Go Wild Christmas Magazine

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Lighting the way Meet the Phoenix Park lamplighters

Rozanna Purcell High Points & Happy Trails

All wrapped up

Festive Feasts

Inspiring recipes for starters, mains and desserts

Gift ideas for everyone inside

Paula Pastry’s sweet success at Ashford Castle Estate

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year From the all Irish Go Wild team!

stmas a t C hr i

Featuring over 250 works Book Tickets at HughLane.ie

Publisher’s Note Welcome to our Annual Go Wild Christmas Magazine for 2023

T

loving Ireland as much as we do.

our print date, as the interviews, the stories and the recipes

Our Bi-Annual Go Wild Staycation Ireland (March & July),

all generate the spirit of Christmas amongst the entire team.

Go Wild Tourism for the Wild Atlantic Way ( April), Go Wild

he Go Wild team and I always enjoy the lovely Christmas feeling that producing this title gives us in the run-up to

East Coast (May), Go Wild Dublin ( June), Go Wild Northern Once again, I am so very proud of what the amazingly

Ireland ( August), Go Wild Irish Spirits ( September) & Go Wild

talented Go Wild team has achieved in this title and hopefully,

Christmas ( October).

you will agree, that there are lots of great interviews, great Gift Ideas, and not forgetting, of course, the extra special

Thank you for buying this copy, we really appreciate you

Christmas recipes from some amazing Irish Chefs to make

doing so. I hope that you and your family have a wonderful

your Christmas day that little bit easier.

and safe Christmas.

It’s really important to note that all Go Wild magazine titles

Happy Christmas from our team to yours

are only made possible solely by the support of our featured advertising partners, so please support each of them this Christmas, as they support us.

If you enjoy reading this issue and we hope you do, look out for the following titles on the shelves in 2024 to keep you

Bobby Power Publisher, Go Wild Magazine titles Email: bobby@gowildmagazine.com Tel: 087 446 7007

2024 Line-up •

Bi-Annual: Go Wild Staycation Ireland (March & July)

•

Annual: Go Wild Tourism

•

Wild Atlantic Way (April)

•

Annual: Go Wild East Coast (May)

•

Annual: Go Wild Dublin (June)

•

Annual: Go Wild Northern Ireland (August)

•

Go Wild Irish Spirits (September)

•

Go Wild Christmas (October)

Contacts:

For advertising: Bobby Power, Publisher

Contributors:

Copy Editor: Keith Nicol

Graphic Design:

Creative Director: Dave Curtin

bobby@gowildmagazine.com, 087 4467007

Web: www.brainstorm.ie

For accounts: Cleo Power, Account Manager

Editorial & Ad Design: Lynne Clark

cleo@gowildmagazine.com

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

Ma gazine

Wild Atlantic Way Magazine Ltd, trading as Go Wild Magazine, reserves all rights pertaining to the content published in this magazine. Although we strive for accuracy, neither Wild Atlantic Way Magazine Ltd nor its trading name, Go Wild Magazine, accepts any liability for the content of advertisements featured. Any utilisation of the material within this publication, either in part or in entirety, requires the express written permission of the publisher. Moreover, while meticulous care has been taken to confirm the accuracy of events, information, and recommendations contained in this magazine, neither Wild Atlantic Way Magazine Ltd nor any of its employees, contractors, or agents assume responsibility for any alterations, inaccuracies, or omissions that may occur.

Contents

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M

P4:

Lighting the Way - James & Frank Flanagan

P38:

Y

Gifts for Children of All Ages

CM

P8:

Chatting with Paul Stakelum - Ashford Castle

P40:

Gifts for Foodies

P10:

Rozanna Purcell - My Top 50 Hikes in Ireland

P42:

Gifts for Him

P12:

Stefan Metz’s Perfect Christmas Dinner Recipe

P44:

Chatting with Dermot Madigan - Mulranny Park Hotel

CY

P14:

Chef Ronan Kelly - The Falls Hotel & Spa

P46:

Salted Caramel Recipe

CMY

P16:

Salmon Choices from the Burren Smokehouse

P48:

The Ultimate Hot Whiskey Recipe

K

P18:

The Perfect Christmas Pudding Recipe -

P52:

The Entrepreneurial PJ Rigney - The Shed Distillery

Niall Ennis - Carrygerry Country House

P54:

East to West Coastal Walks

P20:

A Vegan Christmas Dinner, Perhaps!

P56:

The perfect Whiskey Cream sauce

P22:

Gift Ideas for Him

P60:

Pairings for Your Christmas G&T

P24:

What is a Mocktail

P62:

A hot and Spicy recipe for St. Stephen’s Day

P24:

Northern Ireland Spirits Trail

P64:

Batch Cocktails to Try and Enjoy

P26:

Donal Skehan’s Perfect Dessert

P66:

Christmas Cheers, the best Bars

P28:

Mary Heffernan Director of National Monuments OPW

P70:

How the Story Goes- Seannchoiche Ciaran Gaffney

P32:

Gift Ideas from Avoca

P72:

13 Great Forest Walks to Enjoy and Explore

P34:

Gift Ideas for Her

P74:

Biscuit Bake Recipe to Try

P36:

Gift ideas from Ireland Keith Nicol

P80:

Four Classic Cocktails to Try at Home

MY

Wishing all our readers and advertisers a happy Christmas and prosperous New Year. Season’s greetings from Bobby, Cleo, Dave, Lynne, Keith, Meg, Claire and all the team.

Go Wild with festive cheer for the holidays!

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Ma gazine

Beyond Ordinary A Steakout Experience Awaits

Celebrate 35 years of culinary excellence. Gift a timeless steakout experience.

Because some traditions only get better with time.A Steakout Experience Awaits

The Parkgate Street entrance to the Phoenix Park.

LIGHTING THE WAY Dublin’s Phoenix Park is one of the few remaining public areas in Europe that has retained its historic gas lamps, first installed in 1859. Since 1890, they’ve been painstakingly maintained by generations of the Flanagan family, with Frank and James Flanagan not only carrying on the tradition but ensuring they stay lit for many years to come. Go Wild’s Meg Walker catches up with the two brothers who share fascinating tales and memories of this iconic corner of Ireland.

Photography by Luke Fallon

“W

e were born and reared right across the road from the park,” recalls 92-year-old Frank Flanagan, who still lives along that same road, just a few houses down from the house in which he grew up with James, 79, and their seven other siblings.

“As kids, it was a magical place to us.

Once you go into the park, life seems to stand still.”

While gas lamps slowly disappeared across the rest of Dublin and other places in Europe over the last century, the Phoenix Park lamps remained not just for aesthetic purposes but because the low lighting provided by gas minimises light pollution, protecting the park’s nocturnal species, including the famous fallow deer.

Frank and James’ grandfather Nicholas and his four brothers began servicing the lamps in 1890, then using a pole inserted through a trap door to turn the lamps on and off. By 1924, when their father Thomas came into the role, a timer switch

was used to operate the lamps, reducing the number of lamplighters required from five to two – Nicholas and his son Tom. It’s a method still used to this day, although the timer setting has since

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increased from seven days to fourteen.

While the method of lighting the lamps has evolved, the Flanagan family have been behind this work now for five generations, with Frank and James’ sonsin-law, John Kelly and Ronan Clarke, and grandchildren, Matthew Flanagan and Connor and James Clarke, now taking on the mantle.

“We go out every morning and night to inspect the lamps and make sure they’re working properly,” says Frank, while James explains that every two weeks, the timer in each of the 224 lamps needs to be wound and reset by hand by a crew of five who carry out this work over three days: “No matter the weather, even when it would snow, we’d go out. You cannot let the winding on the clocks run out.”

The glass on each lamp is then cleaned and the mantle – a very delicate piece of silk mesh – needs to be replaced regularly, with the brothers going through 800-900 each year. It’s meticulous work but it

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brings the family members a great sense of pride. “We’re climbing those ladders to the same lamps as our forefathers,” says Frank with a smile. “It’s very much a part of us. There’s a great sense of belonging.

We’re part of history.”

“Our father was an institution in the park and when it came time for him to retire in 1986, John McCullen, the chief superintendent of the park, asked if we’d be willing to carry on the tradition,” says Frank. “Having grown up in the park, we knew and loved everything about it.” He adds they had one disadvantage growing up with a father who was a lamplighter: “We could never mitch from school in the park because our father was everywhere!”

Phoenix Park has been the location of numerous historical moments, from assassinations to the ‘Emergency’ during WWII when the park was stacked high with turf, to the first Irish visit by a Pope in 1979, when over a million people attended mass within the park celebrated

by Pope John Paul II beside a purposebuilt cross that still stands to this day.

Some of these events Frank himself remembers well while those that took place before he was born, he’s able to retell from the stories told to him by his parents and neighbours. “My father was young at the time of the assassination attempt at Ashtown in 1919 and he saw a car speeding by and it was the Viceroy who’d escaped the ambush.”

While Frank is full of historical tales, James has a passion for technology and how things work and that particular skill has led to the future-proofing of the lamps. He was involved in the design of the five-lamp post installed at Mountjoy Roundabout in 2010, which proved particularly tricky. “They were made in Kilbride by a fella named Mr. Cole, who produced lamps all over Ireland. There are no clocks, they’re electronic, but the sensors – when one lamp would come on it would knock off the others; then they added electric lamps on the ground to shine up, which made it even more difficult, and cars coming up and down the road would also throw them off. We went to Germany where they produce these lamps and were basically told it couldn’t be done. It took about three months but we found ways around it. We hid the sensors in U-bends that looked in only one direction; painted the tops of the lamps matte black because they were stainless steel and would reflect the light back down; and I had to wire the sensors

Go Wild Magazine - Christmas Edition 2023

together and bring them out into one lamp, shining north where there was less traffic and sunlight.” That love of figuring things out has been there since childhood with James taking apart his father’s watch just to see how it worked.

Childhood is a time of fond memories shared in the Flanagan household, Christmas in particular. “Our father would bring home holly from the park and timber for the fire and our grandfather would tell us stories,” says Frank. “During the war, Santa Claus was very popular but you couldn’t get toys – there wasn’t much money. Our father used to make toys for us. There was a family down the road from us, the McCarthys. One Christmas, I got a football and took it outside to play with Jimmy McCarthy. I asked Jimmy what Santa Claus brought him and he said, ‘He didn’t call to us.’ Then Mrs. O’Kelly down RIGHT: Brothers Frank and James Flanagan.

BELOW: The lamps operate on a timer that needs to be reset fortnightly by hand.

the road – she lived on her own, all her children were grown – said to us, ‘Who are those two girls on the road, crying?’

We told her they were the McCarthys, who lived in No 9, and Santa forgot to call to their house. She told us to send them down to her and she brought out a big brown bag with a number 9 on it and said, ‘That old divil – he must have been drinking whiskey last night, he left this in my house where there are no children and it must have been for you!’”

“To this day, we enjoy going out to inspect the lamps at Christmastime,” adds James. “You’re on your own in the park.

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And during the rutting season, midOctober to early November, up around the Furry Glen, you can hear the clashing of deer antlers. There are many foxes around too. You see a lot of wildlife in the park.

It’s a magical place.”

The Flanagans’ contribution to the Phoenix Park gas lamps is now being celebrated in a beautiful new book which also explores the unique history of the park. The Lamplighters of the Phoenix Park: A Unique History of One of Ireland’s Most Famous Places by Donal Fallon with James and Frank Flanagan (Hachette Ireland, approx. €22) is out now.

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Meg Walker chats to Paula Stakelum, Global Director of Chocolate and Pâtisserie for Red Carnation Hotel Collection, about Ashford Castle Estate’s new chocolate and patisserie concept, Paula Pastry, and why Christmas at the castle is truly magical.

Sweet escape

I began working at Ashford Castle as head pastry chef early in my career, 13 years ago. All my colleagues and peers know me as ‘Paula Pastry’. The story behind the name began many years ago when I started my Ashford career as their pastry chef. I later chose it as my social media handle. So when it came to coming up with the name for our new chocolate and patisserie concept on the estate, Paula Pastry was the obvious choice. Paula Pastry opened last spring and is located in Mrs Tea’s Boutique and Bakery, where we have a chocolate and patisserie counter.

We serve five different types of pastries or cakes, which are always in season and of the estate. In addition to guests of the castle and The Lodge at Ashford, we have a lot of guests visiting Mrs Tea’s, who have an opportunity to taste these seasonal creations.

We’ve always used Valrhona chocolate at the castle. In 2019, we committed

to an exclusive partnership with Valrhona chocolate on the estate. Our two brands share the same values regarding sustainability, sourcing and quality. We have created two blends with Valrhona: Legend which is 55% milk chocolate with all the beans sourced from Africa; and Legacy a 29% hazelnut chocolate. We retail chocolates from both at Paula Pastry in store and online on the Mrs Tea’s store.

We’ve also created a bespoke chocolate gift for the castle guests to enjoy with their nightly turndown service.

We’ve been busy preparing for Christmas at the estate. We always strive to create something new that our guests have never had before. This year, it’s going to be quite nostalgic. We are working on some special chocolate ideas that promise to be really meaningful and memorable for our guests. At the Paula Pastry counter, we will have some special festive treats available, too.

What I love about my job is that every day is totally different. Whilst I’m based at Ashford Castle, my role includes spending time with the teams in our other Red Carnation hotels, developing and creating their pastry offerings for guests.

The most important part of my role is to be creative. I’m incredibly lucky that our CEO Mr. Raggett and our MD Niall Rochford, really support and encourage my passion and creativity. I always strive to be innovative and looking ahead to new ideas.

Christmas at Ashford Castle is magical, there is a lovely excitement in the castle. In previous years, I always worked Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. This year, I will be spending Christmas Day with my family.

When I’m not working, I love to travel and also to run. Currently, I’m training for my second marathon this year, which is in Dublin. Last March, I completed the London Marathon. Running a marathon gives you perspective on life. Everyone has a reason for running; I run because it keeps me grounded, and I love the discipline of training. I try to run in the morning – when I wake up. You can choose to stay in bed or get up and chase your dreams… That’s why I run! ashfordcastle.com @paula_pastry

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THE PERFECT CHRISTMAS GIFT Mrs Tea’s Boutique and Bakery on the Ashford Castle Estate is the ideal location for your Christmas gifting this year.

From our limited edition Christmas decoration, to bespoke Christmas hampers, local artisan products and our Paula Pastry chocolates there is something for every one.

Visit shop.ashfordcastle.com or call us on +353 (0) 94 954 6003 for more information and availability Ashford Castle, Cong, Co. Mayo ASHFORDCASTLE.COM

HIGH POINTS Irish broadcaster, author and founder of the Hike Life community, Rozanna Purcell shares her love of the great outdoors plus one of her favourite trails from her first-ever hiking book.

Photography by Bernard Geraghty.

I

have always loved the mountains, and I’m fortunate to have had them near throughout my life. I grew up at the foot of the mythical Sliabh Ná Man in County Tipperary and this is where my love of hiking and the myths and legends surrounding our mountains began. I would spend a lot of time up on Sliabh Ná Man. The mountain was my childhood playground, and often my escape from doing any jobs on the farm.

It was somewhere I could momentarily forget whatever was going on as a teenager. As a girl and a young woman, the woods became my place of solace, the place where I truly felt comfortable to be me, and the place where I could get back in touch with the present. That hasn’t changed!

