Go wild magazine Issue 1 by Go Wild Magazine

magazine

Wild

THE WILD ATLANTIC WAY EXPERIENCE

Issue 01 June 2015

Home Grown Heroes

Taking inspiration from the land

Feast

Ireland's top food destinations

A Golferâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Paradise

The best golf along the Wild Atlantic Way

Wild Atlantic Waves Surfing superstars

Hidden Gems What not to miss along the Wild Atlantic Way

LIVE LIKE A KING Awe-inspiring castles Plus Top 5 Must Sees 5 Minutes with Bobby Kerr Michael Ring's Wild Atlanic Way Best Hotspots

MALIN HEAD FANAD HEAD

Buncrana City of Derry Airport

DERRY

Dungloe Letterkenny

Port of Larne

Belfast International Airport

SLIABH LIAG

DOWNPATRICK HEAD

Belfast Harbour

Donegal

Belfast City Airport

BELFAST

MULLAGHMORE

Sligo Belmullet

Ballina KEEM STRAND

Westport

KILLARY Clifden HARBOUR

DERRIGIMLAGH

Dublin Airport

GALWAY

DUBLIN

Dublin Port Dun Laoghaire Harbour

Doolin CLIFFS OF MOHER

Lahinch

LIMERICK

Kilkee Kilrush LOOP HEAD

Foynes Ballybunion

Rosslare Harbour

Tralee BLASKETS VIEW

Kerry Airport

Dingle

Killarney

CORK

BRAY HEAD

Waterville

Sneem

Kenmare Kinsale

Castletownbere DURSEY HEAD

Bantry

Clonakilty

Skibbereen MIZEN HEAD

OLD HEAD OF KINSALE

Cork Harbour

OPEN EVERY DAY

The Ideal Stop On Dingle’s Slea Head Drive Along The Wild Atlantic Way...

Louis Mulcahy Pottery Handmade at Louis Mulcahy POTTERY | WORKSHOP| CAFÉ Near Clogher Strand, Ballyferriter, Dingle, Co Kerry 066 9156229 or email clogher@louismulcahy.com N 52009.191’ W010027.260

CONTRIBUTORS Lia Stokes, author of The Wild Atlantic Waves feature is a freelance journalist from the capital of the west coast, Galway. While she's very much at home in her adoptive city, Dublin, she misses the beauty of the wild west coast. A big time foodie, when she’s not working, she can be found cooking, eating or reading about food. Luckily, her love of fitness and the outdoors helps cancel out some of the chocolate intake! Galway native

Grainne McMahon, who interviewed the Homegrown Heroes entrepreneurs, has spent over ten years working as a multi platform journalist and editor. She has worked for iRadio, City Channel, the Connacht Tribune Group, Galway Bay Fm and most recently was Editor of GALWAYnow and WEDDINGSnow magazines. Grainne is a qualified solicitor in Ireland and also an Attorney at Law in the state of New York. She loves to travel and regularly runs, taking part in 10k races.

CONTENTS 04 06 12

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Editor's letter

Wild Way Insider Discover the delights and hidden gems of the Wild Atlantic Way

Homegrown Heroes

Just Go

South West Hotspots

Wild Atlantic Feast

A few must-sees along the Wild Atlantic Way Must-sees, plus the best spots to stay, eat and play in the South West

The Wild Atlantic Waves Meet Ireland’s top surfers

Wild Atlantic Way Top Beaches The most beautiful beaches along the route

Meet the people whose Wild Atlantic Way inspirations have created thriving businesses

Jennifer Ryan, who interviewed our Minister for Tourism, Michael Ring, is happiest when working with words. As a journalist, she has written for The Sunday Independent, IMAGE, Cara, The Irish Daily Mail, IMAGE Interiors & Living, independent.ie, and welovethisbook.com. She has also contributed to national broadcast RTÉ Radio on Arena, The Tubridy Show, and The John Murray Show, as well as appearing on Ireland Am on TV3. She splits her time between the West coast and Dublin. You can follow her on Twitter @jenlaryan or read her book review blog at www. theladylovesbooks.co.

A Golfer’s Paradise

The best golf courses along the Wild Atlantic Way

West Hotspots Must-sees, plus the best spots to stay, eat and play in the West

52 Live Like a King Live out your regal fantasy in one of the route's luxury castles

Why the Wild Atlantic Way is becoming one of Europe’s top food destinations

5 Minutes With... Bobby Kerr One of Ireland’s most wellknown entrepreneurs on his favourite Wild Atlantic Way destination

My Wild Atlantic Way

North West Hotspots

Minister for Tourism, Michael Ring on his Wild Atlantic Way memories Must-sees, plus the best spots to stay, eat and play in the North West

Front Cover Image: Ballynahinch Castle, Co Galway fballynahinch-castle.com

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

O ’ C O N N E L L S T R E E T, L I M E R I C K C I T Y, I R E L A N D 061 460 400 W W W.T H E G E O R G E B O U T I Q U E H O T E L . C O M

EDITORS LETTER

IMAGE: CHRIS HILL PHOTOGRAPHY

here’s a magical quality to the Western seaboard - a contrast that creates something unique. There are beautiful contradictions at every corner the wild, rugged force of the Atlantic and the towering cliffs set against the calm of the green rolling hills and peaceful lakes. It’s a little like the people - the warmth and the joy intermingles with the fierce and the determined. It’s difficult to put your finger on - and that’s what creates the magic. There’s passion and life in abundance, and there’s the contrasting solitary and melancholic quality to the land. Our long and turbulent history has created a strength and a culture unlike anywhere in the world, and it’s this mix of passion, determination, joy and humour that has built its life around the unforgiving lands, to create a place that people visit, and never want to leave.

Joining the dots of some of the most beautiful, scenic and historical spots in Europe to create a route unlike anywhere else in the world, the Wild Atlantic Way has unveiled extraordinary natural gems. Truly experiencing the Wild Atlantic Way isn’t just about stopping off at the must-sees though, it’s about placing yourself in the middle of the action, or taking yourself to the middle of nowhere, to get a real sense of what this place is about. We hope you jump in with both feet and go home with a piece of our magic lingering in your memory forever. Jo Lavelle Editor

PUBLISHER’S STATEMENT O n behalf of Go Wild Magazine, I would like to record my sincere thanks to the people who believed in the vision to create this first issue. Jo Lavelle, our editor-in-chief, who has been a constant inspiration and an amazing contributor to the final Go Wild magazine vision. Dean Panter in Fáilte Ireland for the coffees and chats. Grainne Kilcoyne, Fáilte Ireland for her advice and contacts. Minister Michael Ring for his time and his interview in this inaugural issue. Dragons

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Den celebrity, Bobby Kerr for his interview. Maeve O’Connor for her travel industry knowledge. Dave Curtin, designer and great buddy in Canada, Mark Hopkins (friend and sales guru), Sheila McGoey (the smiling and calm creative designer who put every page together), the entire Hopkins Communications sales and production teams and finally my wife Cleo, my son Jason and daughter Louise for their patience and belief in the old man’s entrepreneurial ideas! To everyone else who helped or contributed in

any small way, please know that every positive and encouraging comment or assistance was enormously welcomed. Bobby Power

HQ No 1 Hartstonge Street, Limerick. 087 4467007 bobby@gowildmagazine.com

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 unsubscripted 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.

d o o F f o n o i s u F A E S T. 1 9 8 6

B U F F E T / C H I N E S E R E S TA U R A N T

PHONE: 061 412 484 EMAIL: INFO@JASMINEPALACE.IE

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PHONE: 061 412 888 EMAIL: INFO@MARCOPOLO.IE

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PHONE: 061 609 709 EMAIL: INFO@CHOCOLATRESTAURANT.IE

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SITUATED ON O’CONNELL STREET | THE HEART OF LIMERICK CITY

Go Wild Insider Freewheelin’

Trekking

IMAGE: FÁILTE IRELAND

For the family

Discover the delights of the Atlantic underwater world at Galway’s Atlantaquaria, Dingle Oceanworld Aquarium or Lahinch Seaworld & Leisure Centre. Galway-based Letterfrack Bay Water Tours’ boat has under-water viewing panels so you can discover the underwater world of forests of seaweeds and kelp. Get to see and handle shellfish and starfish, while learning all about the underwater world. IMAGE: FÁILTE IRELAND

IMAGE: FÁILTE IRELAND

The Wild Atlantic terrain is perfect for horse trekking. There are numerous equine centres dotted along the Wild Atlantic Way where you can take a horse out for a canter. Visit www.ehi.ie for more details.

Festival Fever The summer is one long festival in Ireland. From major arts festivals such as the Galway International Arts Festival, to music, literature and food festivals, there’s no better place in the world to celebrate the vibrant and rich culture of the Wild Atlantic Way. Don’t miss: The Cork Midsummer Festival multi-disciplinary arts festival from 12 to 21 June, Sea Sessions Surf & Music Festival, Ireland’s only surf music festival in Bundoran, Co Donegal from 19 to 21 June.

IMAGE: FÁILTE IRELAND

Wind in your hair, sun on your face, the world whizzing by, there’s nothing like cycling to get all your cylinders firing. Cycling is an amazing way to discover the delights of the Wild Atlantic Way, be it in the countryside, up the mountains, island hopping or getting around towns and villages. There are any number of bike hires available along the route. Cork, Limerick and Galway cities also have a self-service bike rental service with stations conveniently located throughout each city, making it easy to get around.

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…discover the amazing Wild Atlantic Way

The Award Winning

O’CONNORS Seafood Restaurant Bantry, Co. Cork Proprietor, Pat Kiely

O’CONNORS Seafood Restaurant

A True Taste of West Cork

Famous destination seafood restaurant that is recommended in all of the major food guides including Taste of Ireland and Good Food Ireland.

Address: O’Connors Seafood Restaurant, Wolfe Tone Square, Bantry, Co. Cork. Tel: +353 (0)27 55664 Email: eat@oconnorsbantry.com BOOK NOW: www.oconnorseafood.com

OConnors-Seafood-Bantry

Fungi the Dolphin

IMAGE: FÁILTE IRELAND

Fancy a spot of food touring? Sample the culinary delights on offer along the Wild Atlantic Way with one of the many food tours throughout the regions. For more details fdiscoverireland.ie. If you’re looking for an in-depth and reliable guide to eating out along the Wild Atlantic Way, pick up a copy of ‘Ireland - Where to Eat and Stay Along the Wild Atlantic Way’, written by the most respected food writers in the country - John & Sally McKenna.

Kick back IMAGE: FÁILTE IRELAND

The Wild Atlantic Way has some amazing spas and retreats dotted along the coast and in cities to feed the body and soul. Delphi Adventure Resort is famous in itself for its wonderful location in the depths of Connemara and ‘get away from it all’ ethos. Its spa is glorious. A highlight, apart from the excellent treatments, is lying back in the hot tub while taking in the dramatic mountainous landscape surrounds. The Solis Spa at Lough Eske castle is another gem - it uses a unique blend of natural Irish peat in its treatments, which has been used in Ireland for generations as an effective cosmetic treatment. There are also lots of yoga centres along the Wild Atlantic Way if you’re in need of some extra soul food. Try the Blarney Spa and Yoga centre for an invigorating mix of yoga and indulgence. More details on spa breaks and yoga retreats available fdiscoverireland.ie IMAGE: FÁILTE IRELAND

Local markets

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A visit to any town in Ireland isn’t complete without experiencing a real trad session. Let your hair down and get those toes tapping to the lively and uplifting traditional music playing sessions that you’ll find in hundreds of pubs along with Wild Atlantic Way. IMAGE: FÁILTE IRELAND

Take a trip to any of the region’s Farmer’s Markets to get a taste of what our food culture is about. There, amidst the banter, the laughs, the bustle and the craic, you’ll find some of the freshest, cleanest, most flavoursome foods you’ll ever taste.

