Fr
ee
A LIGHTHOUSE FOR
MAT T DAMON? 48 hours in Dingle Burren Yoga Get Active! Retreat CRAIC AGUS CHEOIL
GET YOUR HEART RACING
REINVIGORATE YOUR MIND
Go Wild Tourism Magazine, Issue 8, Summer Edition 2017
Feasting by the Fireside
Since 1989
116 O Connell Street, Limerick Phone | 061 410 350 Mail | reception@texassteakout.ie
Online Bookings | www.texassteakout.ie
Welcome!
Publishers Note
A
Welcome to the Spring Summer ’17 issue of Go Wild Tourism Magazine. I’m very proud to say that this is now the 8th magazine in the Go Wild series, as we continue to bring you the best in tourism and food along this stunning 2500km coastal route.
s an adopted Limerick man, having lived there for 25 years, I am delighted to hear that the county is now finally being linked with the Wild Atlantic Way. Our magazine has always been a firm supporter of this as it lies naturally along the touring route, and we hope it brings more business to the region. I’m also pleased to announce that we are adding another new magazine to our portfolio this season with the launch of Go Ancient East, which explores Ireland’s other magnificent touring route on the East coast – Ireland’s Ancient East. All of our magazines are now available for sale in independent newsagents from Cork to Donegal, in addition to hotels and tourism attractions, for the very first time. We are a small entrepreneurial business in Go Wild magazines and we are blessed to have the amazingly talented Niamh Murphy as Editor, our very creative Dave Curtin as
chief designer along with numerous contributors all of whom make this magazine a reality and a high quality publication. A sincere thank you to everyone who has joined us, supported us, and enjoyed our magazines since our “Wild” journey began. Here’s to an exciting and growing future!!!!!
Bobby Power Publisher
Email: bobby@gowildmagazine.com Tel: 087 446 7007
Letter from the editor Welcome to the Wild Atlantic Way, where your Irish journey of discovery awaits. This touring route takes you along the entire west coast of Ireland, an incredible 2500 kilometres, without straying too far from the coastline.
A
s I reached the top of Mount Brandon and looked out over the Dingle Peninsula, I could not imagine another place in the world I would rather be. With views of rolling hills, picturesque little villages and an incredibly wild Atlantic ocean, it was simple spectacular and summed up all that I love about the Wild Atlantic Way.
Likewise my heart again swelled with pride when I watched the recent National Geographic video on the Wild Atlantic Way, which highlighted our country’s raw and rugged beauty. I wonder is it an intrinsically Irish thing to have such a sense of pride in place? We are most certainly a proud bunch, but then again, we live on a beautiful island. I don’t think anyone can live or be here for long periods of time before falling completely in love with
its beauty, the sea, the hills and the characters you meet along the way. In this edition we look at some of the most stunning places on the Wild Atlantic Way from dashing Donegal to majestic Mayo, glorious Galway and rugged Rosscarbery – from walking holidays and adventure breaks to heritage sites, food experiences and the best places to Instagram, there’s something for everyone! We hope that we leave you with as much awe and pride for the Wild Atlantic Way as our team has! A special thanks to to our fantastic publisher Bobby Power, designer Dave Curtin and all our contributors. Happy touring!
Niamh Murphy Editor
Email: niamh@e-t-c.ie
Download the FREE Wild Atlantic Way app now – your official guide to the journey of a lifetime. wildatlanticway.com/ pages/the-app/
Contacts:
Contributors:
niamh@e-t-c.ie
Deirdre Hynds, Clair Collins, Louise
For advertising: Bobby Power, Publisher
Morrissey, Damien O’Mahony, Peter Stears,
bobby@gowildmagazine.com
Shauna Coen
Accounts: Cleo Power,
Photo Editors: Niamh Murphy & Louise
cleo@gowildmagazine.com
Morrissey
For editorial: Niamh Murphy, Editor
Features writers: Michelle McDonagh,
Graphic Design: Dave Curtin, Brainstorm.ie dave@brainstorm.ie
A special thank-you to Fáilte Ireland for their support with content and imagery. 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.
Ma gazine
Magazine
Contents 6-7: Dashing Donegal
50-51: Seafoods of the Wild Atlantic Way
8: A lighthouse for Matt Damon?
52: Heritage Sites
10-13: 48 hours in Dingle
54: Lough Derg
14-16: Arts & Crafts Holidays
56-60: Wild Highlights
18-19: Interview with Niall McGarry
63-63: Those shoes were made for walking
20-21: Standun, Best for the Aran Sweater and Irish
64: Best places to Instagram 66: New Rugby Experience for Limerick
Gifts 22-23: Romance is in the air
68-72: Unmissable Experiences
24: To the Manor Born, Ballynahinch Castle
74-75: Locals Guide to Limerick
26: Live like a Rockstar at Dunowen
76-77: Connemara Pub Tours
28: Interview with the woman at the helm of the
78: Rachel’s Irish Adventures 80-81: Glorious Galway, an adventurer’s
Wild Atlantic Way 30: The unmissable Skellig Ring
playground
32-35: Majestic Mayo
82: Competition time!
36-37: Breath-taking moments along the Way 38: The people of the Wild Atlantic Way 40-42: Get Active
84-85: The Great Houses of Hidden Ireland 86-87: Burren Yoga Retreat 88: Flowers of the Burren
44: New Inland Driving Routes
90-93: Best Hotels of the Wild Atlantic Way
46-47: Clonakilty named top town
94-95: Val Robus, Middle Aged Adventurer
48: Rugged Rosscarbery
96: 5 Minutes with Bibi Baskin
Join the fun!
/gowildmagazine
@gowildmagazine
/gowildmagazine
Ma gazine
e h t e c a r b Em y a W c i t n a Wild Atl of li f e
Clonakilty, West Cork
FROM
169
€ MID WEEK BREAK ENJOY 2 NIGHTS BED/BREAKFAST + 1 EVENING MEAL IN ADRIFT RESTAURANT ON THE EVENING OF YOUR CHOICE
P.P.S. P. P.S.
ADD 1 EXTRA NIGHT FOR €60
VALID BETWEEN MARCH/APRIL 2017
Clonakilty, West Cork. tel 023 883 33 52 fax 023 883 46 86 email enq@dunmorehousehotel.ie www.dunmorehousehotel.ie Dunmore house hotel GO WILD Spring Break .indd 1
cd 15/03/2017 13:55
Dashing Donegal
The county that puts the ‘wild’ into Wild Atlantic Way “Coolest place on the planet” according to National Geographic Traveller
N
ational Geographic Traveller
Peninsula celebrates its 200th
Rodgers. Located 12km off Donegal
recently predicted big things
anniversary next year - and is one
and the most North-Westerly place
for Donegal, a county often
of Donegal’s proud beacons. Its
on the Wild Atlantic Way, it’s steeped
overshadowed, naming it ‘Coolest place
location truly is wild and wonderful
in history, mythology and folklore
on the planet’, ahead of places such as
and those who venture here are
and boasts a community of artists
Santiago, Helsinki and Greenland.
invariably drawn to the adjacent
inspired by its wild, unspoilt beauty.
Lough Swilly and the sandy Mulroy “It’s a warm-hearted place,
Bay. It’s a haven for nature lovers
but wilderness always feels just a
and the waters around the peninsula
stone’s throw away,” said National
are regularly visited by whales,
Geographic Traveller’s UK editor,
porpoises and dolphins.
Tory Island, Co. Donegal
Pat Riddell. “And it is wilderness, world-class wilderness.” “It’s the kind of place where you
Slieve League Also known by its Irish name -
may spot a golden eagle soaring
Sliabh Liag - this rugged mountain
above Glenveagh National Park, or
on the Donegal coast boasts the
hear Irish spoken as a native tongue
highest sea cliffs in Europe. Some,
in the Gaeltacht around Gweedore
standing at 600m, are more than
and Glencolmcille. Driving Donegal’s
three times taller than the Cliffs
most spectacular beaches, including
peninsulas, there’s a constant risk of
of Moher. Hill walkers will feast
Ballymastocker Strand, which
crashing into the scenery…”
there eyes on the stunning scenery
was once chosen by the Observer
afforded to them on the 2.8km
newspaper as the second most
The county was also voted ‘The
Pilgrim Path while the very best way
beautiful beach in the world. There
most beautiful County in Ireland”
to appreciate the scale of the cliffs is
are 13 Blue Flag beaches in Donegal
by the popular website ‘”Ireland
to view them from the sea, courtesy
- rivalled in number only by Kerry
Before You Die”. It really has the
of Sliabh Liag Boat Trips.
- and a walk along the likes of
best of everything that Ireland has to offer, from first class hospitality in award winning hotels, to unspoilt
Ballymastocker Donegal boasts several of Ireland’s
Rossnowlagh and Fintra won’t be Slieve League, Carrick, Co. Done gal
easily forgotten. Ballymastocker beachview, Magherawardan, Co. Donegal
wild and wonderful scenery, outdoor attractions and pursuits, warm welcomes and lots of craic (fun)! Donegal is also receiving global fame since the Star Wars cast shot scenes for episode eight in the area. It is truly a county that puts the ‘wild’ into Wild Atlantic Way. Here
Tory Island The Gaeltacht island, Oileán
Banba’s Crown
are some of our favourite must-
Thoraí, has long been known as
sees…
the Secret Kingdom - and with
peninsula in the country and its
good reason: the 130 people who
tip, Banba’s Crown, is the most
live here traditionally select one
northerly of all. Named after one of
of the islanders to be Tory’s King,
the mythical queens of Ireland, its
a role currently held by Patsy Dan
breathtaking rugged beauty was one
Fanad Head Lighthouse The newly-renovated Fanad Head Lighthouse on the northerly Fanad
Go Wild Magazine - Summer Edition 2017
-6-
Malin Head is the most northerly
www.gowildmagazine.com
Fanad Lighthouse, Po
rtsalon, Co. Doneg
al
chill, , Chur l Park a n io a ge 1 t Na al - Im ea g h Doneg Glenv . o C , kenny Letter
Pilgrim Path, Sli e v e L ea Co. Don gue, Ca egal rrick,
Magheroarty
of the locations used in the latest
of the tallest in Europe are to be
Star Wars film. Birdwatchers have
found off the Donegal coast and an
long been drawn to this beautifully
adventure company, Unique Ascent,
“plain of the high tide”, is a
remote place, where the famously
helps fearless daredevils to climb
picturesque village in North-West
elusive corncrake is to be found.
them - at 100m high and half a
Donegal that will be familiar to many
kilometre from the mainland, you
of those who came to the county
need a head for heights and the
to study Irish during their school
steeliest of nerves.
holidays. This proud Gaeltacht region
Banba’s Crown, Malin Head, Inishowen Peninsula, Co. Donegal
Machaire Rabhartaigh, meaning
has been home to the Gael Linn Irish Sea Stack, Tory, Co. Donegal
Language School for 35 years. Its beach is justly celebrated and a ferry service to Tory Island operates from its busy fishing harbour.
Glenveagh National Park
Northern Lights
One of six national parks in the
One of the most spectacular
country (five of which are on the Wild
natural phenomena, the Aurora Borealis is associated with Nordic countries - but you don’t have
Inishowen Head Looped Walk Often dubbed ‘Ireland in
Atlantic Way), Glenveagh offers a rich ecological landscape, where a wide range of plant and wildlife flourishes,
to leave Ireland to experience it.
miniature’ thanks to its shape,
including a herd of red deer and
Donegal’s Inishowen Peninsula is
the Inishowen Peninsula offers a
peregrine falcons. Located in heart of
an excellent location to admire the
perfect nature escape. One of the
the Derryveagh Mountains, the park
northern lights thanks to the lack
best ways to explore it is on foot
encompasses over 16,000 hectares of
of light pollution in the area. There
on the Inishowen Head loop - a
lakes, glens and woods as well as the
have been spectacular sightings
route that’s packed with history
beautifully maintained Glenveagh
already this winter - just sign up to
whether it’s the World War II look-
Gardens.
Astronomy Ireland for aurora alerts.
out tower you will pass or the point from where St. Columba set sail for
Northern Lights at Malin Head, Inishowen Peninsula, Co. Donegal, credit Michale Gill
Scotland in the 6th Century. Further south, the Drum and Glen looped walks showcase the majesty of the Glencolmcille Peninsula.
Malin Head, Inishowen Peninsula, Co. Donegal Glenveagh National Park, Churchill, Co. Donegal -
Sea Stacks These remarkable geological structures are formed when tenacious coastal erosion carves and collapses sea cliffs leaving a freestanding pillar of rock. Some
Go Wild Magazine - Summer Edition 2017
-7-
www.gowildmagazine.com
Valentia Island. Image Tourism Ireland
e s u o h t h g i l A On the Wild Atlantic Way for Matt Damon?
T
So why a lighthouse? ‘I have this
he whole country is getting
cliffs, the rain coming down, the
excited! Hollywood actor Matt
grey skies. I love the weather.’ OK,
image, this dream of sitting atop of
Damon has revealed his dreams of
we personally think there are much
the lighthouse, looking out to sea and
owning a lighthouse by the sea on
nicer things about the West coast than
how beautiful and peaceful that must
Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way, but said
bad weather, but maybe for once the
be. I don’t know if you can buy those,
he would have to run the idea past his
Irish weather will be on our side if it
wouldn’t they be State owned? If you
wife first. We hope she says yes!
attracts superstars!
could, I’d do it.’
The Jason Bourne star said he fell in
Damon said he also had a love for
He added, ‘Well I’d run it past my wife first, then I’d do it.’
love with Ireland’s rugged west coast
the Irish landscape, “the geographical
after he travelled from Cork to Galway
landscape from Galway to Cork is like
two years ago with his Argentinian
nowhere else in the world”. And he
wife Luciana and their children.
said the crisp Irish air is ‘good for the
If so, we’d be happy to give you a free
health.’
ad in Go Wild Magazine!
Speaking to the Irish Sun, Damon
So, is anyone selling a lighthouse?
said he would love to fulfil his dream of being a lighthouse keeper. He told the publication, ‘How awesome would that be? Watching
“The geographical landscape from Galway to Cork is like nowhere else in the world”
the Atlantic crashing over the Irish
Go Wild Magazine - Summer Edition 2017
-8-
www.gowildmagazine.com
See Exquisite Pieces of Crystal manufactured before your eyes
Waterford Crystal Factory and Brand Experience
The House of Waterford Crystal brings a visit to Waterford to a whole new level, as visitors can witness the creation of crystal masterpieces right before their very eyes. The factory tour is a unique and captivating experience that allows people go behind the scenes for over an hour and see exactly how Waterford Crystal pieces are made and they can witness every stage of production, from the initial design stage right up to the final engraving of the piece.
Guided Factory Tours daily Waterford Brand & Visitor Experience Open Daily
Book online at www.waterfordvisitorcentre.com and receive a 10% discount on adult tickets
Phone +353 (0) 51 317000
www.waterfordvisitorcentre.com
Great Blasket Jetty. Image Chris Hill
48 Hours in Dingle The no. 1 home holiday destination that Irish people love
I
Local Gems
performances include Ellie Goulding,
Dingle was recently voted
Most famous attraction - Fungi
National, Damien Rice, Snowpatrol,
as the No. 1 holiday at home
Fungi, Dingle’s resident dolphin,
Ryan Adams and many others.
t’s not difficult to see why
Amy Winehouse, Elbow, The
destination that Irish people
is one of the main attractions for
love, in the Irish Independent
tourists in the region. See Fungi wild
Best walk from Dingle Town
and free in his natural habitat on a
- Dingle Harbour Walk
Dingle Dolphin Boat Tour. Tours
Walking from the town, take a left
depart at regular intervals every day,
at the harbour and you will arrive at
all year round (weather permitting).
a roundabout, turn right down the
Reader Traveller Awards 2017. A “home away from home” that combines landscape, food, hospitality and craic in a small package full of punch, it is a
laneway opposite Moran’s Garage, Best Hike – Mount Brandon
at the end of the lane there is a gate,
One of the main highlights of Dingle
to the left of this you will see the
for the outdoorsy type is Mount
coastal path. Follow this around to
Brandon, soaring high above the
the left, you will see Hussey’s Folly
views in the country, local fresh
village. Brandon is the second
ahead. Just after the Skellig Hotel
produce and award-winning
highest mountain in Ireland and
go through a stile on to the grassy
restaurants, quirky ‘old-man’
according to legend, St Brendan
path that leads you to the Folly or
pubs, craic agus ceoil (fun and
lived on or near the summit for a
further towards the light house.
music), art galleries and trinket
time. The remains of a sixth century
You can turn back at the lighthouse
cell near the summit suggests some
or carry on along the cliff path
truth in the legend. On a clear day
to Beenbane Beach. Here you can
the summit commands spectacular
even continue on to the next beach
views right across the West coast.
Doonsheane. Allow 2-3 hours.
There are three summits – the main
Best garden – Dingle’s
one at 952m, Coimin na gCna at
Secret Garden
891, and Brandon Peak at 840.
This walled garden is in the heart
Best Art Galleries
of Dingle town. At the side of the
Greenlane Gallery
church go through the gates and
Dingle Art Works Gallery
to the end of the lawn past a small
place where you truly relax and return to again and again. Dingle has some of the best sea
shops, watersports, family friendly attractions, a famous dolphin and incredibly friendly locals. It’s also a place where the Irish language is spoken, and it’s a destination that gives Irish people a sense of place and a pride in our country.
graveyard, there is an arched Best Festival – Other
doorway in the high brick wall that
Voices Festival
leads through to two secret gardens.
Other Voices is one of Ireland’s most
With a little hobbit stage made of
unique music events. Since 2002, the
trees and benches all around it’s a
annual gathering has established
great location for a picnic and to
itself as a musical pilgrimage
escape the wind on a sunny day.
for the mind and the soul. Past
Go Wild Magazine - Summer Edition 2017
- 10 -
www.gowildmagazine.com
Best outing - Blasket Islands
basking shark or minke whale.
Single Malt in the Dingle Distillery in Dingle town is an experience that cannot
This group of Islands to the west of Slea Head was inhabited until 1953,
Best Pub
be replicated anywhere else in the world.
when only 22 inhabitants remained.
The legendary Dick Macks pub is on every
Ten years ago, a ‘where to eat’ guide
Still uninhabited,the boat trip there
tourists wish list – it’s a throwback to old
could have been written on the back
makes for a great 1/2 day out. You can
Ireland, with quirky locals full of stories.
of an envelope, but there’s been a gastro revolution in the intervening
leave from Dingle or Dunquin, bring some food and swim gear. It’s an action
Gallarus Oratory
years, so much so, Dingle was named
packed day including a scenic boat
Standing on farmland on the Dingle
Ireland’s ‘Best Foodie Town 2015’. The
trip, a derelict village rich with history
Peninsula, and dating from (depending
more established restaurants are still
and intrigue, a swim with the seals
on the scholar) the 6th, 7th, 8th, 9th
producing amazing award winning food,
on the most perfect white sands beach
or 12th century, this is a fine example
but you can really notice the difference
and if leaving from Dingle you will
of a Christian place of worship. Its
at the cheaper end of the market.
spot Fungi on the way back. You may
dry-stone construction is totally
If you choose to dine in, there is an
even glimpse a pod of Fungi’s friends,
waterproof, which means the structure
abundance of choice when it comes to
is in almost perfect condition.
local artisan food. The farmers markets are a must, Friday morning in Dingle
Gallarus_Oratory
Dingle Ocean World, Dingle, Co Kerry
Dingle Aquarium
town, Saturday morning in Milltown at
The Aquarium has Dingle’s largest
the old church and Sunday morning in the
collection of sharks, as well as a Gentoo
clubrooms, Castlegregory. If you miss these
Penguin display. The new exhibit
you can always go to The Little Cheese
features special guests such as Juvenile
Shop on Green lane, Dingle where they
Saltwater Crocodiles, Iguanas, Bearded
stock not only their own award winning
Dragons, Corn Snakes, Pythons as
cheeses, but a fine selection of breads,
well as Boa constrictor Snakes.
sausages and pates all made locally.
Dingle Brewery
‘Best Restaurant in Kerry’ – Idás
Housed in a 19th-century creamery
Idás recently scooped the coveted title
building, this terrific craft brewery, Crean’s
of Kerry’s Best Restaurant at the Irish
Brewing Company use Kerry natural
Restaurant Awards. Head chef Kevin
spring water and simple techniques to
Murphy is a self-taught cook with a
make their lager as pure as possible.
background in art, who followed his
Admission includes a self-guided or
dream. Their menus showcase both
guided brewery tour as well as a pint.
foraged ingredients & prime, local
There’s so much more including Dingle
produce - monkfish liver with unripe
Distillery, the seal sanctuary, museums,
blackberries and chickweed; foraged broth
quirky shops, art galleries, and regular
of land and sea with a Glenbeigh oyster;
festivals, watersports, horseriding,
lamb with fermented root vegetables and
surfing, cookery schools, Skellig boat
wild garlic; Crozier Blue with peated
trip, pop up chef, picnics and more!
blackberry - all beautifully executed.
Great Eats
Fungi, The Dolphin.
Dingle’s food scene is one of the best in the
Best seafood - Out of the Blue
country – it has everything from Ashe’s
Dining in Out of the Blue is a very special
oyster shots made with Dingle vodka to
and unique experience. Seafood is cooked
An Gailearaí Beag’s Dingle Gin Soup, deep
and served to the highest standard.
fried Mars bars, local homemade ice cream,
Everything depends upon the catch of
craft beers, and fabulous coffee houses.
the day and nothing but the best will do.
There are an incredible 76 destinations
If there’s no fish, the restaurant doesn’t
in the town to enjoy local foods.
open. The menu, given on blackboards,
For a tourist to be able to drink Dingle
changes every day offering a huge
variety of whatever is available from the boats that morning. The restaurant is compact and cosy with modern rustic decor and wonderful artworks. Anyone who is lucky enough to get a table will be delighted. To book call 066 9150811. Blue Zone - Green St A funky restaurant with a late night bar that does fantastic pizzas and salads, there are often live music sessions of jazz and blues. Perfect for large groups or family
Best for large groups / Best for luxury
Best for contemporary lovers
meals, it’s a great place to relax in the
- Wild Atlantic View Dunquin
/ quirky style – The Green
afternoon or after a night in the pub if you
Sleeps 8 in 4 double bedrooms
House, Dingle Peninsula
are looking for somewhere laid back and
(can sleep 10 with 2 on sofa bed)
Sleeps 6 in 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms. Pet
fun. Open all year, to book call 066 915 0303.