I have always used the mountains as a great counterbalance to the chaos of life, as a reset button to slow down, appreciate the now and get a break from whatever is racing through my mind. The mountains and nature remind me how small me and my problems are. I am so lucky to live in and to be able to explore Ireland, and we have so many options when it comes to hiking. It’s been an absolute honour showcasing some of the best hikes on the island of Ireland, and I really hope it

encourages more people to get out and explore what we have.

Hiking in Ireland offers so much variety.

Every region has a mix of trail types, from rugged mountain to forest trails and cliff walks. The landscape is relatively untouched, allowing you to really appreciate the geography and geology of each area. Ireland is also steeped in myth and legend: only on an Irish mountain can you close your eyes and imagine the great warriors of Na Fianna striding into battle, as if you are there, back in time.

But probably the best thing about hiking in Ireland is the people that you meet along the way – whether it’s a friendly hello or encouragement to push on to the summit, hikers in Ireland are the friendliest of anywhere I have been. Ireland also has a good network of qualified mountain leaders, who will not only guide you on the trail but will also regale you with stories on the way. There are also lots of mountaineering and hiking clubs in Ireland, which can be a great way to meet like-minded people in your own area. Improvements to the trails are being made all of the time, and the number of marked trails is increasing every year, as are the facilities at popular hiking destinations, such as parking and toilets.

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DIAMOND HILL also known as Bengooria Irish: Binn Ghuaire, meaning ‘Guaire’s peak’ Connemara National Park offers some of the best hiking in Ireland. Every time I approach the park from afar, I am always blown away by the backdrop of impressive peaks.

One of the best hikes in the park is the well-marked Diamond Hill. This hike rewards you with unbelievable views on the way up and down. There is also a variety of terrain, with a path that changes from boardwalk to a rocky trail. This hike has some steep sections with a long plateau summit. There is also a lower Diamond Hill loop, which doesn’t climb the summit for those wanting something shorter.

From Diamond Hill summit you can see Kylemore Lough, and on a clear day Kylemore Abbey, tucked in at the foot of Doughruagh mountain. This vista was the setting for many fights between two of Ireland’s best-known mythological warriors, Fionn mac Cumhaill and Cú Chulainn. Fionn mac Cumhaill was residing on ‘The Diamond’, and Cú Chulainn lived on the opposite side of the valley on the mountain known as the

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Dúchruach, or the Black Stack. One day during an argument, Cú Chulainn threw a massive stone towards Fionn, narrowly missing him and landing beside Kylemore Lough, where it can be seen today. Local tradition says that it is a wishing stone. To make a wish, stand with your back to the stone, throw a pebble back over the stone three times, and your wish will be granted.

and safety notice. Follow this trail, up the stone steps and along a gravel path, bringing you to the boardwalk. You can now see Diamond Hill on your left. Follow the boardwalk as it leads you towards a large, upright stone. At the stone, turn left following the red arrow.

After around 400m, or 1.7km into your hike, you will come to a fork in the trail.

Head left, following the red arrow marking.

On this section of the trail, the gravel and rock terrain is clear with long grass at either side. In parts the trail turns into steps. Continue on this well-maintained trail. Towards the summit, the trail turns steep, with rock-built steps. You may want to use your hands to climb safely and take as many breaks as you need.

The final section of the trail serpentines in a picturesque manner to the top. The trail at the summit is well-defined, with a terrain of gravel and steps. You will come to the plateau summit, where there is a narrow trail that runs along the top to the highest part, the summit; follow this.

Approx. 3.2km in, you reach the summit, which gives incredible views of Benbrack, Benfree, Bencullagh, Muckanaght, Cnoc Breac, Kylemore Lough, and Doughruagh.

From here, continue on the trail as it descends towards Benbrack along distinctive stone steps and a gravel trail.

The trail then descends, loops around and runs alongside the south side of Diamond Hill (which will be on your right). The trail

here consists of gravel stone steps and boardwalk and is easy to follow. Continue to follow the trail as it brings you back to your earlier path. At the large stone, keep to the left path to follow the blue arrow on the large gravel trail which brings you back towards the pond and the car park.

The Hike Life: My 50 Favourite Hikes in Ireland by Rozanna Purcell (Black & White Publishing, approx. €24) is out now.

You can find Roz on Instagram: @rozannapurcell and @thehikelife

THE TRAIL You will be combining the blue (Lower Diamond Hill walk) and the red (Upper Diamond Hill walk) loops. It’s worth taking a photo of the information boards that are found throughout the hike. From the Connemara National Park car park, you’ll see a small building named Páirc Naisiúnta Chonamara. Follow the trail beside this building, and the signs for the Park Centre.

You will pass a large pond, then come to a white building where there is a café (the Hungry Hiker), toilets, and more.

Continue straight past the white building, passing the playground to your right and following the wide gravel trail through a gateway. Continue along this path. After approx. 900m, follow the trail to your left marked with blue and red arrows; there is also a blue sign with a map of the route

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Savoring the Season:

SPICED ROAST TURKEY DELIGHT Stefan Matz, Group Executive Chef | Cliste Hospitality & the iNua Collection.

Baked Cranberry & Almond Stuffing: Ingredients:

O

ur ‘Christmas Spiced Roast Turkey Breast’ is a festive delight. We slow-cook a turkey breast with a blend of Christmas spices for a tender and succulent twist on the classic roast turkey.

To complement this exquisite centerpiece, we’ve crafted a vegan stuffing, prepared a day ahead, which beautifully harmonizes with the turkey or serves as a delightful vegan alternative, all while capturing the essence of Christmas flavours. For an extra burst of delight, we’ve added diced ham into Brussels Sprouts leaves as we sauté them in a touch of rapeseed oil.

CHRISTMAS SPICED ROAST TURKEY BREAST Recipes

2 medium onion, finely diced 200 g coconut oil 100 g grated carrot 100 g grated sweet potato 200 g fresh breadcrumbs 70 g dried cranberries 50 g roughly chopped almonds, skin on 50 g Maple syrup 5 g cinnamon, ground 100 ml chickpea juices (from a can of chick peas) Salt & pepper to taste

Method:

• Heat ¼ of coconut oil and sweat diced onions until soft with no colour • Add chopped almond and sweat for 2 minutes • Remove from heat and stir in remaining ingredients, season to taste • Roll up tightly on a sheet of parchment paper with tin foil as extra layer to roll to a large 100m wide roll similar in width to the turkey breast • Bake in oven for 35 min at 180C, remove from oven, cool and chill for 12 hrs in fridge

24 hrs in advance:

Brine for Turkey: Ingredients:

500 ml orange juice 30 g salt 25 g sugar 30 g Maple syrup 2 bay leaves & 2 cloves 2 cinnamon sticks 1 tab sp cracked black pepper

Method:

On the Day:

Roast Turkey:

1 turkey breast (approx. 1.5 kg) brined for 24 hrs 50 g butter

Method:

• Remove turkey from brine and dry with kitchen paper • Brush with melted butter and roll tightly on parchment paper with an extra layer of tinfoil for extra strength – roll tightly to a round – even roll shape • Pan fry in medium heated pan with oil from all sides (tinfoil still around) • Oven raost for 40 to 50 minutes at 170C in fan assisted oven until a temperature of 75C in the centre of breast is reached (time depends on size of turkey breast and oven used) – always ensure the centre is piping hot • Keep hot and remove tin foil & parchment paper Assembly and Serving Suggestion: • Slice chilled pudding into ½” thick slices and reheat under grill to a hot, slightly crispy finish • Carve turkey into ½” thick slices • Seal Brussels sprout leaves in rapeseed oil with diced Limerick ham (keep some leaves without ham for any vegetarian/vegan diners) • Arrange turkey and stuffing slices on a bed of seared Brussel Sprout leaves • Serve with some baby potatoes roasted in rapeseed oil, crispy fried parsnip and carrot ribbons, cranberry sauce and a light gravy sauce finished with cranberry juice and red wine • Garnish with roasted almonds, dried cranberries and parsley as you wish

• Bring all ingredients to boil and cool • Place turkey in brine and marinate for 24 hrs in fridge

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The iNua Collection offer a place to unwind with relaxing breaks in some of Ireland’s top 5* & 4* hotels. Rejuvenate in our award-winning spas, indulge in culinary experiences at one of our popular restaurants or cosy up with a drink by our fires.

Buy now at www.inua.ie/buy-a-gift-voucher or scan the QR code below

Chef Ronan

CHRISTMAS STARTER recipes From Chef Ronan Kelly at The Falls Hotel & Spa Recipes make four portions

Confit of Silver Hill Duck Leg with Celeriac and Chive Pomme Puree, Anise Cream and Toasted Sesame 4 Silver Hill Duck Legs 1 Cinnamon Stick 4 Star Anise 1 Orange - roughly chopped 3 Cloves Garlic 1 litre of Duck Fat Salt/Pepper 1 Head of Celeriac-diced small 1/2 Kg Potatoes 2 Tablespoons of Hoi Sin Sauce 200mls Cream 100gms Diced Butter 2 Whole Parsnips 1 Small Bunch of Chives-cut in half centimetre lengths 1 Teaspoon of Toasted Sesame Seeds

Method Season Duck Legs with Salt and Pepper and brown in a pan using a small amount of the duck fat. Place in an oven proof dish. Add cinnamon, star anise, garlic and orange to duck legs. Melt the rest of the duck fat and add to the dish. Cover with Baking Parchment and Foil and place in a pre-heated oven at 140 degrees Celsius for approx. 2 hrs 30 mins-depending on the size of the duck leg. Larger ones will take longer.

Meanwhile peel potatoes and steam or boil them until cooked. Drain well. In a separate pan gently cook the celeriac in the cream. Mash the celeriac, potatoes and cream together and mix in the diced butter until the mash is silky and smooth.

Add the chives and keep warm.

Remove the cooked duck legs from the fat and drain well. Leave to cool just for

a few minutes before brushing a little of the hoisin sauce over the duck skin and leave under a low grill to glaze. Cover if necessary to ensure it doesn’t burn. Keep warm until ready to use.

Combine the rest of the hoisin sauce and cream in a small pan and heat gently.

Use a vegetable peeler to peel ribbons of parsnip and deep fry in hot oil for 20-30 seconds until brown and crispy.

To assemble, place some celeriac and chive pomme puree in a starter bowl.

Gently place the duck leg on top. Add a little of the sauce around the bowl and garnish with crispy parsnip and sprinkle with the sesame seeds.

Tian of Applewood Smoked Irish Chicken, Mango and Chilli Salsa, Toasted Olive Ciabatta Smoked Chicken Mix 400gms Smoked Chicken Fillet-Finely Diced 2 Sprig of Fresh Tarragon-Finely Chopped 125gms Mayonnaise Pinch Salt/Pepper Mango and Chilli Salsa 1 Large Mango-cut in small dices 1 Red Chilli - finely chopped 100mls Water 1 Tablespoon Sugar 30mls Vinegar 1 Sprig of Mint 1 Sprig Chervil for Garnish 1 Teaspoon Chopped Chives 1 Olive Ciabatta-Sliced Thinly and Toasted

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Method Boil Water, Sugar and Mint for one minute and leave to cool.

Mix Chilli, Mango and Chives and combine with cooled pickling juice.

Mix Mayo, Smoked Chicken and Tarragon, season with a little Salt and Pepper.

Shape Smoked Chicken Mix into Tians-equal amount of chicken in eachusing a mould (a scone cutter will do just as good). Gently place mango mix around chicken mix and top with sliced toasted ciabatta. Garnish with sprig of tarragon-or chervil.

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When you are ready to fry the blinis, heat a large non-stick frying pan over a medium high heat and brush the pan with a little melted butter. Add teaspoonful amounts to the pan and fry until golden on each side.

Allow to cool completely before topping with a generous dollop of crème fraîche, a slice of smoked salmon and some pickled beetroot.

Blinis

with Burren Smoked Irish Organic Salmon & pickled beetroot courtesy of Burren Smokehouse We owe this recipe to Donal Skehan, Ireland’s talented and lovely young chef who has published several cook books and has his own cookery shows on TV. He writes: “These wonderful little blinis make a fantastic base to show off some of the finest ingredients and there really is no finer than Birgitta Curtin’s Burren organic smoked salmon.

The beetroot is a bit of a cheat’s solution to pickling but I find it works great, if you are making these up at the last minute.”

Serves 8 INGREDIENTS For the blinis 120ml milk 1 x 5g sachet of active dried yeast 125g strong white flour 1 tbsp caster sugar 1 tsp salt 120ml buttermilk 2 large free-range eggs, separated 1 tblsp melted butter, plus more to fry

When preparing a good Christmas brunch for friends and family, it is important to select easy recipes, and this is one of them. Ready in 40 minutes, it can be quickly done and kept warm in the oven.

Serves4 INGREDIENTS 3 large eggs, lightly beaten 4 cups grated potatoes 2 x 180g Burren Hot smoked Irish Organic Salmon, flaked 1/2 cup finely chopped red onion 1 tblsp whole-grain mustard 2 + 1 tblsp chopped fresh dill (or 1 + 1 tsp dried), divided 1/4 cup breadcrumbs 1/2 tsp freshly ground pepper 1/4 tsp salt 2 tblsp extra-virgin olive oil, divided 1/3 cup reduced-fat sour cream 1 tblsp capers, rinsed and chopped 1 tsp fresh lemon juice

For the garnish 250g Burren cold smoked Irish Organic salmon crème fraîche fresh dill Optional - for the quick pickled beetroot 250g beetroot, finely chopped into cubes 5 tblsp apple cider vinegar 1 tblsp caster sugar sea salt and ground black pepper

METHOD: Preheat oven to 100°C. In a large bowl, lightly beat the eggs with a fork. Add chopped onion, mustard, 2 tblsp fresh dill (or 1 teaspoons dried), breadcrumbs, pepper and salt, and stir. Add flaked smoked salmon, then shred the potatoes into it. Stir everything to combine.

Heat 1 tblsp oil in a large nonstick frying pan over medium heat until hot. Fill a 1-cup measure (or a small ramequin) two-thirds full with the salmon mixture and firmly pack it down.

Unmold into the pan and pat to form a little patties.

Cover and cook until browned on the bottom, 3 to 5 minutes.

Gently turn over and cook, covered, until crispy on the other side, 3 to 5 minutes more. Transfer the cakes to a baking dish and keep them warm in the oven, covered in tinfoil to avoid drying out.

Wipe out the frying pan and, with the remaining 1 tblsp of oil, fry off the remaining salmon mixture.

Combine sour cream, capers, lemon juice and the remaining dill in a small bowl. Serve the salmon cakes with the dill sauce.

METHOD: For the quick pickled beetroot, combine all the ingredients for the pickled beetroot in a bowl and allow to sit in the fridge until you are ready to use it.

For the blinis, pour the milk into a small saucepan and heat until luke-warm. Whisk in the yeast and leave to stand for 6-8 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and sugar with a generous pinch of salt and make a well, in the centre.

In a large Pyrex jug, mix together the buttermilk, butter and egg yolks. Whisk in the foamy yeast mixture and pour into the dry ingredients. Mix until you have a smooth batter and then cover and leave to stand in a warm place for 30 minutes.

Beat the egg whites in a clean bowl until you have stiff peaks.

Using a metal spoon fold this into the batter.

