Go Wild Staycation Ireland Summer 2023

€5O. NLY 90

Irish & Proud

s n o i t a c y a St

Galway Oyster Festival SEPTEMBER 22ND 2023

WEEKEND GETAWAYS

The Great outdoors DISCOVER YOUR STAYCATION ADVENTURE

TEN GREAT OPTIONS FOR YOU

Chatting with Rory King RORY’S TRAVEL CLUB

Things to see & Do ALL OVER IRELAND

Kylemore Abbey, Connemara, Co. Galway

Showcasing the Best of the Best in Ireland Go Wild Staycations Ireland Summer 2023

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Publisher’s Note

W

elcome to issue number 46 in the Go Wild series of magazines, which takes us into our ninth year of publishing Irish tourism titles. Where has the time gone?

In this Summer issue, we have interviews with Rory King of Rory’s Travel, we chat with Brendan Comerford GM of Castlemartyr, we meet the new CEO of Beyond the Trees, Pat Ó Suilleabhaín, to discuss his plans for this amazing tourist attraction and chat with Maoliosa Connell of Avoca, as they celebrate their 300th year in business.

We have our usual mix of great Staycation options and ideas for every family to enjoy. From weekends away to unwinding on a coastal break, to camping outdoors and discovering the wild side of Ireland.

Our beautiful country continues to inspire travellers from every corner of the world, to keep discovering something

Next on our List September

Our Annual Go Wild Irish Spirits magazine Check out the newest and best Whiskey & Gin magazine in Ireland.

Our second Annual Irish Spirits title will feature the very best that Ireland has to offer and will educate and inspire you to learn about the people driving these industries

October

Go Wild Christmas Annual Magazine Let’s make this Christmas even more special this year.

We will be bringing you the very best in Irish fashion this Christmas season, toy and craft makers for every gift, stunning recipes from well-known chefs and everything to make your Christmas sparkle.

new, so make the most of your summer and hit the road, discover new and amazing things and reinvigorate your soul while refreshing your mind.

From all of the Go Wild team, have an amazing summer...

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

Slea Head, Dingle Peninsula, Co. Kerry

Magazine

Contents P6:

Ride The Waves this Summer

P48: Discover the picturesque Ring of Kerry

P8:

Maoliosa Connell Avoca, chatting with Go Wild

P50: Unwind on a coastal break in Ireland

P10: John F Kennedy Exhibition at EPIC CHQ

P52: Awesome Getaways

P12: Ten Great Staycation Escapes

P54: The best towns for you to discover

P14: Riverdance Director John McColgan

P56: World class rugby museum in Limerick

P16: Brendan Comerford GM Castlemartyr Resort

P58: Why I Love Mayo by Dermot Madigan

P18: Weekend Getaways to discover

P60: The best Wild Atlantic Way beaches this Summer

P20: Pauline Matijasevich, Why I Love Malahide

P62: Discover the Fermanagh Lakelands

P22: Chatting with Lorcan Ó Cinneide Great Blasket Centre

P64: Meet Devour Tours, Joan Hamilton

P24: New Ways to Explore Ireland

P66: Ireland’s worldwide golfing success

P28: Beyond the Trees New GM Pat Ó Suilleabhaín

P72: Dublin born Ruairi Doyle, CEO of PressReader.com

P30: Wild Atlantic Way Stargazing

P74: Ten immersive museums for you to discover

P32: Interview with Birgitta Curtin, Burren Smokehouse

P76: The Wexford Opera Festival

P34: Visit Waterford

P78: 13 Great Forest walks across Ireland

P36: Nine Glorious Irish Gardens

P80: Embrace Northern Ireland’s Spirit Trail

P38: Meet the entrepreneurial team at BigSurf

P82: HMS Caroline, now open for boarding P84: The Nine Best Staycation road trips

Atlantic Lodge P40: Ireland’s top ten campsites

P86: Galway Oyster Festival

P42: See Sligo Through the Eyes of a Poet

P87: Five Great Greenways to discover

P44: Chatting with Rory King of Rory’s Travels

P88: Northern Ireland gets its 13th

P46: We are Global Irish- Meet Chef Declan Horgan

Econnomuse

For all the latest news, visit www.gowildmagazine.com

Meet the Team Publisher, MD & Advertising Chief:

Creative Director:

Copy Editor:

Bobby Power

Dave Curtin

Keith Nicol

bobby@gowildmagazine.com

dave@brainstorm.ie Contributors

www.brainstorm.ie Head of Accounts & Director:

Editorials: Meg Walker, Keith Nicol,

Cleo Power

Editorial & AD Design:

cleo@gowildmagazine.com

Lynne Clark

Claire O’Mahony, Kathleen O’Callaghan

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

Ma gazine

The Wild Atlantic Way Magazine Ltd, t/a Go Wild Magazine. All rights reserved. The Wild Atlantic Way Magazine Ltd t/a GoWild Magazine does not accept any responsibility for any advertising content. All unsolicited manuscripts will not be accepted or returned. No material may be used in whole or in part without the publisher’s prior consent. While every care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of all events, information or recommendations in this magazine, no responsibility will be accepted by The Wild Atlantic Way Magazine Ltd, its editorial team, designers, authors or agents acting on their behalf for alterations, errors or omissions which may occur.

Go Wild Staycation Ireland - Summer 2023

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www.gowildmagazine.com

EXPERIENCE THE CRAFT

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W AT E R F O R D V I S I T O R C E N T R E . C O M

e h t n o s e v a Ride the w ISLAND OF IRELAND With many great locations to catch a wave, the island of Ireland’s gorgeous coastline is not just a feast for the eyes but also a treat for surfers.

Seasoned thrill-seekers and those just wanting to dip their toes in surfing waters will find the perfect wave waiting for them on the island of Ireland.

NORTHERN SWELLS Around the island’s northern coastline there are miles of golden beaches dashed by ocean waves.

In County Antrim, Portrush is a standout surfing spot with two strands offering waves to match every ability.

Nearby Whiterocks Beach, tucked under limestone cliffs, and White Park Bay close to the Giant’s Causeway, are both great destinations for experienced wave-riders.

County Londonderry’s beautiful seven-mile Benone Strand is perfect for beginners, with a reputation for small, clean waves. At its eastern end it is overlooked by the picture-perfect Mussenden Temple. Just beyond is Castlerock, with its signature right-hand wave.

Bundoran in County Donegal is one of the island’s top surfing spots with awesome swells breaking onto pristine beaches. This is the home of The Peak, a reef break that attracts surfers from all over the world. The town has hosted European Surfing Championships several times and is known to surfers as a “Cold Paradise”.

WESTERN WAVES Go west and you will find some epic surfing spots along the spectacular Wild Atlantic Way. County Sligo’s Mullaghmore Head is considered to be one of Europe’s premier big wave locations with swells reaching 12m. Easier surfing can be enjoyed at gorgeous Enniscrone Beach and Strandhill, while those looking for a challenge should head to Easkey, famous for its two reef breaks.

In rugged County Mayo, surfers can enjoy uncrowded

beaches such as Belmullet, and can be sure of consistent breaks along the expanse of beautiful Carrownisky Strand.

But if you’re a serious surfer you can’t miss County Clare, location of Aileen’s Wave. Created by a precise combination of stormy conditions and easterly winds, the wave rises just off the famous Cliffs of Moher and can reach a dizzying 15m high. Further down the coast, picturesque Lahinch also offers plenty of surfing action.

SOUTHERN SURF The more sedate waves off the island’s southern shores are perfect for beginners and intermediate level surfers.

Stunning County Kerry provides a spectacular backdrop for surfers. Head to 3km-long Inch Beach on the Dingle Peninsula to enjoy the white sands and white waves or to Ballybunion, which offers over 6km of sand and cliff breaks.

At Inchydoney Beach near Clonakilty in County Cork, the river break is ideal for accompanied beginners and doesn’t attract big crowds, making it a great place for taking your first wave ride.

And at family-friendly Tramore in County Waterford, surfers of all skill levels will find peaks to suit their ability.

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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

Maolíosa Connell, Avoca Director of Marketing, Creative and Buying discusses the brand uniqueness and summer plans with Claire O’Mahony

The Art of Possible with Avoca’s Maoliosa Connell “The amazing thing about Avoca is that it’s always about the art of possible,” says Maolíosa Connell, Director of Marketing, Creative and Buying at Avoca.

Having completed a business-related degree and a Master’s programme at UCD’s Smurfit Business School, she received an immersive experience working in events, including the theatrical show Riverdance, as well as during as her tenure with a luxury charter yacht company, where she organised bespoke industry-related events. When the recession hit, Maolíosa explored the parameters of retail, first setting up a shop selling secondhand designer goods, and then joining the management team of a luxury Irish department store. When she joined Avoca in 2011 as Marketing Manager, she knew she had found the perfect fit in terms of her career.

“What Avoca offered was such a

strong connection to customers but it really leveraged itself in driving a very experiential destination and that really mattered to me,” she says. “I have such pride in the brand because there’s much history and heritage to it and I was very inspired by the fact that they produced all of their own Irish quality food and having their own mill, as well as fashion element.

It’s really a one-stop-shop and there’s nothing quite like it out there.”

It was with regret that she left Avoca to work and live in New York but she rejoined the company in 2014 and became Marketing Manager and subsequently Marketing Director.

“My role has evolved in the last threeyears to taking over the helm of retail along with all of the creative as well,” she explains. “It’s a very exciting journey but one that brings me right back to what I really love about Avoca and it being very supportive of me

Go Wild Staycation Ireland - Summer 2023

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and my career. I think ultimately, it’s such a unique culture within Avoca that creatively it just allows you to go somewhere that not every brand necessarily represents.”

It’s an exciting time for the brand this summer as it celebrates 300-years of the Mill at Avoca village. Other developments include a new online platform that will drive an enhanced customer experience and investing in improvements across the Avoca stores that will bring an improved experience for customers. She is also excited about some of our seasonal summer events from BBQs and to wellness events, for all to enjoy.

Ask her what she recommends for visitors and she said it would be remiss of her not to point to some of Avoca’s offerings. “We’re lucky in that we have 14 stores around Ireland, everywhere from Belfast to Wicklow. There are our gardens, including Mount Usher which has thousands of different species of plants and people love going there because they’re just quite different and really special,” she says. “Our Mill in Avoca Village is like a rare little treasure.

There’s a great sense of peace and tranquility there and you can also do a tour of the Mill.” Maolíosa, her husband and their daughter recently took the tour there and they also took in the Red Kite Walk, which takes visitors through woodlands and where you can see the Red Kite birds soaring. “It was the perfect day out for our little family,” she says.

For her, the Avoca experience is always centred on how to deliver amazing experiences for people that are committed to quality, craft and hospitality. “Irishness is about always sharing a connection and extending a warm sense of hospitality. I think that’s the wonderful thing that people experience when travelling around Ireland. It’s the people they meet along the way and the stories that are recounted that make them go away with a smile on their faces and fond memories to share. It a wonderful thing to be able to create experiences that move people and I believe Ireland offers that little bit of magic.”

www.gowildmagazine.com

ROADTRIP IRELAND Reunite with nature, reconnect with friends, and dine in style with a roadtrip of The iNUA Collection hotels.

STAYCATION BREAKS WITH THE INUA COLLECTION FROM €160 B&B Book at www.inua.ie

New EPIC exhibition recalls JFK’s historic Irish visit

A fascinating new exhibition at EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum in Dublin, marks 60-years since the visit of John F Kennedy to Ireland. also looks at the political and diplomatic aspects of the trip and the lasting legacy of his visit on Irish society.

‘Homecoming: JFK in Ireland’ is a beautifully curated exhibition that delves into the cultural and political significance of the four-day trip to Ireland in 1963 by the 35th President of the United States.

Created in collaboration with the John F Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, it uses original documents, photography and oral history interviews to convey what the visit meant to Irish politicians, diplomats and onlookers.

It also considers how international observers perceived the event, which happened during a time of national transition in Ireland.

Running from 7 June until 4 September 2023, this richly illustrated exhibition highlights the pivotal role Kennedy’s

Go Wild Staycation Ireland - Summer 2023

visit played in strengthening IrishAmerican relations and shaping a new era of optimism for the country. In fact, President Kennedy delivered the first official address by a foreign Head of State to the joint houses of the Oireachtas (the Irish Parliament).

The visit itself was filled with fanfare and joyous scenes as Kennedy was welcomed by large crowds in Dublin, Cork, Galway and Limerick plus in New Ross and Wexford town, in his family’s ancestral county. The President later described it as one of the most moving experiences of his life.

The themes of the exhibition range from Ireland’s rapid modernisation in the 1960s to the pomp and ceremony surrounding JFK’s visit. The exhibition

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In addition, ‘Homecoming’ explores JFK’s Irish heritage and the history of his ancestors who emigrated during Ireland’s Great Famine, tracing the Kennedys’ rise to power and influence.

EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum is a multi-award-winning museum that honours the Irish diaspora and recognises the vital contributions and monumental impact Irish people have made worldwide.

Situated on the banks of the River Liffey, it tells the moving stories of those who left Ireland, across 20-interactive galleries, all packed with tales of adventure, adversity and triumph. They reveal why over 10-million people left Ireland, where they went and what influence they had on the world across music, literature, sport, politics, fashion, science and more. www.ireland.com

www.gowildmagazine.com

9

BEST STAYCATION ROAD TRIPS IN IRELAND

Ireland’s gorgeous landscape and rich history make the island the perfect place for an unforgettable road trip.

DELIGHTFUL DONEGAL

WE XFORD AND WATERFORD

A trip around Donegal’s rugged coastline from Rossnowlagh to Buncrana will take you past the 600m-high Sliabh Liag sea cliffs, alongside golden beaches and through the dramatic Glengesh Pass. A short detour inland will give you the chance to visit Glenveagh National Park with its beautiful lake, deer park and castle.

The southeast coast of Ireland is dotted with fabulous beaches and pretty towns and villages. Drive from the old Norman settlement of Enniscorthy, County Wexford, to the picturesque resort of Ardmore, County Waterford. The route will take you along the Copper Coast, named for the copper mines that operated there in the nineteenth century, and whose footprint can still be seen.

NORTH MAYO AND SLIGO This road trip begins at Westport on the edge of an Atlantic inlet in rugged County Mayo and finishes at Sligo town. Head first to windswept Achill Island, then follow the coast around to Céide Fields, a fascinating archaeological site with an excellent visitor centre. As you near Sligo you will see the majestic flat-topped Benbulben, which inspired the Nobel Prize-winning poet, W.B. Yeats.

GO WEST

RING OF KERRY One of the most famous road trips on the island, the drive around the Iveragh Peninsula offers jaw-dropping views of pristine beaches, medieval ruins, mountains, loughs and the island-dotted Atlantic. There are plenty of reasons to stop along the way, such as the vibrant town of Killarney plus the fascinating Skellig Experience

DINGLE PENINSUL A

Head west from Dublin to Galway on the Wild Atlantic Way, gateway to brooding Connemara and one of the island’s liveliest cities. Then loop south into the Burren of County Clare to experience the remarkable limestone landscape that has been designated a UNESCO Global Geopark.

The delightful route around the Dingle Peninsula will take you along the stunning coastline and golden strands, past castles, medieval churches and Neolithic monuments. Be sure to stop at Dingle, a captivating little town which is home to lots of artisan shops

ANCIENT IREL AND Travel through time in Ireland’s Ancient East, where tombs, monastic cities and sacred sites provide a window to the past. Visit the Neolithic passage graves of Brú na Bóinne, and the Hill of Tara, once the seat of the High Kings of Ireland. Then go west to the monastic ruins of Clonmacnoise before heading to the beautiful sixth-century monastic site at Glendalough, County Wicklow.

THE THREE PENINSUL A S The Three Peninsulas in counties Cork and Kerry make for a fabulous road trip along the Wild Atlantic Way. Mizen Head, Sheep’s Head and the Beara Peninsulas present a landscape bathed in shifting light making it a region of remarkable contrasts and stunning scenery.

WILD ATL ANTIC WAY For an epic adventure, drive the whole 2,500km Wild Atlantic Way, which stretches from the Inishowen Peninsula in County Donegal in the north to Kinsale, County Cork in the south. It’s one of the world’s most dramatic coastlines and features 15 ‘signature discovery points’ that are incredible places to visit and experience.

As featured in Ireland.com

Go Wild Staycation Ireland - Summer 2023

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www.gowildmagazine.com

Roam Rome &Reflect &Reflect Explore this 18th century mansion with our excellent tour guides and learn about the Mahon family’s unique story that spans from the 17th century until 1979. Strokestown Park’s tragic past is brought to life through an award winning, immersive audio-visual museum.

Visitors can also enjoy the 6-acre walled gardens and Strokestown Park’s lush mature woodlands. A brand new bright and modern Woodland Café is the icing on the cake. An experience not to be missed.

Strokestown, Co, Roscommon, Ireland, F42 H282 Tel: 071 9633013 | www.strokestownpark.ie

IRISH HERITAGE TRUST Bringing Places to Life

Riverdance returns Director John McColgan talks to Claire O’Mahony about the enduring appeal of the show, and why its return to Dublin this summer is so special.