Price from €236 per night.
friendly. Price from €122 per night.
In a word, STUNNING. Wild Atlantic View
The Green House is a contemporary home
An Canteen - Dykegate Lane
offers the ultimate in quality & luxury with
with panoramic sea and mountain views,
A hidden gem and a great spot for a pre-
the best views of Kerry’s Atlantic Islands….
that you can enjoy from an outdoor hot
film dinner as it’s metres from Dingle’s
Indulge yourself in it’s wild beauty. Every
tub. The large bright open plan living
legendry Phoenix Cinema. A great
west window frames an Island as the
area is ideally suited to relaxed holiday
selection of distinctive dishes prepared
property overlooks the Blaskets, Skelligs
entertaining, and it has a clay pizza oven
with care from the finest and freshest local
and Slea Head. With beautiful, unique
with BBQ. Just a few minutes’ walk to the
ingredients for a great price. It’s a great
open plan living areas, four bedrooms all
beautiful Ballyguin beach and Brandon
little find and last year was number one
with en suites and stunning grounds that
Pier where you can have a drink at the
on Tripadvisor for the whole of Dingle,
include a top of the range Hot Tub. This
legendary Murphys Bar overlooking
so the consumers choice. Open 5 till
property will exceed all expectations.
Brandon Bay, the longest beach in Ireland.
‘Made with love in Dingle’ is the tagline
Best for views – Tigin An
Best for Dingle town - Morningside
for this excellent little ice cream parlour/
Bear, Dingle Peninsula
Sleeps 8 in 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms (pet
coffee bar. All ice-cream is hand made using
Sleeps 8 in 4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms.
friendly) Price from €135 per night.
locally sourced ingredients, as it has been
Price from €243 per night.
Morning Side is a classic & contemporary
since 2000. Founded by Sean and Kieran
The outside veranda and glass fronted,
home, nestled on a quiet street in the middle
Murphy, this is a gem of a place to kick
first floor balcony offer unbeatable
of Dingle town with a rear courtyard
back, indulge, and read the first chapter of
views. This magnificent home with its
that soaks up the morning sun. The main
a book you’ve wanted to start for ages.
established gardens, alfresco dining and
living area has fashionable interiors with
10pm daily. To book call 086 660 3778. Reel Dingle Fish - Bridge Street The best Fish & Chips take-away on the Peninsula … with a great selection of freshly battered local fish, tasty sauces and proper chips. You can grab your take away, sit on the Harbour and soak up Dingle. What more could you ask for? Call 066 9151713 to pre-order. Best ice-cream – Murphy’s Ice Cream
eclectic furnishings will create wonderful
iconic 50’s furniture resembling a set
Your home from home in Dingle
memories. The French doors lead out onto
from Madmen. You can walk to all the
Dingle feels like a home from
the expansive veranda where you can
restaurants, pubs, galleries and shops
home, so here’s some inspiration
take in the harbours activities and the
that Dingle town has to offer including
on the top guesthouses and
Iveragh Peninsula beyond. Tigin an Bear
all the fabulous harbour, sea and hill
holiday homes in the region.
is just a short stroll into Dingle town.
walks from and within the town.
Go Wild Magazine - Summer Edition 2017
- 12 -
www.gowildmagazine.com
where the mountains touch the sea, the area
Best for couples – The Little
is very popular with walkers, artists and
Sanctuary, Dingle Peninsula
fishermen. You can walk down to Murphy’s
Sleeps 2 in 1 bedroom. Price
pub on the pier for a great atmosphere all
from €74 a night.
year round. The Cottage also has a large
The Little Sanctuary is nestled in a lush
garden with patio and is pet friendly.
wood at the mouth of Macha na Bo valley. The moment you turn up the little picturesque lane at the bottom of the Conor Pass you will know you are somewhere very special. Like something out of a Tolkien novel, the steep wall of the valley rises
Best for budget – Little Liss
dramatically from the crystal waters of the
Cottage, Brandon
Owenmore River. This one bedroom loft
Sleeps 6 in 3 bedrooms, price
apartment is a lovingly restored farm house
from €50 per night.
full of authentic details and quirky nooks.
The Little Liss Cottage is perched up on Lios Na Caolbhui overlooking the beach
For holiday home bookings, contact Stay
and pier at Brandon both a 5 minute walk
YNA Dingle on www.stayynadingle.
away. The sun floods through the cute
com Stay YNA Dingle is the largest
cottage most of the day reflecting off the
holiday letting provider in Dingle
ocean. Surrounded by legendary walks
town and the Dingle Peninsula.
Two great Dingle Locations
Town Centre Location Steeped in History & Atmosphere
Overlooking Dingle Bay ¥ Excellent Facilities including Leisure Club & Spa
Main St, Dingle, Co. Kerry www.dinglebenners.com +353 66 915 1638
Dingle, Co. Kerry www.dingleskellig.com +353 66 915 0200
Go Wild Magazine - Summer Edition 2017
- 13 -
www.gowildmagazine.com
E V I T A E R C GET iday
o n an
l o H s t f a r Arts & C NEED Some INSPIRATION!
Arts and Crafts holidays are a great way to pick up new skills. And where better to tap into your creative side than on the Wild Atlantic Way, a place that inspires. It’s no surprise that this coastal stretch is a haven for artists and craft makers. From woodturning to jewellery making, painting, photography and sewing, there is a course to suit everyone.
Pottery in Dingle
Louis Mulcahy Pottery An ideal stop on the Dingle Slea Head Route on the Wild Atlantic Way is Louis Mulcahy’s pottery workshop showrooms and Café. Stocking an extensive range of ceramic giftware and tableware, each piece of hand crafted stoneware pottery is dreamed up and designed by Louis and everything is made on-site by him along with his team, from tiny pots to huge urns, in striking glazes reflecting the rich colours of the peninsula. After years of customer’s requests to be allowed see his work in progress or to try their hand at throwing a pot, Louis Mulcahy agreed to dedicate an area at his pottery to visitors wishing to experience the craft for themselves. A professional thrower can be seen going through the daily routine of throwing pots and will assist visitors in making their own “masterpiece”. You can either bring your raw pot home or have it fired, glazed and delivered to your home. The professional
Go Wild Magazine - Summer Edition 2017
potter is also available to answer any questions that visitors may have about the processes involved in making pottery. In addition to the throwing experience there is also an audio visual demonstrating the casting and jiggering processes which are used at the workshop. The techniques of glazing and decoration are also revealed. You can also enjoy Dingle crabmeat, Dingle Peninsula cheese or local spiced beef, all of which feature on the menu in the café upstairs. Daily specials include savoury tarts, fish-cakes, and a chilli-crab sandwich and Café favourites include Raspberry and dark chocolate Brownies, Kerry Apple Cake, and freshly baked scones and brown bread. Gluten free options are always on the menu. The café is recommended by Georgina Campbell and McKenna’s Guides. www.louismulcahy.com
Painting in Donegal
Point in Donegal, which was recently named the best hotel in Ireland by Trip Advisor. This painting break will see guests tutored by artist Conor McIntyre on the shores of Lough Eske, with food and accommodation included for €565 per person. See harveyspoint.com
Get crafty in Mayo Derryaun Craft The rural townland of Drummin in Mayo is pastoral Ireland at its best and the rolling green surrounding the stone cottage of Derryaun Craft is a great place to look for creative inspiration. Artist Suzie Sullivan will teach you the art of dyeing, jewellery making, weaving, spinning and wire work! Suzie is an award winning fibre artist whose work is a fusion of her own artistic vision and her diverse craft techniques comprising hand dyed felt, flamework glass and silk paper. She gets her inspiration from Irish culture, myths and fairy-tales and the wild surroundings of her Mayo home. www.derryauncrafts.com
Glass Making and more in Kinsale
Donegal - Rainbow; Image Brian Lynch
Harvey’s Point Those with ambitions to paint should check out a five-day deal offered by Harvey’s
- 14 -
Kinsale Pottery and Arts Centre Kinsale Pottery and Arts Centre provides arts and crafts courses for adults and children, specialising in pottery/ ceramics, glass fusing, jewellery-making, and mosaic-making. They run weekly classes, weekend breaks, summer schools and summer camps, and tailor-made workshops for corporate groups and private parties. Kinsale Pottery is close
www.gowildmagazine.com
Distinctive pieces made with skill and passion by the team in our Workshop near Clogher Strand, Ballyferriter, Co. Kerry
WORKSHOP • CAFÉ • SHOWROOM
The Perfect Stop on Dingle’s Slea Head Drive Clogher Strand, Ballyferriter, Dingle, Co. Kerry
Open 7 Days, All Year Oscailte Gach Lá
Tel Fón: 066 9156229 • www.louismulcahy.com
to the centre of the beautiful historic harbour of Kinsale, famed for its restaurants and shops. http://www.kinsaleceramics.com/
Photography in Westport Wild Atlantic Photography At times, it can feel like an obligation to capture everything you see when you’re travelling somewhere as visually unique as the Wild Atlantic Way. Tom Ramwell can teach you not just ‘what to shoot’ but ‘when to shoot’. Based in the postcard-perfect town of Westport County Mayor, Tom runs photography workshops on the Wild Atlantic Way, partnering with Eaglewood Lodge. http://wildatlanticphotography.com/
Bone Carving in Galway The Bone Carving Studio The Bone Carving Studio and Gallery in Galway offers the only bone carving classes in Ireland. At a one day class, you’ll create your own bone carving from start to finish. Whether you’re a visitor or a native, a bone carving class is the perfect activity for a rainy Galway day and it’s also a unique souvenir, whether you create a piece to keep for yourself or you make something special for someone special ! www.bonecarving.ie
To commemorate their 160 year anniversary, Belleek have launched the Belleek Archive Collection 1857-2017. This is a collection of 16 pieces of Belleek, representing sixteen decades of design and craftsmanship. Each piece takes you on a journey through the years, and each piece has a unique 2017 anniversary backstamp. The archive collection is available to view and purchase in Belleek’s retail showroom in the visitor centre. You can take a guided tour of the Centre, which will bring you on a 30 minute tour of the manufacturing process that takes place to produce Belleek. All tours have a personal guide that will firstly explain what the visitor is about to experience. From the beginning the visitors will see, hear and touch the product throughout the tour. The Visitor Centre at Belleek Pottery offers visitors a unique experience whilst visiting the Fermanagh Lakelands. Their museum houses a collection of the finest Belleek every produced over the last 160 years. The Belleek retail showroom is a modern, stylish retail outlet, displaying the vast product range of Belleek products for sale. From tableware collections to basketware, you will be sure to find a gift for any event or special occasion.
Kinsale Harbour; Image Tim Thompson
To finish off your visit to Belleek, the restaurant offers a selection of hot and cold food during the week and soup and sandwiches at weekends. They also have a scrumptious selection of baked goods and sweet treats to accompany your tea and coffee, all served on Belleek tableware. www.belleekpottery.ie
Ireland’s oldest working pottery
Belleek Pottery Why not take a day trip with all the family up North and enjoy and experience what Belleek Pottery Visitor Centre has to offer. Celebrating 160 years of expert craftsmanship in 2017, Belleek Pottery is Ireland’s oldest working pottery. Since 1857, Belleek Pottery has been welcoming visitors from across the world to the unique village of Belleek, nestled by the banks of Lough Erne in Co. Fermanagh.
Go Wild Magazine - Summer Edition 2017
- 16 -
www.gowildmagazine.com
A location spectacular beyond belief
enjoy • relax • explore Parknasilla is only a short drive along the Wild Atlantic Way from the vibrant town of Kenmare. But what really counts is our immediate location set within a "Tropical Paradise" of islands, inlets & hidden beaches. So come stay with us and wake up to our beautiful sea views, indulge in a little spa pampering, explore one of our many coastline walking trails, enjoy a guided sea kayaking tour, play a little golf and in the evening come dine with us in The Pygmalion Restaurant where exemplary cooking, good wine and great service will impress.
www.parknasillaresort.com Parknasilla Resort & Spa, Sneem, Co. Kerry, Ireland Tel: +353 (0)64 6675600 Email: info@parknasillaresort.com
NIALL MCGARRY INTERVIEW with Michelle McDonagh He’s a Mayo man working in Dublin and London, but it’s the City of The Tribes that Ireland’s most successful digital media entrepreneur, Niall McGarry, calls home.
E
After graduating from college
would not travel internationally.
in Limerick with a degree in
“I found that I was going to a lot
marketing in 2002, Niall moved
of different websites for news,
to Galway and instantly fell
sports, fashion, and business, etc
for the magic of the city.
but there was no site pulling all
“I arrived in the middle of
of this information together in a
Craughwell, County Galway.
Arts Festival week and there
quintessentially Irish way. I saw
Galway may be home
was so much going on, it was
a gap in the market, I knew there
now, but Niall credits his
such an exciting place.”
must be a lot of other men like me.
entrepreneurial spirit to his
He spent a year selling advertising
“Anything I do, I go into thinking
native Castlebar which, he says,
for The Galway Independent — the
I will make a success of this, and
only time he worked for anybody
I knew I had to make JOE.ie a
else — before setting up his own
commercially viable entity so I did
media company, Impact Media
think it would be a success, but I
in 2003. He ran Impact for seven
could never have predicted just how
years before selling it to a Cork
successful it was to become,” he says.
marketing company, while he
Since founding Maximum Media in
devoted himself to his newest
2010, Niall has overseen the growth
venture, the website JOE.ie.
of an Irish media phenomenon. With
JOE.ie provides an online outlet
four award-winning digital brands
Garda station and library, and a
for Irish men with an interest
– JOE, Her, SportsJOE and Her
redeveloped hospital. It was the era
in areas like sport, technology,
Family – he has overseen the launch
of Padraig Flynn and there was a
entertainments, motors and fashion.
of a quartet of unique, innovative
lot of new building and expansion.
The name comes from the ‘average
platforms that, between them,
I was very much bitten by the bug.”
Joe’ or “Joe Soap” as Niall jokes
command over nine million unique
he was not narcissistic enough to
users in Ireland per month and
call it Niall.ie and stereotypical
boast comfortably the largest social
Irish names like Mick or Pat
media community in the country.
very Friday evening, the founder of the largest social media community
in Ireland, leaves the Big Smoke and heads West to his home in
was a very progressive town when he was growing up. “There was a lot happening in Castlebar at the time, it was punching above its weight as a small town in the West of Ireland. It had a small airport, the International Song Contest, a new
Go Wild Magazine - Summer Edition 2017
- 18 -
www.gowildmagazine.com
He launched Her Family in January 2015
Tony Barrett, coupled with the in-house
at the end of the year. His parents
targeting the lucrative parenting space.
creation of topical, hilarious videos, the
have also moved to Galway and live
“Her Family has a very specific
like of which are not seen anywhere
in the nearby village of Oranmore so
angle. Just because you become a
else (one of which recently garnered
he sees them at the weekends also.
parent doesn’t change who you are.
250 million views), has seen JOE Media
While he would still love to see Mayo
It’s news for people who happen to
develop into a brand like no other.
win an All Ireland, Niall says he regards
be parents and parental advice.”
Niall now employs a staff of 40 out
himself as “from Galway now”.
In 2015, Niall looked beyond the island
of his London office, and up to 90
He enthuses: “Galway has just enough
of Ireland and launched JOE Media in
full-time staff in Dublin. While his
of everything, it’s such a friendly
the UK, making a bold statement in
brands continue to grow on either
place and as a blow-in, I found the
one of the world’s most competitive
side of the Irish Sea, his aim is to
people so welcoming. It’s a beautiful
media markets. Applying the lessons
establish Maximum Media as the
city, the medieval architecture
he learned in Ireland, the JOE and
most relevant media organisation in
is very different from other Irish
SportsJOE brands quickly gained a
Ireland within the next five years and,
cities. It’s a very cosmopolitan place
foothold in the UK and, within just
as it expands internationally, see his
with all types of cultures, and it’s
20 months, built up a Facebook and
JOE brand become the media brand
a safe city with a low crime rate.
Twitter following of over eight million,
of choice for men the world over.
“Dublin is cool and the weather is a
helping JOE.co.uk attract over 10
Having realised he couldn’t set up
bit drier, but the sun sets in the West
million unique users each month.
and run a national media brand from
and the Irish Sea is nowhere near as
Technical and editorial innovation,
Galway, Niall moved to Dublin after
attractive as the Atlantic Ocean. The
combined with an investment in unique
selling Impact Media and he commutes
Atlantic seaboard and Galway Bay in
and authoritative voices have propelled
between Dublin and London Monday
particular, the way the Clare Hills and
the growth of JOE Media and seen it
to Friday. However, every Friday
in certain parts, the Aran Islands define
fast become the voice of men in Britain.
evening he heads back to Galway to
the landscape, is breath-taking, I’ve
The site’s growing cohort of respected
his seven and a half year old son, Max,
taken so many unreal photos out there.”
and well-known journalists such as
from a previous relationship, and his
Nooruddean Choudry, Dion Fanning and
fiancee Sarah, who he is set to marry
Go Wild Magazine - Summer Edition 2017
- 19 -
www.gowildmagazine.com
Standún
Stand
The best place to buy an Aran Sweater and Irish gifts A famous tourist destination for over 70 years, Standún is a store steeped in tradition, known for its huge selection of Aran sweaters and Irish fashion labels. Now run by sisters Cliona and Laragh
On release from prison this interest in all
The best place to buy an Ar
Standún, the Standún family have owned
things Irish continued to grow and when
and managed this department store for
Máirtín and May came across a small dra-
three generations and have built a repu-
pery shop in Spiddal for sale while on a
tation for the range of quality Irish goods
cycling holiday in Connemara, their des-
including hand knits, delicate pottery,
tiny was sealed.
traditional tweeds and stunning handcut crystal.
Humble Beginnings...
Standún was the first business to export
A famous tourist destination for over 70 yea known for its huge selection of Aran
the Aran sweater to the US, supplying large department stores such as Nords-
trom and Lord & Taylor and it was voted
the Best Quality & Value Sweater by the Wall Street Journal. At one stage there
were over 700 women around the country knitting pieces of Aran sweaters that
The drapery shop cost six hundred
café with its breathtaking views of the Cli-
ffs of Moher, The Aran Islands and Galway Bay.
pounds, which was a lot of money in tho-
se days for any young couple, but fired by enthusiasm and determination and an
ardent desire to live in the Irish Speaking
The store is firmly embedded in the community of Spiddal, Connemara Co. Galway,
Gaeltacht, the young couple saved every penny they earned.
Now run by sistershaving Cliona and played an active role inLaragh community In 1946 Máirtín and May Standún bou-
were then assembled in the store. Today, Standún still provides a selection of great
life for more than 70 years. We take a look
ght the tiny galvanised shop come house Standún, the Standúnbackfamily have owned at the fascinating story of this family on the outskirts of the village of Spiddal.
value Aran sweaters.
business …
were the humble beginnings of Stanand managed this department store for Thus its Irish and International brands, marrying dún, now one of the best known and most In recent years it has become known for
traditional with contemporary to stunning
fashion, gift and craft outlets in A Love Story three generations and have builtBegins a repu- respected the West of Ireland.
effect. It has a huge ladies fashion depart-
ment as well as great ranges of clothing
In the early 40’s Máirtín an Irish speaking tation for the range of quality Irish goods
for men and children. It also has a large home and giftware department.
man from Liverpool, England and May a
15 hour working day....
music delicate teacher from Mullingar fell in love. including hand knits, pottery,
It is one of the few shops in the world
From the very outset their business and
Their first meeting, however was not a traditional tweeds and stunning hand- social lives were uniquely interlinked with normal rendezvous at the local dance but
where fashion and gifts can be bought
through the Irish language (the first lan-
cut crystal.
guage of most of the employees working
occurred while both were interned for su-
in Standún).
pporting the cause of Irish Independen-
Over 2 million customers have visited
prison, Máirtín met the Irish scholar and
ce in the Ireland of the 1930’s. While in
the local community and with the culture
and traditions of the Connemara Gaeltacht. Like all struggling business people of their
Standún was the firstConnemara business to export time, they worked a fifteen hour day builwho had a major influence on
Standún throughout the years to enjoy their relaxed shopping environment, em-
writer, Máirtín O’Cadhain from Spiddal in
him instilling in him a passionate love for
ding their business from the tiny shop to
the Aran sweater tothe Irish thelanguage US,and culture. supplying an all-purpose store selling everything
brace the Gaelic language, and to treat themselves to some home baking in the
large department stores such as NordsGo Wild Magazine - Summer Edition 2017
- 20 -
trom and Lord & Taylor and it was voted
from groceries, clothes, footwear, furni-
caféwww.gowildmagazine.com with its breathtak
ture, bedding and bicycles to cement and other building materials.
Significant Employer...
dún People travelled from all over Connema-
ra and further afield to shop at Standún, some travelling by bus and others many miles on turf lorries.
To this day you could talk with women from Donegal to Kerry and anywhere in between who depended on Standún for the very necessary supplement to their
Standún became the meeting place for
people and their delivery van, which was also the family car, became the hearse for the area.
In the 1960’s at the instigation of Córas Tráchtála, Standún set up a finishing factory for Aran sweaters which was to beco-
household income derived from hand knitted Irish Aran sweaters. Standún was
In 1972 Donal, May and Máirtín’s son, and
one of the most significant employers in
his wife Raymonde took over the business.
the area. At one stage there were over 700
They decided to focus Standún more on
knitters on their books. Standún became
the tourist market and Standún became
the first store in Ireland to export the Aran
a landmark in Connemara for great value
Sweater to large department stores in the
knitwear and good quality Irish products.
US such as Nordstrom and Lord and Taylor.
Export to the US remained strong and Standún was recommended in many gui-
ran Sweater and Irish gifts me a most important aspect of Standún’s
business, particularly as the tourist industry began to grow and develop in the
debooks such as Frommers and Fodors
The Second Generation...
as well as winning the Wall Street Journal Award for the best place to buy an Aran
1970’s.
Sweater online.
The unfinished Aran sweaters with their varied and individual patterns - cable
Today...
stitch representing fishermens ropes, trellis representing stone walls between
Standún is now managed by Máirtín and
fields - were collected from home knitters
ars, Standún is a store steeped in tradition, n sweaters and Irish fashion labels.
May’s grand-daughters Clíona and Laragh
all around the country and brought to the
and it very much reflects all that is best in
factory for finishing.