Go Wild Magazine - Christmas Edition 2023

Burren Smoked Salmon Cakes

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CARRYGERRY

g n i d d u p christmas

INGREDIENTS 20 oz. Mixed Fruit Currants, Sultanas, Raisins 5 oz. Mixed Candied Peel 5 oz. Glaced Cherries 10 oz. Grated Apple Juice & Rind of 1 Large Orange Juice & Rind of 2 Lemons 15 oz. Plain Flour 1 tsp. Salt 1 tsp. Ground Ginger 1 tsp. Ground Cinnamon 1/2 tsp. Ground Nutmeg 1/2 tsp. Ground Cloves 1lb (16 oz.) Brown Sugar 1lb (16 oz.) Fresh Bread Crumb 1/2 pt. Guinness 1/4 pt. Irish Whiskey 10 oz. Butter or Margarine 6 oz. Ground Almonds 4 oz. Chopped Mixed Nuts 6 Whole Eggs

• Leave to stand for one hour.

• Add Orange, Lemon Juice, Peel & Grated Apple.

• Add Melted Butter or Margarine.

• Add Eggs.

• Add Guinness. After mixing well leave to stand for one hour.

• After Standing for one hour mix well again.

• Traditionally, Puddings are cooked / Steamed in a Pudding Bowl, however, I prefer to use Foil Take Away Containers (1lb). This allows me to get a more even cook but more importantly it allows me to Slice the Pudding for Service & Presentation.

METHOD: • The day before you make your pudding you should put all your dry fruit in a mixing bowl and drizzle with Whiskey.

Cover and leave to soak overnight.

• You need to well-grease your Bowl or Cooking Container. If using a Pudding Bowl, cover with a piece of Greaseproof or Parchment Paper. Place a Double Layer of Tinfoil on top and secure with String. Alternatively, use the Plastic Lid from the Pudding Bowl.

• Next day, Add in the Flour, Breadcrumb, Sugar, Ground Almonds, Mixed Nuts, Cherries, Mixed Peel & Spices. Mix well to combine.

• If using Foil Takeaway Containers, grease well. Fill with your Pudding Mix. Cover with Paper Lid and Wrap twice in Cling film.

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• Place the Pudding into a Large Saucepan half filled with water. Bring the water to the boil and then reduce to a gentle simmer. Simmer for 5 – 6 hours making sure that the water does not boil off. Top up with additional water as required.

• After the Cooking Time has elapsed remove the Pudding from the water.

• Remove the Lid and allow to cool down completely.

• When cold, re-cover with Fresh Greaseproof or Parchment Paper and store until required.

• You can re-heat the Pudding either in the Microwave or you can Steam in a Pot of Water (asper Cooking Method) for a further 1 hour until thoroughly heated through.

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

Carrygerry Country House, Carrygerry Country House, House,

Carrygerry Country House, near Newmarket-on-Fergus and just and just Our Conservatory Restaurant is open for Dinner from T Carrygerry Country House, near Newmarket-on-Fergus Our Conservatory Restaurant is open for Dinne minutes away fromfrom Shannon, is a 200 Manor Saturday from 6.30pm to 9.30pm.

Our ÁOur La Carte minutes away Shannon, is ayear 200oldyear oldtastefully Manor tastefully Saturday from 6.30pm to 9.30pm. Á La Men Ca restored to its former glory,glory, set in set a idyllic country setting. fresh, locally sourced produce and aand well bala restored to its former in a mature idyllic mature setting. fresh, locally sourced produce w Near Newmarket-on-Fergus and country just minutes away from Shannon, iscomplete a a complete OnOn arrival, youyou willNewmarket-on-Fergus experience a relaxed and unique house arrival, will experience a relaxed andcountry unique country house Near and minutes away from Shannon, Near Newmarket-on-Fergus just minutes away Shannon, 200 year old Manor tastefully restored to its former glory, set for infrom a idyllic atmosphere withwith openopen fires and furniture.furniture.

There are There 11 Set Dinner €29 (3 (3 courses courses plus atmosphere firesantique and antique are 11 Set DinnerMenu Menu €29 for plusTea/Cof Tea/C mature country setting.

On arrival, you will experience a relaxed and isisall aa 200 year old Manor tastefully tofrom its6.30pm former glory, set 200 year old Manor restored to its former set bedrooms, individually styled in keeping with the house.the house. is served served to 9.30pm Tuesday to Satut bedrooms, all individually styled in keeping with from 6.30pm to glory, 9.30pm Tuesday

country housecountry atmosphere with open and antique furniture. in aaidyllic mature setting.

Onfires arrival, you will will experienceaa inunique idyllic mature country arrival, you experience There are 11 bedrooms, all individually styled in keeping with the house.

We cater for Birthdays,Anniversaries, Anniversaries, Weddings, Christenings, We cater forunique Birthdays, Weddings, Christenings, relaxed and country house atmosphere with open firesetc. andetc For enquiries call 061 360500 email:info@carrygerryhouse.com info@carrygerryhouse.com | www.carrygerryhou enquiries call 061 360500 or or email: | www.carrygerr antique furniture. There are 11 bedrooms, all individually styled in Escape to Carrygerry Country Ho Escape Carrygerry House the house. keepingtowith house. Country

foraaRelaxing Relaxing Getaway Someon for Getaway withwith Someone Spe

Our Conservatory Restaurant is open Thursday, Friday & Saturday evenings for dinner from 5.00pm-8.30pm. Sunday Lunch served from 1pm-3.30pm.

Our dishes offers fresh, locally sourced produce and a complete well balanced menu Set Dinner Menu for €40 (3 courses plus Tea/Coffee) is served

OurConservatory ConservatoryRestaurant Restaurantisisopen openfor forDinner Dinneron from Tuesday to Saturday from Our Friday and Saturday Evening from 6.00pm to 9.00pm.

Our dishes offers fresh, locallyRestaurant sourcedisproduce produce 6.30pm to 9.30pm.

Our Á La Carte MenuWeddings, locally sourced and a Carrygerry Country House, near Newmarket-on-Fergus just Our Conservatory open for Dinner Carrygerry Country House, near Newmarket-on-Fergus and just and Our Conservatory Restaurant We cater for Birthdays, Anniversaries, Christenings, etc. is open for Dinner from Tu and a complete well balanced menu minutes away from Shannon, is a 200 old Manor tastefully Saturday from 6.30pm to 9.30pm. Our Á La Car complete well balanced menu. minutes from Shannon, a 200 year oldyear Manor tastefully Saturday 6.30pm to 9.30pm. Our Á La Carte Men For away enquiries call 061 is360500 or email: info@carrygerryhouse.com |from www.carrygerryhouse.com

restored to its former glory, set in a idyllic mature country setting. fresh, locally sourced produce and a complete w restored to its former glory, set in a idyllic mature country setting. fresh, locally sourced produce and a complete well balan On arrival, you will experience a relaxed and unique country house On arrival, you will experience a relaxed and unique country house

Six tips to create the best

Vegan Christmas dinner bies w e n r fo

W

hether you are hosting your first festive dinner as a vegan or are hosting vegan guests this year, the anticipation to get cooking can be overwhelming.

Tap into your creative culinary acumen to prepare exquisite plant-based dishes with all the festive flavours you love.

In light of the Christmas spirit, these tried and tested tips will help you prepare your very first festive dinner to share with loved ones. We guarantee no one has to go cold turkey.

The preparation starts early Just because you’re having a vegan Christmas, it doesn’t mean that it has to be stripped of the festive elation that usually begins from December 1.

Advent calendars are a Christmas classic, and luckily, there are many options for vegans.

From fair trade vegan chocolate advent calendars to a DIY one made with vegan treats, savour the excitement. While you’re in the Christmas mood, why not get a head start on your festive playlist, menu and shopping list planning, and send out cute invitations to your family?

Start with the drinks Once your guests arrive, it’s time to quench their thirst.

Go Wild Magazine - Christmas Edition 2023

While most alcoholic beverages like wine, beer, spirits, and cider are vegan-friendly, it’s best to double-check their content.

For those who wish to refrain from alcohol, why not prepare a plantbased alternative to the classic hot chocolate, such as this gingerbread hot cocoa? You can also prepare your tea blend using Christmas favourites like cinnamon, orange peels, cardamom, star aniseed, or apple. Sounds just like a mulled wine but without the wine, right?

Move onto the starters A heart-warming soup before the mains goes a long way towards satisfying your guests. When planning your starters, think seasonal and local: what are the best-quality vegetables you can source at the time? Here is a hint: butternut squash, pumpkin, beetroot, and Brussels sprouts are beloved December classics. A simple yet incredibly flavoursome and vibrant starter you can serve is a vegan butternut squash soup made with coconut milk for extra creaminess. If you are a fan of salads, try a beetroot pear salad with walnuts.

It’s time for the mains If you’re looking for a turkey replacement that doesn’t add more cooking time to your schedule, go for a pre-made vegan roast which you can get from the frozen

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section of most supermarkets.

Dishes can be simplified by using vegan ready-made pastry. Try different fillings, such as squash, carrots, chard, and lentils. A wreath-shaped pastry filled with nuts, veg and tofu, is also a great idea.

A classic vegan main dish is a nut roast. Start with a basic recipe, then diversify it by adding raisins, sage, cranberry, cinnamon and different nuts.

Get on with the sides Pretty much anything goes here as long as it carries the Christmas spirit and complements the centrepiece. You probably already have a repertoire of vegetable dishes, so feel free to throw in a few of them. From roasted potatoes with rosemary to Brussels sprouts with seeds and maple-glazed carrots, the kitchen is yours.

Who said dessert?

Usually, the last bite of stuffing puts an end to our savoury feast and the sweet one begins. Although our bellies are as full as Santa Claus, we all know that dessert goes to our second stomach.

So, for your vegan Christmas dinner, you can satisfy everyone’s sweet tooth with a few vegan mince pie options. If your cooking battery is running low, opt for a ready-made or homemade vegan Christmas pudding.

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The Art of Giving Gift your loved ones a unique and memorable experience from Sheen Falls Lodge.

+353 (0)64 664 1600 www.sheenfallslodge.ie info@sheenfallslodge.ie Sheen Falls Lodge, Kenmare, Co. Kerry, V93 HR27, Ireland.

Christmas

Gifts

By Keith Nicol Christmas will be with us sooner than you think. While the man in your life might say they don’t need anything for Christmas, here’s a few ideas for the man ‘who has everything’. I’d be delighted to receive any of these. Just in case you were lost for ideas!

Guinness Bar Hamper

for the ‘Man who has Everything’

There is something special about being able to enjoy the delicious taste of Guinness from the comfort of your own home. Inside the hamper, you’ll find four beer mats, a deck of cards, a Guinness bar towel and two Guinness glasses designed for the perfect pour from a 500ml can. €25.00 I carollsirishgifts.com

Tandem Skydive Experience Gift

Want an ultimate adrenaline thrill for your man, then send him on a Tandem skydive from 13,000 feet with a 30-second free fall. Located in Edenderry, Offaly. €334.99 I giftsdirect.com

Brown Leather Wallet Cuchulainn

Designed and Made in Cork, Ireland by Lee River Leather. This Brown Leather Wallet is named after the famous mythical Irish warrior ‘Cuchulainn’, and is aptly embossed with an unusual Celtic design of four wolfhounds. €55.00 I totallyirishgifts.com

Aromabuff Beard Gift Set

Luxury Leather Wrap Journal

This beautiful gift set includes: Handy Beard Balm 50ml - Beard Oil 30ml AromaBuff Double Sided Pear-wood Beard Comb. The perfect beard grooming gift for the bearded man who is man enough to care. €75.00

This Luxury Leather Wrap Journal is brought to you by Hubert Bookbindery.

The handmade Luxury Leather Wrap Journal is simple yet elegant, using one colour and tied with a fold-over flap, bound using the softest leather and contains 140 leaves of high-quality cream 100gsm writing paper. €22.00 – €42.00 Hubertbookbinding.com

Aromabuff.com

100% Donegal Roll Neck Sweater Charcoal

The Donegal roll-neck sweater is a perfect addition to your fall wardrobe. It has a classic rock neck style that makes it suitable for wearing on its own or under jackets and coats. €99.90 - €139.90 www. sweatershop.com /100-donegalroll-necksweater-charcoal

Go Wild Magazine - Christmas Edition 2023

Genuine Leather “All In” Mens Briefcase & Laptop Bag

This leather briefcase is an absolute beauty from the Hunter Treacy collection. The “All In” remains true to all the features you know and love from our classic satchel design: large rear pocket, double front pockets and double buckle fastenings. €249.00 I Manlystuff.ie

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There’s a reason why visitors to EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum have voted us Europe’s leading tourist attraction three years in a row at the World Travel Awards.

We could tell you that reason, but we think it’s better to experience it for yourself.

This isn’t just a museum, it’s a totally unique and unmissable journey through the legacy of Ireland, centuries in the making.

Book your tickets online at epicchq.com

#epicmuseum

WHAT IS A MOCKTAIL? Strictly speaking it’s a term for a nonalcoholic drink, usually a mix of fruit juices, fizzy drinks, and an alcohol-free alternative.

Fruit juices are usually quite sweet but with the addition of flavoured tonic waters you can balance that out. They are often imitating a more well-known alcohol cocktail, such as a passion fruit martini; swap out the gin and use a non-alcoholic version, Aldis Saoirse for €9.99 has been one of my best finds. As for your Christmas mulled wine punch, simply swap the wine for cranberry juice, making a mulled wine punch with cranberry juice instead of wine.

For teetotaller’s and drivers alike, they don’t want to be left out anymore, they would like a festive drink. I have poured through a lot of mocktail recipes and have chosen four solid mocktails that are super easy to make and will look the part.

NOMOSA - Dry version of the infamous Mimosa • 2 Parts Non-alcoholic wine (try Aldis Zerozecco for €3.29) • 1 Part Orange Juice • Then top up with soda water.

Decorate with a few mint leaves on top.

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NO G&T • 1 Part Non-alcoholic spirit. (try Saoirse - Aldi €9.99 • 3 Parts Tonic Water Garnish as you normally would.

SUNSET MOCKTAIL • 1 Tbsp of Grenadine • 100ml Orange juice • Sparkling water to top up.

Method Pour the grenadine into a glass. Gently tip the glasses and pour the orange juice down the inside of the glasses, it should sit on top of the grenadine. Top up with sparkling water.

For the added touch, thread the grapes and blueberries onto the skewers to make stirrers.

NO-JITO • 1 -1.5 Tsp sugar • Lime juice (2 limes juiced) • Small bunch mint • Soda water Method Muddle the sugar with the mint leaves.

Add a handful of crushed ice into 2 tall glasses.

Pour the lime juice into the glass with the mint mix.

Then top up with soda water.

Decorate with a few mint leaves on top.

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TIRAMISU

with an Irish twist

mascarpone mixture and scatter with a third of the nuts and chocolate.

Looking for a fresh idea for a festive dessert? Donal Skehan’s Irish Coffee, Hazelnut and Chocolate Tiramisu is bound to impress everyone at the table.

I realised that I’ve never managed to include my recipe for tiramisu in any of my previous cookbooks. It’s one of my go-to desserts to feed a crowd, and has easily earned its place as one of my most-used recipes.

Like any recipe that stands the test of time, it’s had plenty of variations. I’ve made this in its most basic form, from a recipe I picked up on my travels in Italy, but I’ve also served it trifle-style at Christmas, with extra decadent layers of caramel and chocolate custard. Sometimes, if I have really good-quality dark chocolate, I’ll add a thick layer of shavings as it’s assembled. This version is the latest twist and an homage to that favourite after-dinner treat: Irish coffee topped with whipped cream.