A

t the 1994 Eurovision Song

worldwide with over 3-million copies of

a Riverdance family and everyone is

Contest, the audience awaited the

the Grammy Award-winning CV sold

very supportive of everyone else.”

interval act. Traditionally, this is

globally. This summer, following sold-out

The return of Riverdance to Dublin

when the host country puts on a worthy,

tours throughout the USA, Europe and

is something that everyone involved

cultural performance. What the audience

Dubai, Riverdance 25th Anniversary Show

looks forward to, and this is its 19th year

in Dublin and those watching the broadcast

returns home to the Gaiety Theatre Dublin.

in the Gaiety Theatre. “The audiences

across Europe were presented with was the

Ask John what the enduring

love it in Dublin, it’s a very intimate

incredible spectacle of Riverdance, a seven-

appeal of Riverdance is and he

space,” says John. “They feel very close

minute act that showed Irish dancing,

points to several factors.

to the performances. It’s probably one

music and culture in an entirely new way.

“I think there’s no real language

of the smallest venues that we play in

Riverdance director and co-creator John

barrier and that has really contributed

around the world; most of the venues

McColgan, whose wife and creative partner

to its accessibility,” he says. “I think Bill

are 2,000 or 3,000 and the Gaiety is a

Moya Doherty was the commissioning

Whelan has written a magnificent score

1,000. The Gaiety has a special magic

producer for Eurovision 1994, was sitting

for which he won a Grammy award,

and the cast love being in Dublin and

in the 4,000-strong audience on the night.

so the score and the music is fantastic.

spending the summer months here.”

“When Riverdance came out, their jaws

And we are lucky in that we cast the

He notes some of the reasons why the

dropped and when it was finished, the

best dancers from around the world.”

cast enjoy their stint so much in the Irish

last stamp, there was silence for three

John is just back from Los Angeles,

capital. “There are so many wonderful

seconds and then the entire audience as

where Riverdance was playing at The

museums in Dublin, the National Art

one leaped to their feet with a big primal

Dolby Theatre. He remains hands-on

Gallery… There’s lot to see and do. Because

roar,” he recalls. “It was an extraordinary

with the show but says that its day-to-

they’re close to Stephen’s Green, they

reaction to what happened and we knew at

day running is in the hands of associate

love going there and to Merrion Square

that time, and we suspected it before, but

director, Padraic Moyles, who was formerly

Park and walking around Georgian

we knew we had something special that

a lead dancer in Riverdance for 18 years.

Dublin. It’s a beautiful city to walk

demanded to be turned into a full show.”

“Padraic is wonderful,” he says. “The

around in when the weather is nice, and

Fast forward to 27 years later and

cast and crew have great respect for him

the audiences are warm and friendly.”

the Riverdance numbers speak to its

because they know that he knows the

phenomenal success: it’s played throughout

show intimately.” John himself will go

Riverdance 25th Anniversary Show is at

48 countries across six continents, and has

out three-times on a tour. “I love keeping

the Gaiety Theatre, Dublin from 15th June

been seen live by over 28.5 million people

in touch,” he says. “We call ourselves

– 10th September. www.riverdance.com

Go Wild Staycation Ireland - Summer 2023

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www.gowildmagazine.com

5 minutes with…

Brendan Comerford

General Manager of the five-star Castlemartyr Resort in Cork I’ve been at Castlemartyr now for six years and in that time, I’ve seen a lot of change. When our new owners purchased the property in July 2021, they saw the potential to bring the resort to the next level. Since then, we’ve completed a €9-million investment programme. Every bedroom and public space in the hotel has been refurbished.

We opened Terre restaurant just last year and it achieved a Michelin star in its first year. We also opened Canopy, which is our main hotel restaurant, led

by Executive Chef Kevin Burke, with seating for 150 guests. We’ve created a new reception and check-in area with luxury arrival experience outside. All of the grounds have been beautifully enhanced, we’ve added two new outdoor tennis courts and we’ve added to the golf course. Now with a new driving range, we’ll continue to develop the golf course in September. So, there’s a lot of new things for our guests to discover.

Our fine dining restaurant, Terre, won a Michelin star in March, just six months after opening. It’s a fantastic recognition for the team and has drawn visitors not only to the restaurant, but the resort as a whole, with many guests looking to combine their culinary experience with an overnight stay.

Cork is really establishing itself as the gourmet capital of Ireland once again and it is fantastic that Terre is playing a significant part in that revival.

Summer 2023 is looking very positive.

The season kicked off to a great start

Go Wild Staycation Ireland - Summer 2023

with cultural events at the hotel, including a live opera and the Art + Soul: International Art and Sculpture Exhibition presented by Gormleys in June. Art + Soul will be back again next year along with additional cultural events in the calendar.

Castlemartyr Resort is a great place for families. It is a busy summer ahead but we still have some availability, especially midweek, and provide a lot of fun activities for kids onsite and in the greater area as well, from kayaking to boat trips to Ballycotton Lighthouse and visits to Fota Wildlife Park or Leahy’s Open Farm. And for adults, a trip to the Midleton Distillery or Ballymaloe Cookery School is a wonderful way to spend an afternoon.

We also roll out a warm welcome for furry family members, too. We have five pet-friendly garden rooms, located on the ground floor with their own external gardens so guests can access them directly from the car park, which guests find handy when they’re bringing their dogs in and out.

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I’m originally from Cork and we Corkonians have great pride in our county. My best advice for anyone staying in Castlemartyr would be to allow yourself plenty of time to enjoy the resort and its surrounding areas. It’s a great base from which to explore the beautiful coastline of Cork. Give yourself two to three days and engage with us before you arrive to book some of the immersive activities we have available onsite. We can also provide advice on day trips to enjoy while you’re here. Allow yourself time to explore Cork City while you’re here, too. See the English Market, University College Cork, Crawford Art Gallery, Shandon Bells at St. Anne’s Church … and there are some great open bus, harbour and walking tours, too, not to mention lovely pubs across the city.

Our greatest resource is our team, and like with any resource, you have to invest in it, look after it, and help it to grow, providing continuous training and a defined career path. That’s the key to attracting great staff and has placed Castlemartyr Resort in a very good position when it comes to recruitment.

I have a young family so when I’m not at work, I spend a lot of my time outdoors, standing on the sidelines of football, hurling, Gaelic football and camogie matches, which I love. I also enjoy a bit of cycling and running to keep myself fit, healthy and full of energy for whatever the day brings. castlemartyrresort.ie

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s: t e g d u B ll A r fo s ip r T t Shor

WEEKEND GETAWAYS IN IRELAND I

reland is a small island nation that packs a big punch when it comes to weekend getaways. Whether you’re looking for stunning natural landscapes, vibrant cities or a dose of Irish culture and history, there’s no shortage of options for short trips to suit all budgets.

For those on a shoestring budget, the charming town of Kilkenny is a perfect destination. Known as the “Marble City”, Kilkenny is filled with medieval architecture, cobbled streets and cosy pubs, where you can enjoy a pint of Guinness and traditional Irish music.

The town’s castle is a must-visit, as is St. Canice’s Cathedral, which boasts stunning views of the city from its tower.

If you have a bit more to spend, why not head to the West Coast of Ireland and explore the rugged beauty of County Kerry? The stunning Ring of Kerry is a 179 km route that takes you through some of Ireland’s most spectacular scenery, including rolling hills, sparkling lakes and a dramatic coastline. You can hike or cycle along the route, stopping at quaint villages like Killorglin and Sneem along the way.

For those looking for a bit of luxury, the stunning Ashford Castle in County Mayo is a perfect choice. This 13th-century castle has been transformed into a luxurious hotel with all the amenities

Go Wild Staycation Ireland - Summer 2023

you could wish for, including a spa, golf course and multiple restaurants.

The castle’s stunning grounds, which include a lake and gardens, are perfect for a leisurely stroll.

Of course, no trip to Ireland would be complete without a visit to the vibrant capital city of Dublin. With a rich literary and cultural history, Dublin has something for everyone, whether you’re interested in museums, art galleries or live music. The city’s most famous attraction is the Guinness Storehouse, where you can learn about the history of Ireland’s most famous export and enjoy a pint with panoramic views of the city.

No matter where you choose to go, one thing is certain: Ireland’s natural beauty and rich cultural heritage make it the perfect destination for a weekend getaway. With options to suit all budgets, there’s no excuse not to explore this incredible country.

If you’re a fan of coastal towns, don’t miss the picturesque town of Dingle in County Kerry. With colourful houses lining the streets, charming shops and cafes plus

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a harbour full of fishing boats, Dingle offers a truly authentic Irish experience.

The town is also known for its live music scene and you can often catch a traditional session in one of the many pubs.

For those who love history, then head to the ancient city of Kells in County Meath. This historic town is famous for its beautifully illuminated manuscripts, including the world-renowned Book of Kells. You can visit the 9th-century monastery where the book was created and learn about its fascinating history.

If you’re a lover of nature, a trip to the Cliffs of Moher on the west coast of Ireland should not be missed. These stunning cliffs rise 214-meters above the Atlantic Ocean, offering breathtaking views. You can take a guided tour of the cliffs or hike along the trails to experience the beauty up close.

For those seeking a truly unique experience, a visit to the Aran Islands off the coast of County Galway is something very different. These three islands are known for their rugged beauty, traditional way of life and ancient ruins. You can take a ferry to the islands and spend a day exploring their unique culture and history.

Ireland offers a plethora of options for weekend getaways to suit all budgets and these are just a few to whet your imagination. From the charming town of Kilkenny to the rugged beauty of the Cliffs of Moher, there is something for everyone. So, pack your bags and explore the magic of Ireland.

www.gowildmagazine.com

Get away from it all and explore the unique beauty of Lough Boora Discovery Park.

Enjoy the simple things and spend quality time making memories to treasure.

Connect with nature to revitalise mind and body. Guided tours & Bike hire available.

Booking information: Email: info@loughboora.com I Phone: 057 934 0010

What I love about

Malahide

By Pauline Matijasevich

I

feel beyond blessed to be living

could be in the

so quaint it could be on the cover of a

in Malahide – a gorgeous coastal

South of France

children’s book. Cottage orné, translated

village, with a castle that anchors

or Bondi Beach!

as decorated cottage, dates back to a

the Fingal heritage trail and attracts

I love that you

movement of ‘rustic’ stylised cottages of

visitors from all over the world..

can take your

the late 18th and early 19th century

There is a real community spirit

pick on any

Inside, there are around 350 model trains,

here and there is so much to offer in

given day of any cuisine; be it street food

some of which run on tracks overhead.

terms of what to see, do and eat!

on the marina to Michelin recommended

They’ve recently opened a Children’s

I love walking the coast to Portmarnock,

restaurants in the heart of the village.

Education Centre where your kids can try

shouting from the sidelines when my boys

There’s always a vibe and for a spring

their luck at driving a train and complete

play football with an infinity sea view on

in your step, you can take your pick of

a series of fun challenges along the way!

Paddy’s Hill, bringing my dog for a walk

coffee aficionados, gelato, and chai tea

Everything is in close proximity to

and letting him run around the dog off-

purveyors. Fantastic independent boutiques

each other and if you ever do feel like

leash area in Malahide Castle grounds and

and pubs with cosy rooms with craic and

escaping, Dublin airport is a 15 min drive

picking up a coffee at Avoca on the way

music on tap! Devilment guaranteed!

away and Dublin city is a mere half hour

back through the walking trails snaking

It would be remiss of me not to mention

away on the dart. I love Malahide with its

through the acres of beautiful parkland.

the 800-year-old castle that was home to

grand old castle and beautiful coastline,

The coastal walk from Malahide to

the Talbot family from 1185 until 1973.

bracing walks in beautiful nature and

Portmarnock sets you up for the day, a

Get a glimpse at how the other half lived

soaked in heritage. I feel blessed and

delightful 4km trail set on an elevated

in the Great Hall filled with antiques

inspired every day. I love where I live

path with parkland on one side and the

and paintings on loan from the National

and treat it like a travel destination! The

sea on the other, taking you past Velvet

Gallery. The Walled Gardens are also home

more layers of history I uncover about

Strand and the Martello towers at

to the only exotic butterfly house in Ireland,

it, the more interesting it becomes.

Portmarnock and Robswall. Where else

where rare species flutter all around you

would you want to be? Look behind and

in a glasshouse filled with tropical plants.

you can see the boats ebbing and flowing

The Casino Model Railway Museum,

on the marina, the yachts mooring and the

a 5 min leisurely stroll away from the

boatyard in plain sight – blink and you

castle is set inside a thatched cottage,

Go Wild Staycation Ireland - Summer 2023

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Get away from the hustle and bustle of Dublinʼs centre and come to a more relaxed location.

Only 10 mins from Dublin Airport

Visit Dublin’s Best-Kept Secret

As a family day out you canʼt get much better than Newbridge House and Farm. Step into an 18th century rambling Georgian mansion that has been impeccably restored. Experience the opulence and grandeur of the rooms, then through ambient audio and interpretative graphics learn about life in the Servants Quarters.

Explore the 35 acre working farm, engage with the animals, traverse the woodland parklands, check out the playground and café and grab an ice cream, sit back and take it all in... so many memories waiting to be made!

Visit www.newbridgehouseandgardens.com

Discover 800 Years of History

Only 10 mins

from Dublin Airport

Come to the picturesque village of Malahide for your next family day out and visit one of Irelandʼs oldest castles, its beautiful botanical gardens and let the kids explore 250 acres of lush parkland. Malahide is bursting with things to do for the whole family.

Fairy Trail and lose yourself in the West Lawn. Pack a picnic from the Avoca Foodhall. Letʼs start making memories again.

Visit www.malahidecastleandgardens.ie

Irelands only Model Railway Museum

Only 10 mins

from Dublin Airport

If you fancy a short detour from the castle take a stroll to Irelandʼs only model railway.

Step back in time and explore one of the worldʼs most unique model railway collections. Housed in a beautifully restored Casino cottage and located in the village you will be blown away by the workmanship and exquisite collection. If you have time indulge in one of the many award winning bars and restaurants in Malahide. Dart and bus routes to Dublin city centre.

Visit www.modelrailwaymuseum.ie

Lorcán Ó Cinnéide

Man of the Blaskets

By Kathleen O’Callaghan

T

he dramatic Blasket Centre, one of the wonders of the Wild Atlantic Way, re-opened on June 28th, 2022, after extensive refurbishment and an investment of €2.9 million. The project involved a total transformation of the Centre’s exhibitions to deliver an authentic and imaginative narrative of the story of the Blasket islands, with their rich heritage and unique literature. Lorcán Ó Cinnéide is the Manager of the Blasket Centre and hails from the Kerry Gaeltacht himself.

“My great-grandfather came from the Great Blasket and I was involved in its conservation through the Blasket Island Foundation for many years before joining the OPW,” explains Lorcán. “It’s an important part of the local community and a major tourist destination. We appreciate the support from Fáilte Ireland in the re-imagining of the Centre and the creation of a spectacular Wild Atlantic Way Viewing platform on the site a number of years ago,” he explains.

“The Blasket Centre is significant in terms of heritage nationally and very much part of its local community. The challenge was for our exhibitions to be authentic and accessible to visitors who may have no prior knowledge of the story and it communicates on many levels. I’m very happy that it elicits such emotional and moving responses from our visitors.”

“There is a fascinating literary culture connected to the Blaskets. Books such as An t-Oileánach (The Islandman)

by Tomás Ó Criomhthain, Peig by Peig Sayers, and Fiche Bliain ag Fás (Twenty years a-Growing) by Muiris Ó Súilleabháin deliver a real sense of the social history and the realities of living there. We are fortunate that it is such a well-documented spot,” adds Lorcán.

The Blasket Islands are a Special Area of Conservation that boasts a major Grey Seal colony, transiting whales and dolphins, diving gannets, petrels and migratory puffins and Manx Shearwaters.

“When we re-opened June 2022 it coincided with a general reawakening from the public and a fresh focus on our own historic sites after the Covid-19 pandemic.”

For those who like a bit of craic, the Dingle Peninsula has a host of live traditional music, arts festivals, the colourful Naomhóg regattas – traditional boat racing as well as the Dingle Races.

“It’s such a rich culture here. Visitors

Go Wild Staycation Ireland - Summer 2023

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enjoy listening to us speaking Irish in the Centre as it’s what comes naturally to us here. We communicate to each other in the vernacular of the area, it’s very much a living language that has a resonance to the past and critical to the future. Language and the stories we celebrate at the Blasket Centre are an essential part of our heritage.”

One of Lorcán’s favourite aspects of the Blasket Centre exhibition is to listen to recordings of the original islanders’ voices telling stories about their lives on the island, in their own language.

It’s totally immersive and haunting.

He also loves to walk the beaches and hills and look at the commanding views on the furthest edge of the Atlantic.

“One of my favourite trails is to walk the length of the island from the island landing place and then up as far as The Cró – the highest point on the island.

It’s an 8km walk and to do that in your own time, to appreciate the views and think about those who walked before you is a wonderful experience.”

“Although access to the island itself can depend on weather and season, the Blasket Centre on the mainland at Dún Chaoin is a wonderful way to access this “Kingdom of Stories”, as it has been called,” he concludes.

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New ways to experie

nce the

ISLAND OF IRELAND in 2023 Wherever you go on the island of Ireland, you’re always going to find something new, different and exciting to see and do.

Make 2023 the year you explore one of the greenest, friendliest and most beautiful places on earth. Whether its one-of-a-kind attractions, cool new eateries, places to stay or exciting new experiences, Ireland will always surprise you with what it has to offer.

Experiences Go camping in Wicklow and embrace Top of your list has to be the amazing new treetop walk Beyond the Trees Avondale in Country Wicklow. Nominated by National Geographic in their ‘Best of the World for 2023’ list of extraordinary destinations, the magazine praises Wicklow for being “crammed with mountain trails for hikers and bikers, stately Palladian mansions, wild waterfalls and an underrated coast”.