Irish and International produce
release prison this interest in all Best for IrishOnGifts – from Irish Language region things Irish–continued to grow and when Shop Local Free Parking
Máirtín and May came across a small drapery shop in Spiddal for sale while on a GenesisdesCurrach cycling holiday in Connemara, their Handmade from Bronze €79.99
tiny was sealed. Nicholas Mosse Jug
Avoca Hand-weavers Mohair Throw €110
Handmade Irish Pottery €45.95
Humble Beginnings...
Sterling Silver Claddagh Ring €39.99
Honeycomb Crew Neck, €69.99
Ireland’s Eye Aran Sweater, €69.99
FREE Hot Drink per person when you reference this article
The www.standun.com drapery shop cost six hundred
pounds, which was a lot of money in thoGo Wild Magazine - Summer Edition 2017 www.gowildmagazine.com king views of the Cli- 21 -
Romance IS IN THE AIR
Let the windswept locations of the Wild Atlantic Way capture your heart
S
o many of us are so caught up in
Downpatrick Head in Co. Mayo
the distractions of everyday living,
work, family, chores and technology that is always on, that we rarely spend quality time with our other halves. Nothing will reconnect you more than heading off on a coastal journey along the rugged, untamed landscape and sandy beaches of the Wild Atlantic Way. It’s not clichéd romance, it’s real and the shared adventure will bring you closer together. It’s here you can get away from all the distractions of everyday living, feel carefree and nourish your partnership. Let the fresh sea air mess your hair,
Jutting out into the ocean and rising
“Watch and become spellbound as the sky is illuminated with thousands of glistening stars, clusters and even the odd shooting star, all visible to the naked eye. ”
...
and the muddy roads scuff your boots. Roam rugged roads together, take in the clean air on a coastal cliff walk,
almost 40m above the waves, one of these Signature Discovery Points, Downpatrick Head, provides heartstopping,
unparalleled
views
of
the Atlantic, including the unique collection of islands known as the Staggs of Broadhaven. This is the perfect place to head off on an invigorating coastal walk. Relish the breathtaking views of the nearby Dún Briste sea stack, with its different coloured layers of rock and nesting sea birds and embrace that feeling that you are the only two people on the edge of this windswept world,
Loop Head Lighthouse Co. Clare’s Loop Head’s remote lighthouse is
or discover untouched scenery off
the powerful waves’ crash against
the beaten track on a walking trail.
wonderfully evocative. The adjoining
the rocks and notice the different
In return you’ll leave feeling fully
light-keeper’s
weather systems come and go and the
refreshed, invigorated and enjoying
available to rent, is just the place to
swirling gulls overhead. It is here at
a feeling of closeness through shared
channel your inner Alicia Vikander - or
these remote locations that you get a
experiences.
Michael Fassbender - if you’ve been
really intimate experience of the wild
inspired by the romantic weepie, The
landscape and seascapes of the Wild
Light Between Oceans, which tells the
Atlantic Way.
story of a lighthouse keeper and his
Start by exploring one of the iconic, must-see Signature Discovery points,
By immersing yourself in these natural
Signature Discovery Points scattered
surroundings and switching off fully
across the coastline of the Wild Atlantic
from the daily routine, you develop
Way. These glorious edge-of-the-world
a deeper connection with this region
vistas encompass everything that’s
that helps renew the soul. Don’t
magical about this region.
forget to capture the moment with a spectacular selfie against this amazing
Go Wild Magazine - Summer Edition 2017
which
is
wife.
http://www.wildatlanticway.com/
Breathe in the salty air, and watch
house,
background.
Fanad in Co. Donegal For another lighthouse experience, head to Fanad in Co. Donegal, where you can escape to your own snug romantic cottage at Fanad lighthouse, which been voted one of the most beautiful lighthouses in the world.
- 22 -
www.gowildmagazine.com
clew_bay, Mayo. Image Fearghus Foyle
Fanad Head Donegal. Image Fearghus Foyle
Cork_Couple. Image Brian Morrison
Dark Sky reserve. Dingle. Image Valerie O’Sullivan
Loop Head Lighthouse, Co. Clare. Image Tourism Ireland
Croagh Patrick Image Tourism Ireland
In the evening, snuggle up with your
idyllic countryside and be captivated by
the odd shooting star, all visible to the
loved one in front of a turf fire and you
the view of the spectacular Nephin Beg
naked eye. The spectacular beauty and
might even see the Aurora Borealis in
mountain range and across Clew Bay to
romance of the star-filled sky will stay
the Northern skies for a truly memorable
Croagh Patrick. Afterwards, enjoy a feast
with both of you long after this trip.
break.
for two at one of the many pubs and
Keem Strand on Mayo’s Achill Island
restaurants dotted around the area.
Cosy pubs and romantic restaurants
Kerry’s Dark Sky Reserve
There are countless spots along the coast
How about a walk, hand-in-hand, on the
The kaleidoscope of colour that makes
for cosy pubs, open fires and glorious
vast expanse of a Blue Flag beach on
up a Wild Atlantic Way sunset is followed
food to create the ideal environment
Achill Island? This is a beautiful, tranquil
by a breathtaking night sky at Kerry’s
for romance and for switching off from
spot for a walk with its sheltered, rural
Dark Sky Reserve. This unique area in
the busy world. Whatever you and your
beach surrounded by cliffs.
Kerry is almost completely devoid of
loved one choose to do on the Wild
light pollution and allows star-gazers
Atlantic Way, you’re bound to emerge
to admire the wonders of the universe
refreshed, revitalised and, hopefully,
Further afield in Mayo, escape the bustle
and to experience the night sky like our
even more connected.
of urban life on the Great Western
ancient ancestors would have known
Greenway, the longest off-road cycling
it.
Watch and become spellbound as
For more information about romantic
and walking trail in Ireland which is
the sky is illuminated with thousands
adventures and breaks; please visit http://
completely traffic free. Savour the peace
of glistening stars, clusters and even
www.wildatlanticway.com/romance
Great Western Greenway
and quiet as you travel through the
Ballynahinch Castle To the Manor born By Damien O Mahony
“And the utter mountain mirrored in the lake, Entered us like a wedge knocked sweetly home, Into core timber”. This extract from Seamus Heaney’s
traced back to the 14th century and
Brocquy adorn the walls. What
beautifully evocative poem came
the O’Flaherty Clan into which the
better way to round the evening
to mind as my better half and I
Pirate Queen Grace O’Malley married
off than with a nightcap sitting
travelled up the winding drive to
at the age of 16. The current building
before a cosy log fire - Heaven!
Ballinahinch Castle in Connemara
was built in the 18th century by
recently for our first visit.
the influential Martin family. In
Ballynahinch Castle Hotel is ideal for
the 1920s the Indian maharaja and
an active break or simply relaxing.
The Hotel is located at the foot of
Test cricketer known as “Ranji” was
The Hotel has expert guides on
the Twelve Bens mountain range,
a regular visitor to Ballinahinch.
hand to assist in every activity,
set on 450 acres of wild Connemara
Ranji bought the estate and erected
even if you’re a complete novice.
landscape - woodland, rivers and
fishing piers and huts along the
walks, in the Gaelic speaking
course of the river. The house became
There is much to do in the beautiful
heart of Co. Galway, (don’t worry
a hotel in the Forties and since
unspoilt estate itself and the
- they all speak English!).
then has carved a well-deserved
surrounding countryside. Fishing,
reputation for itself as one of the
hiking, the islands & lobster
finest luxury hotels in Ireland
experience, woodcock shooting, clay
Despite its title it’s not really a
shooting or cycling. However, my
castle – more a castellated manor house - but its location is beautifully
There are a number of beautifully
companion and I deemed all that far
dramatic and its intriguing story
calm sitting rooms for reading
too energetic and instead opted for
even more so. This is a location that
or relaxing, together with the
the far more leisurely stroll along
captivates you from the very outset.
wood panelled bar, known as
the meandering river and around
The Pub, dedicated to fishing and
the lake – plus a number of short
The moment we arrived we felt
decorated with catches that must
hop visits to the beautiful nearby
at home. The reception area had
have generated extravagant levels
towns of Roundstone and Clifden.
a roaring log fire, fireside chairs
of boasting many moons ago! We left the Castle refreshed and
on a scale designed for dozing and a receptionist who seemed
However, my favourite room in the
re-energised and with our faith in
genuinely glad to see us - not
hotel has to be the restaurant, with its
Irish hospitality reinforced. A stay
my usual ‘hotel’ experience
beautiful views over the Owenmore
in Ballinahinch ain’t cheap, but if
River. I have stayed in many hotels
you feel the need to indulge yourself,
We were shown to our room with a
but have yet to experience one
this is the place to do it in style.
view over the river and delightfully
which matches Ballinahinch for its
plush decor. The Castle has 48 rooms
extraordinary food offering. The
Ballinahinch Castle Hotel,
in all, ranging from ‘classic’ to
produce is local, seasonal and fresh
Recess, Connemara, County
‘suites’ each with individual names
and the art of those in the kitchen
Galway, Ireland (00 353 95
reflecting the history of the building
- simply sublime. And you get to
31006; ballynahinch-castle.
and its surrounding landscape.
enjoy it surrounded by a gallery of
com). Access possible for
the Ireland’s painting deities – Jack
guests using wheelchairs.
The history of the Castle can be
Yeats, Gerard Dillon and Louis le
Ballynahinch Castle is set on a 450 acre estate in the heart of Connemara with 48 bedrooms & suites, all tastefully & individually decorated. The hotel’s restaurant is renowned for its excellence, which of course, serves
The hotel’s restaurant is renowned for its excellence, which of course, locally-sourced produce and locally-caught fish. It might be the height of serves locally-sourced and locally-caught fish. Itbemight be the summer in Ireland, but a seatproduce by a log fire in the cosy bar will always welcome height of summer Ireland, but a seat bysalmon a log river fire in the cosy bar will after a day’s hiking or in fishing on the hotel’s own and lakes. Other always be welcome afterbiking, a day’s hiking or bird fishing on the hotel’s activities at the castle include hiking, game hunting, walking trails,own cycling, fly-fishing, locally a boatactivities trip from Roundstone to Inishlaken, salmon river andand lakes. Other at the castle include atennis, deserted in Roundstone Bay. In fact, there’s much to doInonfact, the estate, biking, island hiking, pony riding and game birdsohunting. there’s so lots estate, of visitors never leave the never grounds. much to do on the lots of visitors leave the grounds.
Tel + 353 95 31006 Email info@ballynahinch-castle.com Ballynahinch Castle Hotel, Recess, Connemara, Co. Galway, Ireland
Dunowen House
Feel like a rock star in Clonakility There comes a point in time when you have to stop enviously watching reruns of Escape to the Country and River Cottage, a time when you realize it’s now or never. That realization came to Kela and
guests from all over the world, looking
Stephen Hodgins in the summer of 2013,
to escape to West Cork for a unique
when on a chance visit to Clonakilty
holiday experience. Word of mouth
they came across Dunowen House.
and return visits from guests have all helped to build its reputation as one
On a stunningly beautiful summer’s
of Ireland’s favourite places to stay.
day, travelling 10 minutes along
For two years in a row, Dunowen has
the Wild Atlantic Way route from
received the McKenna’s Guides “Best
Clonakilty, they spotted Galley
Places to Stay in Ireland” award and is currently the highest rated Vacation
Head lighthouse on the horizon and instantly fell in love with the
House has had many colourful
Rental in all of Ireland on Tripadvisor.
area. A visit to Dunowen House
inhabitants over the years. Each
With 6 large bedroom suites and oodles
confirmed they had found “the place”,
generation of owner has left its
of comfortable spacious reception
whereupon they returned to Dublin,
signature on the house and gardens,
rooms, Dunowen House can sleep up
sold their house and within six weeks
to be enjoyed by guests today. The
to 18 guests. The beautifully renovated
were loading three kids, a dog, two
secluded Sands Cove at the end of the
Orchard Cottage, located in the
trucks and heading for their own
short laneway, took its name from the
walled garden on the estate, provides
“escape to the country” adventure.
original Sandes family, dropping the
accommodation for a further 5 guests
Saying goodbye to office-based careers
“e” over time, while the walled garden
if more space is required. There are
in Dublin city was not a difficult
features the original bell tower that
four acres of gardens surrounding
decision but they admit friends and
called the seven gardeners to meals.
the house and an abundance of some
family thought they were crazy.
However, mention Dunowen House
of Ireland’s best beaches within 10
The only crazy thing would not
now to anyone living in the environs
minutes’ drive or walk of the house.
have been taking that leap of faith
of Clonakilty and they immediately
The house is ideal for holidays with
and moving to Dunowen House.
associate it with a more recent resident
extended family or groups of friends,
Over the course of a year, the couple
and local hero. For more than 30 years
reunions, celebrations or small intimate
renovated the house, a series of old
Noel Redding, bass player with the Jimi
weddings. Kela & Stephen have
farm buildings and the overgrown
Hendrix Experience, called Dunowen
furnished the house with everything
one acre walled garden and orchard.
House home, where he entertained
you need for a luxury stay and are
Dunowen House now operates as a
music legends throughout the 70’s, 80’s
on hand to cater for dinner parties or
luxury vacation rental, welcoming
and 90’s. More recently, Dunowen was
provide personalized guided tours of
groups of up to 23 guests at any time
owned by 1980’s popstar Nik Kershaw.
the area and plenty of recommendations
throughout the year. With the added
Kela and Stephen have dedicated a
on things to do and see.
benefit of optional private catering and
large room in the house to various
Whether you are a party of two,
concierge services, offered by Kela and
rock and roll memorabilia linked to
looking for a romantic escape in the
Stephen onsite, guests get the benefits
Noel and Jimi Hendrix, specifically
picture postcard Orchard Cottage,
of a five star hotel experience and
original concert posters, vintage
or a group of 20 looking for a
the exclusivity of having a country
magazines and music. The memorabilia
relaxing multi-generational family
house estate all to themselves.
gives the house a real luxury rock
holiday or special celebration event,
and roll vibe and is always a source of
Dunowen House is the place to
Real Rock & Roll History
enjoyment to guests while they stay.
experience laid back luxury and the
Originally built in the late 1700’s by
A Dunowen House Welcome:
warmest of West Cork welcomes.
Captain George Sandes, Dunowen
Since opening, Dunowen has welcomed
www.dunowenhouse.ie
Go Wild Magazine - Summer Edition 2017
- 26 -
www.gowildmagazine.com
Bridging the best of Ireland’s West
www.shannonferries.com tel: +353 (0)65 9053124
The Woman at the Helm of the Wild Atlantic Way FIONA MONAGHAN, FÁILTE IRELAND’S HEAD OF THE WILD ATLANTIC WAY TALKS TO MICHELLE MCDONAGH FROM GO WILD ABOUT THE SUCCESS OF THE TOURIST INITIATIVE, PLANS FOR 2017, AND HER PERSONAL “MUST VISIT” SPOTS ON THE ROUTE.
“Go Wild magazine has been a strong advocate for the Wild Atlantic Way since its inception and without fail features some aspect of the touring route in each publication that really brings the proposition of the Wild Atlantic Way to life” Fiona Monaghan
Fiona Monaghan, Fáilte Ireland She explains: “The response to date to this initiative has been very positive and the areas we started working with in 2016 are
The success of the Wild Atlantic Way in the
boards installed at all 188 Discovery Points
already starting to reap benefits. We have
three years since it was first launched is due in
on the route, both on the mainland and the
extended the number of destinations we
no small part to the huge buy-in and support
accessible off-shore islands, Ms Monaghan
are working with this year with the aim of
of the initiative by local communities from
and her team are moving on to the next stage
giving potential visitors more compelling
Inishowen in Donegal down to West Cork,
of evolution to develop world class visitor
reasons to visit the Wild Atlantic Way in
according to Fiona Monaghan, Head of the
experiences to give visitors, both international
the Spring and Autumn in particular.
Wild Atlantic Way with Fáilte Ireland.
and Irish, compelling reasons to visit, not just
“In addition to the tourism businesses along
the Wild Atlantic Way, but specific areas and
“We will be supporting this effort with
destinations along the Wild Atlantic Way.
very significant marketing and advertising campaigns to put the Wild Atlantic Way
the way, the ownership and pride by the people who live along the Wild Atlantic
Last year, they worked with a group of
in the spotlight and encourage more
Way has been second to none. It has given
tourism businesses, local communities and key
Irish people to take short breaks out
confidence to these communities to open
stakeholders along the Skellig Coast in South
West in the Spring and Autumn.”
new businesses, expand existing businesses
Kerry to collectively identify and present in
The theme and key message of all the
and generally take pride in their local
a fun and engaging way the key reasons to
advertising is to encourage Irish people to
communities to welcome visitors,” she says.
visit this particular part of the Wild Atlantic
Embrace the Wild Atlantic Way of Life by
Ms Monaghan finds it hard to believe that it
Way. “In addition to identifying great story
taking a holiday along the Wild Atlantic
is only three years since the Wild Atlantic
themes to develop visitor experiences, for
Way and escaping from the daily grind of
Way was launched in the Spring of 2014. She remarks: “Three years on, as we head into the 2017 tourist season, the Wild Atlantic Way
Three years on, as we head into the 2017 tourist season, the Wild Atlantic Way continues to lure visitors, both international and domestic, to Ireland’s dramatic west coast.
continues to lure visitors, both international and domestic, to Ireland’s dramatic west coast. Brand
me personally, the big success of this work
work and routine. The campaign aims to
awareness of the Wild Atlantic Way amongst
was nine individual tourism groups coming
show people having fun with family and
Irish holiday-makers continues to rise and the
together to work collectively to put their
friends and embracing the coastline, nature
new tourist initiative has encouraged more Irish
destination on the map. We are continuing
and culture along the Wild Atlantic Way.
people to take holidays out West and to visit areas
this work with more destinations in 2017.”
that may not previously been on their radar.”
The other big work area that is on the agenda
Ms Monaghan says she has many favourite
for 2017, according to Ms Monaghan, is
places along the Wild Atlantic Way herself
By the end of 2016, the Wild Atlantic Way
working with clusters of businesses and
and hopes to return to many of them again
had contributed 3.8 million overseas bed
destinations to develop new initiatives to
this year, but she also wants to explore some
nights to the West of Ireland and accounted
extend the tourist season by a few weeks
areas that she is not as familiar with.
for €1.9 billion in foreign earnings.
either side of the summer to try and attract
“This year, I have the Beara Peninsula
more businesses to these areas and to
and Dursey Island on my “must visit”
Now that the interpretation and branding of the
ultimately deliver an economic benefit
list as well as climbing Mweelrea in
initiative is complete with Photo Points and story
to these businesses and localities.
County Mayo with my family.”
Go Wild Magazine - Summer Edition 2017
- 28 -
www.gowildmagazine.com
Escape to the unspoilt beauty of West Cork and the Wild Atlantic Way
AT ECCLES HOTEL GLENGARRIFF YOU’LL DISCOVER THE PERFECT BASE Steeped in 250 years of history and heritage, Eccles Hotel sits at the gateway to the Beara Peninsula with panoramic views over Glengarriff Bay out to the wild Atlantic beyond. Enjoy an oasis of calm and a menu that celebrates the finest seafood, and a bounty of fresh local artisan produce. Then explore everything this wonderful part of the world has to offer. Golfing, walking, cycling, horse riding, fishing, sailing and sightseeing... there’s something here for everyone. To book call +353 (0)27 63003 or visit www.eccleshotel.com
Heritage Sites Visit one of the many heritage sites scattered along the South West coast of the Wild Atlantic Way in Cork and Kerry. These sites are of significant importance and part of Ireland’s cultural heritage. Charles Fort Charles Fort is a classic example of a late 17th century star-shaped fort. William Robinson, Architect of the Royal Hospital in Kilmainham, Dublin, and Superintendent of Fortifications, is credited with designing the fort. As one of the largest military installations in the country, Charles Fort has been associated with some of the most momentous events in Irish history. The most significant of these are the Williamite War 1689-91 and
an exact date is not available. It is
the boat operators impose a separate
extremely well preserved and several
charge in respect of the boat journey
archaeological artefacts are to be
to and from the island.
found on the grounds of the Oratory. In close proximity is Gallarus Castle
Desmond Castle
which was built by the FitzGeralds
Desmond Castle was built by the Earl
and is probably 15th century in date.
of Desmond c. 1500. A fine example
It is one of the few surviving castles
of an urban tower house, the castle
on the Dingle peninsula. The four-
consists of a three storey keep with
storey tower has a vaulted ceiling
storehouses to the rear. Originally
on the fourth floor, and none of its
built as a Customs house, the castle
battlements remain.
also served as a prison in the 18th
Ilnacullin (Garnish Island)
century (it is known locally as the French Prison) an ordnance store
Located in the sheltered harbour of
during the Battle of Kinsale (1601)
Glengarriff in Bantry Bay, Ilnacullin
and as a workhouse during the
is a small island of 15 hectares (37
Great Famine. By the early decades
designed by Paul Ive in 1602.
acres) known to horticulturists and
of the 20th Century Desmond
lovers of trees and shrubs all around
castle had fallen into decay. It was
Gallarus Castle & Oratory
the world as an island garden of rare
declared a National Monument in
beauty. The gardens of Ilnacullin
1938. Today Desmond Castle hosts
owe their existence to the creative
the International Museum of Wine
partnership, some eighty years ago,
Exhibition, an intriguing story that
of Annan Bryce, then owner of the
documents the unique history of
island and Harold Peto, architect and
Ireland’s wine links with Europe and
garden designer. Access to the Island
the wider world.
the Civil War 1922-23. Charles Fort was declared a National Monument in 1973. Across the estuary is James Fort
One of the most famous landmarks on the Dingle Peninsula and situated close to Gallarus Castle. The Oratory is completely made of stone and in some way it resembles an upturned boat. Various dates have been suggested for its construction but
Go Wild Magazine - Summer Edition 2017
is by small ferry boats and licensed 60 seater water buses. Please note that
- 30 -
For more see www.heritageisland.ie www.gowildmagazine.com
WELCOME TO MAYO
Journey to the West coast of Ireland and once you meet the ‘Welcome to Mayo’ sign you’ll know that you have arrived at a unique place. Mayo really is wild and wonderful, with broad magnificent landscapes, storm carved coasts, majestic cliffs and hauntingly beautiful mountains all set beneath massive and awe inspiring skies.
