rolling hills, leafy glens and crystal clear mountain streams all overlooked by towering majestic mountains. Travel from the rugged Twelve Bens mountain range in the north through lake-rich Roundstone Bog, to the golden beaches reaching out into the Atlantic Ocean. This wondrous landscape is bounded on the West, South and North by the Atlantic Ocean.

Located on Inismór in the Aran Islands, Dún Aonghasa is one of the best examples of a semi-circular stone fort in Europe.

Located on the 300ft cliffside on the south of the island, it is one of Ireland’s most visited attractions and offers stunning views that stretch the length of the island.

Croagh Patrick

Croagh Patrick is 5 miles from the picturesque town of Westport, and its conical shape soars majestically above the surrounding countryside, offering spectacular views of Clew Bay and the surrounding countryside. It was on the summit of this mountain that Saint Patrick fasted for forty days in 441 AD, and the custom has been faithfully handed down from generation to generation. On the last day in July 25,000 pilgrims climb it, and over a million people visit Croagh Patrick every year.

Welcome to Ulster

The Giants Causway Photo: @storytravelers The Ancient Irish province of Ulster, made up of 9 counties, was partitioned in 1921 and six of the counties in it now make up Northern Ireland. These are Fermanagh, Antrim, Down, Derry/Londonderry, Armagh, and Tyrone.

The other three counties are Cavan, Donegal and Monaghan in the Republic of Ireland.

County Fermanagh has over 300 square miles of water, 365 islands, breathtaking scenery, the mystical Marble Arch Caves Geo Park, world class fishing and more historic monuments than you could shake a stick at. In short, Fermanagh is a Lakeland Paradise.

County Donegal is in the northwest of the

‘Hills of Donegal’ consist of two major ranges, the Derryveagh Mountains in the north and the Bluestack Mountains in the south, with Mount Errigal at 751 metres the highest peak.

The Slieve League cliffs are the second highest sea cliffs in Europe, while Donegal’s Malin Head is the most northerly point on the island of Ireland.

the new Titanic Quarter and the Odyssey Arena to name but a few. This vibrant city has a culture all of its own and its restaurants, theatres and nightlife are amazingly good value.

Mount Errigal

Belfast Republic of Ireland. The name “Donegal” comes from the Irish, meaning “the fort of the foreigners”. The county consists chiefly of low mountains, with a deeply indented coastline forming natural loughs, of which Lough Swilly is the most notable. The famous mountains or

County Antrim with its beautiful coast road and famous glens is the most north easterly county on the island. On a worldwide scale Antrim’s most famous attraction is the Giants Causeway. However the renowned ‘Glens of Antrim’, the Bushmills Distillery and Carrickfergus Castle are well worth visiting as well.

Belfast City too has many things to see including the grandeur of the City Hall,

Linsfort Church, Co. Donegal JULY 2018 - TRAVEL IRELAND MAGAZINE

45

Recommended Bars in Ulster The Crown Liquor Saloon

Located in Belfast’s Cathedral district, very unusually this pub is owned by the Belfast Unemployment Resource Centre, which was opened by local poet, socialist and Freeman of the City, John Hewitt. Hence the name. They’ve an extensive range of craft beers, both on tap and in bottles. And if that’s not enough, they even have a genuine gin palace!

Which includes locally made Shortcross Gin. 51 Donegall St., Belfast Tel: 028 9023 3768

White’s Tavern

Dating all the way back to 1630, this is the oldest tavern in Belfast, and one of the oldest anywhere on these islands. You can warm yourself by the fire downstairs where you’ll find the original pub, whilst upstairs they’ve opened a second bar where more livelier fare goes down.

2-4 Winecellar Entry, Belfast Tel: 028 9024 3080

Kelly’s Cellars Now owned by the National trust, this is one of the most justly famous pubs to be found anywhere in Britain or Ireland, with its mixture of oak panelling, leather chairs and its exquisite, ornate Victorian tiling. And, just as you’d expect, they’ve a wonderful selection of real ales and home made food.

46 Great Victoria St, Belfast Tel: 028 9024 3187

This is the oldest pub proper in Belfast, dating back to 1720. Stone floors, white washed walls, and traditional Irish music rings through its low ceilinged rooms. It’s like finding a country pub in the middle of the city.

30-32 Bank St, Belfast Tel: 028 9024 6058

The Duke Of York

The John Hewitt

One of the liveliest pubs in town, its walls are busy with paraphernalia and whatnots, and the place is hopping with (mostly) young people who fill the place up all weekend and most of the week. And if you are looking to treat yourself to a sneaky, antique whiskey, look no further.