Spectacular sights are also given in the Mourne Mountains, Ring of Gullion, and Strangford and Lecale areas of County Down and County Armagh. The area’s bid to become a UNESCO Global Geopark, Northern Ireland’s second global geopark, has been approved for ratification this May. From the high granite peaks of the Mournes and the dramatic volcanic landscapes of the Ring of Gullion to the rolling drumlins and rippling shores of Strangford Lough, the region has long been prized for its gorgeous landscape – all of which has been formed and shaped by various geological processes over millions of years.

the creators of Game of Thrones®. Its myths, legends, culture, experiences and giant adventures are sure to inspire you too.

Attractions A trip to the Patrick Kavanagh Centre is a must for all lovers of Irish poetry.

Kavanagh, who wrote the famous poem ‘On Raglan Road’, was born in Inniskeen in County Monaghan. A major refurbishment of the centre has brought new displays and memory boxes containing personal effects, as well as touch screens and a new event space. A self-guided Kavanagh Trail identifies key landmarks linked to the great man’s poetry, and there is a new Raglan Road Tea Room.

The magnificent Mount Congreve Gardens in County Waterford have also been subject to serious renovations with changes to the gardens, a new café and a beautiful new gift

shop. Described as ‘a great garden of the world’, this is a haven for plant and history lovers alike, as well as for those simply looking to relax in nature. Its collections feature plants from every continent.

From March 2023, travellers to the prehistoric passage tombs at Knowth in County Meath will be welcomed with a newly enhanced experience. This major repository of megalithic art, which makes up part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Brú na Bóinne, contains more than half of the known megalithic art in Europe in one single location. The new Knowth visitor hub is a continuation of the upgrade to the whole Brú na Bóinne visitor experience and offers a large digital exhibition exploring the rock art of Knowth and accompanied by engaging interactives and audio visuals.

A stay here is a must, for with just a few moments immersed in this landscape you’ll discover why St Patrick chose to settle here. This is also the land that also inspired C.S. Lewis’ world of Narnia and Go Wild Staycation Ireland - Summer 2023

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Restored Period Rooms Multimedia Displays Victorian Walled Garden

Neo-Gothic Church Dining & Retail Walking Trails

Sheep’s Head Trail, Co. Cork

Go Wild Staycation Ireland - Summer 2023

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Magazine

Meet Beyond the Trees Avondale New General Manager

Pat Ó Suilleabhaín Beyond the Trees Avondale is set to become one of Ireland’s most iconic destinations when it comes to its international appeal, Pat Ó Súilleabháin explains to Claire O’Mahony

I

n July 2022, Beyond the Trees Avondale was opened by the President of Ireland, Michael D. Higgins. The spectacular visitor attraction showcases the beauty of the Wicklow countryside, its magnificent forestry and nature trails, and via a Treetop Walk, it offers an incomparable view of the Coillte Avondale Forest Park and surrounding environs from a 38m high Viewing Tower, the first of its kind in Ireland. A collaboration between Coillte, Fáilte Ireland and EAK Ireland, Beyond the Trees Avondale has sustainability and accessibility at its core.

Pat Ó Súilleabháin, joined Beyond the Trees Avondale in May, 2023 and has already experienced a busy fewmonths in his new role with the official opening of Avondale House by Tánaiste Micheál Martin, the latest attraction to the Avondale destination. Guided tours are available here, offering visitors an insight into the lives of Avondale House’s previous owners, including Samuel Hayes, widely regarded as the father of Irish forestry, as well as Charles Stewart Parnell and the Parnell family.

“The setting here is absolutely stunning and it really does show off the Irish

landscape and in particular the Wicklow landscape to amazing effect,” says Pat. “The opportunities and plans to develop the destination further with other offerings are significant and it’s only year one, going into year two. We’re busy building a roadmap, which will create more and more opportunities for visitors and while year one has been brilliant for domestic business, what we’re seeing now is a big jump in group visitors. The overseas markets are always planning well in advance and they’re always looking two or three years out so we’re now starting to appear on their radar and the levels of interest are significant. Beyond the Trees Avondale is set to become one of Ireland’s iconic visitor attractions in terms of that international appeal.”

There can be a tendency to think of visiting outdoor attractions as a summer activity but Pat says this is not the case. “Different season’s showcase the landscape and the experience in a completely different way. We explain to visitors that if you’re equipped for the weather, it’s still an amazing experience because, if you’re doing the Treetop Walk, you’re seeing that landscape through the rain and there’s something

Go Wild Staycation Ireland - Summer 2023

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magical and mystical about all of that.

So, it’s all about our perception – it’s not bad weather but just a different kind of weather that allows you to have a different kind of experience.”

Accessibility is very important at Beyond the Trees Avondale. “If you’ve got limited mobility, it’s still an experience you can have because the gradients are so gentle, it affords a huge range of people the opportunity to enjoy it and the views are spectacular,” Pat explains. Of course, it’s the biodiversity of the estate and the chance it affords to connect to nature that makes it all so special. “Not only do we have a massive swathe of native Irish trees but back in the early 20th century, there was what was referred to as the Great Tree Experiment where a number of different overseas trees were brought here and planted to see how they would perform to allow us to then to develop forestry in Ireland. We’ve always referred to Wicklow as the Garden of Ireland, where you connect with nature and it is about being able to turn that into a tourism product. There’s an economic value to that in that it provides employment, and revenue for local economies, and it’s really critical,” he says.

“In that sense, Beyond the Trees Avondale taps into that. It sees the value of nature and finds a way of presenting that to visitors and provides them with a really amazing experience. It brings it to a whole new level. You’ve seen trees but you haven’t seen them like this.”

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Wildlands offers 14 unique, architecturally designed detached cabins with luxury interiors throughout. It has five styles of cabins now available - studio cabins, two bed family cabin; large studio cabins; large studio cabins with kid’s room; and a large accessible cabin. All cabins are centrally located, a minute's walk from Wildlands' adventure hub and the award-winning Olive Tree Kitchen.

Conquer your fears on the Fun Walls, in the safety and comfort of colourful surrounds. Here, you can climb to the ceiling and discover your strength and agility in a new and exciting way.

These cabins can welcome up to 70 guests during each break. Each cabin has been designed with families in mind and is fully equipped with all your family needs while providing comfort and quality. They are the perfect home away from home.

Go head-to-head with your teammates in the Celtic Challenge Rooms.

Discover the extent of your critical thinking skills in a relaxed and fun environment. With 24 fully automated challenge rooms, this is the perfect way to prove your team building talent by navigating the time. sensitive rooms, which are fully customised to reflect Irish myths and legends Not only that, but you can be your own warrior on the Ninja Course as you navigate rope swings, incline steps, a spin cycle and so much more.

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WILD ATLANTIC WAY in World’s top five stargazing spots Lonely Planet name the spectacular Wild Atlantic Way as one of the top five places in the world to stargaze.

W

ith little light pollution, the night skies along the Wild Atlantic Way are illuminated with astral wonders, making thousands of twinkling stars visible to the naked eye.

These dark skies have made the region a top spot for stargazers with Lonely Planet ranking them alongside New Zealand, Namibia, Jordan and southwestern USA. Although many places along the Wild Atlantic Way have low levels of light pollution, the locations that provide you with the best chance of seeing the majesty of the Milky Way are the Kerry International Dark Sky Reserve and Mayo Dark Sky Park.

The County Kerry Reserve has Gold Tier status, awarded by the International Dark Sky Association, and covers most of the beautiful Iveragh Peninsula.

It’s free to access, so you can stargaze at your leisure. If you want a bit of guidance, you can book a Sky Tour, which will point out the key sights and

Go Wild Staycation Ireland - Summer 2023

also gives you the chance to view stars through a telescope or high-powered binoculars.

Mayo Dark Sky Park stretches between Nephin Mountain Range and the Atlantic coast, covering an area of 150-squarekm. This is also a Gold Tier reserve. The park encompasses Ballycroy National Park and the Wild Nephin National Park and has three main viewing points.

Ballycroy Visitor Centre has an interpretive exhibition and from it you can follow a 2km looped walk to the elevated plateau of Cleary’s Hill.

The second viewing point is Claggan Mountain Coastal Trail, which follows a boardwalk that affords gorgeous views in the daytime and wonderful stargazing opportunities at night.

Brogan Carroll Bothy is the third viewing point. Located at the edge of Wild Nephin National Park, this is the darkest site in Mayo Dark Sky Park and is also the starting point for a number of scenic forest trails.

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Mayo Dark Sky Park runs regular events but the big one is the annual Dark Sky Festival (3–5 November 2023). In November the skies are dark from 6pm, the weather can be mild and there are some beautiful stars, constellations and planets to be seen, including Orion, Cassiopeia, double star Albireo and the beautiful Pleiades star cluster.

The Dark Sky Festival features talks by experts from around the world in fields such as astronomy, conservation and ecology. There are also guided walks, workshops and musical performances.

The full programme will be announced in the coming months.

Ireland has a third dark sky reserve in County Tyrone. The OM Dark Sky Park and Observatory offers pristine skies outdoors while in the observatory an interactive exhibition links the astronomical and archaeological heritage of the region and features holographic installations and virtual reality headsets. www.ireland.com

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The Westport Estate Glamping Village With Croagh Patrick on the horizon, Clew Bay in the distance and the picturesque grounds of Westport House on your doorstep; experience the breath-taking natural beauty of the West of Ireland in our new Glamping Village.

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A wild

venture For the past 34 years, the Burren Smokehouse has been producing its famous smoked salmon and welcoming visitors from all over the world. Its co-founder, Swedish-born Birgitta Hedin-Curtin and her husband Peter Curtin, have not only strived to grow and evolve business but have all the while been championing the Burren region and its community. Here, she speaks with Meg Walker about her proudest moments and the importance of good food and a sustainable practice.

Birgitta Hedin-Curtin first arrived in Ireland in 1981. It was then she met Peter Curtin, owner of The Roadside Tavern – Lisdoonvarna’s famous pub, which has been in Peter’s family since 1865. The pair fell in love and began to experiment with smoked salmon, later establishing the Burren Smokehouse in 1989.

We’ve developed our recipes and our smoking methods over the last 34 years. It’s a small batch production.

We use 100% Irish organic salmon, oak shavings and a real smouldering fire.

Eating nutritious food is so important for wellness. I studied marine biology, with an interest in marine botany. And I grew up in Sweden with an appreciation of fresh food. I’ve always believed that products made in small batches are very high in nutrients because they’re produced when the ingredients are sourced. It’s food that supports our immune system.

We aim to create memorable experiences for our visitors. We have a new website, burrenexperiences. ie, where people can book different experiences online, from a salmon or whiskey tasting to a brewery tour or smoking masterclass. We have one exclusive ultra-luxe experience where you can meet me and Peter, go through the smokehouse, taste the salmon

Go Wild Staycation Ireland - Summer 2023

and then accompany Peter to The Roadside Tavern and microbrewery to get a tasting of all the beers.

Ireland is a great destination. There’s a huge friendliness, customer care is excellent, we have a wonderful natural environment, the west coast is beautiful, and the food is amazing, with restaurateurs and chefs are supporting local producers and working with local ingredients and showcasing these on their menus.

One aspiration of mine would be to learn how to speak the Irish language.

That’s on my to-do list this year.

The Burren is a very spiritual place.

Visitors can discover so many things to do here. You can stay in Clare, you can take the ferry to the Aran Islands… there’s so much versatility in our area. And a lot of it is free – you can go down to the beach at Fanore, you can go for a walk amidst the landscape. The accessibility of nature and the Irish countryside is quite extraordinary. You’ll just need to stay an extra night to fit it all in!

Peter and I work really well together.

We’re very similar but we each bring different skills and knowledge to the business. We both grew up in a time when you needed to be self-sufficient – me on a farm in Sweden, Peter in

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Lisdoonvarna. And we share an interest in fishing and an understanding of how food should taste, so there are a lot of synergies. There’s also huge creativity. Peter is not only creative, but he can see futuristically what needs to be done. And we have four wonderful children who are now fully grown and achieving their own dreams, with our youngest in fifth year and wanting to become a marine biologist.

So, we have a lot to be proud of.

We take great pride in telling our story and showing people what we do. Sustainability is essential, and that comes back to our small batch production but it extends to how we support our local community around us. Then of course, you have to do everything ethically, correctly and in an environmental way, reducing your waste, energy, water consumption… We’re working with the Burren Ecotourism Network to try and help other businesses in the area find out how they can get things like solar panels and work together to improve their own sustainability efforts. I’m very proud, too, of the people we have working here with us.

We have many long-term employees who all live in the local community.

To see they’re happy to work here after all those years is inspiring. burrensmokehouse.com

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Visit Waterford Encourages Public to Take a Hike W

ith warmer weather on the horizon, businesses across Waterford city and county have started to welcome both domestic and international visitors for what is set to be a busy summer season throughout the city & county. With particular interest from the American market, international bookings to the region are already strong.

Waterford is well situated from Ireland’s major airports and ports. The Port of Waterford and the harbour in Dunmore East are also critical players in Waterford’s tourism industry, acting as a gateway to Ireland’s Ancient East, with 24-ships and 27,339 passengers scheduled to visit Waterford by cruise ship in 2023. It is a short distance from major cities such as Cork and Dublin and is easily accessible by public transport.

Visit Waterford’s 2023 summer campaign is ‘Take A Hike, Visit Waterford’, encouraging visitors to immerse themselves in the extensive walking and hiking routes throughout Waterford City and county from the award-winning greenway to the UNESCO Copper Coast. Visit Waterford aims to entice locals and holidaymakers alike, to step into the heart of Ireland’s oldest city and enjoy the locally sourced culinary offerings, finest hospitality and world-renowned cultural experiences that both the city and county offer.

Sara Dolan, Chairperson of Visit Waterford and Commercial Director

Go Wild Staycation Ireland - Summer 2023

for Mount Congreve and Waterford Treasures, said: “The Irish tourism market is a very competitive industry, but we are very confident in Waterford city and county’s offering as a premium destination in Ireland’s Ancient East. The tourism industry here in Waterford is continually evolving and growing, offering an abundance of things to do and see across the county. Waterford’s diverse landscape is host to a wide range of impressive hiking and walking trails; it is the ultimate destination for adventure seekers, families and those on leisurely breaks. I would encourage old and new visitors to visit Waterford this summer.”

The recent re-opening of Mount Congreve Gardens at the beginning of March, marked the start of a busy year for Waterford, following a seven-million-euro investment, while both the Waterford Greenway extension to the city centre and the Museum of the Irish Wake, are both set to open in the coming weeks, adding greatly to the city and counties vibrant cultural offering.

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Cllr. John O’Leary, Mayor of the City and County of Waterford, said: “Not only does the summer season bring our ‘sunny southeast’ reputation to life, but it also brings back visitors to our city and county.

We look forward to a busy summer, hoping to see local businesses thrive from increased footfall from domestic and international visitors. Spend the day hiking up the Comeraghs and exploring the coastal towns of Ardmore and Dunmore East, or take in the history of the Vikings and our ancient city - there is something for everyone.

Waterford is a must-visit destination all year round, especially in the summer.”

Mealla Fahey, Project Manager at Lismore Heritage Centre and Director at Visit Waterford, added: “Waterford truly has so much to offer as a destination.

Not only is Waterford home to Ireland’s oldest city, bursting with history, but the county also boasts spectacular views from beaches and cliff walks to renowned landmarks across the county. From Lismore to Tramore, there is something for everyone to enjoy. With the much-loved Waterford greenway now running from Dungarvan right down to the city centre, it further links the west to east, strengthening Waterford’s tourism offering even More.”

Visit Waterford is supported by Waterford City and County Council, Fáilte Ireland, local hospitality, amenity, and entertainment providers. For further information on Visit Waterford head over to www.visitwaterford.com.

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ISLAND OF IRELAND From formal to exotic, and walled to wild, there are gardens galore to enjoy across the Island of Ireland. Here are ten botanical beauties.

1. MOUNT USHER GARDENS, COUNTY WICKLOW

One of Ireland’s top natural attractions, the gardens at Mount Usher, date back to 1860. Water plays a central part in the layout creating a wonderfully serene atmosphere. After viewing the gardens, stop by the Avoca shop on site to browse candles, homewares, and scarves and throws woven in its famous mill.

2. CAHER BRIDGE GARDEN, COUNTY CLARE

Set in the unique landscape of the Burren, this award-winning garden is based around a restored riverside cottage and blends sensitively with its surroundings. Make sure to also visit the Burren Geopark where the craggy limestone terrain is a haven for 70% of Ireland’s native plant species such as the white and golden Irish eyebright, Arctic-Alpine mountain avens, and the metallic blue flowers of Burren grass.

3. POWERSCOURT GARDENS, COUNTY WICKLOW

Voted number three in the world’s top ten gardens by National Geographic, Powerscourt is simply unmissable. Stretching over 19 hectares, the gardens feature a range of styles from the formal Italian and exotic Japanese gardens, to sweeping terraces and woodland trails. The gardens are dotted with elegant statuary and exquisite water features. Be sure not to miss the Powerscourt waterfall, the highest in Ireland.

4. ALTAMONT GARDENS, COUNTY CARLOW

Enchanting Altamont Gardens in Ireland’s Ancient East have been praised for their honest simplicity. The 16-hectare estate features a lake ringed by rare trees and rhododendrons, an Arboretum, Bog Garden and Ice Age Glen. Take time to explore the county town of Carlow nearby, founded by the Normans in the thirteenth century.

Go Wild Staycation Ireland - Summer 2023

For a little bit of horticultural heaven, pay a visit to one of the glorious gardens that flourish across the Island of Ireland.