Go Wild Magazine - Summer Edition 2017
- 32 -
www.gowildmagazine.com
M
ayo is steeped in history, home to the Ceide Fields and the first farmers. Widely known as the heartbeat of the Wild Atlantic Way, Mayo boasts the longest coastline of any County in Ireland, and Ireland’s largest island, Achill and highest cliffs. Mayo offers something for everyone, from the history seeker to the religious pilgrim, from the culturally curious to the outdoor adventure enthusiast. And what better way to discover Mayo’s charm than by taking to the great outdoors. The Great Western Greenway connecting Westport to Achill Island offers an award-winning family-friendly biking trail with stunning scenery, historic villages, ancient ruined abbeys, and local artisan food and arts and crafts. Right at the heart of Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way, Mayo embraces the Atlantic Ocean with many of the County’s unforgettable landmarks dotted along its coastline – spiritual Croagh Patrick, sumptuous Clew Bay and Achill’s majestic cliffs. Mayo’s Atlantic coastline is a playground for those with an adventurous spirit, offering world class deep sea fishing, kite surfing, wind surfing, coasteering, kayaking and many beautiful Blue Flag beaches. The Blueway
02 Trails at Old Head, Killary and Achill offer the opportunity to experience world class snorkelling and ocean kayaking. For something a little slower paced Mayo is a haven for walkers and anglers alike, offering a myriad of spectacular walks and journeys including Croagh Patrick and Cong. The rivers Moy, Furnace and Owenmore are internationally renowned for salmon and sea trout angling. The hiker can escape the bustle of urban life by climbing one of our many mountain ranges including Mweelrea, the highest peak in Connaught. At Wild Nephin
and the Ballycroy National Park spring is heralded by the elusive call of the corncrake. Get to grips with its vastness by rambling its highlands, on the Bangor Trail, reaching without sign of civilisation as far as the eye can see. And when you’ve had your fill and are ready to rejoin the human race, or just ready to rest your weary head, the necklace of rural towns and seaside villages of Mayo’s wild heartland offers a true and authentic Céad Míle Fáilte as ageless, authentic and genuine as the wilderness itself. Wild Mayo - Escape, Explore, Enjoy!
03 04
05 01. The spectacular Dun Bhriste Sea stack at Downpatrick Head, Ballycastle.
02. The Crossing – Signature Discovery Point
incorporating the Myth Shrouded “Poll an Sean Tine” blow hole at Downpatrick Head.
03. The beguiling Diaspora Inspired Spirit of
Place Installation on the far western island of Inishturk.
04. Mayo hillwalking - for the adventurous explorer. 05. Wild Atlantic Kayaking off the North Mayo Coast. Go Wild Magazine - Summer Edition 2017
- 33 -
www.gowildmagazine.com
EXPLORE THE WONDER AND MAJESTY OF MAYO By Peter Stears Etched by the rolling waves since the birth of the island of Ireland, Mayo’s coastline has evolved into a paradise, for walkers, swimmers, surfers, and beachgoers alike.
Old Head. Photo by Peter Stears
I’ve swam with Turtles at Honolulu’s Turtle Bay on the North Shore of the island. I’ve enjoyed dinner al fresco beside glistening waters off the tip of Italy’s south coast but nothing compares to the wonder and majesty that Co. Mayo’s coastline offers the world. Situated in the middle of the Wild Atlantic Way, Mayo’s coastline not only offers spectacular scenery but equally warm and friendly towns dotted along the route, where a decent meal and warm fire to sit around is easy to come by.
Louisburg. Photo by Peter Stears
Set your base camp in Westport, a gorgeous town situated just off Clew Bay where amazing seafood is plentiful and a genuine
For those of you with a thirst for excitement make your way
seaside town atmosphere is easily felt. Offering spectacular sunsets
to Carrowniskey beach where you can hear the roaring
from the harbour with the last glints of sunshine reflecting off
sound of waves crashing down before you see the beach.
Croagh Patrick - this is one town you do not want to miss. Carrowniskey with its stony and sandy surface is known by Twenty-five minutes away from Westport is the town of Louisburgh,
surfers far and wide as Mayo’s Mecca for surfing. Even if you are
a quaint place where many of the sights mentioned in this article
a complete beginner at surfing there are local surfing companies
are located, lies Silver Strand Beach. Encapsulated by rolling
where you can rent boards from and try the waves yourself.
mountains, covered in soft golden soft sand, and crystal clear
Beginner or professional it is an experience that can’t be missed.
water, you cannot help but stop and admire its sheer beauty. If you are lucky enough to be at Carrowniskey in the third week With the sun on your back, Silver Strand is a perfect place for a
of August you might happen upon the Carrowniskey beach
relaxing picnic at the beach. The dunes at this beach are scattered and
horse races. They are a guaranteed great day out for all the
offer fantastic spots to set up a tent and go camping for the night.
family and offer the chance to see a unique sport. The tradition
Go Wild Magazine - Summer Edition 2017
- 34 -
www.gowildmagazine.com
If you are feeling particularly brave get to the beach at 7am during the Spring and Summer months and bring your surfboard for a morning surf. Refreshing and clean Atlantic water is guaranteed to keep you invigorated for the rest of the day. Sit at the edge of the water and take in the sheer beauty as the sun rises. Equally so Keel beach offers the most spectacular sunsets illuminating the sky in a gorgeous orange glow that warms the sky as much it does the soul.
Carrowniskey beach. Photo by Peter Stears
The Coast of Mayo offers an extremely unique experience that many of us in Ireland are not aware that we have on our
which revived in 2010 after being on hiatus since 1982.
doorstep. The exciting mountainous terrain with Croagh Oldhead beach has a lot to offer and is fantastic all-rounder.
Patrick looming over many spectacular beaches results
With a golden sandy beach perfect for family days out during
in a beauty that is impossible to summate in words.
the summer and brisk walks during the Spring, a pier perfect for pier jumping, and a not so obvious walking trail for the
Lush green hills, jagged mountain edges, golden sandy
explorer within you, this really is a location for all.
beaches and crystal clear waters are the definition of what Mayo’s Wild Atlantic Way have to offer.
Follow the trail from the beach into Oldhead wood and you will come out right at the edge of the coast. There is an unparalleled sense of freedom here where it seems as if time stops and it is just you and the world. There are very few places that can give you this sense on earth, and even fewer that do it as well as Oldhead. While Mayo enjoys a stunning coastline, it is also steeped in history. One of the most notable connections is to the legendary Pirate Queen of Connaught Gráinne Ó Máille of the 16th century. Revered all around the coast of Ireland as a fierce and brave fighter, Gráinne had amassed a sizeable wealth of 1,000 cows and horses through pirating, marriage, and inherited property.
Connemara Mussel Festival
In control of 200 men she was one of the last clan leaders to fight against English soldiers attempting to seize Irish land under Queen Elizabeth the first’s colonisation of Ireland.
From humble beginnings at an impromptu session in Paddy Coyne’s pub that started with a bucket of mussels and a few hungry locals,
Seen today as a figurehead for international feminism, Gráinne
The Connemara Mussel Festival has gone from strength to strength.
lived at Rockfleet Castle after her marriage to Sir Richard
In 2017, the Tullycross, Renvyle, will host the 12th annual festival.
Burke. Upon his death Gráinne remained at the stronghold
While packing the May bank holiday weekend full of craic agus
with her cattle and followers. Situated on an inlet from Clew
ceoil, the Connemara Mussel Festival promotes the uniqueness
Bay, the simplistic beauty of the architecture as well as
of the area, as well as the excellence of Killary Bay mussels.
the calmness of the bay surrounding it is entrancing. 12 years on the festival has become the premier food event of The West coast is without a doubt one of the most
the year in Connemara and celebrates all the region has to offer.
pleasurable driving experiences you will ever have. For
Described as “a feast for the senses”, visitors and locals alike are
the most part you will have mountains to one side of
invited to taste and smell the locally sourced food, see the beauty
you and a huge expanse of sea to the other side.
in the stunning surroundings of one of Ireland’s most famously beautiful settings, hear the laughter and music being played in
No trip to the coast of Mayo can be complete without
pubs throughout the village, and feel an ambiance like no other
visiting the mystical Achill Island, first inhabited 5,000
as you experience the real Connemara lifestyle alongside local
years ago, and which has also experienced the might
residents who are sure to greet you like a long lost friend.
of our very own Pirate Queen Gráinne Ó Máille. This year’s festival will take place from the 28th - 30th of Not only does the island offer spectacularly beautiful views but it
April in Tullycross, for more details, and the full line up of
also rewards us with equally spectacular beaches, one in particular
events taking place, including traditional music sessions,
- Keel beach is a must see. With perfect waves for surfing, Keel
poetry and storytelling evenings and of course, world class
beach is the all-rounder that has something for everybody.
seafood tastings, see connemaramusselfestival.com
Go Wild Magazine - Summer Edition 2017
- 35 -
www.gowildmagazine.com
Breathtaking Moments along the Wild Atlantic Way
There are endless breathtaking moments along the Wild Atlantic Way, but these stunning Signature Discovery Points are some of the most beautiful locations in the country.
Malin Head – Sculpted By The Sea
Fanad Head – Out On The Edge
Rugged Malin Head in Donegal is the country’s most northerly point. Enjoy the region’s wildlife, geology and history as you explore the watchtower at Banba’s Crown, named after a mythical Irish queen. Over millions of years, the wild Atlantic Way has carved dramatic crevices into the rugged headland, such as Hell’s Hole – a long, deep, narrow chasm where the swells below churn and roar.
Fanad Head in Donegal is a wildly exposed headland, home to miles of golden, sandy beach with vigorous waves and a majestic lighthouse to welcome you. Indeed, Ballymastocker Bay was voted the second most beautiful beach in the world by Observer magazine. It’s also the most northerly point of the beautiful Fanad Peninsula. Watch out for grey seals bobbing in the sea, pretty coves and powerful waves crashing across the rocks, maybe even a breaching whale in the distance.
Sliabh Liag (Slieve League) – Towering Vistas
Mullaghmore Head – The Big One
Home to some of the highest accessible sea cliffs in Europe, the Sliabh Liag range on the south west coast of County Donegal is one of the most gorgeous places in Ireland to visit, providing one of the finest views from the Wild Atlantic Way out across the wide expanse of the ocean.
With huge Atlantic rollers of up to 100ft crashing off the coast, the ‘Prowlers’ at Mullaghmore in Sligo attract watersports enthusiasts from all around the world!
Keem Bay – Mystery Island
Downpatrick Head – Local Legend
Keem, a golden stretch of secluded, sandy beach can be found on Ireland’s largest island, Achill, in County Mayo. Nearby you can visit the island’s eerie Deserted Village, abandoned in the early 20th century.
This jagged Mayo headland looms an astonishing 126ft above the crashing Atlantic and is named after the country’s patron saint, Patrick. He founded St. Patrick’s Church here in the fifth century, the ruins of which still stand today.
Killary Harbour – Glacial Beauty
Derrigimlagh – Alluring Landscapes
Killary in Mayo is one of three glacial fjords (an inlet formed by the submergence of formerly glaciated valleys) in Ireland, located in the heart of the country’s famous wild and dramatic Connemara landscape.
The stark and otherworldly blanket bog of Derrigimlagh in Galway has an unusual claim to fame! It was here that pilots Alcock and Brown crashed-landed to safety after completing the world’s first transatlantic flight in 1919.
Go Wild Magazine - Summer Edition 2017
- 36 -
www.gowildmagazine.com
Cliffs Of Moher – Magnificent Moher
Loop Head – Steeped In History
Looking out at the wild Atlantic from atop the towering Cliffs of Moher in County Clare is guaranteed to take your breath away. Head to the spectacular O’Brien’s Tower, and gaze out to sea towards the Aran Islands.
Also in Clare, the Loop Head peninsula boasts panoramic cliff views, picturesque seaside villages and a lighthouse that’s served as a beacon for those at sea since 1670. It’s a haunting place, where you can experience huge Atlantic swells smashing into cliffs.
Blasket Islands – Times Gone By
Skelligs – Centuries At Sea
Out on the very edge of Europe, off the Dingle Peninsula in Kerry, lie the mystical Blasket Islands. After many years of hardship and emigration, the last inhabitants left in 1953, and today, you can celebrate their story at the Blasket Centre.
The Skelligs – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – is comprised of two sandstone rocks jutting spectacularly out of the Atlantic Ocean, seven miles off Kerry’s Iveragh Peninsula. These far-flung islands are a sacred 1,300-year-old place of pilgrimage, rich in history.
Dursey Island – Away From It All Dursey Island off the Cork coast is the most westerly of the county’s inhabited islands and home to just three farming families. You can visit via Ireland’s only cable-car service, but bear in mind, sheep and cattle take preference over humans!
Mizen Head – At Ireland’s Teardrop From the craggy clifftop of Mizen Head in Cork (Ireland’s most southwesterly point), you can see imposing Fastnet Lighthouse. It sits on a rock known as ‘Ireland’s Teardrop’, since it was the last sight of Ireland emigrants had as they left during the Great Famine (1845 – 1849).
Old Head Of Kinsale – Feel The Spirit This scenic headland in Cork is home to a picturesque 17thcentury lighthouse and juts more than two miles into the Atlantic. If you fancy a round, visit the world-renowned golf course. A gourmet haven, Kinsale’s vibrant streets and atmosphere are utterly charming.
People of the Wild Atlantic Way Photography Project Shay Hunston is a freelance photographer, who takes black & white portrait photographs of people living in the towns, villages and remote locations of the Wild Atlantic Way. He explores locals against their stunning diverse and ancient landscape set against the vastness of the Atlantic Ocean.
ChloĂŠ Lee , Clonakilt
In each town and village Shay is staging exhibitions of the photographs in the shop windows, turning the streets into an open gallery. The following photos are from his Exhibition at Cork Airport. http://www.shayhunstonphotography.com/ info@shayhunstonphotography.com
Clodagh Murray, Kinsale, West Cork
y, West Cor k
est Cork h Hyne, W ane, Loug Neilie Boh
Go Wild Magazine - Summer Edition 2017
- 38 -
Patrick D ea
sy, Clona kilt
y, West Cor k
www.gowildmagazine.com
FROM CLIFF WALKS TO SEA STACKS...
...FROM SPA TREATMENTS TO SEAFOOD TRAILS... ✳
0
...FIND YOUR WILD, THIS SUMMER AT THE ICE HOUSE Experience the ‘Wild Atlantic Way’ your way this summer with a stay at the Ice House. Enjoy fantastic food, a soothing spa, bubbling hot tubs and sensational service. Then discover a world of raw natural beauty and untapped excitement right on your doorstep.
To book, call 096 23500 or visit theicehouse.ie
T H E I C E H O U S E, T H E Q U AY, B A L L I N A, CO. M AYO
, e v i t c A t e G d l i W Go Clair Collins and Louise Morrissey will inspire you to get active along the Wild Atlantic Way
If dumbbells and edamame beans don’t
cardio and toning, try your hand at
Burren region and sand and shale cliffs
inspire you, then turn exercise into an
kayaking or canoeing.
Whether you’re
of Liscannor Bay. I don’t think you could
exhilarating day out on the Wild Atlantic
new to the paddle or a seasoned expert,
talk about kayaking in Ireland without
Way, which abounds with opportunities
these excursions offer a thrilling chance
mentioning Jim Kennedy of the award
to test your skill, stamina and endurance,
to explore the Wild Atlantic Way. From
winning Atlantic Sea Kayaking in West
whatever your current level of fitness
the Northern Headlands all the way down
Cork. The Kennedy family offer a range of
may be.
to the Haven Coast in the south, there are
training courses and excursions including
so many amazing places that will entice
urban kayaking, starlight/moonlight kayak
you into the waters blue.
and dawn bird chorus kayak trips just to
Nothing makes exercise more enjoyable
name a few.
than doing it in beautiful surroundings. Along the length of the magnificent
Kayaking refers to any enclosed boat with
2500km coastline of the Wild Atlantic Way
a double paddle, while canoeing is an open
Climb to new heights
you will find everything from abseiling to
boat with a single paddle. Once you get the
Get your heart pumping and give your
hill walking, mountaineering, coasteering,
knack and rhythm of paddling to whoosh
exercise regime an injection of adrenaline
rock climbing, sea stack climbing, open
yourself along the waters, you can keep
on a rock climbing excursion. More and
water
wire,
an eye out for some of the region’s coastal
more of these activities are opening up,
swimming,
wildlife ranging from seals, dolphins and
either along natural rocky outcrops or in
basking sharks.
purpose designed activity centres.
games, quasar, windsurfing, kayaking,
The charming fishing village of Doolin
Some great places to scale new heights
motorsports, paragliding, and canoeing –
in Clare is a top spot for kayak based
include Lahinch Adventures, which offers
it’s tiring just listing them all!
excursions. North Clare Sea Kayaking take
Rock Climbing for beginners and Ballyryan
people out on adventure trips to hidden
on the edge of the Burren for experienced
Paddle your own canoe…or kayak
coves and bays, to private islands and
climbers. Meanwhile Outdoors Ireland
If you want to do an exercise that combines
beaches along the limestone cliffs of the
offers mountain and rock climbing on
archery,
swimming,
zorbing,
go-karting,
wild
zip
caving & pot-holing, sailing, surfing, horse riding and treking, high ropes, laser combat
Go Wild Magazine - Summer Edition 2017
- 40 -
www.gowildmagazine.com
sandstone cliffs in the glaciated Gap of
yourself, you will only be a stone’s throw
fitness.
Dunloe, just outside Killarney Co. Kerry.
away from an opportunity to embrace
Famous spots to surf include: Achill
your inner fish. Go off grid on Donegal’s
Island Co. Mayo, Mullaghamore Head and
Marathon Man or Woman
remote Silver Strand on the Slieve League
Strandhill Beach Co. Sligo, Bundoran Co.
Participating in a marathon is one of those
peninsula. Hemmed in by surrounding hills
Donegal, Spanish Point, Lahinch Beach and
grand achievements that you might aspire
and cliffs this one is for those seeking out
White Strand Beaches in Co. Clare.
to tick off a bucket list, or if you already
the tranquillity of the region. Or fall in
have the running bug why not plan your
love with the famous Inchydoney beach in
Under Water Adventures
Wild Atlantic trip around an Irish marathon
Cork, which is a favourite spot for locals
For those of you who are somewhat
or half marathon. Once such option is the
and visitors alike.
challenged in the balance department, underwater adventures might be a better
Irish Examiner Cork City Marathon which takes place on Sunday 4th of June 2017
Surfs Up
option. Snorkelling and scuba diving along
and with full marathon, half marathon,
Take the plunge and try your hand at
the coast is getting increasingly popular for
relay, inter services and youth challenges
surfing. You can surf almost the entire
novices and experts alike! Scubadive West,
all incorporated there is something for
western seaboard. From the big swells of
based in the heart of Connemara, is a great
everyone and all levels of fitness. See www.
the north, right down to Aileen’s Wave and
spot for getting in on the action. For the
corkcitymarathon.ie . Alternatively if you
the gentle pace of Cork, the west coast of
rookies, the indoor dive centre and expert
want to plan for something further out
Ireland is a surfer’s playground.
tuition will guide you on your way and
,then Galway will host their 10k/ half and
You too can feel the invigorating spray of
have you itching to get out in the open sea,
full marathon event on 7th October 2017
the Atlantic, the rippling waves and ocean
while the thrill seekers are also catered for
www.rungalwaybay.com
swells, no matter what your level is. Some
with expeditions to world class dive sites
of our biggest waves are without a doubt
like the wreck of the Julia T - making for a
Take a Dip
best left to daring professionals but there
truly surreal experience.
To soothe those aching muscles after a day’s
are many coastal locations which offer
hike, why not take a dip in the invigorating
surf schools for novice and intermediate
Get on your bike
waters of the Atlantic Ocean? Each county
surfers. Surfing is a real adrenaline sport
Those of you not prepared to get your
along the route is spoiled for choice with
and in terms of exercise it’s great for
flippers on but still looking for some
spots to swim so no matter where you find
strengthening core muscles and improving
excitement in your workout should try
Kilkee pollock hole splash. Image Failte Ireland
Cliffs of Moher. Image Chris Hill
Rosses Point Sligo. Image Alison Crummy
Beara way. Image Chris Hill
Go Wild Magazine - Summer Edition 2017
- 41 -
www.gowildmagazine.com
Cycle the Great Western Greenway with Clew Bay Bike Hire
your hands at some of Ireland’s extensive
missed - a rocky, boggy and remote 100km
bike trails. The dramatic landscapes,
trail offering panoramic views, jagged
patchwork fields, winding trails and
coastlines, barren cliffs and empty beaches.
Discover the beauty of Ireland’s west with
charming villages of the West coast all
Just remember to pack your puncture
Clew Bay Bike Hire on the Great Western
lend themselves to a fantastic two wheeled
repair kit!
Greenway – take in panoramic views of Clew Bay, the rugged Atlantic Coast and
adrenaline adventure that will burn lots of calories.
The Wild Atlantic Way provides endless
The Nephin Mountain range while cycling
opportunities to stay active and won’t
through active farmland.
From a leisurely ride through rolling
ever feel like an obligation. There are
countryside to a more challenging mountain
literally hundreds of possible activities to
This multi award winning adventure
track experience, the Wild Atlantic Way has
suit every interest or ability. So get away
provider
got you covered. There are numerous bike
from the hustle and bustle of daily life, fill
Westport Quay, Newport, Mulranny and
rental facilities and mapped trails along the
your lungs with fresh air and then stop
Achill Sound so they are never far away
way. The stunning scenery will keep you
off in a village pub for the creamiest of
should you need them. The most popular
pedalling just to see what’s around the next
pints (you’ve earned the calories) and the
option for the trail is their outbound
bend and the villages along the route will
liveliest of traditional music.
shuttle bus which departs daily from
has
locations
in Westport,
provide a respite for those needing to catch
Westport to Achill Sound at 09:30am and
their breaths – and a pint!
12:30pm.
Cycling this direction allows
you to have the wind at your back with a downhill gradient.
For an inspiring cycle, head for the Great Western Greenway. This route follows a former railway line from Westport to
If you fancy getting out onto Clew Bay,
Achill and is one of the longest traffic
they also offer guided Sea Kayaking tours to
free off-road cycling trail in Ireland. Other
the public with tours for complete beginners
popular routes include the Ring of Kerry,
to the experienced paddler, all equipment is
the
Inishowen
Peninsula
Coast.