The Craic

A step back in time

IMAGE: FÁILTE IRELAND

W ith a culture as rich and a history as stormy as Ireland’s, you’ll find a keen sense of respect and reverence for the past among the Irish. And so, you’ll find museums and heritage centres in abundance where you can get a true sense of the long and colourful past of the counties along the Wild Atlantic Way. Just some of the museums where you can view antiques, some dating from the Neolithic times, are The Hunt Museum, Limerick City; Galway City Museum; Kinsale Museum, Co Cork; National Museum of Ireland - Country Life, Co Mayo and Donegal County Museum, Letterkenny, Co Donegal.

IMAGE: FÁILTE IRELAND

Foodie Fare

Fancy some dolphin spotting? There are lots of dolphin and whale spotting tours off the coast of Clare, Cork and Kerry. You can meet Ireland’s very own celebrity Dolphin, Fungi - the friendly bottle-nosed dolphin who’s been in Dingle for over 25 years, with Dingle Dolphin Boat Tours in County Kerry. For more details fdiscoverireland.ie

Horse Play For lovers of horse racing, the famous Galway Races Summer Festival, which takes place from 27 July To 02 August offers seven magnificent days of fun, fashion and of course, racing. The city of Galway takes on a new level of buzzing as thousands flock to the city for the country’s most well-loved race meeting. The after-race entertainment takes on just as much importance as the racing here, when the race goers descend on the city for lots of fun and frollics. Limerick Racecourse is also holding an All American Race Meeting with 7 National Hunt races at 05 July 2015. For some Twilight Racing, head to the racetrack on 6 and 19 June and 23 July. Expect lots of fast-paced action, with plenty of entertainment off track.

Trinity City Hotel, Pearse Street, Dublin 2, Ireland Phone: +353 1 648 1000 Fax: +353 1 648 1010 Email: info@trinitycityhotel.com Sat Nav code: 53°20’42.9”N 6°15’15.3”W For more information visit our website www.trinitycityhotel.com

IMAGE: FÁILTE IRELAND

Adventure For the adventurous souls, the Wild Atlantic Way offers a wealth of activities - from water sports, hiking and cycling to endurance tests such as triathlons and marathons - you’ll never be stuck for a challenge. Here are a few summer races.

Water baby With an abundance of waterways - lakes, rivers, canals and of course the extraordinary Atlantic, the water enthusiast is never stuck for activities along the Wild Atlantic Way. From sailing, windsurfing, snorkelling, diving and surfing, an invigorating and adventurous holiday awaits. From Cork to Donegal, there are so many adventure centres to choose from - fdiscoverireland.ie for a full list. For surf enthusiasts, log onto www.surfaroundireland.com, a great website with all the latest surf news, breathtaking pictures and features.

01 June Irish Examiner Cork City Marathon, Cork Add a lifetime achievement to your Wild Atlantic Way holiday checklist with this fun and friendly marathon.

IMAGE: FÁILTE IRELAND

20 - 21 June Rocks N Rollin Ultra - Back 2 Back, Co Donegal Exciting on-off road adventure course forming an endurance test of epic proportions with amazing challenges and scenery. 04 July Achill Half Marathon and 10K, Co Mayo Stunning scenery, a friendly vibe and lots of entertainment on offer before and after the marathon. 11 July Killarney’s Ultimate High Peaks Challenge, Co Kerry Test your personal navigational skills, fitness and stamina with this exciting event. 15 August Gaelforce West, Connemara, Co Galway A unique event framed by the magnificent Connemara Landscape. Trail/mountain running or walking, cycling or kayaking. The terrain includes mountain scree, bogland, trails, sealed roads and the majestic waters of Killary Fjord. A must for outdoor activity enthusiasts

IMAGE: FÁILTE IRELAND

he Wild Atlantic Way has come out tops in Tripadvisor’s top ten destinations in Ireland, bagging nine of the ten top ten spots. Tripadvisor voted Killarney, Dingle, Kerry, Donegal Town, Westport, Cork, Sligo, Dingle and Tralee in its top ten.

IMAGE: DANIEL DUDEK

Ultimate holiday snaps For holiday snaps that you’re not going to toss in a cupboard forever, get in touch with portrait and lifestyle photographer Ian Mitchinson. The South African, who’s made his home in the West, is happiest when shooting in the great outdoors producing cool, creative and amazing pics for those wanting to capture a special moment. fimcreative.ie

A day for ducks For those wet days, learn a new craft from one of the Wild Atlantic Way’s many talented craftspeople. From landscape painting in the Burren with The Burren Painting Centre, Co Clare to pottery, glass fusing and stained glass, mosaics and jewelry-making at the Kinsale Pottery and Arts Centre in Co Cork, there are lots of Irish traditional crafts to choose from. Paint your own pottery at Kil’n Time in Co Donegal or create your own bone carving at Ireland’s only bone carving studio at The Bone Carving Studio and Gallery in Galway.

IMAGE: IAN MITCHINSON

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Tripadvisor top ten destinations ireland

Grasp the moment Looking for an artful, timeless image? Kathrin Baumbach, the talented photographer who snapped Richie Fitzgerald, Ireland’s top surfer in our Wild Atlantic Waves feature is available for commissions in Ireland and around the world. Kathrin regularly shoots covers for Hot Press Magazine (recently Hozier and The Script), The Irish Times, The Irish Independent and American music magazine SPIN. fkathrinbaumbach.com

Shannon Street, Limerick 061 460400 www.davincenzo.com

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Homegrown

Heroes

Irish made products along the Wild Atlantic Way are having their moment, writes Gráinne McMahon.

3. The Tweed Project

“W

e’re taking the ‘tweeness’ out of linen and tweed,” says Galway restaurateur Aoibheann MacNamara of The Tweed Project, a collaboration with stylist Triona Lillis. The proprietor of Ard Bia, the funky Galway restaurant where laid back vibes are the rule rather than the exception, says the venture is much like the food business, “I’m into slow food and this is slow fashion. Beautiful one-off pieces in linen and tweed coming from a nice slow design process.” The project came about after the two business women had a conversation about the use (or non-use) of tweed and linen in contemporary Irish fashion. “I’ve alway been a big fan of tweed. Aoibheann had been a customer of my shop, Astor. One day, Aoibheann had brought some tweed samples from Donegal to the shop. We had a brief conversation about how beautiful the fabric was and how people nowadays aren’t wearing it the way it should be worn. We quickly decided we would do a small collection in tweed and linen. After a visit to Molloy’s in Donegal, with whom Triona had previously worked to make suits for the comedian Tommy Tiernan, the pair embarked on designing a blanket coat. The premise was that it was loosely based on the Galway shawl from the finest Irish wool. “It was brilliant luck - that season Burberry did a blanket coat and we happened to be in production with ours. We ended up having a unique piece for a mid-range price - a good quality Irish product.” And so the Tweed Project was born. After a soft launch at the Drop Everything cultural festival on Inis Oirr, orders began to flood in and the pair now export their products to America and Canada, while the pieces are also on sale in Ard Bia Restaurant at Nimmos Pier, Galway. Along with the blanket coat are linen trousers and shirts, inspired by Japanese work wear.

Aoibheann MacNamara & Triona Lillis

The linens, made by McNutts in Antrim, are unisex and are proving particularly popular among men. The shirt is designed to make the wearer feel good, while the coat is a signature piece. “I wear the coat all the time and it's very versatile, it can be used as a blanket while travelling, it’s inherently Irish and instantly warms you up,” says Aoibheann. Design is shared between the women and is on a part-time scale for now with the focus on two or three key pieces each season from high quality linens and tweed. “We like simple designs that people can come back to year after year. They are very classic but timeless,” explains Triona, adding; “It’s a heritage brand, rather than a fashion brand. There is nothing like it in Ireland at the moment. It’s something Irish to be proud of. Aoibheann agrees; “We're using these fabrics in a fresh new way, and we’re very committed to that. We’re not interested in growing exponentially; we’re taking it slowly - we’ll grow as we grow.” fthetweedproject.com

“It was brilliant luck - that season, Burberry did a blanket coat and we happened to be in production with ours. We ended up having a unique piece for a midrange price - a good quality Irish product.”

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“We buy beeswax from a West Cork beekeeper and we are always looking for herb suppliers. I believe strongly in buying locally, supporting my community and reducing the miles that my ingredients have to travel.”

1. Bia Beauty

racey Ryan was always fascinated with nature and making things from natural materials. After studying Horticulture and Herbal Science, the Tipperary native began making her own skincare and toiletry products at home. “My husband Gavin has very sensitive skin and Feidhlim was a newborn, so I needed products that worked for us. If Feidhlim had nappy rash, I experimented away until I created the best nappy rash cream. If I was sleep deprived and had puffy eyes, then I needed a toning eye gel, and so I was creating products all the time.” Realising that the skin absorbs about 60 per cent of what you apply to it, Tracey began creating products that were natural, using mostly food ingredients - nut and seed oils, herbal infusions and fruit extracts. After initial success at farmers markets in Cork where the family is based, Tracey established Bia Beauty. That was three years ago, and today, the company sells 12 different products to over 100 stores

Tracey Ryan

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in Ireland and has won a number of beauty awards. The focus remains on sourcing local ingredients from Cork, although with the growth of production, Tracey’s allotment no longer suffices for sourcing the calendula herb. “We buy beeswax from a West Cork beekeeper and we are always looking for herb suppliers. I believe strongly in buying locally, supporting my community and reducing the miles that my ingredients have to travel. Where we can’t buy local, we look to buy sustainable or fair trade instead.

“For every synthetic ingredient in conventional skincare, there is a natural alternative that is just as effective and without the harmful side effects.”

For example our Shea Butter comes from a women’s collective in Ghana.” The ethos behind Bia Beauty is that you ‘feed your skin’. “For every synthetic ingredient in conventional skincare, there is a natural alternative that is just as effective and without the harmful side effects. We believe that you should ‘feed your skin’ with healthy and natural ingredients. You don’t have to compromise on effectiveness if you use natural,” believes Tracey. And the awards are testament to this, which has helped Tracey to market the brand and

compete with large cosmetic companies. “Natural products are becoming more commonplace and the market is growing. Bia Beauty is not just another natural product, it’s not enough to be natural, people are looking for products that work. With my background in science and herbs, I’ve created formulations that work. And I think the fact that we have chosen edible ingredients and that we talk about feeding the skin really makes us stand out from the crowd.” fbiabeauty.com

2. Voya

aving studied law and worked in investment banking, heading up one of Ireland’s most successful cosmetic companies was never part of the plan for Mark Walton. But the Sligo entrepreneur was always drawn to the sea and now oversees a multi-million euro company along with his wife Kira, exporting Voya products to 38 countries and counting. The almost magical properties of Voya’s primary ingredient – seaweed sourced in Sligo – ensures its uniqueness, along with an ethos for being organic and environmentally friendly. Neil, Kira & Mark Walton Even the packaging is made from seaweed. harvest some of the 300 million tonnes With three new cosmetic ranges with “The use of seaweed goes back over 20 new products due to launch in hundreds of years - for use as a fertiliser, of seaweed biomass in Ireland before bringing it to the company’s state-ofthe next few months, in addition to a for clothing, food and for seaweed the-art facility in Sligo. There, it is collaboration with a well-known airline bathing,” says Mark. His brother, Neil, formulated into a vast range of bath, for its business customers, the future is also ran the successful Celtic Seaweed body, facial and lifestyle products. “The bright for Voya, with a growth rate of Baths, famous for their medicinal and sourcing, maintaining and cultivating 40 per cent year-on-year. “The organic moisturising properties, in Strandhill, of the material is very important,” beauty industry is the only sector in the Sligo for many years, which rebranded explains Mark, who works closely cosmetic industry that is still growing to Voya Seaweed Baths in 2005. “In aggressively, it is still growing in double Strandhill alone there were nine seaweed with the EU commission to formulate organic standards for the cultivation digits. Conventional cosmetics are now baths at one stage, so what we are doing trying to make natural claims is not new at all,” he adds. The ever-growing “We were approached within a year and now about their products, which is unusual,” says Mark, who popularity of one of sell Voya all over the world and produce the believes we are realising Ireland’s most popular products in Sligo. It involved a lot of luck.” the danger of parabens and beauty ranges came about other nasty chemicals in by chance. Initially, Mark of seaweed. “We cut a portion of the cosmetics. Voya products are chemicalplanned to sell seaweed products into seaweed plant so it doesn’t die, so really, free and completely organic. “I do think hotels and spas across Ireland. “Kira it’s like pruning a tree - the root stays that there’s an element of us looking and I moved back to Sligo to continue and grows.” back in 20 years and asking what the the family business and we decided to So popular is the seaweed’s purifying hell were we putting on our skin.” And make the products ourselves. We were Voya’s unique selling point? “The quality approached within a year and now sell all properties that the USA will soon be Voya’s number one market, of our formulation, beyond doubt,” over the world and produce the products followed closely by the Middle East, concludes Mark. in Sligo. It involved a lot of luck.” Sweden, Hong Kong and Norway. Four to five harvesters hit the shores fvoya.ie The international success came from of Sligo a number of times a week to Mark and Kira “never saying no” to opportunities and taking 120 flights a year for four or five years. “In some respects, we didn’t think internationally, we thought about getting the products on the shelves, but Ireland is a small country and we were going to run out of potential customers. We didn’t put up any barriers to trade internationally and that flexibility has served us well in the long term.”