5. SALTHILL GARDEN, COUNTY DONEGAL

Located on the Wild Atlantic Way, this contemporary walled garden was transformed from a kitchen garden into an idyllic space within the Mountcharles demesne. A short drive away is St. John’s Point Lighthouse, a great place to stay the night and relish the spectacular Atlantic views and peaceful surroundings.

6. LISMORE CASTLE GARDENS, COUNTY WATERFORD

Said to be the oldest continually cultivated gardens in Ireland, Lismore Gardens are set within the defensive walls of the historic castle and offer spectacular views of the Blackwater valley. While there, visit the contemporary art gallery housed in the west wing of the castle, which presents the work of local and international artists.

7. BANTRY HOUSE AND GARDEN, COUNTY CORK

Overlooking Bantry Bay, the gardens at Bantry House are stunning.

They are laid out in the Italian style over seven terraces, with the magnificent house sitting on the third terrace. Keen horticulturalists should also visit the island garden of Garinish in Bantry Bay, known for its richness of plant form and colour and featuring exotic flowers from Chile and New Zealand.

8. NATIONAL BOTANIC GARDENS

There are wonderful garden displays across the island of Ireland in spring. At the National Botanic Gardens in Kilmacurragh, County Wicklow, the blossoming rhododendron trees are celebrated in Rhododendron Week in early April

9. MOUNT CONGREVE, COUNTY WATERFORD

Magnolias are the star of the show. Home to one of the largest collections of plants in the world.

Mount Congreve House and Gardens situated in Kilmeaden, Co. Waterford, in Ireland’s Ancient East is home to one of “The Great Gardens of the World”. Mount Congreve House, home to six generations of Congreves, was built in 1760 by the celebrated local architect John Roberts.

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are you free? so are we!

FREE ADMISSION to The Treasury.

The greatest exhibition of Irish metal craftsmanship in the world.

National Museum of Ireland | Archaeology, Kildare Street, Dublin 2, D02 FH48.

Open: Sunday & Monday 1pm to 5pm. Tuesday to Saturday 10am to 5pm.

Closed: Christmas Day, St. Stephen’s Day and Good Friday.

Information: T +353 (0) 1 6777 444 E info@museum.ie W www.museum.ie

Discover the

BIGSTYLE ATLANTIC LODGE I

n 2019, my business partner and old school friend, Ben McDonald and I, yours truly, Kris Goodbody, took a chance on renovating a fading old hotel on the Wild Atlantic Way and turning it into something unique.

It’s called the BigStyle Atlantic Lodge and it’s a boutique, 15 ensuite bedroom hotel with surf and stand-up paddleboarding schools, a yoga studio, indoor and outdoor stages for live music, an old-world pub and restaurant called P Dan’s, and a spa, with arguably one of the best views in Ireland.

It’s based on a rugged stretch of coastline in south Co. Mayo among a tiny collection of houses, sheep farms and fantastic views

Go Wild Staycation Ireland - Summer 2023

Kris and Ben with their wives Yuka and Emilie opposite the Lodge with Clare Island in the background.

From left: Yuka, Kris, Emilie and Ben

called Killadoon. To find us, simply go to Westport and turn southwest. After passing Croagh Patrick, Clew Bay and Louisburgh, you’ll arrive in this magical little spot in about 30-minutes.

It’s a bit of an unlikely place to find a boutique hotel; especially one like this.

BigStyle Atlantic Lodge is, and in its own way, slightly out of step with its surroundings – it’s like the beachy surf and yoga hub was pulled out of Australia or California and placed with love in the rolling, sheep-filled hills of Connaught.

At the same time, with its turf fires, post-surf sauna and on-site traditional Irish pub, the feel of the place has been tweaked just enough to make it belong.

A usual Saturday in the lodge would begin with yoga and breakfast, followed by a hike up Killadoon Hill to take in the views, then a veggie poké bowl for lunch, an afternoon surf and spa session. All rounded off with woodfired pizza from

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our on-site oven, a few pints from P Dan’s pub and some tunes on one of the stages. This place has been a labour of love and we enjoy running all the events as much as the guests enjoy taking part.

Our company, BigStyle, has its roots in outdoor adventure and was started in 2013 by Ben and I. It began as a watersports school in Dublin that specialised in taking people on kitesurfing and surfing trips around Ireland and abroad, to exotic locations like Kenya and Sri Lanka. We even established a kitesurfing centre in Tanzania where we spent every winter from 2016 to 2020. Our business in Dublin is still there in the form of a Stand Up Paddleboarding centre in Dun Laoghaire harbour.

In 2018 we arrived in Killadoon and found the dream location to set up our permanent base. It had everything an adventurous person could need, and all within walking distance: surf beaches, mountain ranges, lakes, caves, harbours and cliffs… surrounded by some of Ireland’s most stunning scenery. We didn’t have very much investment money so we started building everything by hand, learning as we went everything from how to hammer a nail to how to cut a shipping container in half.

Through a lot of hard work and dogged perseverance, especially throughout COVID, we believe we’ve created a magical place and it’s a perfect way to experience an isolated and almost untouched corner of Ireland in style and comfort. Our team in the lodge have become our close friends over the years and the feedback is that during a stay at the lodge, you can’t help but be infected by the laughter and spirit of adventure, which is the lifeblood of the place. We hope you can come and stay with us this year and feel it for yourself.

www.gowildmagazine.com

Ireland’s

Top 10 Campsites For you to Go Wild across Ireland

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HIDDEN VALLEY HOLIDAY PARK

6. NAGLES CAMPING

Co. Wicklow

Co. Clare

2. ARAN ISLANDS CAMPING & GLAMPING

7.

Co. Galway

Co. Donegal

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Co. Cork

Co. Roscommon

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Co. Mayo

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10. BATTLEBRIDGE CAMPING

Co. Galway

Go Wild Staycation Ireland - Summer 2023

WILD ATLANTIC CAMP

Co, Roscommon

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EXPLORE THE WILD ATLANTIC WAY

S

pectacularly set on the Wild Atlantic Way and the shores of Galway Bay, our luxurious four-star Connemara Coast Hotel offers visitors an ideal base from which to explore the spectacular scenery of Connemara and the vibrant city of Galway, a mere 15 minutes away. With grounds that sweep down to the water’s edge, what better place to relax and unwind while taking in the stunning views across Galway Bay to the Burren of Co. Clare.

Our award-winning hotel is superbly situated for those considering events such as weddings, meetings, conferences and leisure breaks in Galway, with exceptional standards of food and service that are not just met but far surpassed.

The award-winning Connemara Coast Hotel is a four-star resort,

spectacularly set in Furbo, on the shores of Galway Bay, along the Wild Atlantic Way. With the serenity of the location coupled with the spectacular views, it is hard to believe Galway City is only 15 minutes away.

With grounds that sweep down to the water’s edge, what better way to relax and unwind while taking in the stunning views across Galway Bay to the Burren and the Aran Islands than at the 4-star Connemara Coast Hotel.

See Sligo Through the eyes of Ireland’s national poet A new trail takes visitors around key points in the dramatic Sligo landscape that inspired the Nobel Prize-winning poet, W B Yeats

T

he new Yeats Trail visits 14 places in County Sligo that are deeply connected to the life and poetry of W B Yeats.

It journeys through an area Yeats referred to in his poem Under Saturn as the “valley his fathers called their home”.

This is a landscape that the poet knew intimately and that remains unchanged from his day.

The trail starts at Knocknarea, a hill topped by an important Stone Age cairn under which the legendary warrior, Queen Maeve, is said to be buried. It’s a place

that features prominently in Yeats’ poetry.

The seaside village of Rosses Point, where Yeats spent many summer holidays, is next followed by Drumcliffe, where the poet is famously buried, as he desired, in the shadow of Ben Bulben, which is the next stop on the trail. The table mountain dominates the Sligo landscape and both its beauty and the mythology surrounding it influenced Yeats greatly, leading him to write the poem Under Ben Bulben.

Other key points along the trail include

Go Wild Staycation Ireland - Summer 2023

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Glencar, where a waterfall inspired Yeats to write “the wandering water gushes from the hills above Glen-Car” and Dooney Rock, immortalised in The Fiddler of Dooney.

The trail also visits Lough Gill where a tiny island was the inspiration for one of Yeats’ most famous poems, The Lake Isle of Innisfree.

Nearby Slish Wood, which forms part of the Sligo Way walking trail, is where Yeats imagined a child being lured away by fairies: “Come away, O human child!

To the waters and the wild With a faery, hand in hand”.

At each of the 14 points on the trail there is an art installation which features the words of the poetry associated with the location. These offer the visitor a chance to reflect on the poem and see the landscape through Yeats’ eyes.

County Sligo has long been known as Yeats Country because of the important part it played in the poet’s life and work. He called the county “The Land of Heart’s Desire” and with its gorgeous coastline, shimmering lakes and picturesque towns and villages, it is easy to see why. www.ireland.com

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' The Ultimate Foodie Experience'

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The Wanderer In conversation with Meg Walker.

people together from all over Ireland to enjoy travel is massively rewarding.

A native of Downpatrick in Co. Down, Rory King spent ten years travelling the world, visiting more than 50 countries on a budget, and has traversed all 32 counties on the island of Ireland. He set up Rory’s Travel Club to showcase affordable travel both in Ireland and abroad and inspire Irish people to explore the world and the best experiences on their own doorstep.

The inspiration behind Rory’s Travel Club Rory’s Travel Club came about from my own love of travel. I spent ten years travelling the world on a budget. Five years ago, I worked for a French company that was taking up to 30% commission on Irish hotel bookings, and that made me think, there must be a way that Irish people can save that money as opposed to it going to multinational platforms outside of Ireland. And with the rising cost of vacations in Ireland, I just saw a gap in the market in terms of saving local people money. Initially, the idea was to cut out the online middleman and allow Irish people to book Irish accommodations directly but we then began to delve into other areas like group trips, sites and attractions. We then started working with Irish travel agents who were able to give us special offers on some of their packages.

How it works The membership is €10 per year and we

Go Wild Staycation Ireland - Summer 2023

send our members 10-20 offers each week on trips in Ireland and abroad. What we do is negotiate discounts with travel providers for our members. Typically for an Irish hotel, we could negotiate 15-20% off the usual rate. So if you booked just one trip a year, you’re going to save multiple times the cost of our subscription. The whole purpose is to inspire people to travel.

Rory’s proudest moments since launching the club I was named ‘Ireland’s Top Travel Influencer’ in the Irish Independent’s Reader Travel Awards 2023, which is a massive accolade because it kind of legitimises what I do and will strengthen the club, leading to more people working with us, which inevitably means our members will benefit even more. We’ve also organised about 100 group trips over the last 12 months, both in Ireland and abroad. I personally went on half of those because I want to meet with as many of our customers as possible. Bringing 30-50

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Rory’s Irish holiday recommendations Every single town and village in Ireland has something unique, something beautiful. I personally love Lahinch in Co. Clare, which isn’t too far from the Aran Islands, which I also love. There’s so much to see and do in the area. If I could go anywhere tomorrow, it would be Lahinch.

That being said, there’s beauty everywhere.

You could equally have as much fun in Donegal as you would in Kerry or my own county, Down. I work with a boutique hotel here in Newcastle that’s recently been refurbished called the Avoca Hotel.

It’s really quirky and the staff are brilliant.

There are so many amazing things to see in my home county. We have the Mourne Mountains and beautiful beaches… I could talk about Co. Down all day! Ireland has so much to offer that’s unlike anywhere else – the geology, the people, the hospitality, the craic… Over the last few years, I’ve spent a lot of time in each county but probably one place I’d love to explore a bit more would be West Cork, which I plan to do very soon.

Coming soon We’re currently building an app called The Book Direct Club, which should go live on the App Store in May. It’ll allow Irish consumers to book Irish accommodations at cost price. This means we’ll be saving people 15% on international third-party booking fees. There will also be many other benefits from the app, including flash offers and group trips. rorystravelclub.com

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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

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++353 74 97 21027

Celebrity Declan Horgan

from Dublin to the USA and Hell’s Kitchen

By Jackie Gilna Founder & CEO We Are Global Irish

C

hef Declan Horgan lives far from the home where he was raised in Dublin. When he wasn’t playing rugby or running the city streets from south to north, he was in the kitchen with his mother, grandmother and aunts. The chatter and aromas pulled on him and as a young whipper snipper, he was soon cooking alongside the women. The influence these women in the family would have on his life comes to light when we explore his journey.

Chef Declan grew up with the mouth-watering aromas of homemade moussaka, lasagna, lamb, herbs and spices. That experience ignited a fire in him to create flavours that the pallet would remember, just as he remembered the Horgan family meals.

As a teenager he and his friends would hang out at The Hide Out Pub and a few other well-known local spots. Declan also had a serious side and his dedication

Primary Logo Mark to schoolwork and passion for cooking landed him at the TU Dublin School of Culinary Arts and Food Technology.

It was there Declan thrived learning about food technology and honing his formidable culinary skills. And so, his journey to Celebrity Chef began.

Chef Declan has choked up 27-years in some of the best kitchens on both sides of the Atlantic. He landed an opportunity at the Michelin-starred Peacock Alley where he trained under Chef Conrad Gallagher. He then headed for the starspangled lights of the United States. He was the first Irish Chef to open at The Wharf near Washington, D.C. He quickly became a local celebrity, serving up his big flavours accompanied by his equally big personality. Encouraged by friends, he sent an audition video to Gordon Ramsay’s cooking competition show, Hell’s Kitchen. He was asked to join Season-19 of the internationally popular series and became a fans’ favourite

We Are Global Irish Primary Word Mark around the world. He has appeared on Food Network, Super Chef Grudgematch, NBC’s The Today Show, Fox Five’s Good Day DC program, and more.

Back to the day-to-day of a celebrity chef, where life soon changed for Declan.

With work, TV appearances and his food and beverage company, Horgan’s Group, LLC, his health soon got away from him. Awoken to the warning signs, he decided it was time to act. Chef Declan sometimes called Chef “Big D”, due to his 6’ 4” frame, began a lifestyle change, not only for health, but for personal reasons. He soon learned the price of his restaurant and business lifestyle when diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. How does a chef who makes some of the best food in the world adjust his diet? Well, with determination, food preparation, planning and yes, a few cheat days.

What you see is what you get with Chef Declan, a commanding presence in the kitchen, a love of good craic, and a mentor of young chefs. Wherever he is, Chef Declan Horgan is always all Irish, and all ours.

Chef Declan lives in Northern Virginia, with his partner Karen, bless her patience, and their French bulldog, Lulu Savage.

Go Wild Staycation Ireland - Summer 2023

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www.gowildmagazine.com

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The Ring of Kerry: Scenic Drives and Spectacular Views

T

he Ring of Kerry is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Ireland, and for good reason. This scenic drive offers visitors breathtaking views of some of the most spectacular landscapes in the country. The 179-kilometre loop takes you through some of the most picturesque towns and villages, offering a glimpse into Ireland’s rich history and culture.

The Ring of Kerry is a must-visit for anyone who loves the great outdoors. The route takes you through the Killarney National Park, home to some of Ireland’s most stunning natural scenery. Here, you can take a stroll through the ancient oak forests, spot some of the local wildlife, or take a boat trip on the serene Lakes of Killarney. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even climb to the top of Carrauntoohil, Ireland’s highest mountain.

But the Ring of Kerry is not just about the great outdoors. The route is also home to some of Ireland’s most charming towns and villages, each with its own unique character and charm.

In Kenmare, you can stroll along the colourful streets and visit the local craft shops, while in Sneem, you can take a walk along the picturesque waterfront and enjoy a traditional Irish pub meal.

One of the highlights of the Ring of Kerry is undoubtedly the stunning coastal scenery. The route takes you along the Wild Atlantic Way, offering some of the most dramatic coastal views in Ireland.

From the rugged cliffs of the Skellig Islands to the sandy beaches of Derrynane, there is no shortage of stunning vistas to admire.

The Ring of Kerry is also steeped in history and culture. In Cahersiveen, you can visit the birthplace of the famous Irish politician Daniel O’Connell, while in Killarney, you can explore the Muckross House and Gardens, a beautifully restored 19th-century mansion. And throughout the route, you’ll find numerous ancient ruins, from the impressive Staigue Fort

Go Wild Staycation Ireland - Summer 2023

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to the atmospheric Ogham Stones.

One of the best ways to experience the Ring of Kerry is by car. The route is well-signposted and easy to navigate, and there are plenty of places to stop along the way to take in the views and stretch your legs. But if you prefer, you can also explore the route by bike, on foot, or even by horse-drawn carriage.

The Ring of Kerry is a year-round destination, with each season offering its own unique beauty. In the spring, the hills are alive with colourful wildflowers, while in the summer, the coastline is bathed in golden sunshine. In the fall, the leaves turn to shades of orange and gold, and in the winter, the snowcapped mountains offer a stunning contrast to the wild Atlantic waves.

Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or a first-time visitor, the Ring of Kerry is a destination not to be missed. With its spectacular scenery, charming towns, and rich cultural heritage, this iconic route is the perfect way to experience the very best of Ireland. So pack your bags, hit the road, and discover the beauty of the Ring of Kerry for yourself.

www.gowildmagazine.com

Renowned for our spectacular waterside location, overlooking Kenmare Bay, Sheen Falls Lodge is the perfect escape.

Explore acres of beautiful countryside, or relax and unwind in our luxurious rooms.

It’s time to let us look after you.

Summer Offer - 3 Night Saver 3 nights’ B&B, dinner in The Falls Restaurant on one night and dinner in The Stables Brasserie on the second night. The third night within this package has a 50% discounted on the B&B rate.