Go Wild Magazine - Christmas Edition 2023

Serves 6 Prep time: 30 minutes plus chilling Ingredients 400ml (13/4 cups) double (heavy) cream 250g (9oz) mascarpone 4 tbsp caster (superfine) sugar 75ml (⅓ cup) Baileys 300ml (1¼ cups) strong coffee 75ml (⅓ cup) whiskey 200g (7oz) savoiardi sponge fingers 100g (3½ oz) hazelnuts, toasted and roughly crushed in a pestle and mortar 75g (3oz) dark chocolate, grated

3. Repeat to make two more layers, finishing with a layer of cream scattered with nuts and chocolate.

Chill for at least 2 hours before serving. This will keep well covered in the fridge for 2–3 days.

Extracted from Home Kitchen

by Donal Skehan (Yellow Kite, approx €30), out now.

Method: 1. Put the cream, mascarpone and sugar into a bowl and whisk by hand with a balloon whisk until it is thick and luscious. Whisk in the Baileys and set aside.

2. Mix the coffee and whiskey together in a shallow dish. Dip the sponge fingers into this mixture and put a layer of them into a glass serving dish. Spread over a third of the

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Photography © Dave Brown 2023.

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The Abbey Hotel Donegal As one of the longest established Hotels Special Day, our experienced Wedding in the North West, renowned for its coordinators are here to ensure unique setting in the Centre of the you have a day to remember. We Historic Town of Donegal, with idyllic have a range of superbly appointed views of Donegal Bay in the background, Bedrooms including Family Rooms, the Hotel is perfectly located to enjoy Suites, Inter-connecting Rooms the beautiful County of Donegal. and Enabled Access Rooms.

Within minutes of stunning coastal The Market House Restaurant & drives, beaches and signature discovery Food Hall is the perfect place to points of the famous Wild Atlantic meet and enjoy our amazing mouthWay, the Abbey Hotel Donegal Town, is the perfect location for you to stay.

The Abbey Hotel Donegal Town is a premier venue for live Music Events including Country & Western Weekends, Comedy Shows and Live Bands to name but a few, with lively traditional Irish Folk Music in the popular Abbey Bar also a regular occurrence.

watering Homemade Cakes, Scones and Soups made the traditional Irish way by the famous and offering our amazing signature dish the “Steak on the Stone” from our sumptuous A La Carte Dinner Menu.

Traditional Carvery Lunch is available daily. Why not try one of our speciality Cocktails to start your amazing Dining experience?

Specialising in Weddings and Civil Ceremonies for between 50 – 400 guests, the Abbey Hotel Donegal Town is the perfect venue for your

Active

STAY & DINE IN THE HEART OF TOWN TO EXPLORE RETIREMENT DONEGAL THE WILD ATLANTIC WAY ✔ ACTIVE RETIREMENT SPECIALS MIDWEEK

✔ ACCESS TO LEISURE CLUB

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www.abbeyhoteldonegal.com

++353 74 97 21014

CENTRAL HOTEL CONFERENCE & LEISURE CENTRE

✔ LIVE MUSIC

www.centralhoteldonegal.com

++353 74 97 21027

Looking back and looking ahead Meg Walker talks with Mary Heffernan, Director of National Monuments at the Office of Public Works (OPW) about how she and her team strive to inspire visitors to explore Ireland’s rich heritage.

It’s a privilege to manage Ireland’s built heritage history, from prehistoric megalithic cemeteries to sites that embody events of national importance in our 20th century history. The vast range includes our Viking inheritance, Norman castles, medieval monasteries and castles to our Georgian, Victorian and Edwardian heritage; these surviving historic structures are places where the history of Ireland and the story of her people can be understood.

I was privileged to be in the upper yard of Dublin Castle on the 16th of January 2022 for the commemoration ceremony to mark the 100th anniversary of the handover of Dublin Castle from the last Viceroy of Ireland to Michael Collins. I had a deep sense that we were truly ready to cast off the shackles of colonisation and take our place with pride leading and giving other countries an example of the birth of a nation. A century on from our independence, I believe there is a new type of Celtic revival returning confidently again to our ancient history reminding ourselves of this extraordinary inheritance of architecture, music, ancient literature and folklore; of who we are and where we want to go.

interpretation project on the 300 years of the Conolly’s living at Castletown; another exhibition on the equestrian history of Castletown to celebrate Diana ConollyCarew, who was on the winning team when Ireland won the Aga Khan trophy in 1963; and Kilkenny Networks, an exhibition at Kilkenny Castle looking at medieval Kilkenny and the links between the merchants and the Butlers of Ormond. We also reopened Doneraile Court at the end of May with a floor of exhibitions including one on Elizabeth Bowen, the Lost Houses of North Cork and the St. Leger family, plus a revamped outdoor café and recreation area.

Barryscourt Castle is an outstanding medieval tower house near Carrigtwohill in Co. Cork and the OPW’s master stonemasons are completing careful repointing of the exterior walls under the direction of OPW conservation architects. East Cork is an important tourism area so we’re delighted to plan the reopening for the latter part of 2024.

This past year was a busy one for the OPW. We opened Portrait of a Family, an

Looking back on my 30-year career, one highlight would be when I was general manager at Farmleigh preparing for the State visit by the Emperor and Empress of Japan in 2005. It was in the early years of use of Ireland’s official guest residence for visiting prime ministers, presidents and royalty. Watching how they responded to this Irish welcome was wonderful. Being appointed Director of National Monuments recently is a significant highlight. I’ve invested a lot of time developing my expertise and knowledge in art, art history, architecture, and Irish cultural history, and I relish the opportunity to work alongside skilled and expert colleagues across the OPW, the Department and Fáilte Ireland, building an appreciation of and support for the preservation and sharing of this extraordinary inheritance with the people of Ireland, the diaspora and international

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visitors. I recently visited Loughcrew Megalithic Cairns for the first time and was blown away, standing on this hill in awe of our ancestors and how they created this architecture of their tombs 3,200 years BC. I want to inspire people’s curiosity to discover places like this.

I created the Farmleigh Christmas experience in 2001. The ethos at Farmleigh has always been that the same welcome given to someone like the Emperor of Japan is given to every citizen of Ireland and we had an opportunity with this beautiful mansion set in an idyllic parkland to say, ‘Let’s make a magical Christmas experience for everyone’ with horse and carriage rides with Santa, food markets and carol singing. It’s still one of the classic ways to celebrate the Christmas spirit. In more recent years, we created Christmas at the Castle with Victorian-style decorations

by Dr. Myles Campbell, one of the curators at Dublin Castle, with a fairytale forest in the lower yard with twinkling lights, vintage carousel and the Neapolitan Crib at the Chapel Royal. Looking at families coming in, you can see it’s a special part of their Christmas memories.

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Give the gift of Ireland’s Heritage heritageireland.ie

OPW Heritage Cards give 12 months unlimited access and guided tours at over 50 heritage sites

Go Wild Magazine - Christmas Edition 2023

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Buy one at any OPW Heritage Site or online

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XMAS PHOTOGRAPHY

Go Wild Magazine - Christmas Edition 2023

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XMAS PHOTOGRAPHY

Magazine

Go Wild Magazine - Christmas Edition 2023

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The team are looking forward to welcoming you for your Winter Stay at the Arklow Bay

The perfect place to escape, relax and unwind by the sea. Explore Irelands Ancient East and visit Glendalough, Avoca, Avondale or some of the many other fantastic attractions in the Garden County.

Email Reservations: reservations@arklowbay.com www.arklowbay.com call 0402-26200 Go Wild Magazine - Christmas Edition 2023

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Christmas

Gifts for Her

Ciara O’Neill Original print, GALWAY

Ciara is an artist from Galway in the West of Ireland who specializes in contemporary art. She has a degree in Interior Design and this is where she developed her eye for colour.

Ciara recently lived in Australia for eight years. She has gained a lot of her inspiration and vibrant colour schemes from that climate. Her designs are inspired by her love for Aboriginal art and Andy Warhol. Ciara’s art will add a pop of colour to any room. All designed and painted by Ciara in the West of Ireland.

Email: ciaraoneillart.com I Website: ciaraoneilart.com

Jewellery - Gleeson Goldsmiths

With over 30-years’ experience, Gleeson Goldsmith combines traditional master crafting with modern goldsmith methods, to design and manufacture their own totally unique jewellery. Independent and innovative, they create competitively-priced collections that are destined to become future classics. They also manufacture bespoke pieces according to your own personal design. Situated in the hidden gem that is Ballycasey Design and Retail Centre, less than 5 minutes from Bunratty.

Website: gleesongoldsmiths.ie

Torc candles

Established in 1969, nestled in the foothills of Mount Leinster, based in the South-East of Ireland in the picturesque village of Borris, Co.Carlow.

Our love of all things natural, combined with our passion for fragrance, inspired us to create candles that evoke memories. Joyful memories of time spent with family and very special occasions. As times change, our passion remains, and we continue to evolve, relying on inspiration from our heritage and local tapestry.

Website: torccandles.com

GIFTS VARIOUS - Codladh sámh BEO Wellness was founded by Aoibhín Garrihy and Sharon Connellan in 2017.

BEO is a nationally renowned lifestyle brand which blends live events promoting self-care with their product line which offers thoughtfully curated collections from sustainable and ethical sources in the West of Ireland. Their product range was very much inspired by the landscape around them in Co.Clare.

Website: beowellness.ie

Beauty - SOSU Cosmetics

SOSU Cosmetics, an Irish-owned and run business, started out in 2015 with just one beauty product, now eight years on, it is an award-winning beauty brand made up of over 300 products and three subbrands, SOSU Cosmetics, Dripping Gold Tan and Bahama Body Tan. The brand was developed and brought to the market by blogger, turned beauty entrepreneur, Suzanne Jackson and is currently sold internationally in over 2000+ stockists, in stores and online across EU & US markets. The brand has collaborated with many beauty influencers and continues to innovate to bring affordable luxury beauty products to the market.

Website: www.sosubysj.com

Bag - Kinsale leather

Dee Mangan founded Kinsale Leather in 2014 with the aim of creating timeless, lifelong leather creations. Since then, Kinsale Leather has gone from strength to strength, showing at CREATE at Brown Thomas, and launching at Arnotts and select Kilkenny stores. If you’re looking for classic, practical designs that will last for years, Kinsale is a real favourite.

Website: www.kinsaleleather.com

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Christmas

Gifts

When it comes to Christmas gift ideas from Ireland, you have the opportunity to surprise your loved ones with something truly unusual and unique. Ireland is known for its rich culture, history and craftsmanship and plenty of distinctive gifts capture the essence of this beautiful country. Here are a few ideas that are sure to bring a touch of Ireland to your Christmas celebrations.

ideas from Ireland

Irish Whiskey: Ireland is famous for its whis-

Irish Jewellery: Celtic knotwork jewellery is intricate and

meaningful. You can find unique pieces like necklaces, earrings, or bracelets that incorporate Celtic designs, representing eternal love and connection.

key, and you can find a wide variety of unique and limited-edition bottles. Consider gifting a personalized whiskey set or a subscription to an Irish whiskey club.

Irish Adventure Experience: Give the gift of adventure with

Irish Wool Sweaters: Hand-knit Aran sweat-

Irish Language Classes: For those

ers are a symbol of Irish craftsmanship. These cosy and stylish sweaters are warm and a fashion statement. You can find them in various colours and designs.

Claddagh Ring: The Claddagh ring is a tradi-

tional Irish symbol representing love, loyalty, and friendship. It makes for a meaningful and beautiful gift, especially for someone special in your life.

Irish Art: Ireland has a rich tradition of art, and you can find unique pieces from local artists. Whether it’s a painting, sculpture, or a piece of Celtic art, it can be a captivating addition to any home.

Irish Food and Drink Hampers: Put together a gourmet ham-

an experience in Ireland. This could be a hot air balloon ride, a guided tour of the Wild Atlantic Way, or even a visit to one of Ireland’s many castles.

interested in the Irish language (Gaeilge), consider enrolling them in an Irish language course or gifting them a subscription to an online language learning platform. It’s a unique way to connect with Irish culture.

Irish Perfume or Cologne: Several

Irish perfumeries create unique scents inspired by the Irish landscape. These fragrances capture the essence of the Emerald Isle and make for a distinctive gift.

Irish Pottery: Handcrafted Irish pottery

is both functional and beautiful. Look for unique pieces like mugs, bowls, or decorative items featuring intricate Celtic designs.

per filled with Irish treats like Irish cheeses, smoked salmon, artisanal chocolates, and Irish tea or coffee. It’s a delicious taste of Ireland.

Personalized Family Crest: If your loved ones have Irish roots, consider gifting them a personalized family crest with their surname.

It’s a meaningful and unique way to celebrate their heritage.

Irish Crystal: Waterford Crystal is

world-renowned for its quality and beauty. Gift a stunning crystal vase, glassware, or a decorative piece that will add elegance to any home.

Irish Music: Ireland has a rich

musical heritage. Consider gifting a traditional Irish musical instrument like a tin whistle, bodhrán (drum), or even music lessons to learn to play them.

Irish Literature: Ireland has produced many great writers, so

why not gift a collection of Irish literature or a signed edition of a book by a contemporary Irish author? It’s perfect for bookworms.

Go Wild Magazine - Christmas Edition 2023

Irish Whiskey Stones: For whiskey

enthusiasts, Irish whiskey stones are a great gift. These stones are used to chill whiskey without diluting it, ensuring a perfect sip every time.

Incorporating a touch of Ireland into your Christmas gifts can make the holiday season even more special. Whether it’s a traditional Claddagh ring, a bottle of Irish whiskey, or a piece of Irish art, these unique and unusual gifts will surely bring joy to your loved ones’ hearts and a piece of Ireland to their homes.

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Give the gift of Surprise your loved one and give the gift of luxury at Fota Island Resort this Christmas Purchase your gift vouchers online or by phone fotaisland.ie/vouchers | T: 021 488 3700 or by scanning the QR code below.

Fota Island Resort, Fota Island, Cork, Ireland T +353 (0)21 488 3700 | E reservations@fotaisland.ie | www.fotaisland.ie

Christmas

Gifts for Kids

Barbie will take the top spot for Christmas 2023 This Christmas will be a full blown Barbie Frenzy after the Barbie Movie being the highest – grossing film of 2023.

Barbie Dreamhouse 2023 Pool party doll house with 75+ pieces and 3 story slide from €199.00

Hot Wheels City Ultimate Hauler

Gabby’s Dollhouse Girl Doll

If your child loves cars and Dinosaurs, then this will be the ultimate Christmas gift, Transforms from 20+ toy car transporter to a T- rex that eats cars!!

Price €161.03

The all-new Gabby Girl doll. Featuring realistic details from head to toe, this 20.3cm doll brings Gabby to life. From €16.99

Hasbro Furby

Meet Furby! This curious little creature is an interactive toy friend with 5 voiceactivated modes and over 600 phrases, jokes, songs and more to discover.

Lego

For children that are fascinated with horses, farms or vehicles, this play set is the ultimate in fun with horse figures, a toy car with trailer, a dog and more accessories. €99.99

Kandoodle

Micro Scooter LED Eco This super cool Micro Scooter with ingenious light up LED Wheels and silicone Micro grip helps kids stay safe and an adjustable handlebar height means growing kids can enjoy for years to come..

From €102.00

CRAyola Broad Line Washable Markers

Whether you’re hunting for a good stocking stuffer or simply want an affordable gift to tack onto some others on your list, you can’t go wrong with the Crayola Broad Line Washable Markers (12-Pack).. From €5.00

Go Wild Magazine - Christmas Edition 2023

A game for kids from 7 and up.