The
Surfing. Cork. Image Brian Morrison
provided and no experience is necessary.
Appalachian Trail is also one not to be
BenEFIts of being active outside •
Improved mood.
•
You burn more calories, because varied terrains and weather put different demands on your body than working out indoors does.
•
Helps you stay in shape and improves the health of your heart.
•
Boosts energy levels.
•
Helps you sleep better.
•
Boosts vitamin D, helping to prevent osteoporosis, or thinning of the bones.
Wild Atlantic Way, Swim. Image LukaszWarzecha
Views of the WAW. Image Lukasz Warzecha
Go Wild Magazine - Summer Edition 2017
•
Allows you to enjoy different scenery
Rosses Point Sligo. Image Alison Crummy
- 42 -
www.gowildmagazine.com
Clew Bay Bike Hire Ltd.
Clew Bay Bike Hire: +353 (0)9824818 Clew Bay Kayaking: +353 (0)9837675 Email: info@clewbaybikehire.ie www.clewbaybikehire.ie
e h t er ov c Dis n er t s e W Great ! y a w n e e r G
Clew Bay Bike Hire Ltd. Westport, Westport Quay, Newport, Mulranny, and Achill Co Mayo, Ireland
Clew Bay Bike Hire: +353 (0)9824818 Clew Bay Kayaking: +353 (0)9837675 Mobile: +353 (0)857030177 Email: info@clewbaybikehire.ie www.clewbaybikehire.ie
NEW INLAND Driving Routes here are two exciting new self-drive touring routes branching off the Wild Atlantic Way - The Shannon Estuary Drive and the Burren Drive.
Taking in Limerick City, Kilcornan, Askeaton, Foynes, Tarbert, Killimer, Labasheeda, Killydysert, Clarecastle, Bunratty and returning to Limerick City. A distance of 207km (135 miles), approximately.
Burren Drive
Burren scape Dolmen. Image Chris Hill
around Black Head watch out for the little lighthouse below the road and the distant hills of Connemara across Galway Bay. A few kilometres westward lies the charming coastal village of Ballyvaughan, a perfect spot to break your journey and to explore the Aillwee Cave. From Aillwee the road south will bring you past the ancient monuments of The Poulnabrone Dolmen and Caherconnell Stone Fort. You could also visit the delightful Burren Perfumery in Carran for an extra sensory experience. To the south of Poulnabrone the ruins of Lemaneh Castle stand by the roadside. Bunratty Castle. Image Failte Ireland
The Burren Beauty (purple drive) takes in Kilfenora, Lisdoonvarna, Fanore, Black Head, Ballyvaughan, Carran and returning to Kilfenora. A distance of 68km (42 miles), approximately.
Route can be travelled in any direction and from any starting point. Map illustrations are intended as a guide only and routes should be travelled in conjunction with reference to a good road map of Ireland.
The Shannon Estuary Drive
T
This circular route of 257km (160 miles) takes in a large portion of the Clare coastline starting in Limerick City. The north western corner of County Clare, bordered by the Atlantic Ocean and the quieter waters of Galway Bay, is a rock garden of no ordinary proportions. The Burren extends over more than a hundred square miles and most of it is bare, pale grey limestone.
choice of accommodation and fine dining.
A right turn there would bring you back to Kilfenora completing the circuit. But the left turn sets you on the way to Ennis. Passing the beautiful Lough Inchiquin you come to Corofin where the Clare Heritage Centre offers a genealogical research service. Round off your trip in Ennis where you’ll have your
Here you’ll find delightful towns and villages and world famous shore fishing sites. Relive the pioneering days of transatlantic aviation in the Flying Boat Museum in Foynes, home of the Irish Coffee drink. Further west, just over the Kerry border in Tarbert, you can journey across the Shannon Estuary to County Clare by ferry. While crossing, watch out for the bottlenose dolphins that live in the Shannon Estuary. You disembark in Killimer and head east along the shoreline to the pretty waterside villages of Labasheeda and Kildysart.
Foynes Flying Boat Museum. Image Carsten Krieger
The drive north eastwards will bring you to Clarecastle where you can divert a few kilometres north to the very attractive town of Ennis, the capital town of County Clare.
Your route encircles the Burren, beginning at the ancient cathedral town of Kilfenora with its excellent Burren Interpretive Centre.
Turning south your return journey to Limerick City brings you past Shannon Airport and one of Ireland’s favourite tourist destinations, Bunratty village. Bunratty Folk Park recreates rural and urban life in 19th century Victorian Ireland while 15th century Bunratty Castle reveals the power struggles in Clare’s past. Here too you will find excellent shopping and dining opportunities.
The road westward leads through the spa town of Lisdoonvarna. Signposts for Fanore and Black Head show the way to the coast. Stop anywhere and enjoy the Atlantic air and amazing landscape. When travelling
And finally a short drive south brings you to Cratloe Woods where you can stretch your legs and admire the view before returning to Limerick City. For more see www.discoverireland.ie
Go Wild Magazine - Summer Edition 2017
Ennis. Image Brian Morrison
- 44 -
www.gowildmagazine.com
Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Garden
K
estate boasting ‘all the innovations
all over the world come to Kylemore
of the modern age’. An enlightened
to perform in the beautiful neo-Gothic
landlord and vocal advocate of the
Church. Take a seat at one of these lunch
Irish people, Henry poured his life’s
time performances for a truly magical
energy into creating an estate that
experience. History talks take place three
showcased what could be achieved in
times a day in the Abbey and private
the remote wilds of Connemara. Today
tours and hikes are available to pre-book.
Kylemore Abbey is owned and run by
Don’t forget to make a wish at the Giants
the Benedictine community who have
Wishing stone and have a peak though
been in residence here since 1920. The
the windows of our Chocolate Kitchen!
ylemore Abbey and Victorian
nuns ran a well-loved boarding school at
Browse our Craft and Design Shop for
Walled Garden, just one hour from
Kylemore from 1922 until 2010.
unique gifts including Kylemore Abbey Pottery and award winning chocolates
Galway is one of Ireland’s top tourist attractions. Kylemore Castle was built
Come to Kylemore and experience
handmade by the Benedictine nuns.
in the late 1800s by Mitchell Henry MP,
woodland and lake shore walks,
Discover the beauty, history and romance
a wealthy business man and liberal
magnificent buildings and Ireland’s
of Ireland’s most intriguing estate in the
politician. Inspired by his love for his
largest Walled Garden! Enjoy wholesome
heart of the Connemara countryside.
wife Margaret, and his hopes for his
food and delicious home-baking in our
beloved Ireland, Henry created an
Café or Garden Tea House. Choirs from
www.kylemoreabbey.com
Come and see our beautiful 1,000 acre estate • 6 Acre Victorian Walled Garden • Restored Rooms in the Abbey • Gothic Church Phone: 095 52001
KYLEMORE
A • History Talks and Guided Tours • Woodland & Lakeshore Walks • Café & Tea House: Craft & Design Shop
E: bookings@kylemoreabbey.com
BBEY
& VICTORIAN WA L L E D G A R D E N
W: www.kylemoreabbey.com
Clonakilty ¥ Named ‘top town’ in UK and Ireland
coastal town in the heart
C
winning seaside town with
of West Cork, recently
colourful buildings, famous
won The Great Town award
for its community spirit,
at the 2017 Urbanism Awards
history, blue flag beaches,
Ceremony, ahead of more than
award winning food producers
40 other shortlisted towns in
& restaurants as well as an
Ireland and the UK.
internationally renowned music
lonakility, a beautiful
‘The quality of the town centre and the town’s location close to
Clonakilty is a multi-award
scene.
the sea and beautiful beaches
Gorgeous Food:
make it an attractive place
A wander through Clonakilty’s
to live, do business and visit.
buzzing Friday market is
Clonakilty is a good example of
a good starting point to
those three elements coming
understanding the food culture
together in a sustainable
which infuses the town’s many
way that celebrates local
restaurants, hotels, pubs and
distinctiveness – tradition,
food outlets. Local organic
entrepreneurialism and a
farmers, cheesemakers, foragers,
strong sense of local pride.’
fishmongers, bakers and coffee
The town was also credited for
roasters jostle shoulder by
being particularly welcoming
shoulder with procurers of exotic
and embracing new ideas and
treats from Europe and the East.
concept wholeheartedly.
The fact that many Clonakilty
Go Wild Magazine - Summer Edition 2017
- 46 -
restauranteurs can be found running around the market on a Friday hints at things to come, as do the many awards which can be seen outside restaurant doors, from Michelin, Bridgestone, Georgina Campbell, Lucinda O’Sullivan, Bord Bia, BIM, and many others. If you’re inspired to improve your kitchen skills, there are plenty of cookery courses, and you’ll find beautiful ware on which to serve it in one of their many craft and homewares shops. Clonakilty was Ireland’s first Fair Trade town, and is now part of the Cittaslow movement. This is an organisation which promotes taking time to think about and enjoy everything we do, and respecting seasonality and authenticity in our food.
www.gowildmagazine.com
Music & Festivals
drummer).
is the aptly named Long Strand. A mile and a half of sand
Music is considered the life blood of every Irish person; it informs
Clonakilty also has numerous
bounded by waves of dunes this
our culture, our history, how we
festivals throughout the
is the perfect place to stretch
socialise & even how we speak.
year, including the Clonakilty
your legs and breathe in the
Clonakilty in particular has a
Agricultural Show, the Clonakilty
fresh Atlantic air. The top end is
special affinity for this magical
Bicycle Festival, the Ultra
a haven for surfers but the rest of
art.
Marathon, and the Clonakilty
the beach is unsafe for bathing
International Guitar Festival to
due to a dangerous undertow.
name but a few.
Red Strand: Dotted with rock
Whether it’s traditional sessions in Clon’s many pubs, local and
pools, the Red Strand is only
international acts in its venues,
Beaches
gigs at world famous DeBarras
Clonakilty has a well-deserved
and offers a wonderful tranquil
Folk Club, Shanley’s Piano Bar
reputation for some of the most
spot for the whole family.
or one of the many festivals
beautiful sandy beaches in
happening throughout the year,
Ireland. For families, walkers,
Owenahincha: This popular
Clonakilty has something for all
surfers and bathers, there is
family beach backing onto sand
music fans.
something for everyone to enjoy.
dunes is located approximately 7
Explore the beautiful & accessible
miles from Clonakilty. Here you
In 1972 a unique event occurred
coastline to find your own secret
can get the best of two beaches
in ‘Clon’ that would cement this
cove our just visit these popular
by taking the short walk over the
relationship forever. Tired and
strands!
cliffs to The Warren, Rosscarbery
minutes from the Long Strand
while taking in the incredible
down beat from his ongoing professional disputes with the
Inchydoney: The Blue Flag
sea views. Owenahincha is only
music industry, Noel Redding the
beach at Inchydoney Island, just
minutes away from Castlefreke
original Bass player with ‘The
a few miles from Clonakilty, is
woods and the ‘TidyVillage’ of
Hendrix Experience’ re-located
renowned not only as one of the
Rathbarry with shop, pub, water
to West Cork.
most family friendly beaches
wheel and pot bellied pig!.
in West Cork, but also as one of With Clonakilty as his home for
the most beautiful. With vast
Interesting coves and inlets
the next 27 years of his life, Noel
expanses of sand, dunes and
abound along the West Cork
attracted many other musical
excellent surfing conditions
coastline around Clonakilty, too
legends to this seaside town,
there really is something for
numerous to name, but finding
including David Bowie, Eric Bell
everyone.
just some of them is all part of the magic of this picturesque
(Thin Lizzy), Paul McCartney, Donovan, Paddy Keenan (the
Long Strand: About 15 minutes
Bothy Band), Roy Harper, Mitch
from Clonakilty and looking out
Mitchell (the Hendrix Experience
over the Galley Head lighthouse
Go Wild Magazine - Summer Edition 2017
- 47 -
coastal location For more see www.clonakilty.ie
www.gowildmagazine.com
Warren Beach
Rugged Rosscarbery Just a stones throw from Clonakilty,
Celtic Ross Hotel, aerial
Rosscarbery is a small historic town set in picturesque surroundings overlooking a sandy inlet of the rugged West Cork coastline. The town grew up around a monastery, which was established by St. Fachtna in the latter half of the sixth century. It is now a peaceful place with an attractive Square and nicely decorated buildings with traditional shop fronts. The wide variety of amenities for young and old within walking distance of the town make
bathing and golden sands and are all
For families, a trip to the Lagoon Activity
Rosscarbery an ideal tourist centre.
close by. The more energetic are spoiled
Centre is a must, here you will be able to
for choice with two links style Pitch
rent a kayak, take the kids pedal boating,
For those who just want to relax, the
and Putt courses at the Warren Beach,
try your hand at stand-up paddle boarding
Blue Flag Warren Beach, Owenahincha
or golfers may improve their swing or
(SUP) or for the less adventurous, simply
Beach and the Long Strand offer safe
putting at the local Driving Range.
relax on the over water deck and pier and
We love local produce!
Method Cut the Baby Potatoes in half and put
Enjoy this recipe with a fresh,
Recipe from the Celtic Ross Hotel:
them onto a roasting tray and drizzle
crisp glass of white wine.
Pan Fried Lemon Sole with a Seaweed
with some olive oil and add the chopped
Butter and Roasted Baby Potatoes
garlic, season with salt and pepper
Thank you to Alex Petit, Head Chef of
Recipe supplied by Alex Petit, Head
and toss them to coat evenly, cook in a
the Celtic Ross Hotel, for this delicious
preheated oven for about 25 minutes.
recipe. Originally from Brittany, Northern
10 minutes before cooking time
France, he has won the hearts and bellies
for potatoes is up, mix the flour
of loyal customers and tourists alike and
Ingredients
with seasoned salt and pepper in a
has achieved honourable mentions in
•
8 Lemon Sole Fillets
shallow dish and dredge the lemon
renowned guides including John and Sally
•
½ cup flour
sole fillets in the flour mixture.
Mc Kenna’s guide and the AA hotel guide.
•
Seasoning of salt and white pepper
•
7 tbsp. butter
•
½ lemon freshly squeezed
•
2 tbsp. dehydrated seaweed
1.
Chef at the Celtic Ross Hotel (Serves 4)
(Wakame, Wrack)
2.
3. 4. 5.
Heat a large non-stick frying pan with a drizzle of olive oil over high heat.
Inspired by his travels and his French
Sauté the fillets, cooking them on
roots, Alex is constantly developing fresh
each side until just cooked through
concepts, becoming a main influencer in
Add in the remaining butter and
the West Cork culinary market. Alex Petit’s
•
12 Baby Potatoes
the dehydrated seaweed and cook
cooking ethos: Locally sourced ingredients,
•
3 Cloves garlic chopped
until golden in colour, add in lemon
supporting small producers, respect of
•
Olive oil
juice, bring to a rapid simmer.
the product, freshness and consistency.
6.
Serve immediately with the roasted baby potatoes and a side salad.
Go Wild Magazine - Summer Edition 2017
- 48 -
www.gowildmagazine.com
Rosscarbery is a walker’s paradise, with lots of quiet rural lanes running through scenic countryside with breath-taking views of land and sea. Discovering the hidden treasures of this unspoilt West Cork area is an enriching experience. There are many reasons why Ross is not
Roscarberry Town
quite like any other place - it begins enjoy some fresh coffee in the beach hut
great favourites with bird watchers
with the people. All this coupled with
cafe- whilst the children’s playground
as large numbers of duck, waders, sea
first class accommodation, restaurants,
and tennis courts are just nearby. There is
and migratory birds are to be seen,
pubs in congenial surroundings make
also Smugglers Cove Adventure Centre,
the area has a wonderful number of
Rosscarbery a unique Holiday Centre.
with adventure golf and the adventure
different wildlife plants and animals.
maze. Younger adventurers will be
For the archaeologist, the area around
Where to stay: Celtic Ross Hotel
kept busy finding hidden objects and
Rosscarbery in West Cork has numerous
This family-owned hotel is superbly
for the older explorer, there are puzzles
megalithic tombs, stone circles and
located overlooking Rosscarbery Bay and
to solve and finger mazes to work out
standing stones in the area - Drombeg
Galley Head, with the historic Cathedral
as you travel through the maze.
Stone Circle being the most famous. For
town of Rosscarbery on its doorstep. The
the historian, there are many places to
hotel offers a wonderful range of facilities
For the angler, Rosscarbery offers
visit - such a s St. Fachtna’s Cathedral,
combined with a warm welcome and
estuary, rock, deep sea and fresh water
Castlefreke, Coppinger’s Court and
relaxing ambience in a fantastic coastal
fishing - with bait in plentiful supply.
birthplaces of Gen. Michael Collins and
setting. http://www.celticrosshotel.com/
Rosscarbery’s Estuary and Lagoon are
O’Donovan Rossa to name but a few.
Enjoy our breathtaking setting and a warm Irish welcome
the difference...family run www.lakehotel.com hh
The Lake Hotel : Lake Shore : Muckross Road : Killarney : Co. Kerry : Ireland : Reservations +353 (0) 64 66 31035 : info@lakehotel.com
Seafoods of the Wild Atlantic Way By Michelle McDonagh Food and travel writer John McKenna talks to Go Wild about the huge potential for the Wild Atlantic Way’s seafood industry to grow into the future.
I
t’s over 25 years since John and Sally McKenna discovered the first generation
of the brilliantly creative food artisans who underpin Ireland’s food culture. Through their travels around the country, the couple found out that there was a “subterranean food culture blossoming throughout Ireland”, a world where talented folk crafted cheeses, smoked fish, grew crops organically, looked after rare-breed animals, ran great butcher’s shops and little bakeries. “And since then, the health and wealth of Ireland’s regional artisan economy has grown in a way that we could never have predicted. In areas where there used to be no choice — beer, bacon, bread, gin, pubs, chocolate — today we all can experience the paradox of choice. Will I have this bean-to-bar chocolate? or this IPA? or this craft gin? or this loaf of sourdough bread? or this sea salt ice cream?,” John remarks. Going back only ten years ago, it was hard to get a good cup of coffee in Ireland, says John, pointing out that you can go anywhere in the country today and enjoy a world class level of coffee roasting and barista skills. He believes that just like coffee and sour dough bread, the untapped resource of Ireland’s seafood could really take off over the next decade. Gourmet Food and Wine Weekend Connemara Following the success of the inaugural Wild Atlantic Way Culinary Weekend in 2016, Renvyle House Hotel in Connemara are running a Seafoods of the Wild Atlantic Way Gourmet Food and Wine Weekend from March 3 to 5, 2017. The weekend will include cookery demonstrations from John and Sally McKenna and Euro-toques Executive Chef
Go Wild Magazine - Summer Edition 2017
Tim O’Sullivan, as well as demonstrations on filleting and preparing different varieties of fish. Sally McKenna will also host a field trip on sourcing and finding food along the seashore. “The idea is to show people what a rich resource of seafood we have, of unique quality, all along the West coast, and how to cook fish and shellfish and pair it with the right wines and beers to get a world class experience. Many people still lack confidence when it comes to cooking seafood and shellfish.” Find a good fishmonger When it comes to buying fish, John stresses the importance of finding a good fishmonger who can advise you on which fish is at its best at that particular time of the season. Don’t make your mind up until you go into the fish shop, he advises, as your objective should be to get the best fish at its best time. “The difference can be really striking in terms of eating fish at its optimal time in season, it can be revelatory. We all know we should only eat oysters when there is a R in the month as the summer months mark spawning season and they are not so good, but different fish present in a perfect state at different times.
- 50 -
www.gowildmagazine.com
John McKenna Talks to Go Wild Magazine
John would like to see different parts of the
I bought haddock on Saturday which was sublime, but plaice at the wrong time of the
Wild Atlantic Way promoting their own unique
year is frankly disappointing.”
local fish like Donegal’s gurnard and Galway’s Sweaty Betty (Greater Forked Beard).
John points to Stephane Griesbach of Gannets
“The restaurants we write about on the Wild
Fishmongers in Galway as an example of a great fishmonger with expert knowledge of
Atantic Way are very distinctive and I like the
the product he sells. He hopes that as the Wild
fact that the food changes depending on the
Atlantic Way develops, the standard of all fish
county. Kinsale, Galway and Westport are very
shops will improve.
well organised in terms of food, but Dingle is
Cold water produces better fish
really the gold standard. During their annual
“Our seafood is a really precious resource
Food Festival, there are no fewer than 76
that should be protected. When I take
places where you can go for a bite of food or a
Australians out to dinner here, they can’t
drink in a place that’s not much bigger than a
believe the quality of our fish. We are lucky to
village,” he says.
be surrounded by the Atlantic as cold water produces a better quality fish.”
Go Wild Magazine - Summer Edition 2017
- 51 -
www.gowildmagazine.com
’ e l b a s s i m n u ‘ e Th g n i R g i l Skel NEED Some EXCITEMENT!
Derrynane. Kerry. Image Failte Ireland
Voted Top 10 Best in Travel 2017 by Lonely Planet At the southwest tip of the Wild Atlantic Way lies the beautiful Skellig Ring. An extension
on Valentia. Such is the diversity of Valentia This week, it was named of theRing Top 10 of the one famous of Kerry, here you’ll find a magnificent coastal drive, an extraordinary Island, the most point of the Best Places to travel to in 2017 by Lonely UNESCO World Heritage Site and the location for the dramatic final scene of Starwesterly Wars the continent of Europe, which is linked to the Planet. So, what’s got everyone talking Force Awakens. mainland at Portmagee. about the “unmissable” Skellig Ring? The scenic and little-travelled 18km route links the picturesque fishing village of Portmagee, with the wonderful Valentia Island (accessed by ferry and bridge) and the famous seaside Waterville village via a Gaeltacht (Irish-speaking) area centred on Ballinskelligs. Many undertake it as a detour from the Ring of Kerry, but it’s a wonderful destination in its own right.
Skellig Islands, Portmagee landscape. Image Failte Ireland
Michael, the Blasket Islands and Dingle Peninsula.