Rates from €1215 in total for 2 people sharing.

+353 (0)64 664 1600

www.sheenfallslodge.ie info@sheenfallslodge.ie Sheen Falls Lodge, Kenmare, Co. Kerry, V93 HR27, Ireland.

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ON A COASTAL BREAK Let the combination of sea, sand and serenity work its magic on a coastal break.

I

f you’re ready for a break from the daily treadmill, you’ll find wave-lapped golden shores, dramatic cliffs and secluded hideaways waiting for you on the island of Ireland.

Where better to enjoy great sea views than from a lighthouse.

Stay in the lightkeeper’s house at Blackhead Lighthouse on the stunning Causeway Coast or hole up at the edge of the world at Loop Head Lighthouse on the Wild Atlantic Way. Or why not glamp off-grid on tiny, unspoiled Rathlin Island off the north coast, home to Northern Ireland’s largest seabird colony, where you can see puffins, guillemots and razorbills.

Spoil yourself with a stay in five-star Cliff House Hotel, County Waterford. Its outdoor hot tubs overlooking gorgeous Ardmore Bay offer the ultimate way to relax. Bathe in organic peat or seaweed and feel the pains and strains melt away.

The state-of-the-art spa at magnificent Slieve Donard Hotel, County Down, also offers pure indulgence. Overlooking the beach and the Mourne Mountains it offers ESPA treatments that blend advanced techniques with ancient therapies to deliver the best therapeutic experiences in the world.

Sometimes the best therapy is simply a walk on the beach and Ireland has a multitude to choose from.

Sheltered Keem Strand on Achill Island has been named Ireland’s best beach but it’s a close-run thing with so many worthy contenders. Downhill Beach in County Antrim, overlooked by the romantic Mussenden Temple, grabbed the attention of the makers of Game of Thrones, while Curracloe Beach in Ireland’s Ancient

Go Wild Staycation Ireland - Summer 2023

East has appeared in many Hollywood movies.

But no matter where you are on the island you will not be far from a beautiful, and often empty, beach where you can enjoy a stroll immersed in the sounds of the sea.

Getting active on the waves is another great way to unwind and there are plentiful places off the coast to surf or sea kayak.

Counties Sligo and Donegal offer wonderful wave action and Bundoran is known as a “cold paradise” for surfers.

Alternatively, grab a kayak and take to the water off the Wild Atlantic Way. You’ll be rewarded with spectacular views and an exhilarating experience. Make it even more memorable by signing up for a night kayaking tour.

If all that sounds a bit too energetic why not just find a spot to watch the sun set.

At the majestic Cliffs of Moher in County Clare, sunset is a magical time when the fading light imbues the cliff face with orange and pink hues.

In County Antrim, Dunluce Castle, perched on a craggy headland, is picture perfect at sunset while views from the Sky Road in Connemara as dusk falls are simply breath-taking. www.ireland.com

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Awesome autumn getaw

ON THE ISLAND OF IRELAND Autumn is the ideal time to explore the Island of Ireland’s fabulous landscape and enjoy the rejuvenating power of nature.

Finn Lough Luxury Hideaway, Bubble Forest Dome, Co. Fermanagh

Fernwood dome

A

utumn on the Island of Ireland offers the perfect combination of bright, crisp days and cosy evenings.

As the leaves turn to red and gold, the landscape takes on a vibrant hue that is a gift to photographers and artists and provides a gorgeous backdrop for walkers and cyclists.

If you’re planning an autumn getaway, why not immerse yourself in the island’s beauty by booking accommodation in the heart of nature.

At Fernwood Farm in County Galway, in the rugged West of Ireland, you can stay in an eco-conscious geodesic dome that sits in the canopy of native trees, or in a house on stilts where each area is bathed in light at different times of the day. There is also a sauna on stilts overlooking the lake providing an indulgent relaxation area.

Another forest hideaway option is Finn Lough in County Fermanagh, where you can sleep under the stars in a luxury transparent dome that is hidden within a beautiful lakeside retreat.

Wherever you choose to stay on the island you won’t be far from a walking trail. There are hundreds of miles of trails through forests and glens and along the wave-lashed coastline, providing great opportunities to get active outdoors and enjoy spectacular views.

Indeed, autumn in Ireland is walking

Go Wild Staycation Ireland - Summer 2023

festival season. So if you fancy striding out with like-minded people and learning about the flora and fauna as you go, check out the festival calendar. September includes the Wee Binnian Walking Festival in the Mournes, County Down, which has graded walks to suit all abilities and a bit of craic thrown in. Or, head to the Wicklow Walking Festival in October to explore the majestic Wicklow Mountains National Park.

If birdwatching is your thing, Ireland lies beneath some of the busiest bird migration routes in the world and is a great place to spot Canadian geese, Icelandic Whooper Swans and Eurasian

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Golden Oriole among other species.

You can also enjoy a bit of whale watching off the Wild Atlantic Way, where humpbacks, minke and even the occasional orca can be spotted on clear autumn days.

With all that activity you’ll definitely work up an appetite for some delicious seasonal food and there is much to be enjoyed. The Irish oyster season kicks off in September and is celebrated at the Galway International Oyster and Seafood Festival. The apple harvest also gets underway and in County Armagh, known as the Orchard County, the Armagh Food and Cider weekend champions great apple-based flavours.

Autumn in Ireland is a magical mix of vibrant landscapes, foodie pleasures, outdoor pursuits in the freshest of air and cosy evenings spent by an open fire.

What are you waiting for? www.ireland.com Hiking in the Mournes Co. Down

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ALONG IRELAND’S WILD ATLANTIC WAY Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way, the world’s longest coastal route with the invigorating force of the sea to one side and forty shades of green on the other, is a one-of-a-kind adventure with so much to offer that visitors are literally spoiled for choice.

Stretching from County Cork to Donegal, no matter how you travel along the Wild Atlantic Way, in a group tour, by bike or even hiking, you’re sure to encounter charming towns and villages with much to offer in terms of character as well as plenty of delightful shops, cafes, restaurants and other attractions.

DINGLE, COUNTY KERRY

At the very edge of Europe, as far west as you can go in Ireland, is the breathtaking Dingle Peninsula, once described by National Geographic as “the most beautiful place on earth”. It’s a place of spectacular seascapes and landscapes shaped by the elements, with a wild and rugged coastline of steep cliffs and wide sandy beaches.

The Dingle Peninsula is a place the Irish love to visit but it’s still largely undiscovered by people from elsewhere.

Here are some top choices for the major towns along the Wild Atlantic Way:

LETTERKENNY, COUNTY DONEGAL9

Letterkenny is a gateway destination and one of the fastestgrowing towns in Europe. The town has seen dramatic growth in new attractions, entertainment venues, shopping centres and accommodations over the past number of years.

KINSALE, COUNTY CORK

The historic town of Kinsale has an important role in Irish tourism and is known as the ‘Gourmet Capital’ of Ireland. It is also one of the most successful and popular visitor destinations in Ireland.

Kinsale has many popular attractions, which include heritage, gourmet restaurants, sailing, deep-sea angling and golf and has been designated an Irish heritage town.

BUNDORAN, COUNTY DONEGAL

Bundoran has evolved into Ireland’s premier seaside resort with a host of modern facilities for visitors and yet still remains true to its roots with its own special brand of hospitality and warmth. Bundoran is a seaside resort with a never-ending appeal.

CLONAKILTY, COUNTY CORK

Clonakilty is an extraordinary, multiple award-winning town positioned on the coast within the heartland of West Cork. The town, with its blue flag beach Inchydoney, has an enviable reputation for itself as a choice tourist destination.

Clonakilty has a thriving musical and artistic community. Several of its pubs are noted for great impromptu music sessions with many bigname acts taking part.

WESTPORT, COUNTY MAYO

Located at the southeast corner of Clew Bay, in County Mayo, Westport is one of Ireland’s most popular towns. It is a heritage town and one of Ireland’s tidiest towns.

The most recent addition to Westport’s outdoor activity facilities is the Great Western Greenway, Ireland’s first off-road walking and cycling trail which is 42 km (26 miles) long and runs from Westport to Achill Island.

LAHINCH, COUNTY CLARE

Lahinch is one of the West Coast’s premier beach resort towns and a hive of activity in the summer months. As well as its stunning beach, the town has an international reputation for two distinct activities – golf and surfing.

Golfers have been coming to play the famous championship links course since the late 19th century. For surfers, Lahinch is renowned as a world-class surfing location.

KENMARE, COUNTY KERRY

Kenmare is an elegant 17th-century market town. This welcoming, lively place buzzes with five-star hotels and chic spas, B&Bs, smart restaurants, arty shops, cosy cafés and dozens of friendly pubs with live traditional music sessions and festivals all year round.

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www.gowildmagazine.com

The newly opened International Rugby Experience has been crowned Ireland’s favourite building for 2023.

The Limerick museum came out on top in the Public Choice category at the Royal Institute of the Architects of Ireland (RIAI) Awards, finishing ahead of 53 other shortlisted nominees

If you’re a rugby fan, touchdown in Limerick to visit the new topclass visitor attraction celebrating the game and its international heroes.

World-class rugby experience opens in Limerick W

ith Ireland’s rugby team officially hailed as the world’s number one, it is fitting that a new world-class rugbycentred attraction has recently opened on the island.

The International Rugby Experience takes visitors into the heart of the game, its history and its legends and is aptly located in Limerick, one of the great centres of rugby on the island of Ireland.

Presenting fascinating rugby stories, gathered from all corners of the globe, and featuring tales from across the generations, the interactive, multi-sensory experience is a unique celebration of the sport.

Visitors pass through six zones on a journey from the grass roots of rugby right up to legendary status. Each stage is rooted in World Rugby’s values of Passion, Discipline, Integrity, Solidarity and Respect.

You will hear the inspirational stories of global stars of the sport who, through

Go Wild Staycation Ireland - Summer 2023

passion and hard work, have become legends of the game. And, you’ll discover how rugby has impacted politics, brought rivals together, transformed communities and improved lives.

More than simply a feast of statistics and rugby facts and figures, it is a fully-immersive, hands-on experience designed to engage and inspire. Vast media installations bring all the exciting energy of game day. Immersive theatre spaces relive some of the most famous moments in rugby history, and a series of huge, game-style interactive trials put the visitor’s own running, kicking, strength and handling skills to the test.

The experience is housed within a building of striking architecture, designed to reflect the bonds and connections within a rugby team and community. It rises up from the street into a modern tower from where you can enjoy panoramic views over the city.

A unique sculpture in the foyer reflects the sport’s international dimension. The

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intricate spherical piece acts as a global map, with the locations of rugby clubs and international teams highlighted by glowing glass lenses.

Guided and self-guided tours are available. There is also a café and gift shop stocking local and national artists and brands, from Limerick art, contemporary ceramics and wellness products to rugby-inspired prints, books and clothing.

After visiting the International Rugby Experience make sure to see Limerick City’s other great sights.

King John’s Castle, overlooking the riverfront, encapsulates 800 years of history, which is told through interactive exhibitions and brought to life through costumed re-enactments.

More of the city’s history can be discovered in its many museums while a pleasant afternoon can be passed browsing the stalls of the bustling Milk Market. www.ireland.com

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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

BOOK NOW www.bunrattycastle.ie

‘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 Staycation Ireland - Summer 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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Where the land meets the sea .....

www.mulrannyparkhotel.ie 098 36000

01.

Wild Atlantic Way

TOP BEACHES

02.

With bracing Atlantic winds, breathtaking vistas and miles and miles of undisturbed beaches, the Wild Atlantic Way is a beachlover’s paradise.

01. Barleycove, Co. Cork

03.

One of West Cork’s most beautiful beaches, Barleycove is the ideal spot for families, with its many sand dunes providing hours of fun for kids. Officially declared a Special Area of Conservation by the EU, this is the perfect spot to enjoy the stunning views and discover the natural wildlife of the area.

02. Dog’s Bay, Roundstone, Co. Galway With its crystal clear waters and over a mile of white sandy beach, the crescent shaped Dog’s Bay (beside Gurteen Bay), is one of Galway’s best beaches. Ideal for windsurfing and kitesurfing.

04.

03. Fanore Beach, Co. Clare

Stunning views, golden sand and with a certain wildness about it, Fanore Beach is great for surfing, body boarding and swimmers. It’s also a botanist’s haven, with its proximity to the Burren.

04. Inch Beach, Co. Kerry

Breathtaking scenery and with over four miles of beach, Inch is an ideal spot for walkers. Made famous for its scenes in Ryan’s Daughter, Inch Beach is popular with surfers, anglers and swimmers.

Go Wild Staycation Ireland - Summer 2023

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www.gowildmagazine.com

05.

05. Inchydoney Beach, Clonakilty, Co. Cork With its blue flag status, Inchydoney Beach is the ideal spot for swimming in the calm, and surfing when the wind is up. Inchydoney is yet another of Ireland’s most stunning beaches, with miles of sandy beach to walk or jog along and take in the breathtaking views.

06.

06. Keel Beach, Achill, Co. Mayo

Surrounded by stunning vistas of the Minaun Cliffs, green fields and the Atlantic, this 4km beach, also known as Trawmore Strand, is a haven for watersports enthusiasts. Expect lots of windsurfers, bodyboarders and surfers living it up on this Blue Flag beach.

07. Ballymastocker, Co. Donegal

Voted the second most beautiful beach in the world by readers of the Observer Magazine, Ballymastocker, on the shores of Lough Swilly, is a spectacular milelong beach of beautiful sand and stunning views. Never over-crowded, this Blue Flag beach is one of Ireland’s top gems.

07.

08. Silver Strand, Malinbeg, Co. Donegal This horseshoe-shaped secluded beach is an ideal spot to relax and take stock. Stunning views and protected from winds, Silver Strand is a beach lover’s paradise with its golden sands and peaceful ambiance.

08.

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www.gowildmagazine.com

Fresh new ways to enjoy the

FERMANAGH LAKELANDS The serene beauty of Fermanagh’s gorgeous lakelands calls visitors back again and again, and they will always find something new to enjoy

W

hat could be more relaxing

archaeological remains. They include White Island, Boa

than the sound of lake

Island and Devenish Island, where you can explore the

water gently lapping the shore

atmospheric ruins of a sixth-century monastic site.

beyond your bedroom window? In

A new way to visit White Island is on a guided hydrobike

the Fermanagh Lakelands, you’ll

tour from Castle Archdale Boat Hire & Marina. The island

have your pick of accommodation

is famous for its eight 1000-year-old carved figures.

that offers this and much more.

On land too there is plenty to see and enjoy including the

The latest addition to the mix

beautiful eighteenth-century manor house, Florence Court.

is 12 luxurious self-catering

You can take a fascinating guided tour of the mansion

Lakeview Studios that are

and explore the acres of lush woodland and gardens that

due to open at the Killyhevlin

surround it. The estate’s kitchen garden is currently being

Hotel in July. They have been

restored and two new glasshouses were recently opened.

designed specifically for

Whiskey lovers will be thrilled to hear that a new artisan

couples looking for a luxury

distillery, Glenwinny, will open in July at the Dog and

self-catering experience

Duck Inn in Lisbellaw, a village not far from the island

on the edge of Lough Erne

town of Enniskillen. The new distillery will be producing

and offer the added benefits of free use of the Killyhevlin

Fermanagh’s first small-batch pot still whiskey and rum

Health Club, complete with indoor swimming pool,

in living memory. Glenwinny will be offering a variety of

outdoor hot tub, sauna, steam room and fitness suite.

tours and dining experiences in the coming months.

At Share Discovery Village on the shores of Upper

www.ireland.com

Lough Erne, six new Glamping Pods offer an exceptional contemporary bed and breakfast experience. The 60acre holiday village offers a wide range of land and water activities and has recently added an escape room.

Alternatively, for accommodation that moves with you, why not get behind the wheel of a motorhome and go where the road takes you.

Getting out on the water is a given on a visit to the lakes and you can opt for guided boat tours or day boat rental.

The Fermanagh lakes are studded with islands, many of which have important

Go Wild Staycation Ireland - Summer 2023

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www.gowildmagazine.com

History & HERITAGE UNITE WHETHER YOU ARE INTERESTED IN THE IRISH EMIGRATION STORY, TRACING YOUR ANCESTORS, LEARNING MORE ABOUT THE ILL-FATED TITANIC AND LUSITANIA OR SIMPLY IMMERSING YOURSELF IN HISTORY, COBH HERITAGE CENTRE IS WELL WORTH A VISIT.

T

his informative and sometimes emotive

Throughout the exhibition there are individual

experience is situated within Cobh’s

stories to be found such as that of Jeremiah Burke

beautifully restored Victorian railway

and the message in a bottle from the Titanic.

station, a building with its own unique story.

Learn about Margaret Drury and her voyage on a convict ship to Australia, and of course Father

Ireland’s

Frank Browne who took the last photographs

past traveled through Cobh, visitors to the

of Titanic as it journeyed from Southampton to

heritage center can learn about the stories of

Cobh. He was directed to disembark early from

these emigrants, over three million of whom

the luxury Atlantic voyage in the port of Cobh by

emigrated from here. Many were forced to

his bishop. Disappointing at the time for Father

leave due to the famine, many left in search of a

Frank but what a lucky man!

Because

so

many

people

from

new life in a land of opportunity and many more had no choice, being transported as convicts to

This is a moving, educational, interesting and

Australia or forced labor in British colonies in

evocative experience which enables visitors to

the West Indies.

walk in the footsteps of our ancestors who left these shores and whose last sight of Ireland was

The Irish Emigration Story relates the maritime,

the town of Cobh.

naval and military history of the area and the fortification of the harbor with forts such as

www.cobhheritage.com

Haulbowline, Spike Island and Fort Camden.