They pick a challenge card, follow the setup, then solve it with the remaining pieces. Once they’ve mastered the 2D challenges, they can move on to the harder 3D ones.

Bitzee interactive Digital Pet

With Bitzee you can experience a world of digital pets in the palm of your hand. Bitzee interactive pets respond to swipes, tilts, shakes and touch with sounds and reactions. Each of these Bitzee virtual pets starts as a baby Priced from €37.99

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Mattel Star Wars Grogu Plush 8 inches

The Mandalorian Character Figure from “Star Wars” Priced from €12.00

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Christmas

Gifts

Christmas is a time to indulge in delectable foods and thirst-quenching drinks, from chocolates and mince pies, to bubbly and Irish coffee. There is nothing quite like filling up on delicious foods and drinks to celebrate Christmas. Gifting some delicious treats to your loved ones to enjoy over the festive period and into the New Year is even better.

To make the decision easier, we’ve created the ultimate food & drink gift guide below to help you choose the perfect present this Christmas

for Foodies

George Foreman’s Indoor/Outdoor Grill

Do you have someone in your life who is an avid cook, host, or simply loves food? This George Foreman Indoor/Outdoor Grill makes a perfect Christmas Gift for any household, especially if they are tight on space. It’s available from independent electrical retailers nationwide. RRP €139.99

Food Lovers Hamper by Carrygerry Country House

Carrygerry Country house. has been offering warm gestures in the form of delicious Christmas treats for over 15 years. All of the contents for every hamper are produced in-house by Proprietor Niall Ennis and his kitchen team. This is our largest Hamper. Hampers can be made to order and start at €35.00. RRP €195

Ashford Castle Trio of Jam on Serving Board

Perfectly designed in collaboration with Caulfield Boards, Ashford Castle trio of Jam and serving board make the perfect gift for any foodie. Included in this delicious selection are jams carefully produced in Ashford Castle’s kitchens by Chef Hilary. RRP €70

Texas Steakout Gift Voucher Discover the perfect gift for the food enthusiasts in your life with a Texas Steakout gift card. More than just a meal, their gift cards extend an invitation for an unforgettable culinary journey, featuring succulent steaks, innovative sides, and mouth-watering desserts, all meticulously crafted by expert chefs.

The Paddy Box

Have family or a friend who lives abroad and can’t make it home this Christmas? The annual Christmas Paddy Box is bursting with quintessentially Irish staples like Tayto crisps, Barry’s Tea and Cadbury chocolate. Priced €59.95

Hot Whiskey Syrup from Designist

Another elixir from The Dublin Cocktail Lab, this little delight helps you to make the perfect hot whiskey at home making it an ideal stocking filler for fans of a hot toddy. RRP €16

Go Wild Magazine - Christmas Edition 2023

Burren Smokehouse

Get your Christmas gifts sorted with the delicious and healthy Burren Smoked Irish Organic Salmon from the Burren Smokehouse! You can order online now and have it delivered closer to Christmas – ideal for those who are difficult to get presents for. Don’t know what they like? Gift vouchers are ideal (last-minute) presents! www.burrensmokehouse.ie Phone: +353 (0)65 7074432

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LPG

Instant Heating & Cooking Home or Away Compact, mobile cylinders available in a range of sizes to suit your lifestyle. Whether using them for indoor applications (cooking or portable gas heaters) or outdoors (barbecues, patio gas heaters, camping gas stoves or caravanning), bottled gas gives you the benefits of LPG wherever you are.

• Compact • Mobile • Safe • Reliable • Economical To find your nearest Flogas stockist, simply scan the relevant QR code: ROI: 041 214 9600 Flogas September Sun ad 200 x 141mm.indd 1

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The Flesk River Self Catering Apartments are ideally located adjacent to Killarney National Park Our apartments are perfect for a self catering break and can accommodate up to five people. Each apartment has two bedrooms and two bathrooms, a fully equipped kitchen and a living room.

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Ah that’s Gas €9.99 Written by Sarah Cassidy and Kunak McGann, the pair who also brought us the A-Z of an Irish Christmas, this lovely book looks at Ireland’s most iconic moments, controversies and unexpected fads. Take a trip back in time for a few nostalgic giggles.

Midnight Carols Candle €35 A musky and mystical fragrance with rich notes of Frankincense and Myrrh from independent Co. X brand Olivia’s Haven. Part of a new Christmas collection also featuring Christmas at the Old Rectory (a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg and cloves) and Dr. Marshall’s Christmas Tree – (notes of pine, eucalyptus and fir).

Fiona Leahy x Hand & Lock - The Night Sky Bow €35 Inspired by Tipperary events planner Fiona Leahy’s tablescaping, these made to order bows will add a touch of class to any dining table. Perfect for any celebration and individually personalised with your chosen initial.

Go Wild Magazine - Christmas Edition 2023

Image Skincare Festive Favourites €49.50 This seasonal kit from millies.ie is a real treat for the skin including a balancing facial cleanser, hydrating serum and daily matte moisturiser.

Comes with a cosmetic bag and the possibility of a fresher looking face!

Gifts for everyone

Lovely little treats to spoil your loved ones

John Hanly Cashmere Throw €149.45 This stylish and soft grey herringbone throw is made a blend of Cashmere and Merino wool. A real heritage piece made today by Brian Hanly, the fourth generation of Hanlys, at their mill in Ballyartella, North Tipperary.

Satsuma Orange Irish Coffee Tray €36.50 Serve drinks with a splash of colour this winter on this handcrafted birch wood tray made on the Swedish island of Öland.

Irish coffees all round please.

Olverum Bath Oil

Cat Tankard Mug

€46 When all the festivities are over there’s nothing more inviting than a long soak in the tub. And this Olverum bath oil, blended with essential oils, will add a touch of luxury to help ease tension in both mind and body.

It’s also vegan and crueltyfree.

€18 Claire Molloy Ceramics has made this delightful stoneware mug, handmade on the potter’s wheel using materials sourced in Ireland. Purrfect for cat lovers but there’s also a matching dog mug should your pet preferences lie elsewhere.

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‘Why I love Mayo’

by Dermot Madigan

D

ermot Madigan has been the General Manager of the Mulranny Park Hotel for the past 14 years and counting. The Limerick native left these shores to ply his trade in Switzerland and Australia but has now made his home on the West Coast in Westport, where he lives with his wife Irene and two kids Evie and Luke.

Dermot sees his role as a caretaker of the historic building and history of the Mulranny Park Hotel. Originally opened in 1898 and carefully restored in 2005 to what it offers today, the hotel has 60-bedrooms and apartments, the fine dining Nephin Restaurant, Waterfront Bar, is available for functions and as a wedding venue, with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking Clew Bay, a Treatment Room, Seaweed Baths & Leisure Centre.

Having spent over six-years working on the Gold Coast of Australia, Dermot said “I didn’t think I would find somewhere as beautiful and surprising as Mayo in which to live and work and in particular the Clew Bay area. It’s somewhere that you can explore and discover, from the North at Downpatrick Head

to the new Velo Rail in Kiltimagh.

My favourite experiences are not too far from home with a visit to see the magnificent Minuan Cliffs or the spectacular view of Keel Beach from the booster station or Spotting the Basking Sharks or dolphins in the bay, while another favourite is the wildness of Wild Nephin National Park, particularly at night with its designated dark skies park”.

One of Dermot’s hobbies is adventure racing and having The Great Western Greenway on the doorstep, this offers an ideal training facility to put in some miles on the bike. He feels that the Greenway has really changed the way people now holiday in the area, with every second car carrying bikes. Additions such as The Clew Bay Bike Trail, including two ferry trips to and from Clare Island have really added to that cycling experience.

For the past six-years he has taken part in the Sea to Summit adventure race, which takes in a climb of Croagh Patrick and offers one of the most spectacular 360-degree views from a mountain top that one can find anywhere in the world! He states

Go Wild Magazine - Christmas Edition 2023

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“Clew Bay just glistens into the distance.

Climbing the mountain has become a regular activity and every time you climb, it gives you a real sense of achievement, no matter how many times you do it”.

Some of Dermot’s best places to enjoy Mayo food, drinks and entertainment include the An Port Mor for dinner, This Must be The Place for great coffee and lunch or the Towers on the Quay, Moran’s or the Grainstore, for a drink. Nowhere is better to finish off an evening than some live music in Matt Mollyos or the Porterhouse. A visit to Lynott’s on Achill Island is also a favourite.

Dermot finishes off by saying “One of my hidden gems would be a day out walking with my family on one of the Burrishoole loop trails, where you feel that you are the only person in the world.

Sitting on a hill with a picnic lunch, overlooking Clew Bay amongst the Wild Nephin Mountain Range, is for me, what living and loving Mayo is all about”.

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SALTED CARAMEL ESPRESSO MARTINI Coffee aficionados are going to love this decadent cocktail inspired by the humble yet heroic bean many of us love to consume daily.

Put a pep in your step with this moreish Salted Caramel Espresso Martini recipe from Leo Higney, Head Mixologist at Malmaison Belfast in Co. Antrim - perfect for an after-dinner drink or instead of dessert. “Christmas is one of the most special times of the year,” he says. “There’s nothing like seeing our guests in the festive spirit and what better way to celebrate than with a cocktail.” Leo’s top tip for trying this at home and to ensure optimal taste and flavour is to make sure the glassware is chilled before you pour. Cheers to that!

What you will need: Coupe Martini Glass

Ingredients:

25ml Absolut Blue Vodka 25ml Tosilini Espresso Liquer 75ml Salted Caramel Coffee Syrup Tuile for garnish (French wafer)

How to make your festive tipple:

Step 1: Add all the ingredients to a Boston tin or cocktail shaker.

Step 2: Fill with ice and shake well.

Step 3: Fine strain into a chilled coupe.

Step 4: Garnish with a tuile.

Go Wild Magazine - Christmas Edition 2023

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THE SPIRIT OF THE UNORTHODOX

I RI S H GR A I N VODK A 700ML℮

PRODUCT OF IRELAND FROM THE CONNACHT DISTILLERY BALLINA, CO. MAYO

43%ALC/VOL.

WWW.CONNACHTWHISKEY.COM PLEASE DRINK RESPONSIBLY | WWW.DRINKAWARE.IE

WHISKEY FUN FACTS & GIN Some quick fun facts to throw int

o your next conversation

Whiskey • John Jameson, of Jameson fame, was from Scotland.

• Whiskey starts life as beer.

• The average measure of whiskey is around sixty-four

calories, which is less than a banana.

• Gluten intolerant people need not worry as once the

grains are distilled to make a spirit: it is now gluten free. The distillation process removes the gluten.

• When we refer to the angels’ share, we are referring

to the evaporation that occurs naturally, about two percent is lost each year. It is a lot but in hotter climates it can be considerably more.

• The devil’s cut is the addition of water to a barrel to

get any remaining whiskey out of the wood. Done right this can be lovely.

• They say life begins at forty, and it certainly does

for whiskey, which must be bottled at a minimum of forty percent alcohol. Anything less is not considered whiskey.

• Back in the day, you could find poitín as strong as

ninety percent or higher. As they would say, ‘what doesn’t kill you is good!’.

Gin • Gin was originally used for medical purposes, so you

went to the pharmacy to buy your gin.

• It’s not gin without Juniper berries, which are almost

exclusively picked wild.

• In the eighteenth-century, London had around fifteen

hundred stills working across the city with well over six thousand places to buy your gin

• Juniper is a seed not a berry and nearly identical to

blueberries. Both are loaded with antioxidants.

• Gin and tomato juice was the popular hangover cure

in New York City in the early twentieth century.

• The Philippines is the biggest market in the world for gin.

• In days past, The British Navy were given a ration

of gin every day, to keep the scurvy away, thus the famous gimlet cocktail was invented by a naval doctor, which was enjoyed by all the crew.

• Gin was originally used for medical purposes, so you

went to the pharmacy to buy your gin.

• Martinis can be made using gin or vodka, but

the original martini was made using gin.

• Joe Sheridan, head chef for Foynes Airport in

Limerick, is credited with inventing the Irish coffee. One miserable cold night, a plane from the United States landed and he added a drop of whiskey to the coffee for his American clientele. He was asked if it was Brazilian coffee and he said ‘No, it’s Irish coffee’.

• For whiskey to be whiskey it must be

aged for three years. We have a saying in Ireland that it is three years and a day but that’s a myth; it is three years.

Go Wild Magazine - Christmas Edition 2023

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How to decorate

LIKE A PRO Turn your home into a standout Christmas interior by mixing modern accents with traditional elements. Interior style advisor Rebecca Snowden shares four clever tips to achieve a stylish festive look.

Mix contemporary and traditional elements

Going for a modern look does not mean letting go of what makes Christmas feel like Christmas.

Keep hallmarks like the tree and gifts that make the home feel festive and seasonal.

It’s a balancing act between the fresh and the classic - look for ways to add a contemporary touch without diminishing the festive feel.

“The key here is in restraint,” advises Rebecca, an interior style advisor for Furniture And Choice. “For instance, candles are a staple of the season, but rather than going all out with white or metallic candles, swap them out for an elegant dark hue.

“Snowflakes are also a popular choice during Christmas, but a star motif offers an updated take on the look.

“And a Christmas tree is a musthave, so keep it modern by leaving out the tinsel and opting instead for minimal, metallic baubles.

“This allows you to have the best of both worlds, the tradition of a Christmas tree, with a fresh look.”

Consider the gifts that are displayed under the tree as well.

Colour-coordinate them to match the rest of the home as an easy way to get a chic, coherent look.

Build on your existing colour palette

Instead of piling on red, green and gold accents, work with the existing colour palette of the home.

Develop the look from there to get a seamless, designer-led approach.

“Maintaining a similar colour theme allows you to create a look that feels personal and specific to your

Go Wild Magazine - Christmas Edition 2023

style and home,” says Rebecca.

“And being comfortable with the colours also means you can go bolder with your decorations while still feeling like you.

“For instance, hanging stars and gold cushions add a lot of festive glamour.”

Gold also adds a layer of sophistication and luxurious warmth to Christmas décor but instead of glitter opt for matte tones instead for a more subtle, elegant look.

Combine cosy textures and polished accessories

Besides setting up a Christmas tree, decorate a coffee table as another festive feature in the home.

Take the opportunity to add a stylish touch using modern colours such as black and gold.

“Black always gives a modern edge, and in a festive setting, it stands out even more,” says Rebecca.

“It also pairs beautifully with gold to create a luxe look.

“For a touch of designer flair, we styled this black coffee table by grouping items together - fresh foliage and touches of gold give a festive feel, while candles add height and drama.”

Create a Christmas atmosphere through soft materials, warm lighting and hints of shine.

“A designer trick to getting this look is to layer in a variety of textures,” says Rebecca. “In this Christmas-ready dining room, knits and fur throws give a soft, cosy feel while rattan and oak furniture add warm tones.

“Lighting is hugely important too, and for a polished alternative to fairy lights, consider lights encased in a string of stars for a diffused, twinkly glow that maintains the look of your interior.”

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Style a Christmas themed coffee table

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Happy Christmas from Glencolmcille Folk Village Nollaig Shona ó Cláchan nGleann Cholm Cille Celebrating its 55th anniversary this year, the Glencolmcille Folk Village is a must-visit attraction that offers a genuine peek into Ireland’s rich history. Nestled in the Gaeltacht of South West Donegal, this livinghistory museum comprises a “clachan” of cottages, overlooking the stunning Glen Bay Beach.

New for 2022: Check our website and Facebook for event details and updates. Your safety is our priority, and our new entry system features contactless payment options and multiple sanitising stations.