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“The climate in Dingle, along with the local spring water lends itself perfectly to brewing whiskey.”

4. The Dingle Distillery

liver Hughes has a long track record of running microbrewery pubs, but it was his love affair with Dingle, stemming from its people and culture, that inspired him to establish the Dingle Distillery just three years ago. A barrister by trade but with a string of bars in New York, Dublin and London, his natural affinity with the Kerry land meant it was a natural step for him to want to brew whiskey in the area. “The climate in Dingle, along with the local spring water lends itself perfectly to brewing whiskey,” explains Mary Ferriter, Manager of the distillery.

“We use 15 different botanicals in our gin. The spring water in Dingle is integral to its taste.” While whiskey is not yet being sold from the distillery as it takes three years before you can legally sell your first cask, the vodka and gin is already proving a hit in the Irish market and is now being exported with sales growing month on month. “Our gin and vodka speak for themselves, growing beautifully. Both are created 100% in Dingle. We use 15 different botanicals in our gin - the spring water in Dingle is integral to its taste and it is copper pot distilled.” So popular is this artisan’s distillery, the first distillery built in the country in 200 years, that it now hosts three daily group tours, where visitors can get up close with the production process, ensuring a vital revenue stream while Oliver, Mary and their team await the 18 Go Wild June 2015

maturity of the first casks of whiskey. Production at the distillery is all manual, with workers taking intensive training in this niche industry, with the aim of producing unique and premium products. This has ensured an interest from tourists from Europe, America, Canada and beyond. Feedback from initial casks of whiskey has been extremely positive among those in the business, with the key ingredient undoubtedly being the local spring water. “The quality of that water is vital. It comes from almost 300 feet below the ground and it’s as pure as an angel,” says Oliver adding, “The Dingle rain, which our friend and whiskey expert John McDougall says is ‘whiskey in waiting’, filters through the mountains for hundreds of years and then we pump it up.” Mary is upbeat about the year ahead; “Every whiskey has its own individuality and ours will certainly be unique. What is most exciting is our timing into the market - we have a new industry in terms of Irish distilleries here and that can only be positive.” fdingledistillery.ie

Oliver Hughes

5. Superfolk

Gearoid Muldowney & Jo Anne Butler

“Wood is a beautiful material to work with; it smells good, it feels nice in your hand, it’s warm and rich and it’s a renewable resource.”

love of the West of Ireland and its inspirational landscape led Jo Anne Butler and Gearoid Muldowney to set up their furniture business in Westport. After years of living in Dublin, the pair made the move to the West with their dog, Woody, and Superfolk was born – a furniture range for people who love the wild outdoors. “We looked at what business model would allow us to use our designer skills and live in the West. We were really excited by the small scale food producers in the area. There is an energy and positivity in the West that we are really influenced by,” says Jo Anne. Superfolk is not a fashion-focussed brand; instead, Gearoid and Jo Anne look at how the home reflects the personality and values of its owner. Superfolk aims to celebrate Ireland’s material heritage and reflects the character and behaviour of the raw materials from which they are made. “The different woods we use are always from responsibly managed forests and where possible, are FSC certified (Forest Stewardship Council),” explains Gearoid of their responsibility towards the land. “Wood is a beautiful material to work with; it smells good, it feels nice in your hand, it’s warm and rich and it’s a renewable resource. In the workshop, we have really been working to cut down on waste, to develop products from our off cuts and design in such a way that we minimise any waste,” says Jo Anne,

“We were really excited by the small scale food producers in the area. There is an energy and positivity in the West that we are really influenced by.” explaining that homewares made from natural materials improve with use and with age. “This way of thinking, of understanding and respecting the life within your material, is the basis of all that we do.” The Irish landscape is a major inspiration for the product and as the company grows, the pair hope to create more employment locally. “We started with the Irish market but we are focused on building a retail network internationally. We have exported to Japan, Switzerland, Germany and the UK.” Along with homewares, Superfolk specialises in providing furniture to cafes and restaurants. “With larger furniture pieces, we have provided furniture to cafes and restaurants including Tom’s Deli at Somerset House and Canary Wharf in London,” explains Gearoid. When they are not in the studio or workshop, Gearoid and Jo Anne both love wildlife, nature and exploring the great outdoors in the West. And it is this outdoors that inspires the exquisite beauty of the Superfolk produce. fsuperfolk.com

Folding Camping Chair & Trivets

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Just Go

... a few must-sees along the Wild Atlantic Way Malin Head

Cliffs of Moher

IMAGE: RAYMOND FOGARTY

IMAGE: CLIFFS OF MOHER VISITOR EXPERIENCE

Malin Head, Co Donegal At Ireland’s most northerly point, Malin Head in Co Donegal has epic views over the ocean. Think you have to travel to Scandinavia to see the Northern Lights? The Aurora Borealis is visible in all its splendour from Malin Head at different times of the year - you just might be lucky enough to catch them.

Mullaghmore Head, Co Sligo A famous surfing spot, Mullaghmore is probably best known in surfing circles for its ‘Prowlers’ - a wave that can swell up to 100ft. The rugged coastline offers amazing views of Sliabh Liag Cliffs and Benbulben.

Downpatrick Head, Co Mayo With great views of the Atlantic and the Staggs of Broadhaven, Folklore has it that Dún Briste, the large sea stack rising from the sea off Downpatrick Head, was formed when St Patrick struck the ground with his crozier in anger after a pagan chieftain, Crom Dubh refused to convert to Christianity.

Cliffs of Moher, Co Clare Over 700 feet high, and 8 km long, the Cliffs of Moher offer spectacular views of the Aran Islands and Galway Bay, The Twelve Bens, Loop Head, the Dingle Peninsula and Blasket Islands in Kerry. The Cliffs of Moher (Moher meaning ruined fort in Irish) are named after a 1st century BC fort that used to be located on the cliffs.

22 Go Wild June 2015

Blaskets View, Co Kerry

Mullaghmore Head

On the very western tip of the Wild Atlantic Way, just off the Dingle Peninsula in Co Kerry, you can see the famed Blasket Islands. The largest of the Islands, The Great Blasket used to have 175 people living here, but by 1953, the last of the inhabitants moved to the mainland. Today, you can visit the deserted villages of the islands by boat.

Mizen Head, Co Cork Known for its dramatic cliffs and breathtaking scenery, Mizen Head, the most south-westerly point of Ireland, used to be the last and first place seafarers would see on their trip across the Atlantic. From the cliffs, you can see Fastnet Lighthouse on a rock called ‘Ireland’s Teardrop’.

IMAGE: RAYMOND FOGARTY

Downpatrick Head IMAGE: RAYMOND FOGARTY

Blaskets View

IMAGE: FÁILTE IRELAND

Mizen Head

IMAGE: RAYMOND FOGARTY

Nestled in the heart of the historic countryside of Bunratty and within easy access to Shannon Airport, the Bunratty Castle Hotel is but a short stroll away from the famous 15th century Bunratty Castle & Folk Park. Bunratty is an ideal base for visiting and touring the unspoiled, cultural West of Ireland with Galway and Connemara, the Cliffs of Moher, the Burren and the beautiful lakes of Killarney all within an easy day trip.

Make yourself at home in one of the 144 luxurious guestrooms - tastefully decorated using traditional fabrics and warm comfortable colour schemes to create that “home away from home” feeling. Grab a bite at one of the hotel’s 2 restaurants or quench your thirst with your favourite drink in our bar/lounge.

Experience sheer indulgence in our Angsana Spa where our experienced Thai therapists offer a wide range of holistic treatments that will rejuvenate your body and soul. You can also take advantage of recreational amenities such as a health club, an indoor pool, and a sauna.

Bunratty Castle Hotel, Bunratty, Co. Clare, Ireland. Tel +353 (0)61 478 700 | Fax +353 61 364 891 | info@bunrattycastlehotel.com Bunratty Castle Hotel Half Page.indd 1

21/05/2015 15:36

Escape to Carrygerry Country House

Call 061 360500 or email: info@carrygerryhouse.com | www.carrygerryhouse.com

The South From the unbeatable classic green beauty of West Cork to the mountains and lakes of the Ring of Kerry, an unforgettable treat of culture, heritage and lifetime memories await.

24 Go Wild June 2015

West

IMAGE: BLASKET ISLANDS FROM DUNMORE HEAD. CHRIS HILL PHOTOGRAPHY

Festivals

IMAGE: JEDRZEJ NIEZGODA

CORK

IMAGE: FÁILTE IRELAND IMAGE: FÁILTE IRELAND

CORK MIDSUMMER FESTIVAL 12 TO 14 JUNE & 19 TO 21 JUNE

Fo r Arts Sake

The Crawford Art Gallery, a National Cultural Institution and regional art museum for Munster, is dedicated to the visual arts, both historic and contemporary. Located in the heart of Cork City, beside the Home to thousands of animals since Opera House, the Gallery’s it first opened its gates, Fota Wildlife permanent collection Park is a great family day out. The comprises over 2000 works, animals on Fota Island represent all of ranging from eighteenth the continents and ecosystems on Earth. century Irish and European Through these ‘ambassadors’, visitors painting and sculpture, to the Wildlife Park learn how they live, through to contemporary why they are special and the threats each video installations. faces in its own native habitat. fcrawfordgallery.ie ffotawildlife.ie

Fota Island

Head West

West Cork is one of the most unspoilt and beautiful parts of Ireland. Stretching from Kinsale in the East to the Beara Peninsula in the West, it is a vast region of colourful towns, quaint villages, a relaxed lifestyle and people. There are over 100 beaches in the region, dozens of scenic drives, walking trails, cycling routes, as well as a host of activities and a full schedule of festivals. West Cork Tours will take you to all the most beautiful spots, showing you all the must-sees in West Cork. fwestcorktours.ie

IMAGE: FÁILTE IRELAND

Foodie hotspots

IMAGE: CAFE PARADISO

Cork has so many great food offerings, it’s difficult to handpick a few. Fishy Fishy in Kinsale, which was dubbed as ‘the best seafood restaurant in Ireland’ by the Lonely Planet Guide is possibly the best place to start. Cafe Paradiso in Cork City is a favourite among the veggies of the South West. Greens Restaurant, which is attached to Isaacs Hotel in the city centre offers great food, cooked with flair and imagination in a really lovely, romantic setting. 26 Go Wild June 2015

IMAGE: CORK MIDSUMMER FESTIVAL

Best local produce

The English Market in Cork is probably the biggest and most famous of all the markets along the Wild Atlantic Way. Trading since 1788, this lively indoor market offers some truly delicious fare. You’ll find farmers markets in most towns - for more info, check out fbordbia.ie

Whe re to stay... Located on the beautiful beach of Inchydoney, Inchydoney Island Lodge & Spa is the ultimate relaxation getaway. Each bedroom has its own private balcony with magnificent views over the beaches of Inchydoney Island and the Atlantic Ocean. For a grand experience, with exquisite service, visit Hayfield Manor estate, in the heart of Cork city or for a very central hotel, with a wealth of history attached and a wonderfully ornate interior, head to The Imperial Hotel, the oldest property in the city.