It takes visitors on a journey of exploration of the lives of millions who left Ireland from the 1600’s right through to the 1950’s. Tales of the early emigrants to Virginia, the Carolinas and Canada; the forgotten Irish who endured forced labor in the Americas and the sinking of the Titanic and the Lusitania are all explained in a variety of interesting and artistic ways.

Go Wild Staycation Ireland - Summer 2023

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www.gowildmagazine.com

Walk this way Walks and Devours Tours Travel Trade Manager Joan Hamilton discusses work life and her deep love of Co. Clare with Claire O’Mahony

protection but also the businesses need to generate income from tourism so that families who live here and want to work here have an option to stay in the area and make a decent living.”

Although Walks’ European Headquarters have been located in Baggot Street, Dublin, for many years, City Experiences has only recently expanded its portfolio of European city tours, through Walks and Devour Tours, to include the Irish capital this year. Walks and Devour Tours offer over 150 tours worldwide, partnering with some of the world’s best museums and experiences for exclusive tours and special access to bypass the crowds.

Walks’ tours focus on the best of cities’ riginally from Dublin, Joan culture while Devour tours offer a unique Hamilton has a long-time, deepinsight into culinary scenes and histories. seated love for the Wild Atlantic Way, “The guides are local, they’re passionate especially after living in Clare for the about their tour subject and they know last 20 years. “I’m a born-again Clare their city very well,” notes Joan. woman and I’ve always been drawn Her role is specifically business-toto the west of Ireland,” says Joan, business. “I work with the travel agent who is the Travel Trade Manager and tour operator industry,” she says with Walks and Devour Tours, part “a market I am very familiar with from of the City Experiences family. my years with Doolin2Aran Ferries.

Having previously worked in an “Everyone wants to go to the Louvre international professional services firm, or the Sistine Chapel or the top of the she moved into the tourism industry by Duomo in Florence and we can get becoming a guesthouse owner. She then them that access because that’s what became Sales and Marketing Manager we do – we get the special access, or for Doolin2Aran Ferries, a company the best guides or, for example, the which grew substantially during her time best tapas bars in Barcelona.” there. It was her passion for sustainable Walks’ ‘Dublin in a Day’ tour tourism which led to her involvement encompasses some of the city’s most with the Burren Ecotourism Network, lauded destinations including the Book where she was a director of the board. of Kells, Guinness Brewery and St. “Because I’m so busy with my new role Patrick’s Cathedral. The Devour ‘Pubs, in Walks and Devours Tours, I stepped Grub and History’ Dublin food and off the board but I’m still very much an tasting tour, meanwhile, allows guests advocate and ambassador for the Burren to experience the hidden gems that Ecotourism Network. I love the whole tourists often miss. In terms of food, it’s concept of 70-plus businesses working not necessarily Michelin fare but more together, in a beautiful region that needs so dishes like oysters and even the cheese

O

Go Wild Staycation Ireland - Summer 2023

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and onion toastie. “We do our best to give an authentic experience, and the type of food Irish people eat,” says Joan.

“We’re so good at food in Ireland. People don’t realise how excellent we are until they travel and see the quality of other countries’ food and then they really see how we’ve advanced our food products.”

When it comes to her own preferred travel destinations, while she loves to explore new countries and destinations, she admits it’s a busman’s holiday as she always gravitates to the west of Ireland. Inis Oirr, the smallest of the Aran Islands, is a firm favourite and her next “holiday” will be a visit to Spanish Point in Clare and Galway city. “You can’t beat the stunning Clare coastline, and also the Burren for hiking and just the diversity of what’s happening in terms of the food offerings here,” she says. www.takewalks.com www.devourtours.com

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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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Established in 1913 - Three generations of quality! “ Simply the best Fish n Chips in Dublin” For three generations Beshoffs have been serving Dublin with the finest fish & chips. Well known for both the taste and quality of our offer, it is quite simply a taste of Dublin not to be missed.

We specialise in freshly prepared fish which is cooked to order, coated in our secret recipe batter, served with our hand cut chips from only the finest potatoes & all cooked in pure vegetable oil. We also cater for most dietary requirements, gluten free food, vegetarians & halal which means nobody has to miss out on enjoying our tasty food.

We are situated on Dublin’s main thoroughfare O’Connell Street, Our first floor seating area overlooks the spire of Dublin & the GPO, watch the world go by in comfortable surroundings.

We cater for large groups with seating for up to 140 people in our restaurant. We also serve breakfast Monday – Saturday until 11am.

Beshoff Restaurant, 7 Upper O’Connell Street, Dublin, Ireland www.beshoffrestaurant.com • beshoffrestaurant@gmail.com • 01-8724400

Ireland once again to the fore for golfing success Ireland’s world-class golf courses and golfing talent have recently made the news again cementing the island as a driving force in the sport.

I

reland’s Brendan Lawlor lifted the trophy at the inaugural G4D Open at Woburn on 12 May, putting the 26-year-old at the top of the World Ranking for Golfers with Disability.

Lawlor, who turned professional in 2019, made history by becoming the first disabled golfer to compete on the DP World Tour at the ISPS HANDA UK Championship in August 2020.

He joins the impressive list of champion golfers who hail from the Island of Ireland, including Rory McIlroy, Shane Lowry, Darren Clarke, Graeme McDowell, Padraig Harrington, Leona Maguire and Stephanie Meadows.

It was also announced recently that Portmarnock will host the 121st Women’s Amateur Championship in June 2024. The competition attracts an international field and is one of the leading championships in amateur golf for female golfers.

Portmarnock’s championship golf links, which hugs the coastline north of Dublin, is highly respected by the world’s top players. The links is consistently ranked among the best golf courses in the world and has hosted a number of international tournaments. It was the stage for the first ever playing of the Irish Open in 1927 and has hosted the event on 18 occasions.

Go Wild Staycation Ireland - Summer 2023

This year the Horizon Irish Open (7–10 September) will take place in another premier golf resort, The K Club in County Kildare. Considered to be one of the most important golf destinations in Europe, the club has two parkland golf courses designed by the legendary Arnold Palmer.

The North Course will host the Horizon Irish Open in 2023, 2025 and 2027.

Meanwhile, two top golf courses in Northern Ireland will host the prestigious 2023 ISPS HANDA World Invitational (17–20 August).

Galgorm Castle Golf Club is Northern Ireland’s premier tournament venue.

The parkland course, in the heart of the historic Galgorm Estate, was the venue for the 2020 Dubai Duty Free Irish Open and host venue to the Northern

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Ireland Open for over a decade.

Co-hosting the event this year is Castlerock Golf Club on the spectacular Causeway Coast. Another top-class links course, it is characterised by towering dunes and undulating fairways.

And Ireland will be the centre of golfing attention again in 2027 when the centennial Ryder Cup will be hosted in Adare Manor in County Limerick. The premier golf team event in the world, the Ryder Cup pits Europe against the USA. The lush parkland course at Adare Manor is regarded as a standout golfing destination, while the luxury, multi-awardwinning hotel was given a five-star rating

by Forbes Travel Guide 2023. www.ireland.com

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Fanad Lighthouse

Magazine Go Wild Staycation Ireland - Summer 2023

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The Museum of Literature Ireland is the home of Irish storytelling across the ages and its changing exhibitions provide a reason to return again and again.

Immerse yourself in a

MOLI literary installation

The Museum of Literature Ireland (MOLI)’ traces the country’s literary heritage from early storytelling traditions to modern-day writers.

Located in UCD Newman House, a beautiful Georgian building on Dublin’s famous St Stephen’s Green. MOLI features permanent and temporary exhibitions that celebrate a wide range of literary styles and talent.

A number of immersive multimedia exhibitions and priceless artefacts, including ‘Copy No. 1’ of Ulysses, a letter from Joyce to W B Yeats and Joyce’s handwritten Ulysses notebooks, make up the permanent content and new temporary exhibitions and installations are regularly staged.

Go Wild Staycation Ireland - Summer 2023

Currently they include The Holy Hour: A Requiem for Brendan Behan, which reframes the long-caricatured Dublin writer and goes in search of a truer picture of Behan as a man and as an artist. Created by author Patrick McCabe (The Butcher Boy, Breakfast on Pluto, Poguemahone), the exhibition celebrates the centenary of Behan’s birth, and mourns the essential tragedy of his short life.

In this captivating audio-visual installation, McCabe brings visitors on a profound, often hilarious – and at times almost psychedelic – voyage through glimpses of Behan’s life and work.

Through the prism of the Roman Catholic liturgy, McCabe’s Holy Hour blends archive footage, heavy lashings of music, and Behan’s own words to cast the Dublin writer in a more nuanced light.

The exhibition runs until October while another immersive new installation created by the internationally acclaimed author of Pond and Checkout 19, Claire-Louise Bennett, runs to November. Part noir-tinged memory palace, part luscious fever dream, Nightflowers is performed movingly and intimately by the writer herself.

Visitors are invited to take a seat in the darkened exhibition space and let the words flow around them. Nightflowers is buzzing with vivid, unforgettable images, colours and aromas: baroque tableaux of

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oranges rotting in the street or candlelit tables filled with resplendent dishes.

There are also more mundane flashes of daily life: an irritatingly flimsy shower screen, or cardboard boxes overflowing with unwanted travel brochures.

After enjoying the exhibitions, visitors can relax in one of Dublin’s most tranquil gardens, the landscaped Courtyard and Readers Gardens. The gardens contain two protected trees, most notably the ash tree where James Joyce had his graduation photograph taken. www.ireland.com

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Ruairí Doyle: CEO PressReader

Vancouver

By Kathleen O’Callaghan

Vancouver was fairly smooth, although he misses his family and friends back home.

“Kim and I love to travel,” Ruairí says. “We went to Mexico City recently on a babymoon. It’s a beautiful city architecturally and the food is wonderful.

However, I do miss the simplicity of travel in Ireland where in a couple of hours you can be in a totally different regional culture — whether it’s Belfast, Donegal or Clare.”

Ruairí says the PressReader Group’s primary goal is to develop technology solutions that allow individuals to access reliable content and high-quality journalism while also enabling publishers to expand their reach and connect with a global audience. reland is rightfully proud of its iconic The company’s flagship product, brand leaders like Kerrygold, Baileys PressReader, is an all-you-can-read and Tayto crisps. However, some of our platform that features more than 7,000 greatest leaders and business brains newspapers and magazines in 120 are to be found heading up corporations abroad. This is true of Ruairí Doyle, who is different countries, from the world’s originally from Wicklow and is now CEO of most well-respected newspapers to niche publications covering everything from PressReader Group in Vancouver, Canada. crocheting to cricket.

“My background is in news and media “We generally see PressReader referred but mainly in the technical side,” explains to as ‘the Netflix or Spotify of newspapers Ruairí. “I started out as a young software and magazines’,” Ruairí says, explaining engineer in Unison.ie, part of the INM that the bulk of PressReader’s business is (Independent News and Media) group.

B2B, with the platform available in hotels, Then I became more curious about the airports, libraries, and cruise ships all over project management aspect of things and the globe. “Tourists and business travellers was interested in how the whole product are avid consumers of local knowledge and and business side comes together. transnational news,” he notes.

“I set up an offshoot company called “We manage just over 500 staff globally ‘GrabOne’ within INM in 2011. It was a — including 300 in the Philippines at our successful Groupon clone at a time when bargains were popular after the downturn.” content processing centre in Manila,” the CEO says. “I work with a fantastic team Ruairí then headed off to London to here of over 200 in Vancouver as well as a join Google before returning to Ireland small but mighty presence in Dublin.” in 2017 to establish the Irish operations “Our goal is to continue to bring of PressReader as the General Manager. quality journalism “I made numerous trips to head office in Vancouver before I eventually transferred and a diversity of content to a variety of there as VP, Product. I was privileged to contexts each and every step into the boots of CEO just last year,” he says, smiling and looking much younger day, solving the insatiable demand for content and than his 42 years. helping businesses connect He also met his French-Canadian with customers in new and wife, Kim, in Vancouver and they have a unique ways,” Ruairí says. “And of two-year-old toddler and another baby course, we want to continue to grow on the way. Ruairí says the transition to

I

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our business along the way.”

PressReader’s mission, Ruairí says, is to empower and enrich curious minds.

“I believe with all the recent advances in artificial intelligence we are on the cusp of the biggest technology transformation of my generation since the introduction of the Internet. It is going to significantly change business and our responsibility is to engage, interact and utilise these advances in a responsible way.”

“Our opportunity is to continue to offer a quality-content value proposition to readers,” Ruairí says, “and with the advancement of AI, it’s up to news aggregators such as us to demonstrate the content value chain so it can be tracked back to a respected human. We can determine if it’s a well-informed, balanced point of view and not some unreliable, machinegenerated information with an agenda.”

“The craft of investigative journalism is key to a thriving democracy,” he says. “I am an optimist, as we have predominantly used technology to propel humanity forward.”

“There are lots of wonderful new content creators and amazing publications being launched every day. So, let’s embrace the technology and respect it,” he concludes.

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Ten immersive it museums to vis

ON THE ISLAND OF IRELAND The Island of Ireland has a wonderfully diverse collection of museums, so it’s the perfect place and time to discover something new.

Here are Ten suggestions for places to celebrate Irish Museums.

1. NATIONAL MUSEUM OF IRELAND – ARCHAEOLOGY, DUBLIN

Explore 9,000 years of history through fascinating archaeological artefacts that include Irish bog bodies, the Ardagh Chalice, the ‘Tara’ Brooch and the famous Derrynaflan Hoard. The museum is housed in a beautiful Palladian-style building that is a Dublin landmark.

2. ULSTER MUSEUM, BELFAST

There is something for every interest in this award-winning museum with collections of art, natural science and history. Delve into the history of Northern Ireland, see Ireland’s only dinosaur bones, admire the many pieces of applied art and view the special collections of work by female artists and the LGBT+ community.

3. WATERFORD TREASURES

In Ireland’s oldest city you get not just one museum but a whole quarter with four world-class museums – the Medieval Museum, the Irish Silver Museum, the Irish Museum of Time and the Bishops Palace – all within minutes of each other. Bookable on one ticket, they take you back to Waterford’s Viking roots, through the treasures of the medieval age and into Georgian and Victorian times.

4. GALWAY CITY MUSEUM

In this modern museum you can browse a fascinating collection of cultural heritage objects related to the City of Galway and its people.

The oldest known Claddagh Ring, war memorabilia, sports souvenirs and medieval gun money, are just some of the wide variety of items on display.

5. TITANIC BELFAST

Belfast’s multi-award-winning visitor attraction, which tells the story of the tragic liner and the city that built her, recently reopened with four new galleries and a superb replica model of the ship. It also displays a number of extremely rare artefacts, which are of great historical significance including the world-famous violin belonging to the ship’s hero musician.

6. NATIONAL FAMINE MUSEUM, ROSCOMMON

Featuring a world-class multimedia exhibition, the museum tells the story of Ireland’s Great Famine through the personal tragedies of the tenants and landlords on the Strokestown Estate. It explains the events that led to the forced emigration of 1,490 people from the estate in 1847 and is also the starting point for the National Famine Way, a walking and cycling trail from Roscommon to Dublin.

7. ULSTER AMERICAN FOLK PARK, TYRONE

The Ulster American Folk Park tells the story of Ulster people’s emigration to North America in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. In this part outdoor, part indoor museum, you’ll learn about life in rural Ireland, the hardships endured on the journey across the Atlantic and how migrants built new lives in a new land.

8. NATIONAL MUSEUM OF COUNTRY LIFE, MAYO

Step back into daily life in rural Ireland in days gone by at the National Museum of Country Life. With exhibitions of household objects, trades and crafts, bicycles and more, you’ll discover how people lived, worked, celebrated and how their traditions sustained them.

9. HUNT MUSEUM, LIMERICK

Housing over 2,000 works of art and antiquities from the estate of John and Gertrude Hunt, this museum exhibits ancient treasures, as well as paintings by Picasso, Renoir and Jack B Yeats. The collection spills into the outdoors continuing in the Museum in a Garden, where some of the museum’s key artefacts are reproduced at large scale.

10. TOWER MUSEUM, LONDONDERRY

With two permanent exhibitions – The Story of Derry and An Armada Shipwreck – La Trinidad Valencera – and frequently updated temporary exhibitions, the Tower Museum in the walled city of Derry~Londonderry is a top visitor attraction. The museum also boasts an open-air viewing facility with panoramic views of the city and River Foyle. www.ireland.com Go Wild Staycation Ireland - Summer 2023

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T

he Strand Cahore is a long-held dream realised by proprietors Aileen and Patrick Hanley. This stunning eatery sits atop a hill facing out towards the great Irish Sea, just outside the quiet seaside village of Ballygarrett, Co. Wexford and 1 hour from Dublin.

With years of extensive experience in the hospitality industry, Aileen & Patrick spent five years looking for the perfect location to realise their dream of opening their establishment.

Constant searches kept bringing their attention back to a pub located on Cahore Pier with much potential.

Thus, The Strand Cahore came to be.

Aileen and Patrick’s experience in the food and hospitality industry makes the dining experience at The Strand Cahore exceptional. Putting their hotelier stamp on the place, visitors are greeted with a warm and personable welcome. The decor and ambience of The Strand Cahore are influenced by that of a traditional Irish Pub, inviting locals or passers-by to sit back and relax in comfort with a good pint or glass of wine. At the same time,

The Strand Cahore they enjoy a meal of delicious local fayre.