Masks are compulsory in enclosed spaces, but if you’ve forgotten yours, we’ve got you covered!

schoolhouse, fisherman’s dwelling or the tiniest pub-grocer, every building provides invaluable insights into rural Irish life through the ages.

Feeling peckish? Visit our Tearoom for a steaming bowl of soup and perhaps an Irish coffee to warm you up. Our Craft Shop is brimming with locally-made treasures— perfect mementos of your visit.

Our museum comprises exact replicas of local dwellings from the 18th, 19th, and 20th centuries. Each cottage is a time capsule, furnished with era-appropriate artefacts and utensils. Whether it’s a reconstructed

As we open our doors for the 56th year we are delighted to welcome you to the Glencolmcille Folk Village. Glencolmcille Folk Village is located in one of Donegal’s most idyllic valleys, situated along the dramatic coastline of Glen Bay with its spectacular views of Glen Beach and Glen Head. visit the Folk Village, you will experience a genuine Irish welcome with Ireland from 1750 onwards.

Tour booklets are available in several languages. to Sliabh Liag cliffs we are only 20 minutes along the coast. Tá Chlachán Ghleann Cholm Cille.

Opening times Easter until the end of October Monday to Sunday 10am-6pm October Monday to Sunday 11am-5pm

ar scéal saoil an Athair Mhic Daidhir.

EirCode F94 DN22

Gleann Cholm Cille, Contae Dhún na nGall Call (074) 973 0017 folkvillage@eircom.net

www.glenfolkvillage.com

Why rush? Extend your stay in Glen to explore its rugged landscapes, early Christian archaeological sites, and vibrant traditional music sessions.

With 1,500 years of drawing visitors, Glencolmcille is not just a place to visit, but an experience to relish.

Find out more on our News and Events page, or catch us on Facebook. Come for the history, stay for the hospitality!

IRISH LEGEND PJ Rigney, co-founder of The Shed Distillery, on his curious journey that took him to Drumshanbo in Co. Leitrim to create some of the world’s leading spirits.

In conversation with Meg Walker

I

n 2014, PJ Rigney and his wife Denise set up The Shed Distillery in Drumshanbo, Co. Leitrim with a vision to create Irish gin, vodka and whiskey that would compete against the world’s leading spirits. Two years later, they released the award-winning Drumshanbo Gunpowder Irish Gin. Nine years on, they have created five new brands, including two new editions of the gin, the bestselling Sausage Tree Pure Irish Vodka and Drumshanbo Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey, and The Shed Distillery Visitor Experience is now drawing tourists from all over the world to this hidden corner of Ireland.

When Denise and I first set out to open a distillery, I was looking for a location that was rural, wild, un-manicured and off Main Street. Then I met some of the folks in Drumshanbo and discovered a real sense of community. We’re in a beautiful part of the country. It’s a great place to do something exciting, new and different.

My parents met in Drumshanbo many years ago, so there was that connection too. We started with one employee, our head distiller Brian Taft, and today we have a great team of close to 100 people.

When we opened in 2014, we became the first distillery in Connacht in over 100 years – since the Nun’s Island Distillery in Galway closed at the start of the 20th century. The Shed Distillery Visitor Experience opened just as we emerged from Covid-19, so this past summer was really the first proper tourism season we’ve had without restrictions, and we’ve been getting tremendous feedback. The Curious Journey gives visitors a glimpse behind the scenes. It’s a real destination now. We source as much as we can locally

Go Wild Magazine - Christmas Edition 2023

for the Curious Gift Shop, which sells a range of exclusive bottle editions, artisan clothing, crafts, pottery and gifts; we have the Jackalope Café, which serves hearty Irish fare; and the Honey Badger Bar. The Arigna mines are nearby, and the Shannon Blueway runs right through Drumshanbo, so it’s an ideal spot for visitors. We recently had 500 Americans arrive for a tour, who were on their way to the Notre Dame vs Navy game at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin and made the trip especially. I’d like to think we’ve made a positive impact on the local area, bringing employment and tourism to a part of Ireland that mightn’t traditionally have had a huge amount of footfall – and we’re

PJ Rigney and Aisling Walsh (Marketing Director, Butlers Chocolates) launch Drumshanbo Gunpowder Irish Gin Sardinian Citrus truffles and chocolate bars, the second range from the unique collaboration between the two family businesses.

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finding that’s what a lot of people want: to discover the more hidden parts of Ireland.

Drumshanbo Gunpowder Irish Gin is our flagship brand and we created it with the vision for it to be the best in the world.

Last year, it was named Spirit Brand of the Year at the prestigious Wine Enthusiast Wine Star Awards in San Francisco, a huge accolade. It is slow-distilled by hand with oriental botanicals and gunpowder tea, and we use only the highest quality ingredients.

The extraordinary team at the distillery have great passion for the brand, proudly handbottling, sealing and labelling every precious drop for 70 countries around the world.

The Shed Distillery will celebrate ten years in business next year. Our philosophy will always be to surprise and delight our customers, innovating and bringing new elements of our brand forward and adding new layers so people will always discover something new and interesting.

When it comes to serving our spirits, I personally like Drumshanbo Gunpowder Irish Gin with tonic and pink grapefruit or in a negroni. I love Drumshanbo Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey straight up or with one ice cube just to open it up. And Sausage Tree Pure Irish Vodka is great in a martini. I invite people to be curious and discover their own favourites. thesheddistillery.com

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East to West Coastal Walks for the New Year

Once all the indoor excesses of the Christmas season are done, there’s nothing better than getting out and about in anticipation of the New Year.

We’re spoilt for choice on both coasts. Mayo’s Keem Beach, a sheltered and spectacular bay on Achill Island, is one of the country’s best beaches for a stroll. And if it’s good enough for Hollywood leading man Colin Farrell, it’s good enough for us. On a blue-sky day, its turquoise waters are more reminiscent of the Caribbean than Connemara - but that’s the chameleon-esque charm of the Wild Atlantic Way for you. Last year Keem was named among Lonely Planet’s Top 20 beaches in Europe and came in at number 11 on global travel site Big 7 Travel’s The 50 Best Beaches in the World.

Keem Bay is also the stunning backdrop to the newlyreleased film, The Banshees of Inisherin, starring Colin Farrell, Brendan Gleeson and Kerry Condon. The Martin McDonagh movie was mostly filmed on Achill Island and Inis Mor and is bound to inspire some coastal walkers this winter. Just remember to wrap up warm!

Better than bog standard While you’re in the area, hidden beneath a blanket of bog in North Mayo, is one of the most extensive Stone Age monuments in the world. Céide Fields is an archaeological site wrapped in stone-walled fields, dwelling houses and megalithic monuments.

This fossilised landscape made up of ancient fields has also just reopened its visitor centre to showcase the lives and stories of Neolithic farmers from almost 6,000 years ago.

Once you’re done finding out about the daily comings and goings of the hunter-gatherer you can also take one of the Céide Coast guided walking tours. Set against the backdrop of rugged coastline views, the tour is run by Professor Séamus Caulfield, whose dad discovered the remains of the stone walls in 1934. There’s also a new viewing platform set among the 110m-high cliffs - it’s like standing at the edge of the world.

On the capital coast trail Heading east and to the capital, you can now make your way through 11 of Dublin’s most picturesque towns and villages along a new 40km coastal walking trail. The Dublin Coastal Trail runs north to south from the harbour village of Skerries to Killiney offering sea views and medieval castles in equal measure. There are plenty of cliff hikes and options for seaside strolls, while those tempted to indulge in the traditional Christmas Day swim could stop off at Sandycove to dive in at the 40-foot drop. Further along, Dún Laoghaire pier is the perfect place for a walk backdropped by beautiful Dublin Bay.

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The flexibility of whiskey lends itself nicely to a variety of dishes, Whiskey has a smooth, creamy finish that works well with meat and rich sauces to sweet desserts.

All it needs is a dash to get that whiskey kick. My favourite is a whiskey cream sauce, it’s so yummy. It really elevates a dish and it’s tasty to dip your chips in. It is a great addition to steak, veg and its dreamy over haggis (a Scottish pudding).

Below is my go-to recipe.

Cooking?

What’s Whiskey Cream Sauce •

3-4 tbsp whiskey

•

100ml Double cream

•

50ml stock

•

Knob of butter

•

1 tsp Dijon mustard

•

Salt and pepper to taste.

Go Wild Magazine - Christmas Edition 2023

First heat a pot to medium and add the knob of butter and allow to melt.

Next add 3 tbsp of your choice of whiskey, then light the whiskey with a lighter and allow it to burn off the alcohol. This makes the sauce less bitter. Be aware, the flame can be quite aggressive but will burn out quickly.

Once the flame has died, pour in the stock, cream, and mustard to the pot.

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Stir slowly and the sauce to thicken as it thickens reduce to a low heat while continuing to stir, then add salt and pepper to taste.

Take a taste of the sauce to see if you would like a stronger whiskey taste, if so, add another tablespoon of whiskey, once you take it off the heat. This won’t have the alcohol burned off, so you will get a much stronger taste.

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West Cork Distillers began in 2003, formed by childhood friends, John O’Connell, Denis McCarthy and Ger McCarthy in a small fishing village in West Cork called Union Hall.

Since then, West Cork Distillers has been recognised for our innovative approach and credited with maturing, distilling, and bottling some of the finest craft Irish whiskey on the market today. Most notably, our gold medal-winning, West Cork Irish Whiskey.

Now, in 2023, we employ over 140 people and have a distillation capacity of over 17m litres.

Shop online at www.westcorkdistillers.com Please drink responsibly

XMAS XMAS PHOTOGRAPHY PHOTOGRAPHY

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Magazine

Pairings For Your Next

G&T

Just a gentle warning, even if you are not hungry, these snappy suggestions for pairing your gin are going to make your tummy rumble. We never think to pair our spirits with food, mostly because wine has dominated. But don’t get us wrong, we love a good glass of wine but sometimes something different can open up a new experience. Pairing spirits with food can be as tricky as pairing food with wine. It is all about balance, and more importantly, your preferences.

Below you will find some delicious suggestions for you to try, or they might just inspire you to what can work.

hazelnuts, almonds, salted peanuts and Brazil nuts in small bowls at your next gathering.

1. Smoked salmon blinis

4. Berries

Seafood’s flavour profile complements the floral and herbal notes in gin beautifully. If you’re looking for an elegant appetiser to serve with gin, smoked salmon blinis go down a treat. Add a touch of cream cheese, a thin slice of a cucumber and garnish with a squeeze of lemon before serving as an aperitif at gin o’clock.

2. Nuts

Most types of nuts can be served with gin and tonic or indeed, any alcoholic drinks! The fatty saltiness of nuts balances the citrus, floral flavours in a gin and tonic.

Experiment with different combinations – you can serve

Go Wild Magazine - Christmas Edition 2023

3. Ginger prawns

Marinaded in ginger and garlic with a hint of coriander, grilled or deep-fried prawns are an excellent small dish to serve with gin. The heat of the ginger and citrus and the spicy and slightly floral quality of the coriander brings out the body and intensity of gin for a powerful mouth experience.

Berries are used as garnishes for your gin and tonic for a reason. The sweetness of the berries – whether it’s blueberries, blackberries, or cranberries balance out the sharpness of juniper and tone down the pine-like flavour in some gins. A medley of berries makes a great healthy snack to go with your gin cocktail. Got a sweet tooth?

Satisfy it with a berry cheesecake for dessert alongside a gin cocktail.

5. Meat and cheese platters

Herb infused cold meats are always a failsafe accompaniment for gin. The rich, salty and earthy flavours

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8. Rhubarb & ginger syllabub

in cold meats mingle with gin’s citrus undertones. Gin stands up to strong extra mature cheeses like Manchego or Stilton, and the spirit can also cut through creamier goat cheeses and smoked cheeses. A well-mixed gin and tonic makes a refreshing drink to sip alongside a grazing board.

That’s Friday night’s supper sorted, eh?

Angelica root is one of the more unique botanicals used in gin. We use it to add a woody undertone that gives the gin its dryness. When candied, angelica root pairs well with rhubarb making a rhubarb and ginger syllabub with candied angelica root a beautiful dessert to eat with gin! Go on, try it.

6. Indian curries

9. Pâté

Ah, an Indian take-away and a G&T: one of the greatest combinations in life, surely? You’re not just imagining it though – gin really does go well with Indian cuisine!

Spicy foods work brilliantly against the crispness of gin and tonic. Many gins use spices from all over the world to provide a greater depth of flavour and aroma, so this one’s a no-brainer.

Pâtés are often seasoned with juniper berries, so of course the pâté makes the ideal snack to eat with gin cocktails. Seafood or red meat pâtés work especially well. Serve with warm crusty bread to add more sophistication your charcuterie!

10. Chocolate

Chocoholics, rejoice. Chocolate is the perfect thing to eat with gin! What better excuse to curl up in the sofa with a large G&T and a box of chocolates? If you fancy taking a walk on the wild side, try dark mint chocolate with gin, it will bring out the refreshing leafiness in a gin’s botanical blend.

7. Lamb kofta

If you’re having guests over and struggling for a main dish to serve with gin and tonics, you can’t go wrong with a lamb main. Every gin contains juniper, and this is a botanical that chefs often use in lamb dishes to enhance the red meat’s flavour. Serve this Middle Eastern delicacy with flatbreads, salad, plenty of dips and a nice glass of gin.

Go Wild Magazine - Christmas Edition 2023

Now if you managed to read through these suggestions without salivating, I would be surprised, but maybe you a stronger person than I. In the meantime, I must pop off and pick up a few treats to go with my G&T.

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Hot & Spicy on St. Stephen’s Day Recipe: Courtesy of Green Isle

Nothing beats a quick and easy veggie feast on St. Stephen’s Day. The spicy flavours of a simple curry will make a welcome change for the tastebuds after all that turkey and ham.

It’s also the perfect time to raid the freezer and use up any of those leftovers you might have sitting around. One-million tons of food is wasted in Ireland every year, so this Christmas why not get in the spirit of reducing food waste. It could also save you up to €700, some welcome extra cash to put towards buying those festive gifts.

You can use this recipe as inspiration for your own version of a Green Isle Creamy Vegetable Curry. Get creative and swap in or add whatever frozen vegetables, fresh produce, pantry items or herbs you have to hand. Butter beans or chickpeas would work as well as lentils, while sour cream can take the place of yoghurt. It’s all about using up what you have!

Happy cooking.

Creamy Vegetable Curry Serves 4 Total time: 50 minutes Ingredients 2 tsps Vegetable Oil 1 Onion, finely chopped 3 Garlic Cloves, finely chopped 1 inch Fresh Ginger, finely chopped 1/2 tsp Turmeric 1/2 tsp Chilli Flakes 1 tsp Ground Cumin

Go Wild Magazine - Christmas Edition 2023

1 tsp Ground Coriander 1 tsp Curry Powder 200g Red Lentils 500ml Veg Stock 1 x 400g tin Chopped Tomatoes 200g Frozen Mixed Vegetables 4 tsps Greek Yogurt, plus more to garnish To serve Small bunch coriander, chopped Naan Bread and Rice Method Heat the oil in a large pan and fry the onion for 10 minutes until completely softened and translucent.

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Add the garlic and ginger and cook for 1 - 2 minutes then add the spices and cook for 1 min, until fragrant.

Stir in the lentils, stock and the tinned tomatoes and bring to the boil, then cover and simmer for 20 mins until the lentils are tender.