INCHYDONEY IMAGE: RAYMOND FOGARTY

A multi-disciplinary arts festival that uses Cork city as its backdrop and inspiration. Providing high-quality arts events, both national and international, for audiences of all ages.

GATHER BY THE FEALE FESTIVAL, ABBEYFEALE, CO LIMERICK 17 TO 19 JULY A fun and energetic family festival with live music, street theatre, fire show, a food extravaganza and carnival.

WEST CORK LITERARY FESTIVAL, BANTRY, CO CORK 12 TO 18 JULY At the heart of this festival are its popular five-day writing workshops. The programme is also packed with readings, seminars, main evening events, book launches and children's events.

CAHERSIVEEN FESTIVAL OF MUSIC AND ARTS, CO KERRY 31 JULY TO 02 AUGUST A festival for all the family celebrating culture, music and history in the picturesque town of Cahersiveen.

THE ROSE OF TRALEE INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL, CO KERRY 14 TO 18 AUGUST One of Ireland's largest and longest running festivals, celebrating 56 years this year. The heart of the festival is the selection of the Rose of Tralee which brings young women of Irish descent from around the world to County Kerry for a global celebration of Irish culture.

MASTERS OF TRADITION, BANTRY, CO CORK 19 TO 23 AUGUST A five-day festival featuring a series of performances covering the full spectrum of Irish traditional music. Performances take place in Bantry House, one of Ireland’s most exquisite historic mansions, and in one of Bantry’s other special venues, St Brendan’s Church. For more details on events and festivals, log onto fdiscoverireland.ie

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Trace the music & history of The Kilfenora Band at The Burren Centre.â&#x20AC;?

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

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

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

KERRY/Limerick

IMAGE: ARD NA SIDHE COUNTRY HOUSE

Fo r a rainy day...

Create a memory that will last a lifetime when you create your own pot at Louis Mulcahy Pottery in Dingle, Co Kerry. Located on the scenic Slea Head drive, nestled at the foot of a mountain and overlooking the wild Atlantic of Clogher Strand, Louis Mulcahy pottery is a place where you can browse, experience, create, learn and immerse yourself in this very Irish handcraft. Learn how the pottery is made from start to finish at the workshop, discover all the beautiful pottery in the showroom, (and avail of the workshop prices!). There’s also a sweet little cafe where you can enjoy home baking and local produce, served on their own pottery. A great pastime for both adults and kids. flouismulcahy.com

Food

Global Village in Dingle, Co Kerry was voted the best emerging Irish cuisine in 2014 and the best restaurant in Kerry in 2013 by the Restaurant Association of Ireland, and is a favourite among food lovers.

1826 in Adare, Co Limerick is the definitive modern creative casual Irish restaurant, and well worth a visit. Stop off in Canteen in Limerick for fast, healthy, simple and delicious food. 28 Go Wild June 2015

Whe re to stay...Ke rry Overlooking the picturesque Sheen Falls, just outside the heritage town of Kenmare, the five-star Relais & Chateaux Sheen Falls Hotel offers fine dining and a unique collection of luxury cottages and villas. Ard na Sidhe in Kerry, named as Top Ireland & UK Luxury Hotel on a budget by Condé Nast is a charming and serene country house, set on the magical ‘Hill of Fairies’ in the scenic Ring of Kerry.

Don’t miss

Culture

One of the most spectacular tourist routes in Europe, the Ring of Kerry is a journey through rugged and majestic landscapes, roads teetering dramatically at cliffs edges, rolling green hills and glistening lakes. If you’re lucky enough to travel this route, don’t miss these hotspots - The Gap of Dunloe, Bog Village, Derrynane House, Torc Waterfall, Muckross House and Muckross Abbey and Skellig Michael. These memories will last you a lifetime!

IMAGE: FÁILTE IRELAND

Whe re to stay - Limerick

Limerick City Gallery of Art is one of the leading contemporary art galleries in Ireland and home to an important collection of Irish 18th to 21st century art in all media, amounting to over 831 works. You’ll find the gallery in the historic Carnegie Building, adjacent to the People's Park and on the 19th century, Georgian styled, Pery Square in Limerick City. The Hunt museum, located at The Custom House, Rutland Street exhibits one of Ireland's greatest private collections of art and antiquities, dating from the Neolithic to the 20th Century.

Full of character and style, and overlooking the handsome, tree-lined People’s Park in the historic Georgian Quarter, No.1 Pery Square is a luxurious and intimate boutique townhouse hotel. The Mustard Seed is a stylish classic country house in Ballingarry, Co Limerick, with luxury accommodation, coupled with the finest food. This beautiful country house oozes charm without pretension. For a contemporary luxury city centre stay, The George Boutique Hotel is located in the heart of Limerick City, if you prefer to be close to the shopping and entertainment district.

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The Wild Atlantic

FEAST Words by Jo Lavelle

hat makes a destination exceptional?

There’s the landscape, the people of course. There’s atmosphere, a ‘vibe’. Then there’s culture, art, food. When all these things come together well - you’ve got yourself a very rare, and very precious mix. A magical, elusive quality. San Francisco has it, Berlin has it. And the West of Ireland is brewing its very own particular type of magic at the moment. It has all started on a very grassroots level. Take a handful of innovative chefs who have opened up their own restaurants, and trained some more great chefs, who are now going on to run their own restaurants, and the food movement along the coast is spreading like wild-fire. The food scene along the coast is thriving right now. In 01 Galway, restaurants such as Aniar, Kai, Ard Bia and Loam are leading the way in this exciting food movement. Fáilte Ireland buy chicken from Ronan in Athenry when it’s more expensive Food Ambassador and owner of Michelin-starred Aniar than buying from Germany? To understand the whole local restaurant, JP McMahon, is one of a group of talented chefs food movement, you have to see it as more of a long-term thing. who are making it happen. It’s about understanding a community. I believe that if you “Galway has a very cosmopolitan and relaxed sense follow through on that from a business point of view “Galway of itself; it doesn’t take itself too seriously. And and you can educate your customers, there’s when you combine all those things together, going to be a shift in attitude.” has a very you get a nice, funky culinary community. And that’s exactly what the self-confessed cosmopolitan and I’d love Galway to be like San Francisco. ‘obsessive educationalist’, who has been relaxed sense of itself; While it doesn’t have the population, it behind some of the most innovative food it has the food and the people producing events in the country in the last number it doesn’t take itself too the food. There will be so many culinary of years, has done through Aniar. The seriously. And when you tourists along the Wild Atlantic Way, only Michelin-starred restaurant in the combine all those things and there are so many good food places.” West of Ireland, Aniar is a unique terroirJP, who also owns EAT gastro pub and based restaurant, where the menu depends together, you get a nice, renowned Spanish restaurant Cava Bodega, on what local produce is available at the funky culinary believes wholeheartedly in working closely time. community.” with the local producers, not only to produce “We make food based on the products of great food, but also to give momentum to the whole Ireland. So we don’t use lemons, we don’t use black local food movement. pepper, we don’t use chocolate. If you remove ingredients “You have to believe in it (the local food movement) in some from chefs, they need to get creative. So if you don’t have any capacity, as it doesn’t make any financial sense. Why would we spices, you end up foraging for wild plants or you dry different

03 04 30 Go Wild June 2015

JP McMahon’s favourite Wild Atlantic Way Restaurants:

01. 02. 03. 04. 05.

JP McMahon Aniar Kai LOAM Ard Bia

vegetables to make powders. That’s what I love about Aniar. It’s extremely simple but it’s also extremely creative. For me, the biggest learning curve was learning about pickling and fermentation. It’s a challenge to tap into those practices of preservation, but tone it back enough so that it becomes a really interesting part of a dish.” Because the West of Ireland has an abundance of great, natur ally-produced ingredients on its doorstep, JP believes it’s all about infusing all the aspects that make a place special, 02 to create something bigger and better. JP’s vision for Galway is an eclectic mix of the arts culture of Berlin, the fine dining of Copenhagen and the colour and street food of San Francisco. “I’d love to take the best of Berlin, which Galway has a lot of affinity with because of its funky arts culture. Mix it with the fine dining of Copenhagen; we have all the key points of Nordic cuisine because we’re on the same latitude so we have all of the same herbs, all the same food, so we can engage with that in terms of fine dining. Add the colour and street food of San Francisco and you’ve got the perfect mix.” The vision is steadily gaining momentum and coming to life along the coast, where dozens of young dynamic chefs are hosting more and more pop-up restaurants. Street food is gaining momentum, and of course, there are the consistently great gems that deserve their place at the top of the restaurant food chain. With young, innovative, creative and fearless innovators such as JP at the helm of the food movement in Ireland, an exciting future of culture, colour and taste awaits the discerning food tourist.

Harry’s Bar and Restaurant, Inishowen, Co Donegal The champion of local food in Inishowen, Harry’s Bar & Restaurant serves local meats including beef, lamb and rare-breed pork, all dry-aged in its own hanging room. Fish and shellfish are collected straight from the Greencastle boats and there are lots of tasty Inishowen treats such as organics, game and whatever else is in-season and local.

Wild Honey Inn, The Burren, Co Clare Near the cliffs of Moher, Wild Honey Inn serves wild, free-range, seasonal and local food in a modern bistro style. Amongst the many awards are the ‘Bib Gourmand’ award from The Michelin Guide.

Global Village, Dingle Ranked as the best emerging Irish cuisine in 2014 and best restaurant in Kerry in 2013 by the Restaurant Association of Ireland, this Michelin recommended restaurant specialises in fresh fish and seafood from inshore local fisherman and fresh meat from farmers who operate a sustainable farming policy. The seasonal vegetables are grown in the Global Village chemical-free vegetable garden run using biodynamic principles.

Restaurant 1826, Adare, Co Limerick Head chef Wade’s cooking ethos is based on the use of wild, free-range, seasonal and local produce that is then cooked with modern and classical techniques to ensure the quality ingredients are the centrepiece of each dish. Wade’s style is influenced by the rugged West Coast of Ireland with its abundance of produce.

Eithna’s By the Sea, Mullaghmore, Co Sligo Eithna’s By the Sea award-winning seafood restaurant overlooks the harbour. The friendly, family-run restaurant caters for casual dining with homemade recipes using locally-sourced food and sustainable produce. Eithne’s won the Georgina Campbell Ireland Guide and BIM 2014 award for its fresh seafood, shellfish and lobster dishes, as well as Eithna’s use of seaweed in both savoury and sweet dishes.

Grainne Uaile, Newport, Co Mayo

Named after one of Ireland’s most famous women, the pirate Queen ‘Grainne Uaile’, the award-winning Grainne Uaile is a traditional family owned pub serving wholesome, local produce in this very picturesque heritage town. Go Wild June 2015 31

PHOTOGRAPH: FÁILTE IRELAND

MINUTES WITH...

“Kilkee represents all that is great about rural Ireland. It’s a beautiful place; life is uncomplicated and there is lots to do.”

BOBBY KERR

PHOTOGRAPH: FÁILTE IRELAND

Irish entrepreneur and businessman BOBBY KERR is chairman of Insomnia Coffee, Ireland’s largest coffee house chain. He presents ‘Down to Business’, a Saturday business breakfast show on Newstalk and was a founding ‘Dragon’ on RTE’s Dragons’ Den. Bobby is also one of the owners of BANG Restaurant which has carved out a reputation as one of the finest restaurants in Dublin City. He has a variety of business interests in food and hospitality, technology, manufacturing and retail. Bobby is also a popular public speaker and business mentor.

FAVOURITE WILD ATLANTIC WAY DESTINATION: Kilkee in West Clare - the birthplace of my grandparents and father. It’s a wonderful seaside resort, where nothing ever changes from year to year.

PHOTOGRAPH: FÁILTE IRELAND

WHAT YOU DO WHEN YOU VISIT? Swim at Burn’s Cove or Newfie (at high tide). Fish for lobster and mackerel. Early evening pints in the Greyhound. Early morning runs in the Diamond Rocks. Meeting all my extended family. YOUR LAST VISIT? Last August. The weather was fantastic and we had a great BBQ in my mother’s house to celebrate my birthday. WHY KILKEE? Kilkee represents all that is great about rural Ireland. It’s a beautiful place; life is uncomplicated and there is lots to do, both during the day and in the evening. It is also a place of special childhood memories for me.