So, what can visitors expect from a meal at The Strand Cahore? Aileen and Patrick are dedicated to bringing the best flavours to the plate and so have scoured the country for great tasting ingredients. These include a tremendous herb-crusted Rack of Kerry Lamb. Kerry Lamb grazes on heather and grasses, giving an irresistible flavour, resulting in a simple yet carefully constructed dish

that goes back to basics and treats diners.

While they have created a recipe for success with their seaside venture, they’re not resting on their laurels. They finally purchased this iconic property in June of 2021, and now that they have it lovingly in their hands, Whatever the future may hold, it’s clear that a knack for hospitality and a passion for good food is a winning combination when it comes to The Strand Cahore.

Get hands-on with birds of prey and various animals in our supervised Touch-Zoo SCIENTIFICALLY MANAGED SANCTUARY FOR BIRDS OF PREY AND OWLS Ireland’s largest Bird-of-prey Centre. The attraction for all the family. Get up close with Eagles, Hawks, Falcons, Vultures and Owls. Learn from the scientists about their biology during our fascinating and interactive shows. You have never The Strand Cahore, abeen residential awardto winning licensed bar and restaurant with a that close Eagles… history spanning more than 80 years and now owned by the Hanley family.

In a unique position overlooking the safe swimming beach and pier at Cahore Point with sweeping views over the sea to Wicklow Head. A destination which holds a special place in the hearts of many generations and only one hour from Dublin.

P

A stunning venue for your wedding or special event that will live long in the memory thanks to our breath taking location as well as our friendly and professional service. FREE Our passion for food has been recognised by the Good Food Ireland network thanks to our focus on the freshness, flavours and local produce.

The Strand Cahore Cahore Pier, Gorey 2 shows daily at Ballymote, Co. Sligo.

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2 hours programme Guided Tour, Show, Touch-Zoo, Picnic area and Kiosk available

of ys jo e th to f l se ur yo at re T

W EX FORD F EST I VAL OP ERA

For the perfect autumn treat, combine the delights of the world’s most important festival of rare opera with the charms of a beautiful Viking harbour town.

T

his autumn, the Wexford Festival Opera (25 October – 5 November) will once again transform a charming harbour town in Ireland’s Ancient East into a musical paradise.

The renowned festival, now in its 72nd year, will this year explore the theme of Women and War, with each performance highlighting a different aspect of the struggles women face – in conflict, fighting prejudice and in making their voices heard.

Wexford’s state-of-the-art National Opera House will stage the three main operas: a modern premiere of Zoraida di Granata by G Donizetti (1822); a rare French opera L’Aube Rouge by Camille Erlanger (1911); and a new orchestration of La Ciociara (2015).

There will also be two Pocket Operas: La fille du régiment by Gaetano Donizetti (1840) and Suor Angelica by Giacomo Puccini (1918), which unusually has an all-female cast.

For the first time the festival will present an opera that features a combined professional and community cast, enabling local people to be part

of the performance. They will perform Puccini’s Gianni Schicchi in the Grain Store near the town’s quay.

Another first will be a performance

by New Dublin Voices, a leading Irish chamber choir who will present Jonathan Dove’s The Passing of the Year and Frank Martin’s Mass for Double Choir.

Festival favourites, including lunchtime recitals in St. Iberius Church and the National Opera House, also make

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a return as do the popular pop-up events. These involve festival artists appearing in spontaneous music and theatrical moments in unexpected locations around Wexford.

A highlight of the festival each year is the Gala Concert, which features a collection of favourite party pieces from members of the Festival Company.

Alongside the music there will be a programme of talks, lectures, film screenings and the exuberant opening night fireworks on Wexford’s river front.

With its maze of medieval streets, Wexford is a picturesque and fascinating town to visit. And beyond the town, there is much more to explore in County Wexford including gorgeous beaches, imposing stately manors and castles, ancient islands and the immersive Irish National Heritage Park.

Booking for Wexford Festival Opera is now open. www.ireland.com

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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 Staycation Ireland - Summer 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.

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Embrace Northern Ireland’s NEW SPIRITS TRAIL A new Northern Ireland Spirits Trail offers a journey of discovery across ten distilleries and spirit-led experiences, each with a story to tell.

H

ome to one of the oldest licensed whiskey distilleries in the world – the Old Bushmills Distillery – Northern Ireland has a long history of distilling excellence.

Now a new spirits trail offers the opportunity to delve into the stories and meet the makers behind the region’s oldest and newest spirits. Each distillery visit offers an immersive, sensory experience and a chance to discover the inspiration and passion behind Northern Ireland’s great spirits.

The trail begins at Belfast Artisan Gin School where you can learn to make your own gin and take home a bottle of your unique creation.

Then on to County Down where five of the ten destinations on the trail are located.

At Copeland Distillery, you’ll hear tales of secret smugglers, savage battles and remarkable voyages, while soaking up a taste of its whiskey, gin, and rum. The field-to-glass Echlinville Distillery will

reveal how the farm-grown barley is sown, grown, harvested and hand malted before offering a sip or two of its whiskey, gin or poitín.

Award-winning Shortcross gin is made at historic Rademon Estate, where Northern Ireland’s first craft gin was created using wild botanicals grown in the nearby fields.

Meanwhile, whiskey is the star at Hinch distillery, where triple distillation and traditional Irish mashing processes are key to creating its award-winning spirits.

County Down’s fifth distillery, Killowen, is the smallest in Northern Ireland but its range of spirits have attracted a big following. Sitting in the Mourne Mountains, it uses age-old distilling processes and handmade artisan stills to create a traditional Irish whiskey with a modern twist.

You can learn to distil with a difference at Woodlab Distillery in County Tyrone,

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where science and nature combine to create the unique flavour profiles of Symphonia gin.

Sitting on the banks of beautiful Lough Erne in County Fermanagh, the Boatyard Distillery focuses on producing pure spirits taking a sustainable and organic approach, while the Wild Atlantic Distillery takes inspiration from the rugged landscape around it to create its whiskey, gin and vodka.

The trail finishes at Northern Ireland’s world-famous Bushmills Distillery on the spectacular Causeway Coast, where whiskey has been distilled for over 400 years.

A fun element of the Northern Ireland Spirits Trail is the Distillery Trail Passport. At each distillery you can collect a stamp on the passport and when you have completed all points on the trail you will receive a special souvenir.

The passports can be picked up from any of the distilleries.

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Ireland in the palm of your hand FR OM BR EA KI NG NE W S IN ES 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

T AR AHI L L E S T AT E . COM

HMS Caroline- one of the last surviving First World War warships and now an immersive museum - has reopened to visitors.

Unique floating museum, HMS Caroline, OPEN FOR BOARDING M

oored in Alexandra Dock in Belfast’s famous Titanic Quarter, HMS Caroline is the last known surviving warship from one of the largest and most important naval battles, the Battle of Jutland in 1916.

The ship, which was transformed into an interactive museum in 2016, recently reopened to visitors after being closed for three years due to the Covid pandemic.

HMS Caroline offers a unique opportunity to experience what life was like aboard a warship 100 years ago.

Visitors can view the beautifully restored living quarters, the signal school, engine room, sick bay and galley.

Interactive displays offer the opportunity to learn to crack codes, launch torpedoes and take virtual control of the ship.

Delivering a totally immersive experience, large multi-screen videos reproduce the sounds and drama of the battle against the mighty German Imperial Fleet.

During the closure, all the artefacts on display in the ship had to be dismantled and removed for safekeeping. They have now been put back on display together

Go Wild Staycation Ireland - Summer 2023

with new items from the archives such as the christening bell.

HMS Caroline is moored close to the multi-award-winning Titanic Belfast, which tells the story of the famous liner from building to sinking. Titanic Belfast has recently reopened after a major refurbishment that added four new galleries and a host of important and extremely rare artefacts to the exhibition.

The centrepiece of the new exhibition is a fabulous illuminated replica model of RMS Titanic, which is suspended from

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the ceiling.

Titanic Belfast and HMS Caroline are part of Belfast’s important maritime heritage, which is celebrated along the city’s Maritime Mile.

Passing the huge dry docks where many ships were constructed during Belfast’s shipbuilding heyday, and passing Titanic’s tender – the SS Nomadic, the Maritime Mile has a wealth of historic sights to explore.

They include several pieces of public art including the innovative SoundYard, which replicates the sounds that would once have been heard in the shipyards.

The route ends at the Great Light, which is one of the largest lighthouse optics of its kind ever built. It is around 130 years old, weighs 10 tonnes and is 7m tall. The Great Light served two lighthouses in its time, shining with one of the strongest lighthouse beams in the world. www.ireland.com

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GREAT STAYCATION ESCAPES f o r 2023

Abounding in natural beauty, mountains, cliffs and dramatic coastlines, there is something to captivate even the most seasoned travellers on the island of Ireland.

1. Seek adventure on the Wild Atlantic Way Certainly one of the must-see areas for awesome scenery on an Irish holiday, the Wild Atlantic Way is also an unspoilt adventure playground and full of sustainable activities. Hop between charming coastal villages and incredible national parks, while enjoying any kind of outdoor pursuit you can think of. Surf the water, ride horses on the beach, spot whales, climb mountains, do a spot of forest bathing, cycle greenways, walk through eons of history and much more.

It takes days, weeks really, to see the best of the greenest country in Europe, and trying to figure out what to do can be a bit overwhelming. So save some time and check out this list of just 10 don’t-miss things to do on your next trip to Ireland.

2. Steal away to an island For the ultimate in remote experiences, escape to the tranquil and idyllic Rathlin Island, lying six miles off County Antrim and just a quick ferry ride from the seaside town of Ballycastle in Northern Ireland. You will soon fully appreciate the magic of this wild, L-shaped and unspoilt island. Walk the car free roads. Cycle for miles in solitude, watch out for seals in the bay. Explore lighthouses, visit the bird sanctuary, soak up the fresh sea air and sup a pint in the island’s only pub.

3. Try an ultra-luxury hotel experience Once home to the Guinness family, the 800 yearold Ashford Castle in County Mayo has long been the hotel that presidents, royals and the famous choose for an iconic Irish experience. It has an exceptional reputation when it comes to luxury travel. Situated in a spectacular 350 acre estate, it’s full of sumptuous rooms and suites, amazing interiors, antique furniture, fine fabrics and unique features at every turn, all underpinned by ambitious sustainability practices. The ultimate indulgent experience in the west of Ireland.

4. Explore a magical dark sky Connect with the ancient past and experience a magical link between astronomy and archaeology at Northern Ireland’s OM Dark Sky Park and Observatory. Fringed by Davagh Forest at the foot of the Sperrin Mountains in County Tyrone, the park is close to the Beaghmore Stones, a series of mysterious Neolithic stone circles. Explore the stories of the stones or go mountain biking by day, and stargaze away from light pollution by night.

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9. Soak up the all-Ireland Fleadh Ireland boasts many musical extravaganzas with something to suit everyone, but there is nothing to beat the annual Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann or the All-Ireland Music Festival. The largest festival of Irish culture, music, song and dance in the world takes place this year in Mullingar in Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands.

Running from 6–14 August, it’s going to be special.

5. Go green in an eco-destination To keep your holiday carbon footprint to a minimum, head for the protected, moonlike and eco-friendly terrain of the Burren in County Clare. Along with the Cliffs of Moher, the Burren is part of a UNESCO Global Geopark, where sustainability, socially responsible, nature-based tourism and excellent eco-travel experiences are the norm. Stay in sustainable accommodation, eat locally sourced food and revel in any number of environmentally-friendly activities and experiences.

6. Play one of Ireland’s best golf courses The island of Ireland is an iconic destination for golf – the choice of exceptional championship courses in spectacular locations is truly amazing. With world-ranked links and stunning parkland layouts, a golf trip is always an incredible experience. If you had to single out just one destination, Ballybunion Golf Club in County Kerry would be right up there. Home to two wonderfully challenging links courses, it’s ranked as one of the very best golfing experiences in the world.

7. Feel the energy of Celtic Ireland Step back 5,000 years and experience prehistoric Ireland at Newgrange, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the lush green paradise of the Boyne Valley. This area was once the territory of Ireland’s high kings and boasts a rich history and culture. The Stone Age passage tomb at Newgrange is part of the famous Brú na Bóinne complex, one of the world’s most important prehistoric landscapes. An immersion in this jewel in the crown of Ireland’s Ancient East is unforgettable.

10. Discover Dublin’s Coastal Trail Dublin’s long coastline is dotted with a raft of unexpected experiences and outdoor activities. The Dublin Coastal Trail highlights these hidden gems. Take the DART rail line and it’s easy to discover castles, beaches, harbours, heritage and more all on foot. From Skerries to the north of the city down to Killiney in the south, find everything from incredible sea views and thrilling watersports to the freshest of seafood, cliffs, walks and culture on Dublin’s doorstep.

8. Drive the Causeway Coastal Route Combining stunning coastal scenery with a host of historic sites and picturesque towns and villages, the famous Causeway Coastal Route stretches 130 miles from Belfast to Derry~Londonderry into Game of Thrones® territory. A road trip like no other, it’s home to countless key stops, attractions and experiences. It could be The Gobbins, a white-knuckle cliff path walk at Islandmagee, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Giant’s Causeway, the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge, Game of Thrones® film locations or the Old Bushmills Distillery, the world’s oldest licensed whiskey distillery.

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GALWAY INTERNATIONAL OYSTER AND SEAFOOD FESTIVAL 2023 Welcome to the oldest oyster festival in the world and the most internationally recognised Irish festival after St. Patrick’s Day. Deemed one of Europe’s longest-running food extravaganzas, the Galway International Oyster & Seafood Festival was launched in September 1954 by Brian Collins, the manager of the former Great Southern Hotel.

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hat year just 34 guests attended the first Oyster Festival Banquet and feasted on several dozen oysters each. These days, the event is one of the biggest on Ireland’s social calendar, drawing thousands of visitors to sample the famous native Galway Oysters at the end of September each year. Now the festival sees more than 20 competitors, representing countries from all over the world flock to Galway to vie for the World Championship title.

Over the last 69 years, the Irish food festival has featured prominently in the media including Bon Appétit Magazine, BBC Good Food, Food & Wine magazine, Easy Food Magazine, Time Magazine, Travel & Leisure Magazine, Conde Nast, The New York Times, The Sunday Times, Daily Mail, Daily Telegraph, Image Magazine, Fodors, The Lonely Planet Guide and The Rough Guide amongst many, many more.

It has been described by the Sunday Times as “one of the 12 greatest shows on earth” and was listed in the AA Travel Guide one of Europe’s Seven Best Festivals.

The Galway International Oyster & Seafood Festival is held on the very last weekend in September to celebrate Galway’s

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FESTIVAL HISTORY

“Ireland’s longest running and greatest gourmet extravaganza” The Rough Guide ’50 Things to do before you die’

rich annual oyster harvest (in season from September – April). It was originally organised in conjunction with Paddy Burke’s Bar in Clarenbridge but moved into the city centre of Galway in the 80’s.

Growing ever since, The Irish and World Oyster Opening or ‘shucking’ Championships are held during the festival, as well as top class entertainment, street parades, seafood trails, celebrated hospitality and the start of many new friendships.

Historically, guests have included director John Huston, actor Bob Hope, golfer Christy O’Connor JR, well known chefs such as Richard Corrigan, Clodagh McKenna and Martin Shanahan, Irish Rugby hero Brian O’Driscoll, current President of Ireland, Michael D. Higgins, current Taoiseach Leo Varadkar and many more.

Miss it at your ‘pearl’.

For further information please contact the Festival Team on T: 00 91 394637 or E:info@galwayoysterfestival.com

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GREAT GREENWAYS TO TRY THIS YEAR See the best of Ireland by bike on one of these fantastic greenways.

Discover the incredible greenways across Ireland where you can enjoy relaxing walks with friends or plan a great cycling adventure.

Wind your cycle up at the Waterford coastline for a perfect coastal weekend stay in Dungarvan, complete with beautiful views and welcoming gastropubs.

Plan your greenway getaway and don’t worry if you didn’t bring your bike, you can hire one at the start of the trip.

4. ROYAL C ANAL GREENWAY

1. LIMERICK GREENWAY Take off on a 40km long journey across County Limerick from Rathkeale towards the Kerry border. Enjoy the peaceful Limerick Greenway and lush, rural countryside as you make your way towards Newcastle West and climb the Mullaghareirk Mountains before skirting around Abbeyfeale and finishing in Kerry.

Cycle along the iconic Royal Canal from Maynooth in County Kildare, traversing through counties Meath and Westmeath before finishing up in either Longford Town or Cloondara in County Longford.

Leisurely pedal your way along the canal towpath exploring the built and natural heritage, as barges sail past and fishermen cast their lines.

Stop off for a hearty meal or overnight stay in Maynooth, Mullingar or any of the other great towns and villages along the 130km Royal Canal Greenway.

2. GRE AT WESTERN GREENWAY 5. C ARLINGFORD LOUGH GREENWAY Make your way from the idyllic town of Westport in County Mayo along the edge of the otherworldly Clew Bay and across to Achill Island on the 42km long Great Western Greenway.

Follow the trail along the old railway with Croagh Patrick standing tall in the background and finish off your day with a dip in the turquoise waters of Keem Bay. Ride the greenway back to Westport afterwards or let your bike hire company pick you up from your endpoint.

Enjoy the stunning scenery of Carlingford Lough and the Cooley and Mourne Mountains on the Carlingford Lough Greenway. This short 7km route is perfect for a quick cycle or a leisurely stroll that begins at the Carlingford Marina.