“
Valentia Island is a mustvisit. In 1993 a Swiss geology Skellig Michael never far from view, which became infamous student, Iwan Stossel, after its appearance on Star Wars: The Force Awakens. discovered “Tetrapod” trackway fossil footprints on rocks on This dramatic island housed a remote Valentia Island which were formed 385 monastery between the 6th and 12th million years ago. Tetrapod footprints are the centuries and is now an important site for oldest evidence in the world of four-legged puffins, gannets and guillemots. vertebrates walking on land that eventually evolved into man. Visit the Skellig Experience Visitor Centre,
The area is wild and beautiful, with the ragged outline of
which features exhibitions on the unique wildlife and archaeology of the Skellig Islands. Continue on to the Signature Point Skellig View, at the southern tip of Valentia Island, for an enjoyable two-kilometre stroll and stunning cliff-top views of Skellig
Go Wild Magazine - Summer Edition 2017
On the 13th of July 2007 about 500 yards from the Tetrapod site, the famous American free solo rock climber, Michael Reardon, lost his life after being swept into the sea by a rogue wave after free climbing Fogher Cliffs
- 52 -
Make sure you also stroll through picturesque Waterville and travel to Derrynane House, ancestral home of historic statesman Daniel O’Connell. The Blue Flag beach in Ballinskelligs, a Gaeltacht (Irish-speaking) village, is another fantastic place to visit - home to the Caifé Cois Trá, a local meeting place that hosts a country market every Sunday (11am to 4pm) from June to August. Elsewhere on the Skellig Ring you’ll find historic resorts, colourful houses, walking trails and a history that takes in ancient vertebrates and the transatlantic telegraph.
The Skellig Islands. Image Caspar Diederik
www.gowildmagazine.com
Relax in the luxury of home at The Killaloe Hotel where your comfort is our pleasure Situated on the edge of Lough Derg in the heart of Kincora Harbour this luxury 32 bedroom 4* boutique hotel boasts style, comfort and ambience. Where memories are made in unforgettable places, we are all about the top quality food prepared using only the finest fresh and local ingredients served to perfection. Enjoy afternoon tea in our luxurious library or relax with a cocktail and take in the stunning views on our rooftop terrace followed by dinner at our Monk’s Table.
The Killaloe Hotel and Spa, Kincora Harbour, Killaloe, Co. Clare. Ireland. +353 (0)61 376000 | sales@thekillaloe.ie | www.thekillaloe.ie
LOU G H DE RG
PAVI NG TH E WAY F OR TH E TOU RISM I N DUSTRY Lough Derg has received national recognition at the 2017 Irish Tourism Industry Awards.
T
he Lough Derg Marketing Group (LDMG) was named ‘Best Local Authority Tourism Initiative’ at a gala
event in Dublin at which Minister for Tourism Shane Ross TD was in attendance. It was originally set up to develop Lough Derg as a key visitor destination. Its membership includes Clare County Council, Tipperary County Council, Galway County Council, Waterways Ireland, Inland Fisheries Ireland,
Pictured at the 2017 Irish Tourism Awards.
community development organisations,
L - R Paul Kelly (CEO Failte Ireland), Cllr Bill Chambers (Cathaoirleach, Clare
and business and trade representatives.
Co. Council), Joe Mc Grath (Chief Executive, Tipperary Co. Council), Shane Ross
Organised by the Irish Tourist Industry
TD (Minister for Tourism), Cllr Mattie Ryan (Tipperary Co.Council), Phyll Bugler
Confederation (ITIC), the umbrella group
(Tipperary Co.Council), Aine Mc Carthy (Lough Derg Marketing Group and Gerard
for the tourism industry in Ireland, the
Dollard (Director of Services Economic Development, Clare Co. Council).
Irish Tourism Industry Awards are run in conjunction with Failte Ireland and Tourism
Economic Development, Clare County
will further strengthen the tourism
Ireland. Designed with the intention of
Council, commented, “The LDMG was
product on offer around Lough Derg.”
rewarding innovation and excellence
established to bring a coherent marketing
In late 2016, the LDMG was allocated
in tourism, 14 winners were ultimately
focus to the Lough Derg Catchment
€200,000 by the Department Of Arts,
selected from approximately 250 entries.
area and to establish the Lough Derg
Heritage, Regional, Rural & Gaeltacht
Speaking following the awards ceremony,
brand nationally and internationally.”
Affairs under the Rural Economic
Councillor Bill Chambers, Cathaoirleach
He continued, “Supported by tourism
Development Zones (REDZ) initiative for
of Clare County Council, said, “The Lough
stakeholders in the region, the Group
the marketing, development and promotion
Derg area, which incorporates parts of
has for a number of years delivered its
of The Lough Derg Blueway, which includes
Galway, Clare and Tipperary, is regarded
own Action Plan to develop Lough Derg
the soon to be completed Lough Derg
as one of the country’s most valuable
as a key destination for superb water-
Canoe Trail. The project aims to build
tourism assets. The Lough Derg Marketing
based activities combined with a range
on the existing tourism and recreational
Group, working in collaboration with Failte
of very high quality cycling, walking,
infrastructure as well as improve economic
Ireland and Government, is playing a key
heritage, and culture and food experiences
activity surrounding the Blueway on Lough
role in enhancing visitor access to and
aimed at enticing the domestic and
Derg by working with communities in
awareness of all that the area has to offer.”
international visitor to stay longer. The
the towns and villages in its hinterland.
Gerard Dollard, Director of Services,
development of the Lough Derg Blueway
Go Wild Magazine - Summer Edition 2017
- 54 -
www.gowildmagazine.com
Ma gazine
Aillwee Cave and Birds of Prey Centre From a hole in the ground to soaring with Eagles, time spent at Aillwee Cave & Bird of Prey Centre is always enjoyed by all. For three generations Aillwee Cave and Bird of Prey Centre has welcomed visitors to The Burren in County Clare. The family behind the company gives your family a chance to explore its weirdly shaped underworld, enjoy unexpected freedom with majestic Birds of Prey and hone essential survival skills surrounded by hazel and ash trees for shelter. Hear and feel the beat of a falcon’s wing as it swoops. Smell the earthy dampness of a long dried up river bed decorated with twinkling crystalline formations. Challenge yourself by testing your aim or learning how to make fire. Indulge in the tasty rewards of smoky cheese or sweet fudge. Book online for the best value and experience what one customer said was ‘a fantastic forever-remembered day’. Open daily from 10am. For more see www.aillweecave.ie
Cliffs of Moher The Cliffs of Moher are one of Ireland’s most popular tourist attractions. Standing 214m at their highest point, they stretch for 8km along the Atlantic coast of County Clare. From the Cliffs on a clear day, one can see the Aran Islands and Galway Bay, as well as the Twelve Pins and the Maum Turk mountains in Connmara, Loop Head to the South and the Dingle Peninsula and Blasket Islands in Kerry. O’Brien’s Tower stands near the highest point and has served as a viewing point for visitors for hundreds of years. Timing
Go Wild Magazine - Summer Edition 2017
s t h g i l h g i H Wild is everything for the real cliffs experience. The Cliffs of Moher welcomed over 1.4 million visitors in 2016, the most ever in a single year. However, success does not come without its challenges and there have been a number of days when they had to turn away visitors when the site reached capacity. They are actively working to manage capacity issues and ensure all our visitors have a pleasant experience. We recommend visiting earlier or later in the day after 4pm when it is less crowded. http://www.cliffsofmoher.ie/
Cork City Gaol Cork City Gaol, which is now a major and unique visitor attraction, once housed prisoners in the 19th and early 20th Centuries. Wandering through the wings of the Gaol, accompanied by the shuffling feet of inmates, visitors learn about an important part of Corks Social History. You will get a fascinating insight into day to day prison life at a time when the high walls ensured no escape and denied law abiding citizens the opportunity to see one of the finest examples of Ireland’s architectural heritage. Located 2 km from the centre of Cork City, this magnificent castle-like building is well worth a visit. http://corkcitygaol.com/ Doolin Caves Visit the award winning Doolin Cave and visitor centre located outside the village of Doolin in the heart of the Burren in County Clare. Follow in the footsteps of the caves great explorers and re-live their 1952 adventure. The award winning Doolin Cave and visitor centre is home to the
- 56 -
Great Stalactite. At 7.3 metres (23feet) it is the longest freehanging stalactite in the Northern Hemisphere. The Great Stalactite, suspended from the ceiling like a chandelier, is truly astounding. Visitors can hardly believe that it was formed from a single drop of water over thousands of years. Extend the adventure from underground to over ground following a charming Farmland Nature Trail that takes a looped walk around the cave setting. The nature trail is home to indigenous species of flora along with rare and miniature breeds of animals. Visitors can enjoy delicious home-cooked foods and home-baked cakes in the comfortable surroundings of Doolin Cave Cafe. Doolin Cave pottery, handmade using glacial clay found deep within Doolin Cave, is available in the gift-shop. Open March to December 10am to 6pm, tours on the hour. www.doolincave.ie
Galway City Museum Centrally located behind the famous Spanish Arch, Galway City Museum has three floors of exciting exhibitions showcasing the rich archaeology, history, science and arts of Galway city and hinterland. Complimented by The Kitchen Café which looks out on to some of the finest remains of the city’s medieval wall, Galway City Museum is perfectly located on the banks of the river Corrib. Witness the spectacular views of the Claddagh and Galway Bay
www.gowildmagazine.com
The Coach House Hotel is a Boutique style Hotel is ideally located in the heart of Oranmore village and is renowned for its excellent accommodation and fine dining experiences. The Hotel opened in July 2007, and consists of sixteen modern en-suite bedrooms, a Multi Award winning Italian restaurant “Basilico” and a newly refurbished hotel bar. This Galway Hotel’s location is ideal for the tourist providing easy access to Galway City, Connemara, The Burren, Cliffs of Moher, Aran Islands and Salthill. AA Rosette Awarded Basilico Restaurant SPECIAL OFFERS: Senior citizens are more than welcome all year around. The Coach House Hotel offers special deals for citizens over 55’. Please visit www.coachhousehotel.ie for details. 10% discount applies to accommodation rates other than special deals.
The Coach House Hotel Main Street, Oranmore, Galway, Ireland Tel: 091 788367 / 091 788368 Email: info@coachhousehotel.ie Website: www.coachhousehotel.ie
Highlights where city meets sea form our top floor. Explore prehistoric and medieval Galway through artefacts and interactives on the ground floor. Re-live some of Galway’s greatest sporting moments in GAA: The Three-in-a-Row 1964-66 and soak up its maritime history in The Galway Hooker exhibition. Reflect on wartime Galway through our commemorative exhibitions Revolution in Galway, 19131923, and Galway & the Great War. Coming soon to their science gallery is Sea Science – the Wild Atlantic, due to open in May 2017. This is a must-see for visitors of all ages offering learning through fun and informative displays. Originally developed and commissioned by the Marine Institute Galway for SeaFest 2016 this new interactive exhibition brings you fascinating facts about marine life. www.galwaycitymuseum.ie Cobh Heritage Centre No trip to Cork would be complete without a visit to Cobh Heritage Centre. Whether you are interested in tracing
your ancestors, learning more about the ill-fated Titanic and the Lusitania, or immersing yourself in Ireland’s naval and military history, Cobh Heritage Centre has it all and lots more. Located in Cobh’s beautifully restored Victorian railway station, there’s lots to do for tourists, families and maritime history enthusiasts. The Exhibition is a must and audio guides are available in different languages. Make sure you also sample the delicious delights in their restaurant. For more see www.cobhheritagecentre. com There’s lots more to see and do in Cobh town, so it’s the perfect day out. See www.visitcobh.com for more. Take a Killaloe River Cruise of the River Shannon and Lough Derg Step on board a Killaloe River Cruise on the idyllic shores of Lough Derg, Ireland’s pleasure lake, for a fantastic tour of Ireland’s finest waterway, The River Shannon. Enjoy stunning sightseeing with breath-taking views of Counties Clare and Tipperary. Killaloe River Cruise passenger
boats are modern, clean, safe and comfortable. To book, contact James Whelan on 0868140559. www.killaloerivercruises.com. Aran Islands Knitwear Aran Islands Knitwear has only just opened. Specializing in the highest quality Aran knitwear, gifts, t-shirts, and branded hoodies, the store will also stock exclusive knitwear which has been hand-knitted by locals from the Islands. The store is situated on Inis Mor in Kilronan, the largest of the three Islands. You cannot miss it off the boat – just look out for the thatched roof.
Model Railway Village in Clonakilty
New Chef at Harrys Rosses Point
Athlone Castle Visitor Centre
Take a trip to the West Cork Model Railway
Chef Eva Hourihan will be reopening
Athlone Castle Visitor Centre is a family friendly
Village for a fun and memorable day out on
Harrys in Rosses Point this easter for
attraction at the heart of Ireland along the route
your visit to Clonakilty and West Cork.
hopefully another succesful season. Eva
of Ireland’s Ancient East and on the banks of
Walking into the Model Village you step back
has just returned from North America
the River Shannon. There is something for all
in time and see life as it was in the 1940’s.
where she worked for michelin Star
ages and interests in the modern centre with
See the old West Cork railway line portrayed
chef Steffan Hartmann. Herself and the
interactive displays, a rich display of artefacts,
in delightful miniature serving the towns.
harrys team would like to welcome bobby
games, weapons, dress-up areas and much more.
The models and figurines are handmade
and all readers of Go Wild magazine to
A: Castle Street, Athlone, Westmeath N37
at the Model Village to a scale of 1:24.
the point to sample her new menu.
A6D7 P: 09064 42130 E: info@athlonecastle.ie
Depicting busy market days, this is a joyful discovery for young and old alike. Relax in their unique tea room set on one of their authentic train carriages with a view of Clonakilty bay or take a tour of Clonakilty town aboard the Choo Choo Road Train.
Go Wild Magazine - Summer Edition 2017
- 60 -
www.gowildmagazine.com
Rebecca O’Connor is ‘Simply the Best’ World renowned Irish singer Rebecca O Connor brings ‘Simply the Best’ Tina Turner show back to Ireland “Rebecca is so good, it’s scary!” – Tina Turner
Those lucky enough to get tickets should
Are you a Tina Turner fan? If so, get ready
be prepared to stand up in their seats as
to rock, as Rebecca O’Connor is returning to
Rebecca delivers her flawless rendition of
Ireland this summer on her Simply the Best
Tina’s greatest hits, including Nutbush
tour as TINA, following her phenomenally
City Limits, Proud Mary, River Deep,
successful 2016 Irish performances, and she’s
Private Dancer, When the Heartache
stopping along the Wild Atlantic Way!
Is Over, Better Be Good To Me, and of
The powerhouse singer from Cork is the only
course her anthem, Simply the Best.
act in the world who is personally endorsed
If you’re keen to relive the magic of Tina
Tour Dates
by Tina Turner herself, who said ‘Rebecca
Turner you can see Rebecca with her big
•
Sat May 6th: Cork Opera House
is so good, it’s scary’. Mick Fleetwood of
voice, wild hair, sparkling mini dresses,
•
Friday May 12th: Town
the legendary Fleetwood Mac, “Rebecca is
red lipstick and stiletto heels do the
an amazing singer and performer, I was
undisputed Queen of Rock n Roll justice
•
Sat May 13th:Belfast Empire Theatre
mesmerised… a night you’ll never forget.”
on stage, make sure you book early.
•
Sat May 20th: University
O’Connor has spent the last year on an
Early bird tickets for the tribute shows
incredible worldwide tour including most
are available from the venues’ official
recently headlining the Emirates Dubai Rugby
websites, starting from 20 EUR. Or see
Waterford Sat May 27th.. National
7s in front of 45,000 people per night, which
Facebook @rebeccaoconnorastinaturner
Opera House Wexford
went live to over 200 million TV viewers.
Hall Theatre Galway
Concert Hall Limerick •
•
Friday May 26th: Theatre Royal
Friday June 2nd: Commodore Hotel, Cobh
ATHLONE CASTLE Discover the history of Athlone, its castle and people through a series of interactive and audio visual exhibitions. www.athlonecastle.ie
LUAN GALLERY Experience contemporary and traditional visual art in stunning surroundings
www.athlonecastle.ie www.luangallery.ie LUAN GALLERY
Those shoes were made for walking By Michelle McDonagh
The Wild Atlantic Way is home to some of the best coastal hiking trails in the world. The magnificent coastline boasts golden beaches, thrusting headlands and soaring sea cliffs, with walking routes to inspire and challenge, whatever your ability. To truly embrace the feeling of the fresh Atlantic breeze blowing through your hair or the sound of the ocean crashing against the shoreline, you need to leave the car (our tour bus) behind, and get your walking shoes on. It’s all waiting for you, from outstanding scenic treks with views of epic cliffs and thundering surf on deserted beaches, to looped hikes on isolated islands that offer unrivalled ocean vistas - the choice is yours. Much of the best scenery lies off the beaten track and can only be truly appreciated by those who explore on foot, according to Helen Fairbairn, author of Ireland’s Atlantic Way — A Walking Guide. The renowned walking guide author, who explores the best walking routes of the region in her book, points out that as the crow flies, Ireland measures just 450km from north to south. However the west coast is not straight, she notes, but is the most convoluted and indented part of the Irish seaboard. “As with many beautiful landscapes, much of the best scenery lies off the beaten track, and can only be truly appreciated by those who explore on foot. There is simply no other way to reach the top of the country’s highest cliffs or marvel at its most remote beaches except to walk there.
Go Wild Magazine - Summer Edition 2017
Ards Peninsula
I have tried to gather a collection of routes that reflects the wide variety of scenery along the west coast, with the emphasis on wild and beautiful landscapes,” says Ms Fairbairn. Her guide includes island walks, such as Dursey Island in Cork; routes, Tory Island like Slieve League in Donegal, that pass along the top of steep cliffs; and Brandon Mountain in Kerry, one of six routes she considers ‘proper hillwalks’. and North West Adventure Tours. She adds: “Most routes along the Wild Atlantic Way are signposted and in theory, if you joined the Wild Atlantic Way at one end of the country and followed it in its entirety, the signs would take you past every walk in this book.” If you don’t fancy going it alone, there are plenty of companies providing guided walking and hiking tours of the Wild Atlantic Way, taking in the cultural treasures of the region along the way, from ancient sites and sacred peaks to stunning lighthouses and lively villages. They include Hidden Ireland Tours, Footfalls Walking Holidays, Wild Atlantic Way Adventures, Hill Walk Tours
- 62 -
Here are five of Fáilte Ireland’s recommended hiking routes along the Wild Atlantic Way: APPALACHIAN TRAIL Appalachian Trail is a linear trail in the most north western corner of Ireland covering over 100km. Rocky, boggy and remote, you can enjoy 360 degree panoramas of lush green landscapes, jagged coastlines, barren cliffs and empty beaches. On this wild, rugged and remote trail, you will be surrounded by imposing mountains, coastal scenery and tranquil lakes. With space to breathe, you can really get away from it all.
www.gowildmagazine.com
DIAMOND HILL
Slieve League.
Located in the spectacular surroundings of Connemara National Park, you can choose from the Upper or Lower Diamond Hill trail. Both of these way-marked trails wind through heather, bog and grasslands. Let the trails lead you to amazing views of distant harbours, hidden bays, secret inlets, and clusters of desolate islands dotted across the Atlantic Ocean. Easily navigable, the trails offer a tranquil few hours amongst birdlife, coastal scenery and some of the best seascapes of Connemara. DOOLIN CLIFF WALK Doolin Cliff Walk is a 20km coastal cliff path that leads you over the magnificent Cliffs of Moher. Rising to 214m, relish the breathtaking views of the idyllic Aran Islands and scenic Galway Bay. Listen to the crashing waves and rolling surf below, but keep your eye on the track because this challenging and seaward trail is demanding and not for the faint-hearted!. The sea-cliff walk will lead you to the intimate village of Doolin, world-famous for its traditional Irish music, craic and lively atmosphere. Truly one of Europe’s best treks. BEARA WAY Beara Way is a 196km circuit of the south western Beara Peninsula. Brimming with archaeological and historical sites, the peninsula is shrouded in mystical legends. Stop off at stone circles and ring forts, then pause to embrace the sight of spectacular
Go Wild Magazine - Summer Edition 2017
offshore islands. Along the route, pass empty beaches and traditional fishing harbours, and after all that activity, wind your way down narrow roads that lead you right to the door of some of the country’s finest eateries.
walks dotted along the expansive length of the Wild Atlantic Way. Easy to navigate, these walks highlight areas of local interest and beauty and are found in every region. Look out for signposted walks where you can walk amongst breathtaking landscapes, SHEEPS HEAD before returning back to where you Sheep’s Head is tucked right into the started to mingle with locals and south western corner of Ireland and is savour the relaxed pace of the west. one of the most remote hiking spots on Bring a rain jacket and wear good the Wild Atlantic Way, at a total circuit walking shoes, and don’t forget to of 88km. This isolated ridge juts out pack a couple of snacks, water and 21km into the fierce Atlantic coast and a charged mobile phone. There are showcases short and long loops offerlooped walks of the Northern Heading wild scenery, picturesque loughs lands, Surf Coast, Bay Coast, Cliff and trails that pass through deserted Coast, Southern Peninsula and Haven famine settlements, lush farmland and Coast. The Wild Atlantic Way also heathered fields. For more informaoffers gentle walks and coastal walks tion, go to www.wildatlanticway.com that you might also be interested in. Looped Walks of the Wild Atlantic Way From long hikes to simple strolls, there is an abundance of scenic looped
- 63 -
To put together your own itinerary, Fáilte Ireland offer a handy online trip planner tool at www.wildatlanticway.com where you can customise your experience around exciting events and must-see destinations.
www.gowildmagazine.com
Incredible places to Instagram With its abundance of heathered
If you’ve ever questioned the power
hills, pebbled boreens and salt-
of the elements, here’s a headland
washed shores unfurling as far as
that wears the battle scars. A
the eye can see, the temptation to
geological treasure perched
capture each captivating moment
40m above the thrashing ocean,
along the Wild Atlantic Way is
prepare for views that stop you
practically impossible to resist.
in your tracks and invigorating
Achill Is land Pho
to Failte
Ireland
breezes that will certainly make Just about every corner and coastal
for some windswept hair styles and
crevice reveals something truly beautiful,
atmospheric Instagram posts.
breath-taking or unusual to behold. And with so much inspiration waiting just
ACHILL ISLAND, COUNTY MAYO
around each bend, the Wild Atlantic Way
Home to five idyllic Blue Flag beaches,
Instagram account has become the place
it’s no wonder that Achill Island is
online to visit in order to get a glimpse of
a photographer’s dream. Historic
the wonders, surprises, and little slices
deserted villages, breathtaking
of coastal life that make the route one
cliff-side drives and scenery that
of the most photogenic in the world.
showcases nature’s stunning colour palette, how could you resist?