7-11 Commercial Ct, Belfast Tel: 028 9024 1062

Peadar O’Donnell’s

There are three bars to choose from here at this famous Derry pub, and music to suit any and all tastes. You can move from an impromptu session that might have materialised magically in the corner of the traditional bar downstairs, to a gig proper upstairs in the Gweedore.

Before coming back downstairs to what they swear is the best pint in Derry.

59-63 Waterloo St., Derry Tel: 028 7126 7295 46

TRAVEL IRELAND MAGAZINE - JULY 2018

"Your easel awaits you‌" ARTFORM School of Art is based in the beautiful coastal village of Dunmore East in the South East of Ireland. ARTFORM provides inspiring art courses and painting holidays taught by over thirty of the most respected artists working in Ireland today.

For more information please email info@artform.ie or call 086 6024315. www.artform.ie

Explore Ulster

Titanic Belfast Since opening in March 2012 Titanic Belfast has become one of the most popular tourist attractions in Northern Ireland, with over a million visitors through its doors in its first year. Housed in an iconic, six storey building, it’s located in the heart of Belfast, right next to the site where the famous ship was built, telling the story of the Titanic from its conception in Belfast in the early 1900s, through its construction and launch, to its famous maiden voyage and tragic end.

The Giant’s Causeway The Giant’s Causeway stretches for around five kilometres along the Antrim coast.

Legend has it that it was built by Finn MacCool so that he could get across to Scotland to take on a giant who lived there.

In 1986 the Giant’s Causeway Visitors centre opened, after the World Heritage Conventions added it to its list of sites which are of exceptional interest and universal value.

Dunluce Castle With a rich history, in a stunning, location, Dunluce Castle on the coast of Antrim is just waiting to be explored. Visitor information includes an audio visual tour of the castle, with a ‘treasure hunt’ encouraging younger visitors to explore.

You can also download a Dunluce Castle app for iPhone and Android devices, available free of charge from the App Store and Google Play.

48

TRAVEL IRELAND MAGAZINE - JULY 2018

The Old Bushmills Distillery Bushmills is the only distillery in Ireland to make triple-distilled malt whiskey. This is at the heart of all Bushmills whiskeys, whether Bushmills or Black Bush, and it is this that gives them their unique combination of smoothness and richness.

Today, over 120,00 visitors come to the Old Distillery every year to discover more about how it is all done, and to see for themselves where the magic happens.

Ulster American Folk Park Situated 5 miles outside of Omagh on the road to Strabane, the museum is your chance to mix family fun with a fascinating exploration of our shared histories.

Immerse yourself in the world famous story of Irish emigration at the museum that brings it to life. Follow the emigrant trail as you journey from the thatched cottages of Ulster, on board a full scale emigrant sailing ship leading to the log cabins of the American Frontier.

Down County Museum Situated next to the Down Cathedral, the Down County Museum houses modern galleries telling the stories of the area and fantastic temporary exhibitions. Learn about the museum’s history as a gaol and see the Downpatrick High Cross before relaxing in their new Cathedral View Tea Room.

Belleek Pottery One of Northern Ireland’s oldest and most fascinating attractions. Visitors can take a personally guided tour of the factory and see how the techniques developed by the very first Belleek craftsmen 158 years ago are still followed today. An audio visual presentation informs visitors of the rich history of the pottery from its beginnings right the way through to present day, while the Belleek Museum offers a display of pottery through the ages.

Glenveagh National Park The second largest national park in Ireland, Glenveagh is a remote and beautiful wilderness in the north-west of Donegal.

Full of rugged mountains, pristine lakes and tumbling waterfalls. Visitors can also take a tour of Glenveagh Castle on the banks of Lough Veagh and take a walk through the beautiful walled gardens, which boast a multitude of exotic plant.

Florence Court Florence Court is the former home of the Cole family, Earls of Enniskillen. The three storey Georgian mansion contains fine plasterwork and 18th century Irish furniture and also offers extensive gardens, outdoor trails and a woodland children’s play area. Every aspect of life in this classical Irish House, with its fine interiors and exquisite decoration, is brought to life on guided tours.

Recommended Restaurants in Ulster Ox

Having won the Best Newcomer Award in 2013, Ox took Best Restaurant, Best Chef and Best Wine Experience in Antrim for 2014.

Chic, smart and very good.

The Ginger Bistro

Coco

1 Oxford St, Belfast Tel: 0044 28 9031 4121

55 Degrees North Located in Belfast’s historic Linenhall Street just behind City Hall, this is one of the best dining experiences you will find here in the city centre in Belfast. Its chic boutique surroundings make it very much the place to see and be seen.