Enjoy a dish of famous Carlingford Oysters in one of the restaurants or pubs on the narrow streets of this Norman town and see why so many people love spending a weekend away in Carlingford.

3. WATERFORD GREENWAY

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See the best of the sunny southeast on a cycle along the Waterford Greenway.

Set off from the historic Viking city and cruise along the relatively flat greenway towards Dungarvan 46km away.

Stop off for a scenic stroll in the glorious gardens of Mount Congreve Estate before spinning around the base of the Comeragh Mountains.

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Northern Ireland gets its 13th Économusée The international network of elite artisans has welcomed coffee roastery, Fidela Coffee, in Coleraine as its latest Northern Ireland member.

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conomusées are artisan producers that use traditional techniques to make products in the bio-food or arts and crafts sectors. They open their workshops to visitors, who can watch the artisans at work, learn about skills that have endured over time and buy unique local products.

Fidela Coffee in Coleraine recently became the 13th Économusée in Northern Ireland. Frank Portilla and Rachel Dillon, founders of Fidela, began their coffee journey in Columbia in 2016 following a visit to Frank’s family farms in the well-known coffee region Nariño.

Realising that there were opportunities to work alongside the family and to find new and exciting prospects for their coffee, Frank and Rachel returned to Coleraine and set up Fidela Coffee Roasters in 2019.

Named after Frank’s grandmother,

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Fidela, a pioneer in coffee farming in her local area, the Coleraine enterprise maintains the strong Colombian family connection by sourcing their coffee beans from the Nariño farms of their relatives and friends.

Fidela Coffee offers visitors a range of bookable coffee experiences from their roastery and coffee shop including coffee courses that teach how to create the perfect espresso, the principles of brewing or perfecting latte art.

There is also a tour that gives the opportunity to hear Fidela Coffee’s story, and to discover traditional production techniques and contemporary products, stamped with their own particular identity and originality. Économusée is a growing

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international network involving over 110 artisans renowned for their excellence.

Northern Ireland features strongly in the network, particularly in the area of artisanal food and drink.

The other Économusée workshops in Northern Ireland are Broighter Gold Rapeseed Oil, Limavady; Steenson’s Jewellers, Glenarm; Hot Milk Forge, Martinstown; Ursa Minor Bakehouse, Broughgammon Farm, and North Coast Smokehouse, all in Ballycastle; Audrey Kyle Art and Gobbins Crafts, Islandmagee; the Creamery Can, Glarryford and The Chocolate Manor, Castlerock.

Each workshop is situated on or close by the famous Causeway Coastal Route making it an ideal craft trail for visitors as they explore this stunning region. www.ireland.com

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Client editorials Fota Island Resort

The Kingsley Hotel

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

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

EPIC You won’t find leprechauns or pots of gold at EPIC, but you’ll discover what it means to be Irish 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.

Westport House Westport House has been awarded Fáilte Ireland’s Platforms for Growth Grant worth €20.2 million. The funding (part of a €75 million master plan) will transform Westport Estate into a world-class tourism destination and reimagine the entire 400-acre estate. This will include the redevelopment of Hotel Westport, the creation of a uniquely Irish, regenerative landscape experience and the restoration of Westport House.

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Taste of Sligo Wild Atlantic Way foodie, Anthony Gray ensures all tastes are covered through his award-winning Sligo food ventures. Enjoy an afternoon with Anthony on the ultimate foodie experience in a Sligo Taste Tour and experience up to 7 of Sligo’s finest spots in one afternoon €85pps. Www.Tasteofsligo.ie

Stuart Ross Texas Steakout Restaurant “Celebrating three decades at Texas Steakout Restaurant, Stuart Ross is more than a Head Chef - he’s a culinary artist.

His passion and precision translate into exquisite dining experiences. Each dish, crafted with dedication, tells a story.

Join us as we honour his legacy and look forward to more gastronomic adventures.”

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Client editorials Padraicins

Cork County Council

An exciting brand new bar restaurant concept has just opened at Padraicins Seafood bar in Furbo, Co Galway.

The all new ‘Ost na mara’ incorporates a new patio with beer garden for all events overlooking the beach & Galway Bay. We have great packages to include your choice of music with a DJ or an excellent band in a private environment for your special event with food & drinks packages.

We specialise in day two of weddings, birthdays, family & corporate events.

You can indulge with your friends and family with a choice of our sharing platters which are just perfect for large groups in an informal atmosphere.

We offer tailor-made packages to suit your needs.

Contact us now padraicins@gmail.com

Cork County Council has launched the ‘Explore Cork’ app, a one-stop shop tourism app with over 850 things to see and do in Cork. With 19 categories of activities, ‘Explore Cork’ will help you plan your trip. The free app, which is available in 4 languages, is available to download on Android or iPhone.

The iNUA Collection Embark on an unforgettable road trip across the enchanting island of Ireland, with 12 INUA Collections stunning destinations waiting to be explored . Discover the iNUA Collection’s extraordinary selection of four and five-star hotels, with packages tailor-made for your ultimate escape. https://www.inua.ie/ *Prices subject to availability

Elevate Marketing Enjoy airport travel by coach for less with Dublin Express Discover the benefits of coach travel with Dublin Express, the convenient and cost-effective way to travel between Dublin and Dublin Airport. With 119 services a day between Dublin City and the airport, you can rely on a Dublin Express coach to get you to the airport or city with ease.

House of Waterford The House of Waterford Retail Experience and Factory Tour gives visitors a glimpse into the wonderful world of Waterford and the astounding craftsmanship behind the iconic brand. Develop a new-found appreciation for crystal by journeying through the factory and watching as the vivid orange molten crystal is transformed into glistening works of art.

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Lough Boora Discovery Park Get away from it all and explore the unique beauty of Lough Boora Discovery Park. Relax with friends and family amidst breathtaking landscapes. Enjoy the simple things and spend quality time making memories to treasure. Connect with nature to revitalise mind and body. www.loughboora.com

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Client editorials Mizen Head Signal Station

Carlingford Lough Cruises

Souvenirs, gifts and so much more.

At the Mizen Shop you’ll find a wide range of Mizen and West Cork related items for sale. From clothing to local arts and crafts, books and stationary to Mizen Head branded souvenirs, you’re sure to find something of interest as you browse the shelves.

You’ll see the shop as you enter the main Visitor Centre building. If the Visitor Centre is open, the shop is too.

Carlingford Lough is an area of outstanding natural beauty and your destination for a range of unforgettable evening cruise experiences on Carlingford Lough.

Carlingford Lough Cruises offer a range of cruise options that include Sunset or Lighthouse Cruises, Summer Jazz or Blues on the Bay Cruises and the popular Gin Tasting Cruise, all to the backdrop of the majestic Mourne Mountains and Cooley Peninsula, as you cruise Carlingford lough. While onboard, enjoy live music, dancing and audio tour. These two-hour evening cruises take place throughout the summer months. Passengers can board at the Carlingford Lough Ferry Terminals at Greenore, Co. Louth (just 3km from Carlingford Town) or Greencastle Co. Down. Book online at carlingfordloughcruises.com

National Museum of Ireland

Malahide Castle

The National Museum of Ireland is home to the world’s greatest collection of objects related to Irish history and heritage. The collection spans from prehistoric times to the present day and is on display across four museums in Dublin The museum offers a year-round programme of workshops, talks and tours for all ages. Admission Free.

Enjoy a guided tour of Dublin’s most loved medieval castle just 10 minutes from Dublin Airport and 13km from Dublin City centre. See the splendour of Lord Milo Talbot’s walled botanical garden, The Butterfly House and West Lawn. Take a break and breath of fresh air on Avoca’s café terrace overlooking the walled garden, or engage in some retail therapy in the Museum Shop in the visitor centre For more visit www.malahidecastleandgardens.ie

Bunratty Castle & Folk Park Set in 25-acres, visitors to Bunratty Castle & Folk Park can experience the sights, sounds and smells of rural life in Ireland of the early 1900’s Explore the Park’s interactive Fairy Trail, Viking playgrounds, farmhouses, walled gardens, and say hello to the Park’s adorable animals, including Irish Wolfhounds and Red Deer.

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The Casino Model Railway Museum Housed in a beautifully restored Casino cottage and located in the idyllic seaside village of Malahide and within easy walking distance of Malahide Castle, step back in time and explore one of the world’s most unique model railway collections.

The Cyril Fry Collection offers a close-up look at the exquisite workmanship of his hand-crafted models.

For more information visit www.modelrailwaymuseum.ie

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Client editorials Newbridge House & Farm

Clew Bay Bike Hire

Newbridge House & Farm is an 18th Century hidden gem located in Donabate, North County Dublin, just 10 minutes from Dublin Airport. Nestled on 350 acres, Newbridge House was built back in 1736 by the Archbishop of Dublin, Charles Cobbe, as his country residence. The house and the 30-acre working arm are open daily for tours. For more information visit www.newbridgehouseandfarm.com

Clew Bay Bike Hire offer rental bicycles and accessories for the Great Western Greenway. This runs between Westport and Achill Sound, Co. Mayo, along the Wild Atlantic Way. At Clew Bay Bike Hire, quality is never compromised.

Our ‘Priority’ is for our customers to always have a safe and enjoyable experience on the Great Western Greenway.

Therefore, all bikes will be sized and fitted for you and checked over by our professional staff for mechanical safety prior to each and every use.

We also provide FREE roadside assistance, so if anything develops while on the trail, simply call our office and we will replace the bike immediately, wherever you are.

Durty Nelly’s Join us for our world famous singsongs, atmosphere and location with live music nightly. Choose from our Bar menu or Oyster restaurant menu with a wide variety of choice to suit all tastes using fresh locally sourced produce.

Let us provide the perfect background for any special occasions in our function area, ‘The Loft’ at Durty Nelly’s or simply relax with a drink in the shadows of the iconic 15th Century Bunratty Castle.

Open Monday to Friday from 10:30am Phone us on 061-364861. Website www.durtynellys.ie

The Skellig Experience Visitor Centre The Skellig Experience Visitor Centre (V23YD52) is dedicated to the UNESCO World Heritage Site Skellig Michael offering a self-guided tour and film show to learn about the Skellig Islands.

We have a restaurant, gift shop and free parking available onsite.

We offer boat tours to land on or cruise around the island.

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Shannonferry Group Shannonferry Group Ltd. operates the Killimer-Tarbert Car Ferry, linking the main tourist routes of Ireland’s Shannon Region on the ‘Wild Atlantic Way’, from Killimer, Co. Clare to Tarbert, Co. Kerry. With scheduled sailings every day, this pleasant twenty-minute journey across the Shannon Estuary saves 137-km from ferry terminal to ferry terminal, providing a staging point for the many attractions of Clare, Kerry and adjoining counties. On disembarkation, enjoy the majestic scenery on either side of the Shannon Estuary, from Killarney and The Dingle Peninsula to the Burren and the famous Cliffs of Moher.

Tara Hill Estate “Nestled amidst 10 acres of hillside in south-east Wexford, Tara Hill Estate provides luxury accommodation in nature. The Wild Rooms feature sea views, underfloor heating, indoor/outdoor showers, ensuites, king-size beds, cinema projectors, WiFi, kitchenettes and private outside areas. Experience a truly unique coastal getaway.”

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Client editorials GPO Museum

Connemara Coast Hotel

The GPO Museum is a must-see award-winning experience located within the historic GPO (General Post Office) in the heart of Dublin City. Explore the fascinating story of the 1916 Easter Rising and modern Irish History in an interactive and immersive setting. For bookings and further information visit www.gpowitnesshistory.ie

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

The Mulranny Park Hotel Aillwee Caves

The Mulranny Park Hotel has an enviable location overlooking Mulranny Beach and the Majestic Croagh Patrick. This 4-star gem, with old-world charm, has all the facilities you expect, with a full leisure centre, seaweed baths, treatment room and an award-winning restaurant, Mulranny Park Hotel is certainly worth a visit as you “Go Wild” – along the West Coast.

Visit www.mulrannyparkhotel.ie

Cave Tour, Birds of Prey, Cheesemaking.

An exciting and warm welcome awaits everyone at this Multi Award Winning destination attraction. Aillwee is simply unmissable when visiting The Burren and County Clare! Explore Aillwee and unlock many secrets of The Burren through unique underground and overground Experiences. Be educated, engaged and entertained on your day out at Aillwee Burren Experience!

Visit www.aillweeburrenexperience.ie & get your #aillweeadventure underway today.

Glencolmcille Folk Village Glencolmcille Folk Village is a thatched cottage coastal village in South West Donegal. Established in 1967, it tells the story of Glencolmcille through the ages. Original artefacts are on display in the cottages, which were constructed from stone taken from period cottages throughout the parish.

The tours are currently self-guided and are available in more than eight languages. There are three audio-visual programs that tell the story of Father McDyer, the local fishing tradition and cinefilm from the 1950’s.

They have adapted a beautiful outdoor dining area and have a great family orientated eating area within this, with a safe area for children to play. They are world renowned for their beautiful vegetable soup and Irish breakfast.

On special occasions you can Meet local crafts people and have a go at making a St. Brigid’s Cross or mending a fishing net.

King John’s Castle “Boasting stunning views of Limerick City and the River Shannon, this majestic 13th century Castle is one of the top tourist attractions in the Treaty City. The interactive exhibition at King John’s Castle brings to life over 800 years of dramatic local history. Try your luck at medieval games in the courtyard and climb the turrets to absorb the panoramic view of the City’s skyline. With so much to see, a visit to King John’s Castle will not disappoint!”

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Client editorials Abbey Hotel

Sheen Falls Lodge

“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.”

Sheen Falls Lodge - One of Ireland’s finest hotels, 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.

Spike Island Spike Island in Cork has been home to captains and convicts, rioters and rebels and sinners and saints. The former prison and fortress island is now a premier visitor attraction having been named ‘Europe’s Leading Tourist Attraction’ in 2017. Discover 1,300 years of history, see www.spikeislandcork.ie for more information.

Kylemore Abbey Nestled in the heart of Connemara, Kylemore Abbey is a haven of beauty, history, nature and serenity. Visit the restored period rooms and multimedia experience of the Victorian castle, the six-acre Victorian Walled Garden and the romantic neo-Gothic Church.For more information and to book your visit, please see www.kylemoreabbey.com.

Wildlands Situated ten-minutes outside of Galway City, Wildlands is a unique indoor and outdoor adventure centre with luxury selfcatering log cabins and a restaurant on site. It is set upon over 20-acres of mature woodland in Moycullen, Co. Galway. Wildlands has something for everyone and can be enjoyed no matter the weather.

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The Brehon Hotel and 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.

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Client editorials The Falls Hotel & Spa

Drumhierney Hideaway

The Falls Hotel & Spa is in a wonderful and unique location, midway along the fabulous Wild Atlantic Way. Within a 20-minute drive of the hotel, heading North, you have the awe-inspiring Cliffs of Moher, the mythical Burren Region, both combining to make the UNESCO Global Geopark: www.burrengeopark.ie. Driving South, you will reach the magnificent Loop Head Peninsula, with the Victorian seaside town of Kilkee, the lovely fishing village of Carrigaholt and of course, the majestic Loop Head lighthouse: www.loophead.ie. In between, there are an abundance of villages, beaches, restaurants, craft shops, pubs and countless hidden gems that make your trip to Clare well worth it.

“Drumhierny Woodland Hideaway Outdoor Wellbeing Sanctuary is a true haven of tranquillity, tucked away in the original walled garden of the estate and protected by historical walls and large oak trees that have been stewards of the estate for hundreds of years, this really is an escape where you can close the doors on the rest of the world. Take time out to disconnect and enjoy the facilities featuring seaweed baths, outdoor hot tubs, sauna & loungers”

Eagles Flying Flogas Get ready to make the most of this summer outdoors with Flogas.

Boating, caravanning or simply hosting friends in the back garden, Flogas Gaslight Cylinders are light enough to transport anywhere.

To learn more and locate your nearest supplier, please visit https://www.flogas.ie/residential/lpg/lpg-bottled-gas.

Sliabh Liag Visitor Centre and Cliff Experience Sliabh Liag Visitor Centre and Cliff Experience, where your Fáilte awaits, is a signature point of the Wild Atlantic Way in Donegal as Sliabh Liag Mountain boasts the highest sea-facing cliffs in Europe, reaching 1972-feet/801-metres. The famous ‘One-man’s Path’ and ‘Pilgrims Path’, are considered a hikers’ paradise.

Tel: 074 9739620 or email: info@sliabhliag.com for further information.

Go Wild Staycation Ireland - Summer 2023

Nestled in the green hills of South Sligo, Ireland’s largest sanctuary for raptors and owls, the Irish Raptor Research Centre / Eagles Flying is situated on more than 27-hectares of mature parklands near Ballymote. Currently it is the home of more than 100 eagles, hawks, owls, falcons and vultures. Altogether there are more than 450 birds and animals, encompassing nearly 100 different species, in the centre.

Carrygerry Country House Are you looking for the perfect place for your upcoming nuptials?

Then look no further than Carrygerry Country House. Set in the peaceful, idyllic countryside of County Clare, located just minutes from Shannon International Airport, Carrygerry Country House offers you a warm, elegant, classic setting for your perfect wedding day.

061 360500

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Enjoy a midweek getaway at Tulfarris Hotel & Golf Resort this summer and enjoy all Wicklow has to offer!

Packages such as our Two Night B&B with One Dinner are available from €169pps!

For a full list of our available offers visit www.tulfarrishotel.com

Phone: +353 45 867 600 I Email: info@tulfarris.com I www.tulfarrishotel.com Blessington Lakes, Tulfarris, County Wicklow

Lough Derg, Co. Clare