Add the mixed vegetables and cook for 10 minutes then stir in the yogurt and some seasoning.

Sprinkle over the coriander and serve with naan bread and rice with an extra dollop of yoghurt on top.

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Bridging the best of Ireland’s West

Galway Galway Bay

Doolin

Gort

Aran Islands

Lahinch

Ennis

Kilkee

Killimer

Shannon

Ballybunion N69

Listowel

Tralee Dingle Killarney Cork

Kenmare Bantry

Kinsale Clonakilty

Skibbereen

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BATCH COCKTAILS There is nothing I love more than to hand my guest a welcome cocktail when they arrive. Batch cocktails are an ideal for having guests over.

You don’t want to spend all your time fixing a selection of drinks, giving you time to enjoy good times with your guests.

I have selected a few easy batch recipes for your next get together.

These recipes offer an array of flavour to please any palate.

Irish Lemonade • 2 Parts Whiskey • Ginger beer / Club soda • Two/Three drops of Bitters • Mint leaves for garnish • Ice Half fill a highball glass with ice. Next add your whiskey and a dash or two of bitters, top up with ginger beer or soda.

Garnish with mint. Stir and serve.

Fuzzy Screwdriver • 2 Parts Vodka • 1 Part Peach Schnapps • 6 Parts Orange Juice • Ice • Optional Orange slice for garnish

Go Wild Magazine - Christmas Edition 2023

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The Bee’s Knees • 2 Parts Gin • 3/4 Part Lemon juice • 3/4 Runny honey or Maple syrup Take some ice and place it in your glass, to chill it.

Place all the ingredients in a cocktail shaker. Shake and pour into a coup style glass.

Go Wild Magazine - Christmas Edition 2023

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CHRISTMAS From cosy hideaway snugs, unbeatable music sessions and places to enjoy a creamy pint to spots to enjoy the best seasonal food, there are an estimated 8,000 pubs in Ireland. So, when Lonely Planet created its list of the best pubs on the island of Ireland earlier in the year, there was no shortage of bars and waterholes to choose from.

Among the old favourites to feature was Dick Mack’s in Dingle and The Gravedigger’s in Dublin. You’ll rarely go wrong with a classic.

Other Dublin venues in the Lonely Planet Top 20 included Street 66 and the Cobblestone in Smithfield, while in Belfast the advice was to look out for The Duke of York and the gimmick-free Sunflower, both featuring traditional music.

For a top-class glass of wine, there are some award-winning spots scattered around the country. Try the Munster at the Sheen Falls Lodge in Kenmare, Walker 1781 in Sligo and the Ely Wine Store in Maynooth, Co. Kildare - a wine shop that doubles as a bar and café.

The Sky and the Ground in Wexford was recently voted Pub of the Year at the Irish Restaurant Awards. Check out their Sunday Sessions with artists such as Basciville and The Ocelots.

Whipping around the counties there’s also Charlie’s Bar in

Photo: Hu O’Reilly

Go Wild Magazine - Christmas Edition 2023

S R E CH E Photo: Tony Pleavin

Enniskillen, Co. Fermanagh, Lowry’s Bar in Clifden, Co. Galway and the Mutton Lane Inn in Cork, one of the city’s oldest drinking establishments. Conversation is encouraged in this dark candlelit den.

If you’re after a true wild west experience head to Donegal, home to The Rusty Mackerel near the Slieve League sea cliffs and Teach Hiúdaí Beag in the Gaeltacht. The Rustry Mackeral is also top-notch for food, try the famous Rusty’s Seafood Crumble – a selection of fish and prawns topped with herbs, a cheesy crumble and served with brown bread.

For a glass of whiskey, head to Thomas Connolly’s in Sligo town and O’Loclainn’s Irish Whiskey Bar in Ballyvaughan, Co. Clare, which has 500 whiskeys on display and 70 Irish whiskeys for sale.

For a bite to eat there’s a plethora of gastro pubs whose chefs are taking the best homegrown produce to create magnificent feasts to suit all palates.

Butler and Barry Gastrobar in Bray,

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Co.Wicklow and Coyne’s Gastropub in Kilkieran, Co. Galway should also be on any list for foodie faves.

Over 250 years old, JJ Hough’s Singing Pub in Banagher, Co.Offaly is a legend. The pub has long been celebrated for its charm, warm welcome, beers, cocktails and pizza. A winning combination in anyone’s books.

For a gin cocktail overlooking the sea check out The Moorings in Dungarvan, Co. Waterford, while Mickey Finns Pub in Co. Wicklow hosts story-telling nights and traditional music sessions.

Last, but not least, for a truly festive flavour, take a trip to O’Connell’s pub in Skryne, Co. Meath.

In the O’Connell family for 170 years, not much has changed over the generations. It prides itself on having no TV or internet and has the added badge of honour of having featured in the Guinness Christmas advertisement for 17 years.

Cheers to that. Sláinte!

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TAILORED PRIVATE CRUISES ON THE SHANNON ESTUARY WWW.SIONNANLUXURYCRUISES.IE

Ireland in the palm of your hand FR OM BR EA KI NG NE W S ES IN GO W IL D M AG AZ Your Staycation News, Industry interviews, things to see and do in 32 counties, great places to wine & dine, as well as the opportunity to download Go Wild magazine back issues for free. It’s all on the new Go Wild Magazine App, now available on both the App Store and Google Play Store.

Download it now and Explore Ireland your way

Give a gift of adventure...

Book a Gift Voucher online at www.scatteryislandtours.com

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How the story goes Seanchoíche founder Ciaran Gaffney talks to Claire O’Mahony about how storytelling is in the Irish DNA, and taking his storytelling events all over the world

T

he tradition of storytelling in Ireland is deeply rooted. It’s an ancient art form that has been practised for centuries yet one that might seem at odds with our digital age. Happily, this is not the case because in recent years, storytelling has undergone a revival with events such as Seanchoíche spotlighting the new generation of storytellers.

Ciaran Gaffney is the founder of Seanchoíche, which was set up in October 2021. The name is an amalgamation of ‘seanchaí’ meaning a traditional storyteller in Irish, and ‘oiche’, which translates as ‘night’.

The concept sees people gather in a venue on an evening, where around 12 people, who have signed up to speak, will tell their tales: ordinary people telling extraordinary stories. Gaffney came up with the idea for the venture after attending a similar event in Argentina.

He reached out to friends asking them to contact him if they might be interested in talking part and woke up the next morning with 45 texts expressing interest.

“I didn’t have a venue, I didn’t even know what the name of the event was going to be,” he recalls. But that first night, which took place in the Fumbally Stables in Dublin 8, turned out to be a

Go Wild Magazine - Christmas Edition 2023

resounding success. Seanchoíche has now expanded to include events across Ireland, London, Amsterdam, Melbourne and Sydney, at the beginning of June, and with plans for evenings in the US and Canada later in the year. “This is an industry that isn’t really being tapped into but should be tapped into because it’s such an important part of our culture and our DNA,” says Gaffney. Such is the success of the venture that Gaffney has left his job as a brand manager with a drinks company to concentrate full time on the business.

“Storytelling is what connects us all and brings us together, after a couple of years of being quite disconnected.”

While cities like London and Amsterdam have large expat communities, it’s not only Irish people who are attending the events. At the second Amsterdam evening, 60% of the storytellers were Dutch. “People mightn’t have a tradition of storytelling but when they’re exposed to our culture, they realise that it’s more of a human thing than a national thing. It’s not that country-specific to be able to tell a story, everybody can do it,” explains Gaffney.

But does everyone truly have a story in them?

“I think so,” he says. “I can see that

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we’ve probably all told a story in the past 24 hours whether it’s a something as trivial as who you saw in the shop or something that’s very important and very private. I’ve also heard from people who say they have benefited from the night as much as the speaker, because they felt so involved in the other person’s story that was being told because it really spoke to them based on their own experiences.

There is that element of unity through storytelling because we all do have one to tell but some of us just aren’t ready to tell it.”

Seanchoíche events will be taking place in Dublin over the summer months, and details are to be announced. Anybody interested in speaking at an event can email a summary of what they’d like to talk about – a poem, an anecdote, a piece of fiction – via the Seanchoíche website, although the evenings are proving so popular, there’s no guarantee someone will get a slot. “It’s so cool to go through so many applications every day; I haven’t read a book in months!” Gaffney says.

“It’s amazing and I love it.”

For information about events see seanchoiche.com and on Instagram @seanchoiche.

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HOME IS WHERE THE SECRETS ARE BURIED ...

'A gripping whodunnit' Jeanine Cummins, author of American Dirt

OUT IN BOOKSHOPS NOW

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

Eat

Drink

Enjoy

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

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

13

GREAT IRISH FOREST WALKS Sprawling woodlands, rushing waterways and wildlife spotting make Ireland’s forests the perfect escape from the everyday. Whether it’s a laid-back family stroll or something a little more strenuous, wandering the country’s trails is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in nature.

Here’s our guide to Ireland’s most inspiring forest walks.

1: Ards Forest Park, Co. Donegal

4: Dromore Wood Loop, Co. Clare Wind through a nature reserve with a rich diversity of life. On the easy Dromore Wood Loop keen-eyed walkers can spot hares, stoats and dozens of other creatures. This dog-friendly trail at the Burren’s edge takes you from the woods to the lake shore, with views of the spectacular O’Brien Castle and Dromore Lake as added highlights. Look out for the unique features of the region as you pass turloughs (disappearing lakes), callows (flooded meadows), and limestone pavement.

With its varied trails, Ards Forest Park’s habitats range from beaches with Atlantic views to oak woodland. Pick a family-friendly walk like the 0.5km Salt Marsh Trail or rise to the challenge of the 13km Red Trail. To make a day of it, stitch together the paths to complete a full circuit. As you tour around the park you can see ringfort ruins, a holy well and megalithic tombs or visit the playground with its wheelchair-friendly swing.

The moderate Glenisca Trail with its century-old yews and rugged cliffs provides a dramatic backdrop for reconnecting with nature.

Along with lakes and mixed woodland, the forest also holds surprises like the remains of Irish poet and author Aubrey de Vere’s old home, an arboretum and pet cemetery.

2: Hazelwood Forest, Co. Sligo In a beautiful spot by Half Moon Bay, the Hazelwood Forest trail hugs the shore of Lough Gill. This nature walk for all abilities can be taken as the full 3km loop or enjoyed over shorter distances. As you follow the track past wooden sculptures by Irish and international artists, enjoy the unfolding lake views. When it’s time for a snack, unpack your picnic and relax for a spell.

5: Curragh Chase Glenisca Trail, Co. Limerick

6: Gougane Barra Forest Park, Co. Cork One of Irish nature’s wildest landscapes, Gougane Barra also has a place in history. At the park entrance, look out for the lake and its tiny island.

It’s here in the 6th Century that St. Finbarr, Cork’s patron saint, founded his monastery. With six walks to choose from, for an easy option try the Slí Dhoire na Coise by the River Lee that takes you to the lake shore. The strenuous 2.5km Slí @apperture_2.0 na Sléibhe is the toughest of the park’s trails but also the most majestic as it takes you high into the mountains for amazing views.callows (flooded meadows), and limestone pavement.

3: Portumna Forest Park, Co. Galway Gather the gang and follow the Forest Friendly Walking Trail to the viewing platform overlooking Lough Derg. You can include your furriest family members as it’s also dog friendly. This is a gentle stroll, but for more of a workout try the Rinmaher, Woodland or Bonaveen trails. Whichever you choose, be on the lookout for deer, red squirrels, foxes and badgers along the way.

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10: Lough Key Forest and Activity Park, Co. Roscommon 7: Avondale Forest Park Centenary Trail, Co. Wicklow The Centenary Trail at Avondale Forest Park celebrates 100 years of Irish forestry. Feel the age of the place as you walk through a collection of specimens from the four corners of the globe.

The easy, family-friendly trail can be walked in either direction and there are 20 stops along the way. This showcase of the most impressive trees on the Avondale estate delights with stunning views across the Vale of Avoca and the Avonmore River.

With trails for all fitness levels, Lough Key Forest and Activity Park has a scenic multi-access path by Lough Key with a loop around Drummans Island. You can try a different kind of walking experience on the 300m long Tree-Top Walk or get pulses racing with zip lining. To cap off the excitement, tuck into something sweet at the onsite Lakeside Café and Food Truck.

11: Dún na Rí Forest Park, Co. Cavan Along the banks of the River Cabra, steeped in legend Dún na Rí is said to be where Cú Chulainn once camped overnight. Four signposted paths from a River Walk to an Access for All Trail take you through Norway spruce and oak. Watch for glimpses of hares, stoats and otters and you can also see the ruins of the original Cabra House near the Wishing Well.

@mrzullo

8: Donadea Forest Park, Co. Kildare The diversity of Donadea Forest Park makes every turn of the trail interesting. See the remnants of Donadea Castle and its walled gardens or reflect at the 9/11 Memorial with its scaled limestone replica of the Twin Towers. The Lake Walk is a lovely wheelchair-accessible option that clocks in at around 1km, while the Aylmer Walk with its lime tree avenue leads you all around the park. In your wanderings, you can take a break at the onsite café.

12: Killykeen Forest Park, Co. Cavan At an idyllic locale by the shores of Lough Oughter you’ll find Killykeen Forest Park.

Ringed around the lake are woodlands of spruce, ash, oak and beech where you can choose from four walks. Each signposted trail is a pleasant, family friendly route with areas for picnicking and swimming.

13: Ticknock Fairy Castle Loop, Dublin

9: Mullaghmeen Forest, Co. Westmeath At peaceful Mullaghmeen, lose yourself in Ireland’s largest planted beech woods with three looped walks and a multi access trail. On the easy 3km Red Walk there are wonderful views of Lough Sheelin and in springtime you’ll be treated to a carpet of bluebells. For a trip into history, along the moderate 8km White Walk you’ll find relics dating back to the Famine period of the 1840s.

Go Wild Magazine - Christmas Edition 2023

The views from the 5.5km Ticknock Fairy Castle Loop are as magical as its name.

A moderate climb of 210m summits at Three Rock where you’re rewarded by sweeping panoramas of Dublin City and the bay. You’ll also pass the trail’s namesake Fairy Castle, an ancient passage tomb under a mysterious stone cairn.

d enjo y n a t u o t e G e w a l ks l b i d e r c n i Ir e l a n d’s - 73 -

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Biscuit bake-off

Will you choose naughty or nice?

SWEET: Vegan Jammy Dodgers Ingredients 250g Plain Flour 150g Ground Almonds 120ml Melted Coconut Oil 120ml Maple Syrup 20ml Vegetable Oil 2 tsp Vanilla Essence 1 tsp Baking Powder Pinch of Salt Specially Selected Raspberry Conserve Icing Sugar, to sprinkle You’ll also need: Biscuit cutters – approx. 5cm and a smaller one to make a whole in the centres. Use round, star or any shape you like.

Method Preheat the oven to 170°C/325°F/Gas Mark 3.

Put the flour, ground almonds, baking powder and salt into a bowl and whisk well with a balloon

whisk. In another bowl mix the coconut oil, maple syrup, vanilla essence and vegetable oil together.

Pour this mixture into the dry mix and mix well. Allow to rest a while, then roll out to the thickness of a pound coin.

With your chosen cutters – cut out 40 biscuits. Cut a small hole in the centre of 20 of them.

If you want you can emboss the top of the biscuits.

Using a palette knife transfer to lightly greased baking sheets – allow a little space between them. Bake for 7- 10 mins – till the edges are just browning.