32 Go Wild June 2015

PHOTOGRAPH: FÁILTE IRELAND

FIVE BEST THINGS ABOUT KILKEE: Swimming in the Pollock Holes, Newfoundout and Burn’s Cove. Sunsets over the Diamond Rocks. Pubs such as Scott’s Bar and The Greyhound Bar. Meeting the same faces every year. Spectacular cliff walks.

Rebecca, Bobby, Michaela and Emily Kerr boating in Kilkee Bay.

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01.

WILD ATLANTIC WAY TOP BEACHES IMAGE: RAYMOND FOGARTY

With bracing Atlantic winds, breathtaking vistas and miles and miles of undisturbed beaches, the Wild Atlantic way is a beach-lover’s paradise.

02.

01. Barleycove, Co Cork IMAGE: RAYMOND FOGARTY

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. Dogs Bay, Roundstone, Co Galway

03.

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. IMAGE: RAYMOND FOGARTY

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

04.

IMAGE: RAYMOND FOGARTY

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.

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.

05.

IMAGE: RAYMOND FOGARTY

06.

IMAGE: RAYMOND FOGARTY

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IMAGE: FÁILTE IRELAND

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 mile-long beach of beautiful sand and stunning views. Never over-crowded, this Blue Flag beach is one of Ireland’s top gems.

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.

IMAGE: RAYMOND FOGARTY

Ollie Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Flaherty image: Ian Mitchinson

The Wild Atlantic Waves

36 Go Wild June 2015

When you think of the World’s top surfing destinations, you immediately conjure up images of tropical idylls with golden sands, stooping palm trees and perfectly barrelling aquamarine waters. Hawaii, South Africa, Australia and Indonesia boast some of the biggest waves on the planet, as well as some of the most talented surfers. However, the West coast of Ireland, with its relentless thrashing from the Atlantic Ocean, has quietly become home to some of the best waves north of the Equator, and as a result, has churned out a slew of super-skilled adrenalin junkies. From the wild waves of Donegal to the perfect peel of Aileens and the beach breaks of Brandon Bay, the west coast of Ireland really is a surfer’s paradise. Lia Stokes catches up with some of the country’s best surfers to find out why the Wild Atlantic Way is so special to the surfing community.

IMAGE: CHRISTIAN MCLEOD

“I have a longing for home when I’m away and what keeps me coming back is the sense of place. I was in the water this week; there were migratory birds heading off for the summer, the sun was lighting up Benbulben on one side of the bay and Slieve League on the other side, my hands still hurting from the icy water, and a pod of dolphins came in through the line-up chasing the fish, or maybe the waves.” Easkey Britton

Easkey Britton When you’re named after a favourite wave of your surfer parents, it’s something of an inevitability that you’ll take to the water. For Easkey Britton, co-founder of the non-profit Waves of Freedom and impact travel company Sustain the Stoke, her whole life has centred on the sea and surf - she feels she was born to it. “I was born of the sea, in it from before I can remember and the daughter of pioneering surfer parents from the North West coast in Donegal. A naming can be a powerful thing - my parents named me after their favourite wave, Easkey Right, and it comes from the Irish for ‘fish’! I’ve always felt more at home in the sea,” she says. Despite experiencing her first wipe-out at just four or five years of age, Easkey couldn’t deny her connection to the waves, especially on the west coast of Ireland. According to Britton, it’s the combination of the atmosphere and untouched seascapes, as well as the gritty realness of the connection to the environment that draws people in. “I have a longing for home when I’m away and what keeps me coming back is the sense of place. I was in the water this

week; there were migratory birds heading off for the summer, the sun was lighting up Benbulben on one side of the bay and Slieve League on the other side, my hands still hurting from the icy water, and a pod of dolphins came in through the lineup chasing the fish, or maybe the waves,” the Donegal woman recalls. “It’s all the more stunning because you’ve had to weather a harsh and pretty brutal winter. It’s the beauty and the power of the elements that gives you such a magical feeling here.” For any aspiring surfers or those interested in taking the plunge for the first time, Britton’s advice would be to take your time; “Because the coast can be so unpredictable and our weather can change so quickly, if you’re new to surfing, it’s best to make a good connection with a local surf club or surf school and book yourself in for a lesson,” she suggests. “It really takes time to get to understand the sea and how it works. That kind of ocean knowledge really helps you better connect with what might seem like a strange environment to be in at first. Remember that it’s really about how you feel – even before you get on a board just jump in the sea and have a play in the waves.”

“It’s all the more stunning because you’ve had to weather a harsh and pretty brutal winter. It’s the beauty and the power of the elements that gives you such a magical feeling here.”

38 Go Wild June 2015

IMAGE: CHRISTIAN MCLEOD

Richie Fitzgerald

in the World, but he insists the ‘Cold Water Eden’ that is the west coast of Ireland, is second to none. As an Ambassador Born and raised in Donegal’s best surf town, Bundoran, for the Wild Atlantic Way, Richie’s passion for the west coast Richie Fitzgerald’s life is immersed in the culture of the sport. and its bountiful beauty is palpable and says his favourite thing As owner of a surf academy, as well as a shop – Surfworld, about it is the ever-changing moods of the weather and ocean Fitzgerald lives and breathes surfing. conditions that affect how the coastline looks. “It never looks The Donegal native counts himself lucky to have been that same two days or even two hours in a row, so it always feels surfing for over 30 years, despite some early traumas. new and exciting to me,” he says. “My first surfing memory is with What is it though, that makes it such a my siblings - freezing, scared, crying special place for surfers? “We really have We really have a unique holding onto my older sister on the a unique position, sitting on the edge of beach and in the water mid-winter with position, sitting on the the European continent. We’re open to grossly inadequate equipment. With the full force of the North Atlantic, which edge of the European such a mad start, I’m surprised I went is one of the most swell-rich stretches of continent. We’re open back for more,” Richie recalls. “I do come ocean on the planet,” Fitzgerald notes. from a seaside family where we spent to the full force of the “With a constant conveyer belt of wavea lot of our youth, down on the beach generating low pressures passing by and North Atlantic, which is and in summer swimming, spearfishing, a perfectly serrated coastline bursting to one of the most swellbuilding sand castles and generally being the brim with world-class quality reefs, beach kids - so surfing was just a natural rich stretches of ocean coves, points, headland, beaches and big progression really.” wave surf spots, there is a surf spot for on the planet.” Fitzgerald has travelled widely and every level from complete beginners to Richie Fitzgerald surfed some of the most esteemed waves traveling professionals.”

IMAGE: KATHRIN BAUMBACH

Go Wild June 2015 39

Ollie O’Flaherty Hailing from Lahinch, the surf capital of Co. Clare, big wave surfer and surf coach Ollie O’Flaherty rode his first wave at the tender age of four after his uncle Alan Coyne, brought him out on his body board. Without any encouragement, Ollie took to his feet and rode the body board in to the shore. He was instantly hooked. Ireland was just coming around to the notion of surfing at the time and his uncle was one of the early adopters of the sport here. With some of the best waves in the country on his doorstep, it was inevitable that Ollie would be bitten by the bug too. Although weather conditions on the west coast of Ireland aren’t always conducive to spending a day on the water, O’Flaherty insists that no waves in the world compare to those dotted along the coastline. “Ireland, for me, has the best waves in the world. Our only problem is the weather can change in a moment and no forecast is definite,” he explains. “It kind of makes it all the sweeter when the epic days arrive though!” According to the Clare native, it’s not just the waves that make it a desirable location for surfers. “I have been to many

IMAGE: JAMES SKERRITT

places in the world to surf, but nowhere have I seen waves like in Ireland. The west coast is special because it’s so raw and the energy here is like nowhere else I know - amazing scenery with incredible waves, but also cool towns like Lahinch dotted around the west coast with great vibes and music. You just can’t beat it,” Ollie notes. Unsurprisingly, the local surf spots are amongst his favourite. “We have a variety of waves here like nowhere in the world, big wave slabs like Aileens, to the perfect fun reef-breaks of Liscannor Bay and Spanish Point.” Since his first foray into the world

of surfing, Ollie has become one of the country’s best known big wave surfers and has received international recognition with nominations for Billabong’s XXL Big Wave Awards. But what does an internationally-acclaimed surfer do in his down time? “My favourite thing to do after an epic day of surf would be hit my local pub Kennys for food, a Guinness and some great music!” Want a taste of the surfing lifestyle? Visit fsurfworld.ie for information on lessons from beginner lessons to surf bootcamps.

“The west coast is special because it’s so raw and the energy here is like nowhere else"

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IMAGE: IAN MITCHINSON

RWITHEST ANDSHANNON REFRESHMENT FERRIES ‘A gateway between the South and Mid-West’, Shannon Ferries offers a ferry service between counties Kerry and Clare, saving travellers a huge 137 kilometres of driving. Offering an unrivalled service to tourists and locals alike, allowing them to take in more of Ireland’s beautiful scenery and tourist hotspots with ease, Shannon Ferries links the picturesque Tralee and Dingle regions to the untamed beauty of the Burren, the Cliffs of Moher and the mountains of Ballyhoura in the Golden Vale of Limerick. Ideally located on the Wild Atlantic Way, Shannon Ferries offers travellers a break from the road with their 20 minute passage across the Shannon. Sit back, relax and keep an eye out for dolphins swimming while, indulging in some delicious refreshments. Aiming to promote tourism in Kerry and Clare, as well as surrounding regions, Shannon Ferries facilitates laid-back, enjoyable travel. The service accommodates pedestrian passengers, cyclists, cars, coaches, mini-buses, and commercial vehicles, with ticket prices starting at €4.50. Throughout the summer months, the ferries run from 7.00am to 9.30pm. For further information or to book your ticket visit fShannonferries.com.

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A golfer’s paradise Stunning vistas, rolling sand dunes, dramatic cliff edge backdrops - golfing along the Wild Atlantic Way’s world-class championship golf courses is every golfer’s dream.

COUNTY SLIGO GOLF CLUB, CO SLIGO

OLD COURSE, BALLYBUNION, CO KERRY

WATERVILLE GOLF LINKS, CO KERRY

Set in the picturesque seaside village of Rosses Point, the 27-hole complex County Sligo Golf Club course is regarded as one of the great championship links courses.The club is home to the famous West of Ireland Open amateur championship (since 1923), and has hosted many other prestigious events including the Home Internationals, the Irish Close and the Irish Professional Matchplay Championship.

Having gained a reputation as one of the best links golf courses in the world, The Old Course, Ballybunion, is covered with rolling sand hills and grassy dunes. The challenging layout features narrow, contoured fairways that feel as though they are tunneled through the dunes. The already beautiful landscape is further enhanced by the stunning views of the Atlantic.

Continually rated among the top five courses in Ireland, and in the top 20 links courses in the world, Waterville Golf Links is an exceptional experience. Over 100 years old, Waterville combines sand dunes, gorse and native grasses, firm fairways, sod faced bunkers and subtle putting surfaces, all intertwined by the ever-changing weather.

OLD HEAD GOLF LINKS, KINSALE, CO CORK

DOONBEG GOLF LINKS COURSE, CO CLARE

ENNISCRONE GOLF CLUB, CO SLIGO

Built on 220 acres of land and jutting out into the Atlantic, Old Head Golf Links offers stunning ocean views, and an exceptional golfing experience. The links and practice area occupy 180 acres, with the remaining 40 acres taken up with unspoilt cliffs, which frame the course. With the ever-changing sea breezes, the course provides a stern test to the touring pro and the high handicapper alike.

Designed by two-time British Open Champion Greg Norman, the world renowned 18-hole championship, Doonbeg Golf Links Course at Trump International Golf Links & Hotel™ Ireland (formerly the Doonbeg Golf Club), spans 1.5 miles of crescent shaped beach and century old sand dunes along Doughmore Bay. The County Clare golf course was officially opened in 2002 and immediately earned the prestigious title of Golf Digest’s Best New International Course.