Cliffs of Moher. Photo by James
Bowden
Follow along for an exclusive look in at just some of the sensational spots and
CLIFFS OF MOHER, COUNTY CLARE
scenes around the region that have
A true testament to nature’s raw beauty,
Baltimore and its iconic Baltimore
made avid Instagrammers truly snap-
the Cliffs of Moher and their expansive
Beacon, built after the 1798 Rebellion,
happy, and be sure to check out our
panoramas are simply magnificent.
is a must-visit for those enveloping
selection of some of the best below.
Some 214m above sea level at their
views and warm coastal welcomes.
highest point, on a clear day embrace SLIABH LIAG CLIFFS,
views of the Aran Islands, Dingle
COUNTY DONEGAL
Peninsula, Loop Head and more, not to
Noted for its impressive distinction
mention an array of fascinating birdlife.
For more see www.wildatlanticway.com
as some of the highest marine cliffs in Europe, at Sliabh Liag
THE SKELLIGS, COUNTY KERRY
prepare yourself for a panorama
Otherworldly and wonderfully
that never fails to astound.
mysterious owing to their stunning
MULLAGHMORE, COUNTY SLIGO
sea-surrounded location, a glance
Wild and wonderful, these shores are
at any of the Skellig Islands can’t
bona fide adrenaline-pumpers. As
help but make one marvel at the
well as endless vistas of mammoth
strength and determination of the
swells, you can also while away
sixth century monks who settled on
the day watching thrill-seeking
this harsh but heavenly outcrop.
Skellig Is land- Ph oto by C storytra aspar Die vellers derik
@
surfers and coasteering enthusiasts wrestling with the Atlantic’s might.
BALTIMORE, COUNTY CORK A delightful harbour village that sees
DOWNPATRICK HEAD, COUNTY MAYO
Go Wild Magazine - Summer Edition 2017
weather as serene as it is windswept,
- 64 -
www.gowildmagazine.com
Collins Bar, Limerick: The ideal location to break your journey Located just off the motorway on the Dooradoyle Road in Limerick, Collins Bar is run by husband and wife team, James and Eileen Collins. The family-friendly bar and restaurant offers an amazing food menu from light bites, tapas and tasting plates, to the full a la carte treatment. The venue caters for all types of events including christenings, charity events and birthday parties, offering an extensive party food menu. James and Eileen opened Collins Bar just before Christmas in December 2004, and the business took off from there. The couple both come from hospitality backgrounds with James’s family involved in the hotel business and Eileen’s family in the pub trade – both born and bred into hard work and both the youngest in their families. They each pursued other careers before finally coming back to Limerick to open their own business in 2004. The food served at Collins Bar is “restaurant quality food in a casual setting” with food choices to suit all appetites. Head Chef Wayne Anderson says: “Our food is modern Irish cuisine, made with locally sourced, fresh ingredients. Everything on the menu is made in our kitchen. We use all local farmers and local fisheries, local fresh grown herbs, signature rubs for steaks and meat, home-cured gravalax and homemade desserts, pastries, scones and bread.” It was the excellent quality of their modern cuisine offered at a reasonable price that helped the Bar scoop the Restaurants Association of Ireland’s Gastro Pub of the Year Award, 2016. With a young and vibrant head chef at the helm who loves to keep up-to-date
Go Wild Magazine - Summer Edition 2017
with the latest trends and is constantly refreshing the menu, the food at Collins Bar is truly unique with a modern Irish slant reflected throughout the menu. When asked how it is working as a husband and wife team, Eileen says: “We are busy people leading a busy life with a young family so there is lots for everyone to do. We complement each other and work well together as a team. We both work hard to ensure we offer the highest of standards to our customers.” The team at Collins Bar blends youth with experience, and most of the senior staff have been working there for some time.
business all the way to the customer who leaves happy,” James remarks. As a councillor with Limerick City and County Council, as well as a business owner, James is enthusiastic about the benefits of the Wild Atlantic Way brand for the local tourism industry. “We are located at N20, Junction 2, which is the main hub for visitors travelling to Clare or Kerry, so we are an ideal destination for Wild Atlantic Way visitors. Easy access on and off the motorway and ample parking makes us the ideal location to break your journey,” he adds.
“We are very customer focused and we pride ourselves in being friendly and attentive.This is reflected in our loyal customer base and repeat business. Front-of-house work as a team with the kitchen and everything works well. When your staff are happy, this reflects throughout the
- 65 -
www.gowildmagazine.com
INTERNATIONAL INTERACTIVE RUGBY EXPERIENCE TO OPEN IN LIMERICK A digital interactive visitor centre set to open in Limerick in 2019 to celebrate the sport of rugby throughout the world aims to become an international tourist attraction. It is hoped that global strategic partnerships will be developed to promote the rugby experience as an international go-to destination for tourists, sports fans and families alike. The high-tech 30,000 square foot exhibition space located at 40-42 O’Connell Street and No 1 Cecil Street, Limerick, will feature dramatic 4D interactive galleries and exhibits celebrating iconic moments from the world of rugby. The centre will represent an initial investment of €10 million by well known local business man and race horse owner, JP McManus. The international rugby experience will have an advisory board headed by former Munster, Ireland and Lions Captain Paul O’Connell and will include leading figures from the world of sport, business and tourism. The objective of the development is to recognise and celebrate the sport of rugby throughout the world with futuristic and interactive presentations in a state-of-theart setting. Immersive and sensory galleries designed for Irish and international rugby fans will be a top attraction. The planning process is set to commence in the coming months with works anticipated
Go Wild Magazine - Summer Edition 2017
to advance on site in early 2018, and the project could generate up to 100 city centre jobs locally during the construction phase with permanent positions created after completion. JP McManus had suggested the possibility of a rugby museum to Paul O’Connell a few years ago, but the rugby player was not in a position to focus on it at the time as he was still playing. After his retirement from the game, they discussed the idea further and it has since involved from a museum to a full interactive digital experience. Paul O’Connell notes that Limerick has a strong and historic rugby tradition which is internationally recognised. “The objective of the visitor centre is to operate as a fitting tribute to the sport of rugby across the world and in so doing, recognise every country in which it is played through the highest quality interactive digital experience. I’m very proud to be part of this ground breaking project and look forward to working with the team on its development,” he comments. JP McManus says he is very excited about this initiative for Limerick which will be the first of its kind in Ireland. He adds: “Hopefully, it will encourage more private investment to the city centre renewal programme and will further enhance exchequer returns as well as creating spinoff jobs as a result. We are also delighted that
- 66 -
the location of the centre is in the heart of Georgian Limerick which has many historic values. The sport of rugby is at the core of Limerick, its people and visitors, and we are absolutely delighted it will be celebrated and treasured here.” Mayor of Limerick Cllr Kieran O’Hanlon has welcomed the announcement, saying Limerick was ‘the capital of rugby’ and this new €10 million euro digital interactive visitor centre would cement Limerick’s position as a mecca for all rugby fans. “From Munster returning to the glory days on the pitch to this new exciting venture in the heart of Limerick city, it will bolster Limerick’s attractiveness as a sports tourism destination. Limerick City and County Council has an exciting urban renewal programme underway, with the Limerick Twenty Thirty developments and the O’Connell Street Revitalisation Scheme,” Cllr O’Hanlon says. Head of Communications with Limerick City and County Council, Laura Ryan said the local authority was extremely excited about this new international rugby experience which would be a fantastic addition to their growing list of tourist attractions and a ‘must-see’ for all tourists to Limerick. “We look forward to promoting it as part of our overall Limerick experience to both domestic and international visitors reinforcing Limerick’s reputation as a sporting city and Ireland’s rugby capital,” she added.
www.gowildmagazine.com
Stay at the 4* George Hotel Limerick from only €79.00 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 WWW.GEORGELIMERICK.COM
Unmissable experiences on the Wild Atlantic Way
Heritage on Horseback in the Atlantic: This ride takes about four hours with a lunch stop in the old O ’Connor’s homestead on Connors Island to the North of Streedagh Beach in North Co. Sligo. Begin at Island View Riding Stables near Grange and walk along the shore to Milkhaven Harbour. You will then cross a magnificent tidal lagoon at low tide, going on to the back of Streedagh dunes. See archaeology along the way, have a nice packed lunch out of your saddle bag and hear all about the Spanish Armada ships that wrecked here after a horrendous gale on September 21st 1588. Continuing then to Dernish Island, enjoy this remote seascape - with ruined cottages standing quiet, lost in time at the back of the island. Heading home then, you can refresh your horse’s legs in seawater and relax, sit back and take it all in!
Get up close to cliffs that are amongst the highest in Europe: Paddy is the skipper of the Nuala Star. He’ll pick you up from Teelin Harbour on the north side of Donegal Bay, to sail below the sheer granite walls of Sliabh Liag (Slieve League) – at 600 m (1970ft). They are amongst the highest accessible sea cliffs in Europe and the huge panoramas presented to you from these cliffs can look different from every angle. Bright azure skies appear next to blue grey shafts of rain which bolt sea and sky together. Still further across this ever changing canvas, beams of light, diffused by wisps of thin cloud, gild the wild sea, warming the cool grey water into pools of liquid gold. Sometimes the Nuala Star is joined by dolphins, seals and whales. And in June you may see basking sharks, feeding on the plankton. There’s the option to go swimming in the little coves: wetsuits are provided, says Paddy, “if you think the water’s cold”. Once back on dry land, the climb up the Pilgrim’s Path is optional. On a fine day, the views from the top – across seven counties – are glorious.
Probe the peat at Céide Fields: An award-winning architect-designed pyramid built into the clifftop, high above the Atlantic, houses the Visitor Centre for A chaidh Chéide (Céide Fields). This is the largest Stone Age monument in the world, set in a vast prehistoric landscape of bog, dramatic cliffs and coastline. Preserved beneath the wild blanket bog are 5000-yearold stone-walled fields, dwellings and megalithic tombs. Take the guided tour and use the archaeologist’s probe, sliding down through the peat till you feel it striking stone, placed there 5000 years ago. This is the largest of thousands of archaeological sites along the Wild Atlantic Way – hundreds in this part of North Mayo alone, including standing stones, ring forts, stone circles and court tombs.
Forage for wild food along the Killala shoreline: Spend an afternoon with Denis Quinn of Wild Atlantic Cultural Tours – foraging for food out along the shoreline under the huge skies of north Mayo. As the wild Atlantic booms and seabirds swirl and swoop, Denis will guide you expertly across Killala Bay, crossing mudflats, scrambling over rocks, gathering edible seaweeds, rooting around in rockpools and spooning cockles, mussels, clams and winkles from the vast expanse of soft sand uncovered at low tide.
Cruise on Ireland’s only fjord: With luck, a pod of dolphins will accompany you for some of your cruise on Killary Harbour, said by some to be Ireland’s only true fjord. Dotted with mussel rafts, with mountains to the north and south, the fjord reaches due east from the Atlantic for 16km (10 miles), ending at the Aasleagh Falls. Killary Cruises start from a mile or so outside the village of Leenane on the road to Clifden at ‘Nancy’s Point’. Leenane is known as the ‘Gateway to Connemara – you may recognise some of the locations from the movie version of John B Keane’s poignant play ‘The Field’, filmed here in 1989.
C
M
Y
M
Y
Y
Y
K
Journey to the Great Stalactite
Visitor Centre café & farmland nature trail Irish Responsible Tourism Awards
EcoTourism Ireland
GOLD
G o l d
email tours@doolincave.ie or call +353 65 707 5761 www.doolincave.ie
D O O L I N C AV E | D O O L I N | C O . C L A R E | I R E L A N D
GO WILD MAGAZINE .pdf
1
10/03/2017
10:05
Unmissable experiences on the Wild Atlantic Way Go for cultural immersion in a restored 17th century hillvillage: In their unique centre dedicated to traditional Irish culture, Dearbhaill Standún and Charlie Troy of Cnoc Suain (meaning ‘restful hill’) offer an introduction to Gaelic language, music, history, nature and landscape for groups. They’ve restored the group of cottages, which lay deserted for more than half a century, in a tranquil setting on the southern foothills of the Connemara Mountains, overlooking Galway Bay, the Burren, the Cliffs of Moher and the Aran Islands.
Watch the sun set over the Aran Islands: The viewing platform at O ’Brien’s Tower is said to be the best place to see the sunset from the iconic Cliffs of Moher. The Tower was built at the highest point on the cliff edge in 1835, as an observation point for tourists, by far-sighted landowner Cornelius O ’Brien. Before arriving at the Tower, you could try a guided walk along the cliff-edge paths with a Cliffs of Moher Ranger. The walks take just over an hour and, depending on the time of year, you’ll see puffins, guillemots, kittiwakes, chough, peregrine falcon, fulmar and shags, among other birds.
Enjoy traditional music in West Clare: West Clare is famous for its music – and the Long Dock (or ‘Dock’ as the locals call it) in the fishing village of Carrigaholt at the mouth of the Shannon is just one of the many pubs in these parts that offers traditional music nights, as well as Carrigaholt oysters, mussels, lobster and of course their own chowder. Go for one of the Dock’s special Irish Nights, when you can sing, dance and play pub games with locals.
Remember Ireland’s greatest born storytellers:
Go Wild Magazine - Summer Edition 2017
Out on the very edge of Europe, as far west as you can go in Ireland, lies a deserted village on an archipelago. These are the mystical Blasket Islands – famous in Ireland for their Gaelic storytellers, and deeply symbolic of the Irish story of emigration. Halfway round the Slea Head Drive – a scenic route circling the edge of the Dingle Peninsula – is the Blasket Centre. Its director, Irish-speaking Mícheál de Mordha, provides moving insights into the islanders’ hard lives, the sorrows of emigration, and the literary heritage of the Blaskets. A long glass-fronted gallery overlooks the Atlantic and Great Blasket itself: a constant reminder of that poignant place.
Take a boat trip round historic Kinsale’s natural harbour: This will bring you past the famous headland Old Head, and out to where the transatlantic Lusitania was sunk by a German u-boat in 1915 … a seismic event that brought the US into WW 1. Onboard the Spirit of Kinsale, there’s freshly brewed coffee, blankets to keep you warm, and – best of all – stories that will stay with you from skipper and historian Jerome Lordan.
Discover the history of hard lives lived on the Atlantic’s edge: By visiting the Copper Mining Museum and following the waymarked walking trail around the tiny village of Allihies, right on the edge of the Beara Peninsula. It’s hard to believe that 1500 people lived in this remote and tranquil spot in the mid 19th century, when copper mining was at its peak. The Museum – housed in a chapel built by Cornish miners in 1845 – has a café with delicious home bakes, and stunning views along the rugged coast.
Sunset obriens tower. Image Niall Cosgrove
- 70 -
www.gowildmagazine.com
Galway’s FINEST 4 STAR HOTEL
Explore the Wild Atlantic Way
Located in the heart of Salthill Village overlooking the Hills of Clare, we offer breathtaking views of Galway Bay. Base yourself in the comfort of Salthill Hotel and take in all that the West coast of Ireland has to offer. Relax and unwind in Ocean Fitness Health Club or enjoy a sumptuous evening meal in the award winning PROM Restaurant.
Exclusive Packages from €139pps Call: 091 522711 Email: reservations@salthillhotel.com Visit: www.salthillhotel.com Salthill Hotel, Promenade, Galway.
www.irishcraftsonline.com
WE SHIP WORLDWIDE . . . from Doolin on Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way
IRISH CRAFTS Doolin, Co. Clare, Ireland.
Tel: +353 (0)65 7075 836
Unmissable experiences on the Wild Atlantic Way Go for cultural immersion in a restored 17th century hillvillage: In their unique centre dedicated to traditional Irish culture, Dearbhaill Standún and Charlie Troy of Cnoc Suain (meaning ‘restful hill’) offer an introduction to Gaelic language, music, history, nature and landscape for
Ceide fields. Image Peter McCabe
groups. They’ve restored the group of cottages, which lay
Get festive at Cork International Choral Festival Immerse yourself in the sounds of music at the sounds
deserted for more than half a century, in a tranquil setting on the southern foothills of the Connemara Mountains, overlooking Galway Bay, the Burren, the Cliffs of Moher and the Aran Islands.
of music at the Cork International Choral Festival, which takes place from 26-30 April 2017. Cork will welcome choirs from across the world for a programme of Gala concerts, Schools Concerts, National and International Competitions, and world-class performances, as thousands of participants bring the city to life for a celebration of choral music in all its many forms. One of Europe’s premier international choral festivals, Cork is noted for its high standards, eclectic and wide-ranging programme, and the friendliness of its welcome. See www.corkchoral.ie for more.
Visit the home of Patrick Pearse at Pearse’s Cottage
Dunmore Head and The Blasket Islands. Image Chris Hill
Ionad Cultúrtha an Phiarsaigh is located in Ros Muc, in the heart of the Connemara Gaeltacht. It was here that Patrick Pearse, writer, educator and leader of the 1916 Rising built, a cottage for himself on the shores of Loch Oiriúlach in 1909. The Visitor Centre houses a fascinating interactive exhibition dealing with Pearse’s legacy, exploring the things that drew Pearse to Connemara: the area’s unique landscape and history, and the ancient Gaelic culture and language which is still alive in the area today. The Centre also celebrate 21st century Connemara, which maintains the traditions of the past, while looking to the future. Visitors can then take the short stroll across the bog to visit Pearse’s cottage itself, left just as it was when he departed the cottage for the final time in 1915. Email tanphiarsaigh@opw.ie for more. Teelin, CO.Donegal. Image Tourism Ireland
Go Wild Magazine - Summer Edition 2017
- 72 -
www.gowildmagazine.com
Y
2016
Free admission Open Tue-Sat: 10am-5pm & Open Tues – Sat, 10am – 5pm Sundays Easter - Sept. 12pm-5pm Sundays 12pm – 5pm Easter Sunday to end of September Openfrom Tue-Sat: 10am-5pm & Sundays Easter - Sept. 12pm-5pm
GAA GAA
AsSpanish you tour Ireland’s WildGalway. Atlantic Way be Parade, inspired by Galway’s archaeology, history, Email: and museum@galwaycity.ie science arts at Galway City Museum! Spanish Parade, Galway. Tel: 091 532460 Email: Web: museum@galwaycity.ie www.galwaycitymuseum.ie Tel: 091 532460 Web: www.galwaycitymuseum.ie
GREAT WAR GREAT WAR
Westport is the ideal base to explore the stunning Mayo coastline.
REVOLUTION REVOLUTION
SEA SCIENCE SEA SCIENCE
One of the finest places to stay on the Wild Atlantic Way.
SPANISH ARCH SPANISH ARCH
Great offers on www.KnockrannyHouseHotel.ie Call us on 098 28600 Get in touch info@khh.ie
Westport, Co Mayo
Sunset obriens tower. Image Niall Cosgrove
A Local’s Guide to
Limerick By Louise Morrissey
T
here is a challenge to condense all there is to love about Limerick into one article. As one of Ireland’s oldest settlements, Limerick has plenty to see and do for history buffs and culture vultures. Alongside its ancient past, the Treaty City’s future also shines bright. More and more over the last few years, Limerick has proven that it can hold its own beside Ireland’s other larger cities and has become a vibrant and diverse mecca for artists and musicians.
In 2016, the city made an impressive bid to be named European Capital of Culture 2020. While the title ultimately went elsewhere, locals and visitors alike have reaped the rewards of the vigorous regeneration initiative with art, music, theatre and street festivals abound. So for those of you seeking out old, new, and everything in between, here are some of my personal recommendations, as a local, to keep in mind during your visit to Limerick: Medieval Limerick: King John’s Castle King John’s Castle on ‘King’s Island’ in the heart of medieval Limerick City, has a stunning new award-winning exhibition that brings over 800 years of dramatic local history to life. Archaeologist excavations have uncovered evidence from the infamous siege of Limerick as well as pre-norman settlements on the site. The award-winning visitor’s centre brings to life the history of the time and offers some of the most stunning panoramic views of the city over the river Shannon. While you’re there, seek out
Go Wild Magazine - Summer Edition 2017
Muesum. Thomond Park. Image Eamon Ward
one of the remaining sections of Walls of Limerick - potentially more recognisable to us locals as the dance we’ve all done at weddings without actually knowing the steps. The Norman built walls peppered throughout sections of the city have undergone conservation repairs over the last decade. Afterwards, cross the river to see the Treaty Stone. Called after the Treaty of Limerick signed on the 3rd of October 1691 after the war between William III of Hanover of England and his Father in Law King James II, tradition says that the treaty was signed on the stone in full view of both armies. King John’s Castle recently won the Best Leisure Tourism Innovation award at the Irish Travel Industry Awards.
- 74 -
The Louvre of Limerick: The Hunt Museum Ask any child in the region and they will tell you they have been on school tour to the Hunt Museum more times than they can count - and with good reason. The museum is an absolute gem in the city featuring artefacts from Greece, Rome, Egypt and the Olmec civilisation. Fascinating Irish archaeological finds from the Bronze Age, Neolithic and early Christian periods are all showcased in the collections, as well as works by Pablo Picasso, Pierre Auguste Renoir, Roderic O’Conor, Jack B. Yeats, Robert Fagan and Henry Moore. It’s basically the Louvre of Limerick. Contemporary Irish works are always on display with a particular emphasis on local artists. You can
www.gowildmagazine.com
Limerick Fire Breather. Image Failte Ireland
Lough Gur. Image Failte Ireland
Fireworks King John’s Castle. Image Failte Ireland
explore the collections at your leisure or take a guided tour at no extra charge. Stylist restaurants: Stylish restaurants are abound in Limerick with the likes of Chocolat Bistro and The Hamptons, but I couldn’t claim that this was a local’s guide without pointing you in the direction of a few Limerick institutions that are slightly more offthe beaten track. First and foremost - Donkey Fords. Most cities have similar fabled establishments: Dublin has Burdock’s, Cork has Lennox’s, and Limerick has Donkey’s. There are no accurate words to describe Limerick folks’ love for this place. Standing in the same spot for over 70 years, the items on the menu could be counted on one hand - but we’re going for quality not quantity here. Staples like fish and chips and battered sausages are the order of the day in this hole in the wall, no frills chip shop. Legend has it that one bite can inspire sonnets, love songs and choirs of angels. There is a reason it has been voted Ireland’s best chip shop.