Allow to cool. Then add 1/2 teaspoon jam on top of the whole biscuits – then top them with the cut out biscuit. Sprinkle with some icing sugar and serve.

SAVORY: Herb & Cheese Biscuits Ingredients 170g Salted Butter, at room temperature 50g Mature Cheddar Cheese

Go Wild Magazine - Christmas Edition 2023

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25g Parmigiano Cheese 220g Plain Flour 50g Ground Almonds 5g Fresh Chopped Herbs Black Pepper Extra Herbs, to garnish Method Pre-heat the oven to 180°C/350°F/Gas Mark 4.

Finely grate the cheddar and the Parmigiano cheese. In a bowl, add the flour and the ground almonds, season with some black pepper and mix well.

Chop the butter into small chunks and rub into the flour mixture. Add the chopped herbs and the grated cheese and rub in with your fingers until you achieve a soft dough.

Roll out on a floured surface to the thickness of a pound coin. Cut into shapes with your favourite cutter.

Carefully put onto greased baking sheets and cook for 12-15 minutes.

After baking, decorate with small sprigs of herbs whilst still warm.

Allow to cool then serve.

Delicious on their own or serve with a cheese board.

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Design

YOUR DIGITAL WORLD IN OUR HANDS: COMPREHENSIVE SOLUTIONS BY BRAINSTORM At Brainstorm Design, we take pride in being a multidisciplinary digital design agency that offers a comprehensive array of solution-focused packages, customised to meet the unique needs of our clients. Our aim is to deliver end-to-end solutions – encompassing branding, website design, maintenance, and marketing – that enable our clients to thrive in the digital world.

Our team of skilled professionals is dedicated to crafting bespoke branding identity systems that capture the essence of a company and resonate with its target audience. Our design expertise covers all forms of website design, from responsive and adaptive designs to e-commerce platforms and content management systems, ensuring that we deliver visually appealing and userfriendly experiences for every project.

Beyond design, we offer website maintenance and support to guarantee our clients’ online presence remains in top shape. We understand the importance of a well-maintained

Go Wild Magazine - Christmas Edition 2023

website for a company’s success, which is why we provide ongoing assistance with site security, speed optimizations, content updates, and other essential maintenance tasks.

In our comprehensive approach, we also provide digital marketing campaigns tailored to each client’s needs, including search engine optimization, social media management, email marketing, reporting, and strategy development. This helps our clients reach their target audience, drive traffic to their websites, and ultimately achieve their business objectives.

One of our most exciting offerings is marketing automation. With Brainstorm Automate, we help businesses streamline their marketing efforts, enhance customer journeys, and boost conversion rates. Our award-winning software combines all necessary marketing tools in one user-friendly platform, empowering businesses to grow and succeed.

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Furthermore, we recognize the value of strong communication and collaboration with our clients. We work closely with each client to ensure their vision is fully understood and incorporated into the final product.

Our commitment to transparency and clear communication helps build lasting partnerships based on trust and mutual success.

Brainstorm Design is committed to delivering customised solutions for each of our clients, ensuring they have all the tools and support needed to thrive in the ever-evolving digital landscape. Our expertise in design, website maintenance, and digital marketing enables us to produce exceptional results and build lasting partnerships with our clients.

Visit us at brainstorm.ie to book a free strategy meeting and learn more about how we can help your business succeed in the digital world.

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d l i W o G e t a m ti

l U e h T

Christmas Film

Quiz

Apparently, we spend up to six hours on the sofa watching TV on Christmas Day, when the country settles down to enjoy their favourite festive movies.

Whether you’re a ‘Die Hard’ non-traditionalist (can I get a Yippee-ki-yay!) or a classic conformist who’s seen ‘It’s a Wonderful Life’ for the 20th time, just how well do you know your ‘Bad Santa’ from your ‘Love Actually’? Here are 10 cracking questions to get you warmed up. Pass the popcorn!

1. Which Irish actress played Doris Walker in the original ‘Miracle on 34th Street’?

2. In ‘Home Alone 2’, Brenda Fricker plays the pigeon lady who befriends Macaulay Culkin’s Kevin McCallister in New York’s Central Park. But what county in Ireland is she originally from?

3. ‘The Holiday’ stars Cameron Diaz and Kate Winslet as two forlorn girls who swap homes for Christmas. But what was the full name of Winslet’s character in the nineties mega-hit Titanic?

4. Not strictly a film, but big screen Boyle native Chris O’Dowd starred in the 2018 Christmas-themed drama podcast ‘Baby It’s Cold Outside’ about a man struggling with homelessness. Which actress, born to Irish parents in London, featured alongside him?

Here’s a hint … you might think of her a being a bit shameless.

5. Bob Geldof is famous for the iconic festive charttopper and charity juggernaut ‘Do They Know it’s Christmas’? but can you name the band whose film he had a cameo in, in 1997?

7. Liam Neeson stars in the timeless festive favourite ‘Love Actually’, but what musical instrument did his young son Sam, played by Thomas Brodie-Sangster, learn to master in time to woo his sweetheart at the school Christmas concert?

8. In the Christmas Eve gone crazy movie ‘Gremlins’, Mr. Wing sells Randall Peltzer a Mogwai called Gizmo under strict instructions to keep it away from sunlight, water and food after midnight. But here in Ireland a gizmo is better known as slang for what?

9. Ennis in Co. Clare was recently turned into a Christmas wonderland for a new Hallmark film called ‘Christmas at Castle Hart’ starring Mean Girls alumni Lacey Chabert. Which Dublin actor features as her leading man?

10. It wouldn’t be Christmas without ‘It’s A Wonderful Life’. Which renowned Hollywood star turned down the role of George Bailey to star in another festive film called ‘The Bishop’s Wife’?

How well did you score?

0-3: Not quite Grinch level but it’s back to full-time elf-ucation for you.

6. ‘Angela’s Christmas’ is a 30-minute Netflix film by award-winning author Frank McCourt.

Which iconic singer, who tragically passed away in 2018, can you hear in the closing credits?

4-7: Santa’s little helper, keep at it!

8-10: You’re officially the star on top of the tree.

Answers: Maureen O’Hara, Dublin, Rose DeWitt Bukater, Anne-Marie Duff, The Spice Girls – Spiceworld, The Movie, Dolores O’Riordan, Drums, A gadget or small device you don’t have a name for, Stuart Townsend, Cary Grant Go Wild Magazine - Christmas Edition 2023

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Client editorials Texas Steakout Cocktail Lounge

FLOGAS

For three and a half decades, this Steakout has been more than a restaurant; it’s a legacy. Its gift cards aren’t just meals, but passages to time-honoured culinary traditions. As we celebrate 35 years, gifting this experience means sharing a piece of gastronomic history. A timeless treat for any occasion.

Compact, portable and suitable for a variety of uses, Flogas cylinders provide you with the benefits of LPG wherever you are. To find out which bottle you need and where your closest stockist is located, visit the bottled gas section on our website flogas.ie

Belleek Pottery Belleek Pottery sits majestically on the banks of Lough Erne and is the gateway to the heritage village of Belleek on the Fermanagh Donegal border. For over 167 years, visitors have enjoyed the rich heritage and unique craftsmanship that Belleek pottery offers. The Belleek experience allows visitors to immerse themselves in the story of Belleek.

OPW OPW brings to life Ireland’s historic heritage attractions, from 5,000-year-old megalithic cemeteries to 20th-century War of Independence locations. Step into history through immersive events, guided tours or self-guided visits. Experience storytelling, science, history, botany, archaeology and more at over 70 heritage sites countrywide heritageireland.ie

Burren Smokehouse Selecting thoughtful gifts for friends and family members can be a daunting task. What can we give somebody who doesn’t need any practical things or has no hobbies we could contribute to? Here is a tip for you: Give them the gift of delicious and healthy food, like the Burren Smoked Irish Organic Salmon from the Burren Smokehouse. Another gift idea is to give the recipient the opportunity to make new experiences.

Abbey Hotel “Looking for the perfect getaway for your golden years? Look no further than the Abbey & Central Hotels in Donegal Town! Our Active Retirement package is designed with our senior guests in mind, offering a relaxing and affordable two to four-night stay starting at just €180 for two nights.”

Go Wild Magazine - Christmas Edition 2023

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Client editorials iNUA Hospitality

Hugh Lane Gallery

Give the gift of choice this Christmas with our iNUA Gift Vouchers.

Our select group of 4 & 5 Star hotels are set against some of the most stunning landscapes across the island of Ireland.

Treat someone to a well-deserved break with delicious dining experiences, serenity at our Spas or just relaxing in our luxurious rooms. We offer the most exceptional experiences that cater to everyone.

Hugh Lane Gallery and Dublin City Council announce Ireland’s largest-ever Andy Warhol exhibition - the first to open in 25 years.

A unique exhibition of Andy Warhol’s paintings, prints, photographs, films and installations is now open to view at Hugh Lane Gallery. This exhibition will be showcasing the artist’s extraordinary range of artworks produced over four decades.

Andy Warhol’s Three Times Out will run from October 6th to January 28th, 2024 and will feature more than 250 works including the iconic Campbell’s Soup Cans and Marilyn Monroe.

Book tickets now at hughlane.

The Brehon Hotel and Spa Falls Hotel & Spa

The Brehon Hotel and Spa is a luxurious hotel of unique grace and elegance set amidst Killarney’s breathtaking landscape. Each guestroom and suite reflects a contemporary blend of beauty, style and space.

The Brehon also offers visitors a chance to relax and unwind in Spa at The Brehon.

Nestled in a wooded vale beside the River Inagh in Ennistymon, Co. Clare, the Falls Hotel & Spa relishes its winter coat. Inside the fires will be lit, the lights shimmering and the festive smells will whet your appetite! A gift voucher from The Falls is giving the gift of choice…an overnight break, a spa day, or Afternoon Tea – let them decide!

The Connemara Coast Hotel Ashford Castle

The Connemara Coast Hotel, located only minutes from Galway City on the Wild Atlantic Way, has 141 luxury bedrooms, a choice of restaurants & bars including the Coast Club Leisure Centre. A resort hotel, it is the perfect location for exploring the West of Ireland. Tel: 091 592108 Email: info@connemaracoast.ie Web: www.connemaracoast.ie

Christmas gifting at your fingertips with Ashford Castle This festive season, gifting is made easy at Ashford Castle’s online boutique, Mrs Tea’s Boutique & Bakery. A treasure trove of beautifully presented gifts, the online boutique offers homemade chocolates, preserves, candles, beauty, clothing, hampers, and even gifts for your K9 pals. Full of Irish and sustainably produced and packed pressies for friends, family and colleagues, order now for stress-free Ireland and international shipping at https://shop.ashfordcastle.com Go Wild Magazine - Christmas Edition 2023

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Client editorials EPIC

Fota Island Resort

You won’t find leprechauns or pots of gold at EPIC, but you’ll discover what it means to be Irish expands beyond Ireland through the stories of emigrants who became scientists, artists and even outlaws. Then step aboard the Jeanie Johnston and learn about life on a Famine ship through the stories of those who made the gruelling voyage.

Plan your escape to Fota Island Resort and bring together your loved ones in the beautiful East Cork Countryside. Keep discovering all East Cork has to offer with Fota Island Resort.

Plan your stay your way, with a wide range of activities and amenities available for your perfect break away.

T: +(021) 488 3700 E: reservations@fotaisland.ie

The Mulranny Park Hotel

The Kingsley

This Christmas give an award winning gift. Our vouchers are the perfect solution to your Christmas shopping worries. With our refurbished rooms and new seaweed baths as well as the Wild Atlantic Way at the front and the Greenway at the back, you can be rest assured that your gift will both excite and delight.

For offers www.mulrannyparkhotel.ie

Situated overlooking the magnificent River Lee, The Kingsley is the perfect location to explore the abundance of activities Cork has to offer, including Cork City Gaol, Blarney Castle & Gardens and Nano Nagle Place, or hop in the car for a short drive to the coastal towns of Kinsale and Crosshaven – perfect for any day out. T: +(021) 4800 500 E: reservations@thekingsley.ie

Sheen Falls Lodge One of Ireland’s finest hotels, with stunning views of Kenmare Bay, cascading waterfalls and ideal for touring the South West of Ireland. A Traditional hunting lodge set on a 300-acre estate with five thatched cottages for rental. Estate activities include tennis, clay pigeon shooting, beautiful walks, spa treatments, fishing, horse riding and golf.

Go Wild Magazine - Christmas Edition 2023

Arklow Bay Hotel Overlooking the lakeside wildlife reserve, The Arklow Bay Hotel is situated in the heart of County Wicklow, Ireland’s garden county. Set in idyllic grounds the Arklow Bay Hotel offers 91 tastefully decorated bedrooms is the ideal base to explore and discover all Co. Wicklow has to offer and is easily accessible with good bus and train links plus ample onsite free parking.

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FOUR CLASSIC & ELEGANT COCKTAILS To Try At Home

There are cocktails and there are cocktails. Most of us enjoy a cocktail now and again but they are getting pricier but for some cocktails, you need so many ingredients, and utensils, it becomes tiring and/or overwhelming, before you even start.

We forget there are some super classic and elegant cocktails that don’t require you to have every spirit on the market. Below we have chosen some super easy cocktails for you to try your hand at, at home.

All recipes are for two MARTINI - Vodka or gin, your choice.

As claassic as 007.

• 2 measures of gin or vodka • 1 tbsp of vermouth • Ice Place all ingredients in your cocktail shaker and stir for the James Bond style or shake for the classic style.

Strain the martini into a martini glass or similar.

TOOLS – Ok, so we said simple but you will need some tools, although we have suggestions for substitutions that you could find at home.

A CLASSIC DAIQUIRI -Refreshingly elegant.

• A cocktail shaker or a clean jar with no aromas.

• A jigger for measuring or an eggcup will suffice.

• Glassware, coupes and martini glasses are similar enough that they can substitute for each other. Or try a sundae glass.

• A strainer, once it’s clean and has no aromas you can use it.

• • • •

2 measures of white rum 1 measure of lime juice 1 tbsp of simple syrup (sugar water 2:1) Ice

Place all ingredients in your cocktail shaker and shake it. Then strain the cocktail into a coupe glass or similar.

WHISKEY SOUR – One of my favourites, relatively simple to make and looks impressive.

• • • • •

2 measures of whiskey 1 measure of lemon juice 1/2 measure of simple syrup (sugar water 2:1) 1/2 measure of egg-white Ice

Put all your ingredients in a cocktail shaker and shake.

Always taste before serving to make sure it’s to your particular liking. Then strain the cocktail into a tumbler.

SIDECAR – Another classic and slightly reminiscent of the Mad Men era.

• • • •

2 measures of cognac 1 measure of triple sec (orange liqueur) 1 measure of lemon juice Ice

Place all your ingredients into your cocktail shaker and shake well. Once happy, strain the cocktail into a coupe glass or similar.

Go Wild Magazine - Christmas Edition 2023

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Brian Nation’s Back & He Brought Whiskey The world-renowned master distiller left Ireland with a mission to create a whiskey that perfectly brings together the best of Irish & American whiskey making traditions.

But none of the 40 medals Keeper’s Heart Whiskey has earned to date mean as much to him as bringing his whiskey back home to Ireland.

Enjoy Keeper’s Heart Responsibly © 2023 O’Shaughnessy Distilling Co. Minneapolis, MN. *Keeper's Heart Irish + American Whiskey has won 24 awards across 20 of the leading whiskey competitions in 2022

· Festive Table Quiz From 5pm for 1 hour