Repeatedly a top-20 links course in Golf Digest’s review of Irish golf courses, Enniscrone Golf Club’s Dune course is now considered one of Ireland’s top-ranked championship links courses. Set against the spectacular backdrop of the Nephin and Ox Mountains, and the Atlantic Ocean, Enniscrone is a must-play for golf enthusiasts.

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Stay & Play...

GOLF CLUB

Castlemartyr Golf Club is located in East Cork in the village of Castlemartyr, adjacent to the landmark ruins of the estateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s historic 12th century castle. Ron Kirby, the renowned golf course architect, has created an 18 hole inland links-style course that has been beautifully

sculpted into the mature landscape of this historic 220 acre estate. Surrounded by woodlands and lakes, sand-based fairways and bent grass greens, this course has the distinctive look and feel of an inland-style course. The 6,790 yard

par 72 course, is designed to be challenging and fair but pleasurable for any calibre of player. Castlemartyr Resort offers luxury 5 Star hotel accommodation within easy reach of Cork Airport and is on the doorstep of Cork City.

Stay & Play at Castlemartyr Resort from â&#x201A;Ź315 per night. Package includes B&B, golf & dinner.

To book please contact the Castlemartyr Golf Club on 021 421 9001, or email golf@castlemartyrresort.ie Castlemartyr Resort, Castlemartyr, Co. Cork. www.castlemartyrresort.ie

LAHINCH GOLF CLUB, CO CLARE

CARNE GOLF LINKS, BELMULLET, CO MAYO

PORTSALON GOLF LINKS, CO DONEGAL

Ranked among the world’s greatest links courses, The Old Course, one of two 18-hole courses at Lahinch Golf Club, is a classic seaside links layout with rolling greens and undulating fairways. The towering sand dunes that cover the landscape guarantee that golfers will encounter several blind shots. The unpredictable winds coming off the ocean add an interesting twist to the round.

Lying amidst one of the most beautiful, breathtaking and unspoilt of areas in Ireland, Carne Golf Links is famed the world over for its exceptional golf course and the surrounding white sandy Atlantic beaches that stretch for miles. Overlooking Blacksod Bay and the Atlantic Ocean, Carne Golf Links was the last links course to be designed by the late Eddie Hackett and it is now believed by many who have played it to his greatest challenge.

One of the oldest golf courses in the world, with golf being played here since the 1880s, the Portsalon Golf Links is ranked as one of the top courses in Ireland by Golf Digest. The club was one of the founder members of the Golfing Union of Ireland, the oldest golfing union in the world. Stretching along Ballymastocker Beach, which was voted the second most beautiful beach in the world by Observer readers, golfers at Portsalon are in for a treat of the senses and a true golf links test.

TRALEE GOLF COURSE, CO KERRY

DONEGAL GOLF CLUB, MURVAGH

CONNEMARA GOLF LINKS, CO GALWAY

Built by Arnold Palmer, Tralee Golf Course has all the ingredients of an exceptional Irish golfing experience beautiful surroundings, stunning views of the Atlantic, and a challenging course. One of the finest courses in Ireland, Palmer chose it to be his first golf course in Europe.

With the Atlantic to one side and a forest of evergreen to the other, the challenging Murvagh Links golf course offers wonderful views and satisfying golf in abundance. One of Ireland’s most outstanding championship links golf courses, the course was designed by the legendary course architect, Eddie Hackett, and further enhanced in recent years by master of Links design, Pat Ruddy.

Located in the rugged and scenic land between the Twelve Bens and the Atlantic Ocean, the Connemara Golf Links offers some of the finest golf in the country. Designed by Eddie Hackett, the course offers a challenge for all levels.

A golfer’s paradise

44 Go Wild June 2015

Visitor

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Castle Banquets

Enjoy these Great Shannon Heritage Attractions Bunratty Castle & Folk Park - Co. Clare King John’s Castle - Limerick City Malahide Castle & Gardens - Co. Dublin Knappogue Castle & Walled Garden - Co. Clare Dunguaire Castle - Co. Galway Craggaunowen - Co. Clare Shannon Heritage, Bunratty Castle & Folk Park, Bunratty, Co. Clare

Tel: + 353 (0) 61 360788 Email: reservations@shannonheritage.com www.shannonheritage.com

The Wild

46 Go Wild June 2015

West

Rugged coasts with pristine waters, golden beaches and looming cliff faces, dramatic mountains and valleys and glistening lakes, the wild west is a land of breathtaking beauty and extremes. The drama, the beauty, the untamed nature of the land and the people who live there have combined to create a magic unlike anywhere in the world...

IMAGE: BALLINAFAD LOUGH, BALLYNAHINCH, CONNEMARA, CO GALWAY. CHRIS HILL PHOTOGRAPHY

Go Wild June 2015 47

GALWAY

IMAGE: THE BITE CLUB

Taste Sensation The food scene in Galway, the capital of the West, is thriving. For upmarket fare, head to Loam, or the Michelin-starred Aniar. Two of Galwegians’ favourite food spots - Ard Bia @ Nimmos for the kitsch and the The Kitchen for daytime grub, sit side by side down by the Spanish Arch. One of the city’s newest eateries, The Bite Club is a bustling rooftop space serving exotic street food, or for a relaxed spot of eating some of the best local produce, head to McCambridge’s, conveniently located in the middle of Shop Street. ‘Around the Market Place’ is a tour around Galway’s finest foodie destinations. Sheena Dignam will guide you along the streets of Galway where you’ll meet artisanal producers and sample their products, while soaking up the alluring atmosphere of the west. Get in touch with Sheena on +353 (0)86 7332885.

Festival Feve r

Galway is the centre of culture in Ireland, so you’ll find lots to whet a cultural appetite from festivals, theatres and museums to art spaces and craft centres. If you’re in the country from 13 July to 26 July, make IMAGE: GALWAY INTERNATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL sure to hotfoot it to the Galway International Arts Festival, a magnificent two weeks of colour, culture, and world class acts, turning the city into a carnival town like no other. fgiaf.ie

Living it up Renowned for its atmospheric and lively pub scene, there’s a bar for every taste in Galway City. Want to drink with the locals? One of the city’s favourite pubs, where tourists and locals mingle happily, is Tigh Neachtains on Quay Street. For some traditional music, try the home of trad in the city, The Crane Bar or Taaffes and Tigh Coili at the end of Shop Street.

IMAGE: FÁILTE IRELAND

Step back in time

When in Galway, hop on a boat out to one of the three Aran Islands, where you’ll find peace, tranquility, and discover over 50 monuments of Christian, pre-Christian and Celtic mythological heritage. Cycling is one of the best ways of getting around the islands, particularly on the largest, Inis Mór, where a trip up to Dún Aonghasa, a stone fort at the edge of the 100 metre high cliff above the Atlantic, is a must.

IMAGE: RAYMOND FOGARTY

48 Go Wild June 2015

The Wild Wild West

IMAGE: FÁILTE IRELAND

Experience the true beauty of Ireland with a trip to Connemara. Wild, rugged, with undulating hills and valleys, looming mountains and glistening lakes, the landscape of this beautiful area remains unspoilt and unchanged. With breathtaking waterfalls and golden beaches, you’ll discover a new gem at every turn. There are loads of activities such as fishing, golf and hiking treks to do in Connemara, or you might just want to unwind and take in the peaceful splendour of one of the country’s most beautiful spots. Don’t miss - Sky Road, Clifden, Kylemore Abbey and Leenane.

The place to stay

IMAGE: G HOTEL

Even if you don’t get to spend a night in the G, a trip to the five-star hotel, the interior of which was designed by famous hat designer Philip Treacy, is a must for a cocktail. Other Go Wild favourites are the House Hotel, a boutique hotel within a stone’s throw of the major nightlife centre of the city. Or if you fancy getting out of the city, the multi award-winning Twelve boutique hotel in Barna offers style and tranquility in equal measures.

Fun and frolics Get peddling

IMAGE: FÁILTE IRELAND

Stunning vistas No trip to Co Mayo is complete without visiting Croagh Patrick - the Holy Mountain. A place of worship since 3,000 BC, St Patrick is said to have banished snakes from Ireland forever from this spot. With wonderful views IMAGE: CHRIS HILL PHOTOGRAPHY of Clew Bay and its hundreds of little islands, the sometimes challenging trek to the top is worth it for the views alone.

Charming lodgings

IMAGE: ICE HOUSE HOTEL

One of the country’s favourite ‘staycation’ destinations is Mount Falcon - a charming, luxurious but delightfully down to earth manor house on 100 acres of lush greenery and woodlands in the heart of Mayo. There’ll be no need to venture from the grounds with an amazing award-winning restaurant, spa and fisheries on the grounds. Another gem is the Ice House Hotel in Ballina, for those after a city chic vibe far from the bustle of the city. A great spa and restaurant make this funky hotel one of the county’s top picks.

MAYO

Westport House & Pirate Adventure Park offers a range of heritage, familyfun, camping and adventure activities on acres of beautiful grounds. The 18th Century Westport House is privately owned by the Browne family, who are direct descendants of Grace O’Malley, the famous 16th Century Pirate Queen of Connaught. fwestporthouse.ie

Escape the bustle of urban life on the 42km Great Western Greenway, the longest offroad walking and cycling trail in Ireland. The World Class Great Western Greenway is a traffic-free cycling and walking trail which follows the route of the renowned Westport to Achill railway which closed in 1937... ideal for those looking for a hassle free jaunt in the countryside. There are also lots of cycling tours if you could do with some gentle guidance and a hand in discovering the local gems. fdiscoverireland.ie

The Wonder of Westport Possibly the prettiest town in the West, Westport in Co Mayo is that wonderful mix of small town friendliness, with a taste for the good life. Expect great pubs, some wonderful restaurants ( An Port Mór and Sage are just two). A night spent in Matt Molloy’s pub will give you a true taste of the Westport nightlife, with lots of banter and traditional music in the most traditional of Irish pubs.

IMAGE: FÁILTE IRELAND

Undiscovered gem The best kept secret in the whole of Ireland? The remote, dramatic, raw, breathtaking beauty of Erris in Co Mayo is unrivalled. Pristine, deserted beaches that go on for miles and miles, backed by undulating sand dunes that are overlooked by dramatic cliffs. The people are possibly the friendliest in the country too. Don’t miss Downpatrick, the Céide Fields and Blacksod Bay. IMAGE: EVITA COYLE

Go Wild June 2015 49

C LA R E

IMAGE: GALWAY ARTS FESTIVAL

Festivals Going unde rground Located in the heart of the Burren In County Clare on a terraced mountains with spectacular views over Galway Bay, the Ailwee Caves are one of the oldest in Ireland. Featuring great caverns, stalactites and subterranean rivers, prepare for an atmospheric and fun trip underground. IMAGE: FÁILTE IRELAND

Medieval style

GALWAY INTERNATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL 13 TO 26 JULY

Running for 50 years now, the Bunratty Castle Medieval Banquet is a great night of wining and dining medieval-style at the 15th Century castle. The folk park is probably the best living enactment of historical Ireland you’ll find, complete with burning turf fires and the smell of fresh baked bread.

On a high

One of the country’s most spectacular views is that from the top of the Cliffs of Moher. The rugged and dramatic cliffs run for 8 km down the coastline, and stand over 230 metres at their highest point. A walk to the edge of the cliff to look down on the waves below is breathtaking, but only for the brave!

A creative collision of performance, music, visual art and IMAGE: GALWAY ARTS FESTIVAL discussion. One of Europe’s most vibrant and exciting festivals, GAF offers a wide range of experiences from world-class theatre to impromptu musical performances on Galway's winding streets.

BURREN TOLKIEN FESTIVAL, BURREN, CO CLARE 26 JUNE TO 03 JULY A celebration of the Burren and its influence on the great novelist JRR Tolkien. Explore the landscape and follow in Tolkien's footprints - uncover the world of Middle Earth.