This family run business has been open since 2005. And this stylish restaurant has been receiving plaudits ever since, both for the quality of its food, and the spectacular views of the Atlantic that it offers.

1 Causeway St, Portrush, Co Antrim Tel: 0044 28 7082 2811

The ginger in question is owner chef Simon McCance, and since relocating here closer to the centre his reputation for producing quality food at surprisingly reasonable prices has got even stronger.

7-8 Hope St, Belfast Tel: 0044 28 9024 4421

Deane’s Restaurant

7-11 Linenhall St, Belfast Tel: 0044 28 9031 1150

Shu

They serve deliberately simple, Frenchinfluenced food here using only the best seasonal ingredients, and all served at a reasonable price in an elegant location. And you can have a drink in the cocktail bar in the basement while you are waiting for your table.

253 Lisburn Rd, Belfast Tel: 0044 28 9038 1655

Vanilla Restaurant

Local man Darren Ireland opened this smart new establishment here in 2009, and it’s one of the best quality bistros on the East coast.

Telfords Restaurant

Overlooking the river Lagan and situated in a maritime building that dates back to 1843, Telfords operates on three levels and is in walking distance from the Waterfront Hall, the Odyssey complex and the Ulster Hall.

67 Main St, Newcastle Tel: 0044 28 4372 2268

Lough Erne Resort

5 Donegall Quay, Belfast Tel: 0044 28 9043 4000

Sun Kee Restaurant

One of the best Chinese restaurants in Belfast, the Lo family have been producing impressively adventurous and authentic Chinese cuisine here for years.

42-7 Donegall Pass, Belfast Tel: 0044 28 9031 2016 Michael Deane trained at London’s prestigious Claridges and since returning to Belfast he has opened up a number of top quality restaurants across the city. And losing the Michelin star he had in 2011 has he says liberated him, allowing him to concentrate on the food without having to worry about critics.

36-40 Howard St, Belfast Tel: 0044 28 9033 1134

Sakura

In the city’s busy Botanic Avenue, this is one of the city’s few authentic sushi bars, but they also serve a variety of fusion dishes if sushi is not your thing. A superior Japanese restaurant.

82 Botanic Av, Belfast Tel: 0044 28 9043 9590

Speranza Restaurant

This 5 star hotel just outside the town of Enniskillen is quite simply one of the most spectacularly situated hotel resorts you will find anywhere in Europe.

Lusty Beg

This island spa is set on 75 acres in the heart of the lakes of Fermanagh, and where better to unwind than in its award winning restaurant.

Hand made oven baked pizzas are one of the specialities here, but there is a wide choice of all types of Italian food on offer here in one of Belfast’s finest Italian restaurants.

Belleek Rd, Enniskillen, Co Fermanagh Tel: 0044 28 6632 3230

Boa Island, Kesh, Co Fermanagh Tel: 0044 28 6863 3300

16-9 Shaftesbury Av, Belfast Tel: 044 28 9023 0213 JULY 2018 - TRAVEL IRELAND MAGAZINE

49

New Irish Writers ARNOLD THOMAS FANNING

A

cclaimed playwright Arnold Thomas Fanning has just released his first book, Mind on Fire, a memoir of madness and recovery.

Fanning had his first experience of depression during adolescence, following the death of his mother. Some ten years later, as an up-and-coming playwright, he was overcome by mania and delusions. Thus began a terrible period in which he was often suicidal, increasingly disconnected from family and friends, sometimes in trouble with the law, and homeless in London. Drawing on his own memories, the recollections of people who knew him when he was at his worst, and medical and police records, Arnold Thomas Fanning has produced a beautifully written, devastatingly intense account of madness - and recovery, to the point where he has not had any serious illness for over a decade and has become an acclaimed playwright. In a remarkably vivid present-tense narrative,

50

TRAVEL IRELAND MAGAZINE - JULY 2018

Fanning manages to convey the consciousness of a person living with mania, psychosis and severe depression.

Very few people have gone through what Arnold Thomas Fanning went through and emerged alive, well, and capable of telling the tale with such skill and insight. Mind on Fire is a book for anyone who has experienced mental illness, or is close to someone who is mentally ill, or who wishes to understand the workings of the disordered mind.

Arnold Thomas Fanning was born in London and raised in Dublin. His stage plays include the acclaimed McKenna's Fort.

'Mind on Fire is a truly powerful, arresting, haunting account. Arnold Thomas Fanning has reckoned with the darkest matter of his heart and mind, and I challenge anyone not to be moved by that.’ Sara Baume, author of Spill Simmer Falter Wither and A Line Made by Walking Mind on Fire is published by Penguin Ireland.