GALWAY FILM FLEADH, GALWAY 07 TO 12 JULY 2015 Voted one of the 25 Coolest Film Festivals in the World in 2014, the Galway Film Fleadh is the premier platform for new Irish Cinema. This was recognised internationally in 2014, when Galway was the fifth city in the world to be designated a UNESCO City of Film.

TREAD SOFTLY 2015 - YEATS ARTS FESTIVAL, CO SLIGO 28 JULY TO 08 AUGUST An arts festival celebrating the poet W.B Yeats through word, drama, music and art.

Six days of traditional music, song and dance with workshops, recitals, concerts, ceilis, sessions, poetry, children events and cultural walks.

BELMULLET FESTIVAL WEEK, CO MAYO 09 TO 17 AUGUST A four-day festival packed with family fun and entertainment.

IMAGE: CHRISTOPHER HILL PHOTOGRAPHY

50 Go Wild June 2015

For more details on events and festivals, log onto fdiscoverireland.ie

IMAGE: FÁILTE IRELAND

FEAKLE INTERNATIONAL TRADITIONAL MUSIC FESTIVAL, FEAKLE, CO CLARE 05 TO 10 AUGUST 2015

N PE ILY O A D

VOUCH AVAILA ERS FOR MU BLE & STADSEUM IU TOURS M

LIVE LIKE A Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s no better place to live out your regal fantasy than in one of the western seaboardâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s luxurious and charming castles.

52 Go Wild June 2015

Go WildTip: Ashford Castle Probably the most famous of Irish castles, the iconic Ashford Castle is the ultimate in old-world castle glamour. Following recent renovations, which have sensitively given the historic hotel a new sheen, Ashford is for those who love opulence, luxury, and the ultimate Irish castle experience. The castle stands on the shores of Lough Corrib, on 350 acres of beautifully-kept gardens and wooded areas. Dating back to 1228, the castle was once owned by Lord and Lady Ardilaun

of the Guinness family. Since then, it has welcomed royalty, celebrities and heads of state across its illustrious history including George V (then Prince of Wales), Ronald Reagan, Brad Pitt, John Wayne, Fred Astaire, Barbra Streisand, John Travolta. In keeping with the gentry theme, there are a variety of lordly activities to take part in at the hotel, such as falconry, horse-riding and clay pigeon shooting. There’s also an on-site tennis coach, fishing on Lough Corrib and the castle’s 9-hole golf course has been treated to offer the best playing conditions all year round.

Enjoy a nightcap in the billiard room or celebrate with a Cuban cigar on one of the two outdoor terraces, with great views across the rolling grounds. The underground wine stores have recently been transformed into private dining cellars for those after the ultimate romantic setting. If it's seclusion you’re after, the boat house on the shore of Lough Corrib, which has been transformed into the honeymoon suite, offers a world of charm and privacy. fashfordcastle.com Go Wild June 2015 53

Dromoland Castle Another of Ireland’s most famous castles, the 15th Century Dromoland Castle, while retaining much of its historic splendor, has gone for a more contemporary feel to its accommodations. Approached by a meandering drive over acres of magnificent grounds, the luxury 5-star castle hotel overlooks its own 18-hole Championship Golf Course and lake. Originally the ancestral home of the O’Brien clan, direct descendants of the last High King of Ireland, Brian Boru, you’ll find evidence of Dromoland’s rich

54 Go Wild June 2015

history dotted throughout the castle with fine antiques, wood and stone carvings and original oil paintings. Expect lavish interiors, which manage to blend old world elegance with contemporary luxury, along with fine dining, exceptional wines and that impeccable service that Dromoland is world-famous for. Dining at Dromoland’s award-winning Earl of Thomond Restaurant is a relaxed but elegant affair, or if you’re after a less formal dining option, head to the Fig Tree Restaurant. Relax by the open fire after dinner and soak in the

stately vibes at the The Cocktail Bar, formerly the castle’s study, which offers spectacular views of the fairway, or take a walk through the acres of artfully landscaped ground.

Go WildTip:

Order a picnic basket with a bottle of champagne from the castle’s chef to enjoy on a stroll through the grounds fdromoland.ie

The Falls Hotel & Spa GET AWAY from it all and make an escape to one of the finest Hotels in Co Clare. The Falls Hotel & Spa, located in the quaint market town of Ennistymon, is the perfect retreat. Nestled in a wooded vale beside the tumbling water of River Inagh, this historic property and its picturesque setting will take your breath away. The hotel, made up of an 18th century mansion and a late medieval castle, has a formidable history. In its past it played host to embracing clans and warfare, landlords and tenants, poets, dreamers and entrepreneurs. And with 50 acres of grounds and woodland, there’s fewer better places to wile away the hours. What’s more, the town is located only a minute stroll away. The hotel facilities include 144 bedrooms, nine self-catering two bedroom apartments, one large selfcatering three bedroom cottage, the Dylan Thomas Bar, the Cascades Restaurant, the Thai River Restaurant, wedding and banqueting facilities, the Aqua & Fitness Leisure Club and River Spa.

The hotel also has excellent leisure facilities including a 20-meter swimming pool, sauna, steam room, outdoor hot tub, Jacuzzi, children’s pool, bubble pool and a gym. This facility is provided free of charge to all hotel residents.

For those wanting to completely unwind, there's also the luxurious River Spa . It contains 12 treatment rooms including a Thermal Suite, Relaxation Room, Hydrobath and Rasul Mud Treatment Room. Four of these rooms have been delicately incorporated into an old stable building, which was constructed in 1720, to give a little piece of luxury in wonderful rustic surroundings. The spa menu offers over 50 treatments that include a range of Massage, Facials, Body Scrubs, Floats and Bathing Ceremonies incorporating the world renowned Elemis Beauty Brand. It is open 7 days a week from 9.30am – 7pm. And if you can tear yourself away from all hotel facilities — the hotel is on the doorstep of many of the most famous and well-known breath-taking sites of Co Clare, including the Cliffs of Moher, Lahinch Golf Club,the Burren Region, Lisdoonvarna, Doolin and the Aran Islands. For more information on the Falls Hotel & Spa or to learn about our latest special offers please phone +353657071004 or visit ffallshotel.ie.

Falls Hotel & Spa, Ennistymon Co.Clare. For our latest Special Offers visit our website www.fallshotel.ie or call us on 065-7071004

Lough Eske Lough Eske Castle in Donegal is an elegant 5-star hotel castle set on a secluded lakeside estate with a rich and colourful history dating back to the 1400s. Voted in Condé Nast’s top three luxury hotels in Ireland, Lough Eske Castle has also won the World Luxury Hotel Award’s ‘World’s Best Luxury Country Hotel’ title for the past five consecutive years. Set on 43 acres of forest at the foot of the mountains, the castle offers

Adare Manor So it’s not exactly a castle, but it looks, and acts like one. Adare Manor, Co Limerick is one of Ireland’s favourites, and so we couldn’t see it left out of the castle top spot. Built by The Second Earl of Dunraven and his wife, Lady Caroline Wyndham in 1832, the manor is reminiscent of an old chateaux, with its gothic towers and steep roofs, along with the carved gargoyles and French and Latin inscriptions throughout the building. 56 Go Wild June 2015

a sanctuary from the norm, in the surrounds of the lovingly restored castle. Its interiors are more modern than other Irish castles, making it a good choice for those who like more contemporary surroundings. Needless to say, service is second to none, with comfort, relaxation and enjoyment being top of the list of priorities. Kick back with a book in one of the drawing room’s cosy couches, or dine at the Cedars Grill Restaurant for an elegant experience in the stunning dining room. Glass doors open onto a

slate terrace - the perfect spot to admire the manicured lawns and woodland views that surround the castle.

Set on 840 acres of riverside grounds, one of the highlights of a stay at the estate is discovering the stone walled gardens and woodland paths that surround the manor. If golf is your thing, Adare Manor has its own championship golf course, making it a perfect destination for a luxury golf trip. Voted Condé Nast Traveller Magazine’s ‘Top 10 Resorts in Europe 2015’, each bedroom is individually designed with its own personality and proportion - expect elegantly carved

headboards, large adjoining bathrooms and original fireplaces.

Go WildTip:

Take a couple of hours out to relax in the Solix Spa Thermal Suite before getting dressed up for dinner in the Cedars Grill. fsolishotels.com

Go WildTip:

While there’s loads to do on the estate itself, we recommend venturing out to the adjoining Adare Village for a bite to eat. The quaint and picturesque village has some great restaurants and beautiful shops. fadaremanor.com

The quaint and picturesque village of Foynes, home of Irish Coffee, is nestled along the N69 on the banks of the River Shannon. The N69 is one of Ireland’s hidden gems and is easily accessible from all major routes.

Learn about life on the Shannon Estuary

Paddle steamer cabin with presentation on life on the River Shannon then and now

n Showcase of Pan Am & BOAC uniforms, touch screens with newspaper stories, passenger lists and intelligence reports from the war years

The 1911 silent movie on “The Colleen Bawn” and her murder

US Civil War Confederate Uniforms manufactured in Limerick

n See how the courageous pilots navigated the Atlantic and the celebrities who travelled

How Gurrachs & Gandolas are made

Peek at our Ghost Ship “Windsor Castle” and read it’s story

Display of boats from the river both commercial & leisure

n B314 Flight simulators

Look at how Dockers worked the ships in the 1800’s 1800

n 3D hologram re-enacting the night Irish Coffee was evented at Foynes by Chef Joe Sheridan in 1943

See bed of River Shannon from Foynes to Loop Head

Learn about the weather conditions, check real time weather & tides

n Worlds only Flying Boat Museum and explore the nostalgic era of the flying boats n 1940s style cinema showing the award winning movie "Atlantic Conquest"

n Childrens section telling the story of development of flight n World's Only full size Boeing B314 replica

Ballynahinch Castle Casual country elegance is how you can best describe the glorious yet unpretentious Ballynahinch Castle. Reopened just this summer after extensive renovations, Ballynahinch offers a more low key luxury of taste and elegance. Ever wondered how the gentry of Ireland lived in the past? Spend a couple of nights in Ballynahinch for the answer. All rooms are tastefully and individually decorated, with superb views of the 450 acres of wooded grounds, mountains and

the peaceful and breathtaking lake. The hotel’s restaurant is renowned for its excellence, which of course, serves locally-sourced produce and locallycaught fish. It might be the height of summer in Ireland, but a seat by a log fire in the cosy bar will always be welcome after a day’s hiking or fishing on the hotel’s own salmon river and lakes. Other activities at the castle include tennis, biking, hiking, pony riding and game bird hunting. In fact, there’s so much to do on the estate, lots of visitors never leave the grounds.

Go WildTip:

Head down to the pub at 9.30am where, every morning, the castle’s fishery manager Simon and walking guide, Noel are available for a coffee and a chat to ensure you get the best from your days spent on the estate.

fballynahinch-castle.com IMAGES: BARRY MURPHY

58 Go Wild June 2015

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My Wild Atlantic Way Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, Michael Ring. Words by Jennifer Ryan.

IMAGE: MICHAEL MCLAUGHLIN

sk the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, Michael Ring, for his favourite spot along the Wild Atlantic Way and he answers without hesitation: “Erris. There are so many beautiful sights but Erris is my favourite, no doubt. It is probably one of the most unspoiled and beautiful parts of Ireland. People are just beginning to really discover it.” If you don’t know where to start, the Minister advises aiming for Carrowteige and from there driving your way down past Belmullet and on to Black Sod. “Driving around there allows you to take in the fabulous scenery. But do get out of the car, there are so many walks marked out too.” The easiest way to find these walks is to download a handy mobile app

he smiles as he recalls. “My Dad worked in a garage and he would borrow a car for the day and whoever wanted to go could come along – if they weren’t playing hurling or up to something! It was always a day that we’d look forward to. He was a good swimmer, he liked the sea water. I like it too and that’s thanks to him.”

“There are so many beautiful sights but Erris is my favourite, no doubt. It is probably one of the most unspoiled and beautiful parts of Ireland.” called Erris Beo (“Erris Alive”). It is free and it maps out Cross Loop, Caethru Thaidhg Loop, and Erris Head Loop walking routes, along with many other useful tips for visitors to the area. In 2014, the Irish tourism industry accounted for €3.5million in revenue and at the last count the industry employs over 200,000 people. But for local man Minister Ring, the Wild Atlantic Way has long been much more than business. It's not surprising that the Mayo coastline has a special place in his heart, when his childhood holidays were spent just 21 km away from his hometown of Westport. “The big day out for us was Louisburgh,” 60 Go Wild June 2015

02 When it came time to bring his own children on holidays the Minister opted to head further south along the coast to County Kerry. “I’d say out of 15 years, we holidayed in Kerry for 12 of them. Do know what my children loved the most about those holidays? The ferry – the ferry from Clare to Kerry!,” he laughs. “That was the most exciting day of their holiday. That and getting in a visit to

01. Michael pictured at Clew Bay, Co Mayo. 02. Claggen Beach, Belmullet, Erris, Co Mayo. 03. Croagh Patrick, Co Mayo. 04. Cliffs in Co Kerry. 05. Dún Briste (Broken Fort) &

Downpatrick Head, Co Mayo.

IMAGE: FÁILTE IRELAND

IMAGE: RAYMOND FOGARTY

04 05

the shop on the way over. They still talk about it today.” The same ferry is still in use, crossing the Shannon estuary to connect Killimer in County Clare to Tarbert in County Kerry. At a push it could be considered a tame, entry level activity for those looking to work their way up to the country’s

IMAGE: RAYMOND FOGARTY

what we want”, says the Minister. Like most of us, the Minister would be more comfortable with hill-walking than with extreme watersports. “Being from right beside it, I’ve climbed Croagh Patrick many, many times. Although my wife has climbed it more…” Associated with Ireland’s patron saint, St Patrick, the peak is a wellknown pilgrimage site. Historically, the traditional annual pilgrimage would take place by torchlight on the last Saturday night/Sunday morning of July. “I remember climbing up by torchlight.

Croagh Patrick is just one of the many spots along the coast that the Minister had the good fortune to experience during his youth. “I was spoiled growing up in that neck of the woods. It is really true that sometimes we don’t realise what we have on our doorstep. The whole area has such a natural beauty. In fact, that is what makes it so unique: it is completely natural. We didn’t have to put any infrastructure in place for the Wild Atlantic Way, it was all already there.” Instead the focus for initiatives in the area is on promoting numerous signature points along the route. Keep an eye out for these marked by photo points and interpretation boards dotted along the way. “If you get the opportunity, you really should go to see Downpatrick Head, out past Ballycastle. It’s right

“I remember climbing up by torchlight. Everyone would carry torches and lights - it was lovely, a real sight. You could see us from miles away.“

impressive selection of more extreme water sports. Both traditional surfing and kitesurfing are huge along the Wild Atlantic Way, with hotspots in Brandon Bay in County Kerry, Lahinch in County Clare, and Achill Island in County Mayo. With the choice of city breaks for landlovers in Galway, Limerick, and Cork, and the variety of surfing options for braver souls - “Something for everyone, that’s

Everyone would carry torches and lights - it was IMAGE: EVITA COYLE lovely, a real sight. You could see us from miles away. We would go up on a Saturday night and arrive down again at six on the Sunday morning”. These days, while the route is just as popular, night climbers are more rare. At over 2,500 ft the peak may seem daunting to the casual visitor but the Minister is confident that it is possible, “Just pace yourself. I always find the beginning can be tough but once you get going you’re grand”.

beside the Céide Fields”. The windswept signature point is perched on a rocky outcrop and makes for the perfect spot to look out over the Atlantic. From it there is a great view of Dún Briste, a lone sea stack, and Poll Na Seantainne a spectacular blowhole that plummets down to the ocean below. “It gives you a real feel for what the Wild Atlantic Way is all about”, says the Minister. But don’t just take his word for it, go see it for yourself, and enjoy!

Go Wild June 2015 61

The North Spectacular, untamed and rugged, the North West is an outdoor enthusiastâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s heaven. With bracing winds that cleanse your soul, cliffs and mountains to take your breath away and ancient ruins that give tingles up your spine. The North West has it all...

62 Go Wild June 2015

West

IMAGE: FANAD HEAD LIGHTHOUSE, CO DONEGAL. Fﾃ！LTE IRELAND

Shell’s Café, Strandhill is a cute and kitsch little spot serving amazing food. This place is very obviously owned by people who love food, love people, and love atmosphere, having created a wonderful cafe culture on the Strandhill beachfront. If it’s fine dining you’re after, try Eala Bhan in Sligo town for a relaxed affair with locally-caught seafood and prime steaks. Also run by the owners of Eala Bhan, Tra Ban is a little gem nestled in a corner of Strandhill above The Strand Bar, which offers fine dining in a great setting. IMAGE: JULIA DUNIN

SLIGO

IMAGE: VOYA

Fine food

Seaweed the rapy A trip to Strandhill beach to visit the Voya Seaweed Baths is a must for those in need of some rejuvenation. Relax back into a luxurious steaming bath of fresh seawater and wild, organic seaweed. It’s amazingly soothing for tired muscles, and works wonders for the skin and hair. Afterwards, take a stroll along the famous Strandhill beach surf spot and stop off for lunch at the famous Shells beach Cafe.

Step back in time

Experience rural life and get a taste of Irish heritage at the turn of the late 19th Century at Sligo Folk Park. The folk park is set in the grounds of the authentically restored Millview House, which was originally built in 1873 by George Reid, a farmer, shoemaker and church sexton. Stroll around the park or visit the museum and exhibition hall which houses one of Ireland’s finest collections of rural history and agricultural artefacts. fsligofolkpark.com

Sligo on ho rseback For a refreshing trek in the wildnerness or a canter along one of Sligo’s breathtaking beaches, visit sligotourism.ie for a list of equestrian centres.

IMAGE: FÁILTE IRELAND

Surfe r’s delight

Follow in the footsteps of W. B. Yeats by wandering through this beautifullyrestored estate in Sligo. Childhood home of Countess Markievicz, Lissadell is the crucible of Ireland’s historic, literary & garden heritage. For those interested in history & literature, there is the Yeats Gallery, the Countess Markievicz Exhibition and guided house tours. For the kids, there’s an activity centre including woodland obstacle courses, kitesurfing and stand-up paddling. Lissadell also hosts a series of fairs and sporting events throughout the season. flissadell.com 64 Go Wild June 2015

SÓ SLIGO FOOD FESTIVAL, SLIGO TOWN 11 - 14 JUNE 2015 The six day programme includes a Wild Food Experience, Fermentation Workshops (and a pop up Ferment Bar), Irish craft beer and food tasting events, the Sligo food trail, cookery demos, workshops for adults and children, cook-offs, foodie film and more. The line up is still coming together, watch this space to see who else will be in town that week!

SEA SESSIONS SURF & MUSIC FESTIVAL, BUNDORAN, CO DONEGAL 19 TO 21 JUNE IMAGE: FÁILTE IRELAND

A popular holiday seaside village, Mullaghmore in Co Sligo is a surfer’s delight. Waves here can reach over 30 metres, attracting surfers from all over the world for the famous ‘Prowler’ waves. Hikers will love the Ben Bulben climb, one of the most famous mountains in Ireland.

Lissadell House

Festival Feve r

Whe re to stay… If you’re looking for a relaxing getaway in stunning country surroundings, but close to Sligo town, take a trip to the 4-star Castle Dargan Resort. Complete with a Darren Clarke designed golf course and Icon Spa, Castle Dargan resort is set on 170 acres of rolling parkland in a stunning country setting, the resort’s centrepiece is the opulent Castle Dargan House, built in the 18th century and lovingly restored. For something central, The Glasshouse is Sligo’s only 4 star city centre hotel, towering over the Garavogue River it has great city views and proximity to all downtown Sligo has to offer.

Ireland's only surf music festival, right on the beach in the capital of Irish Surfing - Bundoran, with an international line up of music and sports.

EARAGAIL ARTS FESTIVAL 2015, DONEGAL TOWN 10 TO 26 JULY Earagail Arts Festival is a bilingual (Irish and English language), multidisciplinary arts festival

HOMEGROWN FOOD FESTIVAL, LETTERKENNY 11 TO 12 JULY 2015 Foodie festival to showcase the best and most creative producers and restaurants in Ireland today, with celebrity chefs, artisan food producers, craft breweries and kids' events.

One of Ireland's longest running festival, the 38th annual Ballyshannon Folk and Traditional Music Festival is a weekend of traditional & folk music, with fireside sessions, street entertainment and workshops

MUFF FESTIVAL 2015 VILLAGE FESTIVALS AND FETES, INISHOWEN, DONEGAL 31 JULY TO 03 AUGUST 2015 A village festival of fun, frolics and entertainment for all the family, offering a programme of over 30 free (or very inexpensive) varied and often quirky events over four days.

SLIGO SUMMER FESTIVAL, SLIGO TOWN 07 TO 8 AUGUST 2015 Sligo's biggest outdoor music festival in the heart of the town. A free, family friendly event.

A three-day celebration of great food and drink with exhibitor stands, celebrity chef demonstrations, tutored wine and beer tastings and entertainment.

Donegal Castle

Built by the O'Donnell chieftain in the 15th century, beside the River Eske, the Castle has extensive 17th century additions by Sir Basil Brooke. The Castle is furnished throughout and includes Persian rugs and French tapestries. Information panels chronicle the history of the Castle owners from the O'Donnell chieftains to the Brooks family.

IMAGE: MCGONIGLE GLASS

Whe re to stay… Craft Village Donegal craft village, just outside Donegal Town, is a showcase for contemporary arts and crafts in Ireland where you can meet the artists in their workshops. Gasping for a great coffee? The award-winning Aroma in Donegal town is a cute, cosy cafe serving the most wonderful cakes and gourmet lunches. Cruise around Donegal Bay in the waterbus for one of the best ways to experience the wild beauty of Donegal. View the seal colony on Seal Island, The Bluestack Mountains and the bay’s many islands. fdonegalbaywaterbus.com

With Rathmullen House’s stunning location, right beside the sea, you can stroll through the gardens of this lovely old Georgian house down to a mile long sandy beach - a romantic and peaceful getaway! If you’re after a more lively setting, Lough Eske Castle is one of Donegal’s most well-known and loved hotels. Harvey’s Point is another winner, with its stunning lakeside location and long list of activities. Recently voted Number 1 Hotel in Ireland in the 2013, 2014 and 2015 Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards.

Speak the language

Explo re by sea IMAGE: FÁILTE IRELAND

Don’t miss... Rising majestically from the Atlantic, the 600 metres of the Sliabh Liag cliffs are one of the top sites in Donegal. If you can hack the heights, we recommend a walk on ‘One Man’s Path’, at the cliff's’ summit.

IMAGE: FÁILTE IRELAND

A TASTE OF DONEGAL FOOD FESTIVAL, DONEGAL TOWN 28 TO 30 AUGUST

The freshest of produce and the most passionate of foodies have created some great food spots in Donegal. Try the famous Harry's Bar & Restaurant in Bridgend if it’s IMAGE: SCARPELLO & CO excellent quality, top local produce you’re after. Harry’s grow vegetables and fruit in their own garden, and most of their produce is from the local surrounding area. Also try The Mill Restaurant, Dunfanaghy - Irish gastro dining in an antique-furnished, open-fire restaurant with lake views. If you love real bread and real pizza, then take a trip to Scarpello & Co, who recently opened Ireland's first fully functional Wood Fired Brick Oven Bakery in Lifford, Co Donegal. It possibly makes the best bread and pizza you’ll taste in Ireland. In fact, anywhere!

DONEGAL

IMAGE: SEA SESSIONS

BALLYSHANNON FOLK AND TRADITIONAL MUSIC FESTIVAL, BALLYSHANNON, CO. DONEGAL 30 JULY 2015 TO 02 AUGUST 2015

Foodie inside r

Most of the Donegal Gaeltacht is located along the western coast of the county, and here you’ll hear the soulful, rich Irish language spoken on the street, in cafes and restaurants. If you’d like to go home with ‘cupla focail’ (a few words), take a weekend or weeklong course in Irish at Oideas Gael foideas-gael.com

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