Go Wild Magazine - Summer Edition 2017
For something lighter, but no less waistline destroying, visit Bean an Tí on Little Catherine street. The bakery and café has been in business since 1966 and is what dreams are made of! It is the perfect spot to sit, watch the comings and goings, and get a real slice of Limerick (no pun intended). Friendly chats and wry wit between locals will make you feel like part of the furniture. My personal recommendation of sweet treats would be the gingerbread men which my Grandmother fed me an alarming amount of as a child.
Munster rugby. The city is rightfully proud of this spectacular stadium, as well as their strong rugby tradition. The museum and stadium tours give guests access to players only areas such as the dressing room and tunnel and the interactive game zone will test your rugby prowess like no other. If you have the chance, catch a game in the fabled grounds and experience the unnerving silence during penalty kicks that Thomond is famous for. Craic & Ceoil: Dolans As the unofficial cultural hub of the city, some huge names have played this hallowed venue, from the Hozier and Kasabian to Christy Moore and Damien Dempsey. There is music 7 nights a week with trad sessions in the bar alongside live bands. The atmosphere is as fantastic as the food and you dare not consider your visit to Limerick complete without throwing some questionable shapes on the dance floor here.
Festivals Galore: Riverfest (April 28May 1) Riverfest, an annual celebration since Country air: Lough Gur 2004, showcases and celebrates all that’s If you feel like getting some fresh country great about Limerick City – highlighting air in your lungs, stunning Lough Gur is a and revelling in our art, culture, music, short drive from the city centre. As one of sport and food. Riverfest is a city wide Ireland’s most important archaeological series of events including: the Riverfest sites, there is plenty to discover with BBQ Competition, a riverside Continental megalithic tombs, Crannógs and Ring forts Food Market, The lake, Lough Gur, is not only one of my personal favourite spots Fireworks, Free Open in Limerick, but in all of Ireland - everyone needs their ‘happy Air Concerts, Fashion place’ and luckily mine is located conveniently close to home! Events, Festival Racing and lots more. The atmosphere in the city during this abound. The beautiful hills surrounding weekend is always second to none. the lake make for an excellent hike. Spring
“
The home of Munster Rugby: Thomond Park A visit to Limerick would not be incomplete without a visit to Thomond, the home of
- 75 -
is an especially lovely time to visit with flowers in bloom and the various wildlife making a welcome reappearance after winter.
www.gowildmagazine.com
Connemara PUB Tours on the Wild Atlantic Way
There’s nothing quite like an Irish pub – it’s a place full of stories, traditions, and friendly locals with the ‘gift of the gab’. If you want to visit some of the best pubs in the Connemara region, without worrying about driving, then you should definitely consider Connemara Pub Tours. They offer visitors pub and gastro tours throughout Galway, Mayo and the Aran islands. Not only will you visit some of Ireland’s most famous pubs where you will taste local beverages and food from producers in the region, but you’ll also enjoy some fantastic scenery along the way and it’s a great chance to meet new friends. .
Tour Connemara from Galway, Clifden or Westport After broadcasting live from Buncrana, Ryan The most popular tour leaves Galway city in the late morning or early afternoon and travels through North Connemara with its first stop in the fishing village of Oughterard. Power’s Thatch Bar in the centre of the village serves excellent quality food and a range of locally produced craft beers. Moving on through the mountains of Connemara, the group will make it’s way to Keane’s of Maam Valley, a pub that is over 200 years old with an interesting history attached to it. From here you will head south to the Gaeltacht villages of Béal an Daingean, gateway to The Islands and finally the family run Tigh Chualáin in Inverin with its Atlantic themed Beer Garden.
Go Wild Magazine - Summer Edition 2017
Tour Connemara from Westport A new addition is the Connemara Pub Tour from Westport, a favourite destination for Hens & Stags. Following pick up from your accommodation, the group will travel south on one of the most scenic routes in the West of Ireland towards Leenane, a village made famous 25 years ago by Richard Harris and John Hurt in John B Keane’s The Field. Also home to Ireland’s only Fjord, the first stop will be Gaynor’s Field Bar in the village which is full of Memorabilia from the making of the film. Continuing on through the Maam Turk Mountains, you will head for Connemara’s most famous pub, Keane’s of Maam Valley. Already a favourite amongst Connemara Pub Tours from Galway, the pub is over 200 years old and was originally home to the Scottish
- 76 -
Engineer Sir Alexander Nimmo. Renowned for its creamy pints of Guinness and Irish Coffees, a turf fire is always a guarantee in Keane’s. Heading deeper into Connemara, the next stop will be in Finney which is one of the remotest outposts in the area, with spectacular scenery overlooking Lough Fooey. The Pub in Finney most definitely embraces everything a country pub should be. The final stop on the tour is Máire Lukes in Tourmakeady which is situated on an elevated site above Ireland’s 3rd largest lake, Lough Mask. You will not get a better view of the lake than that from Máire Luke’s beer garden. The pub which is in the Mayo Gaeltacht has an array of entertainment should the day not be suitable for the beer garden!
www.gowildmagazine.com
Connemara & Aran Islands Tour from Galway, Clifden or Westport Another recent addition is the Connemara & Aran Islands combination pub tour. Operating in the same away as the Connemara Pub Tour this also includes a visit to Inis Oirr, the smallest but friendliest of the Aran Islands included. The tour will pick you up from your Galway city or Connemara based accommodation
Go Wild Magazine - Summer Edition 2017
stopping off at one Connemara pub on route to the Airport in Inverin, before embarking on a scenic 8 minute flight across Galway bay to Inis Oirr Airport. Landing above the sandy beach and crystal clear waters of the harbour, your trip will include a visit to all 3 pubs on the island where Food & Beverage vouchers can be exchanged for the Island’s fresh seafood or any beverage of your choice. Spending 3 hours on the island will give you a feel for island life, you can meet locals and fellow visitors, but above all, you will sample
- 77 -
Inis Oirr’s warm and friendly hospitality. Following the return flight to Connemara, you will have one more stop in a Connemara Pub on return to your accommodation.
The tours usually take 5-6 hours and departure times are flexible. Prices start from €50, including vouchers to spend on food and drink at the pubs along the way. Departures can be arranged from Galway, Clifden or Westport. Check out www.connemarapubtours.ie or Facebook / Tripadvisor Connemara Pub Tours. More information on 087 2238764.
www.gowildmagazine.com
What does it take to cycle 2100km in 7 days with over 24000 metres of climbing, along Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way? It takes character!
Why would someone choose to endure a physical and mentally gruelling challenge? Is it to escape, to live in the moment, to test your limits and beyond, or to explore the unknown and be at one with nature up close and personal? Is it simply a sporty holiday where you can test your endurance levels and meet lots of inspirational characters? For Rachel Nolan, it was all of the above – and more – as she signed up for a 2100km cycle of the Wild Atlantic Way that had to be completed in 7 days. Now she’s sharing her love of the Wild Atlantic Way with others through her business Rachel’s Irish Adventures. She’ll bring you on a fun-packed journey of discovery through the hidden gems and unspoiled countryside of Mayo and Sligo and beyond, whether you’re seeking a weekend of adrenaline-fueled outdoor activity, or a revitalising escape in the sumptuous surroundings of a luxurious boutique hotel. The tours are on foot, by bike or from the comfort of Rachel’s luxury 8 seater bus. From sky to seabed, you can scale the great heights of famous Croagh Patrick, surf the wild Easkey waves or go hiking along the Ballycastle cliff-lined coastline or even go baking in the kitchen with Rachel’s Mam, Marjorie and finish it off with a whiskey tasting. There are no limits … Rachel can, using her local knowledge, craft
Go Wild Magazine - Summer Edition 2017
a package to meet your needs, ranging from
warm, personalised experience like no other.
a one-day trip to a three-week holiday, all of
What are you waiting for?
which can be done through English, French or Spanish. You’ll learn about the heritage
To build your tailor-made tour with
and culture of the region, see spectacular
Rachel’s Irish Adventures
scenery, feast on fine food and have the
email info@rachelsirishadventures.com,
craic* with fun-loving, like-minded people.
phone +353 851108969. For more see
And most of all, you’ll get a down-to-earth,
www.rachelsirishadventures.com
- 78 -
www.gowildmagazine.com
Situated in the heart of Limerick’s Medieval Quarter
REAL IRISH HOSPITALITY
SEAFOOD OUR SPECIALITY
TRADITIONAL IRISH MUSIC
s IRISH DANCING h 7 NIGHTS A WEEK H 3 Georges Quay, Limerick T: +353 (0) 61 413 733 | W: www.lockebar.com E: enquiries@lockebar.com
T
Treacy’s West County Conference & Leisure Hotel, located just a short stroll from Ennis town We offer the perfect location for exploring Co. Clare and the Wild Atlantic Way. The Hotel boasts a mix of tastefully refurbished family and double bedrooms with leisure centre, Boru's bar and Skillet Pot restaurant.
Web: treacyswestcounty.com Phone: 065 6869600 Email: res@treacyswestcounty.com
Glorious Galway an Adventurer’s Playground By Shauna Coen Galway is a city with great character,
Connemara National Park. Image Chris Hill
renowned for its rich history, festivals and traditional pubs. However, if you manage to tear yourself away from the charm of the city, the countryside boasts a beautiful unspoilt environment with striking natural beauty. For those with an adventurous spirit, Galway is the playground you’ve dreamed of!
Biking Derroura Mountain Bike Trail is one of Coillte’s four custom built trails, lying at the gateway to Connemara. The 16km trail will offer you amazing views north into the Maam valley and westwards to the Twelve Pins. Derroura has great climbs and thrilling descents that are sure to keep both the novice mountain biker and the experienced rider on their toes. Tired legs will soon be forgotten once you’ve reached the halfway point of the trail and are overlooking the entire of Lough Corrib. The thrill continues as you begin your descent back to the entrance, with hundreds of metres of north shore on the cycle down. Mountain bikes are available to hire from Derroura Mountain Bike Hire, located a mile away from the trail’s car park. www.derrouramountainbi-
Connemara National Park. Image Faitle Ireland
kehire.com
Riding You can also enjoy the rugged beauty of
and requirements, ensuring all ages and
assured, you’ll have a smile on your face for
the Connemara countryside by horseback!
abilities are catered for. They also offer
the day and you’ll sleep well after all the
The ‘Wild West’ offers some of the best
beach rides on the white sands of Rushing
fresh air! www.moycullenriding.com
equestrian treks you could wish for! The
Bay. Situated two kilometres from Salthill,
Moycullen Riding Centre, Co. Galway offers
a unique experience is in store, where you
one and two hours treks along bog roads and
can experience an exhilarating gallop along
Kayaking…
across mountains, with beautiful and varied
the shore of the Atlantic Ocean. Or, if you
Kayaking in Galway allows you to leave your
Connemara scenery. The centre aims to
prefer something more relaxed, a leisurely
worries on the mainland and discover the
match the horse with the rider’s experience
hack across the fabulous sandy beach. Rest
enchanting waterways of the River Corrib
Go Wild Magazine - Summer Edition 2017
- 80 -
www.gowildmagazine.com
Connemara National Park. Image Failte Ireland
and the stunning coast around Galway. The crystal clear waters of the West, both sea and inland, offer an abundance of choices for ideal paddling locations, awaiting discovery. Kayaking is the perfect way to explore Lough Corrib, the second largest lake in Ireland with more than 1,000 islands and islets. Kayakmór, a Kayak Tours company based in the city, offer Corrib lake tours that are a mix of open water paddling, island hopping, navigating rocky and reedy channels, observing nature
Kylemore Abbey, image Brian Morrisson
and enjoying beautiful vistas. Half day and full day kayak trips are available, suitable for all levels of ability, from beginners to experts. It’s a safe and enjoyable platform for experiencing the beautiful nature of Galway! www.kayakmor.ie
WindsurFIng… The county is one of the best places in Ireland for Windsurfing. The most popular area, Rusheen Bay, is located just 5km away
Corrib Cruise. Image Simon Crowe
kayaking in Killery Harbour Galway. Image Kelvin Gillmor
from Galway city. The bay is a sheltered, nottoo-deep inlet with calm shallow waters, an
Corrib and onto Lough Corrib, providing
Diamond Hill trail in Connemara National
ideal place for beginners. The flat water is
those onboard with unrivalled views and
Park in Letterfrack is definitely worthy of
perfect for progressing and some of Ireland’s
natural resources that make this the most
your attention. There are great facilities
best slalom sailors and freestylers choose
picturesque waterway in Ireland. The Corrib
nearby, a visitor centre, playground and
Rusheen Bay as their home spot for training.
Princess is easily accessible for visitors to
coffee shop. The paths are well sign posted
Rusheen Bay Windsurfing’s instructors are
Galway as it is just a few minutes’ walk
and the boarded walkways over the boggy
qualified, experienced and are confident to
from the city-centre. Sit back and relax and
areas are convenient for beginners. The
get everyone windsurfing in less than 60
enjoy not only the natural beauty but also
final quarter of the hike is when you’ll find
minutes. Every time!
the history of Lough Corrib as you pass by
yourself panting for breath! The full route is
castles and various sites of both historical and
a 7km hike, just enough for a work out but
cultural interest. It’ll be a day to remember!
not too strenuous. Although the hill’s peak is
http://www.corribprincess.ie/
just over 400 meters, the views from the top
Cruising… Want to explore the waters of Galway but don’t want to get your feet wet? A trip on
are amazing. www.connemaranationalpark. ie
the Corrib Princess is the ideal activity!
Hiking…
Come rain or shine, with the luxurious all-
There are plenty of wonderful hiking trails
Stick on a jacket and a good pair of shoes
weather boat, you will be sure to have a
to choose from in Galway. With various
and head off to enjoy the many great
relaxing and comfortable cruise. The journey
lengths and levels of difficulty, there’s a
outdoor activities on offer in Galway. You’ll
takes passengers along the majestic River
trail to suit every enthusiastic hiker. The
be glad you did!
Escape to Carrygerry Carrygerry Country HouseVenue? Looking for a PRIVATE, EXCLUSIVE Escape to Country House Clares Best Kept Secret for aa Relaxing Relaxing Getaway Getaway with with Someone Special for Someone Special
Weddings at
Carrygerry House, Carrygerry Country Country House,
Carrygerry Country Country House, House, near near Newmarket-on-Fergus Newmarket-on-Fergus and and just just Our Conservatory Conservatory Restaurant Restaurant is is open open for for Dinner Dinner from from Tuesday Tuesday to to Carrygerry Our minutes away away from from Shannon, Shannon, is is aa 200 200 year year old old Manor Manor tastefully tastefully Saturday from from 6.30pm 6.30pm to to 9.30pm. 9.30pm. Our Our ÁÁ La La Carte Carte Menu Menu offers offers minutes Saturday restored to to its its former former glory, glory, set set in in aa idyllic idyllic mature mature country country setting. setting. fresh, locally locally sourced sourced produce produce and and aa complete complete well well balanced balanced menu. menu. restored fresh, Carrygerry Country House was built was originally partfrom of the Shannon, Dromoland On arrival, arrival, you willNewmarket-on-Fergus experience relaxed and unique unique countryaround house On you will experience aa relaxed and country house Near and 1793 justand minutes away Near Newmarket-on-Fergus and just minutes away from Shannon, Estate, near Shannon, in the scenic County Clare in the West of Ireland. Due to the nature and atmosphere with with open open fires fires and and antique antique furniture. furniture. There There are are 11 11 Set Dinner Dinner Menu Menu for for €29 €29 (3 (3 courses courses plus Tea/Coffee) Tea/Coffee) atmosphere Set plus is all a 200 200 year old Manor tastefully restored tofrom its6.30pm former glory, set location of our property overlooking the Shannon restored Estuary, are unique to any other hotelset in bedrooms, individually styled in keeping keeping with the the house. is we served from 6.30pm to 9.30pm 9.30pm Tuesday to the Saturday. is aall year old Manor tastefully to its former glory, bedrooms, individually styled in with house. is served to Tuesday to Saturday.
area, as we can offer you the House completely private to you for your special day. We only cater for in awedding idylliconmature mature country setting. Onservice arrival, you will willattention experience in idyllic country setting. On arrival, you experience aa onea any particular day, to ensure personal and individual is at it best We cater cater for for Birthdays, Birthdays, Anniversaries, Weddings, Christenings, etc. We Anniversaries, Weddings, Christenings, throughout youratmosphere special day. relaxed and unique country house with open fires firesetc. and relaxed and unique country house atmosphere with open and For enquiries call 061 360500 or email: info@carrygerryhouse.com | www.carrygerryhouse.com For enquiries call 061 360500 or email: info@carrygerryhouse.com | www.carrygerryhouse.com antique furniture. furniture. There There are are 11 11 bedrooms, bedrooms, all all individually individually styled styled in in antique Escape Carrygerry keepingtowith the house. Country House
for a Relaxing Getaway with Someone Special
We at Carrygerry pride ourselves on sourcing only the finest local and organic produce to produce a wonderful dining experience. Our fine reputation for quality food with service guarantees that both you and your guests have a memorable day. We have won a number of awards over the years from Country House of the Year to Blas na hEireann National Food Awards where we won Gold, Silver and Bronze and also Great Taste Gold Star for our food range.
Carrygerry Country House offers you a Wonderful Our Conservatory Restaurant is open for Dinner from Tuesday to Saturday from Setting forCarte your Special Wedding 6.30pm to 9.30pm. Our Á La Menu offers fresh, locallyDay. sourced produce and a Carrygerry Country House, near Newmarket-on-Fergus and just Our Conservatory Restaurant is open for Dinner from Tuesday to well balanced menu. minutes away from Shannon, is a 200 year oldcomplete Manor tastefully Saturday from 6.30pm to 9.30pm. Our Á La Carte Menu offers • Private Wedding Venue • Award Winning Restaurant
• Licensed Civil Ceremonies & • fresh, Courtyard with open fire and area restored to its former glory, set to in ahold idyllic mature country setting. locally sourced produce and seating a complete well balanced menu. Blessingsa relaxed and unique country house • There are 11 bedrooms, all en-suite but On arrival, you will experience Set Dinner Menu for €29 (3 courseseach plus Tea/Coffee) is served • Fully inclusive wedding packages from is atmosphere with open fires and antique furniture. There are 11 Setindividually Dinner Menustyled, for €29all (3 decorated courses plus Tea/Coffee) €49.00 per guest in keeping with the house. from 6.30pm to 9.30pm Tuesday to Saturday. bedrooms, all individually styled in keeping with the house. is served from 6.30pm to 9.30pm Tuesday to Saturday.
We cater for Birthdays, Anniversaries, Weddings, Christenings, etc. For enquiries call 061 360500 or email: info@carrygerryhouse.com | www.carrygerryhouse.com
Presents
Hidden Ireland
Discover Ireland’s Most Beautiful Houses Hidden Ireland, Discover Ireland’s Most Beautiful Houses is a lavish new publication documenting some of Ireland’s most beautiful and fascinating houses, gorgeously illustrated with lush photography by James Fennell, and perceptively written text by antiques dealer and stylist Josephine Ryan. It’s a fascinating insight into historic private houses around the country, which are often family run by descendants of those who built the houses originally. Hidden Ireland properties range from some of the country’s
grandest and most important Georgian buildings to charming rural rectories, quirky small-town townhouses to big city mansions, and to stay in one is a chance to be part of a genuine family history, sharing the owner’s historic home
where guests become a welcome member of that family. It is the families who run these jewels that set them apart from any other kind of getaway. Each has their own charm – and occasional eccentricities – but all em-
TOP Hidden HOTEL
The Quay House The Quay House was originally
fireplaces, and all but two overlook
built as a residence for the Harbour
the harbour. The bathrooms are large,
Master, but it subsequently became a
with bath tubs as well as showers,
Franciscan monastery, then a convent
and there are two rooms on the
and finally a Country House Bed &
ground floor for wheelchair users.
Breakfast owned by the Pye family,
As this is a town house Paddy and
so it has had a long and chequered
Julia do not serve dinner but they are
career. Today it is run as a Town House
both deeply interested in food, their
by the Foyle family, whose forebears
breakfasts are legendary and they
have been entertaining guests in
are always on hand for advice on the
Connemara for nearly a century.
best local restaurants. Nearby are
The owners, Paddy and Julia and
wonderful beaches, coastal walks, sea
their family, operate a luxurious town
and trout fishing, horse riding, cycling,
house in what is still very much their
several golf courses and links, and a
own family home. The decoration of
vast choice of hill and mountain walks.
the main reception rooms displays their eclectic collection of pictures and objects, which reflects their wide-ranging interests and tastes, and their close attention to detail. The bedrooms are also individually decorated and furnished. Some have good antiques and original paintings, several have working
Go Wild Magazine - Summer Edition 2017
- 84 -
www.gowildmagazine.com
table, perhaps set with old silver and cut glass and flowers from the garden, is often watched over by family portraits. You could turn up barefoot or in a ball gown! The stunning Hidden Ireland coffee table book offers privileged access to these houses and their owners – from a stately home in landscaped parkland in County Monaghan that has remained in the same family’s ownership since it was built in 1734 to a Georgian
phasise comfort, and proper food, in surroundings full of character and personality. The houses are united by their owners’ authentic old-school Irish hospitality, and dining is an opportunity to explore a genuine field to fork ethos and a commitment to heritage recipes and forgotten skills. Fine traditional food – frequently using home-grown ingredients – is the star of the show, and the murmur of conversation around the dining
mansion in County Cork that has diversified into glamping and onsite gin distilling. Irish country houses were built to welcome and entertain guests, and Hidden Ireland, Discover Ireland’s Most Beautiful Houses is an invitation to cross the threshold and stay a while, to experience a true sense of place, hospitality and history in a deeply stylish and uniquely Irish way. Book your stay at www.hiddenireland.com .
TOP Hidden HOTEL
Temple House Temple House, Templehouse Demesne, Ballymote, Co. Sligo Temple House is one of the finest
the size of his home, leaving his
archaeological sites, riding schools,
estates in the west of Ireland. The
descendants with something of a
trout lakes and three championship
great house, which was remodeled in
white elephant on their hands.
golf courses, while traditional
1864, nestles in a wooded demesne,
The present owners and their two
music and dancing sessions
looking out over the Templars’ castle
young children took over from
to Templehouse Lake. Despite its vast
parents Sandy and Deb several
size this is a comfortable, welcoming
years ago. They are continuing the
family home with many original
family tradition of accommodation
contents. The owners are Roderick
in a historic private house. Guests
and Helena Perceval, whose family
all eat at one large table and
has lived here since 1665. Temple
meals are thoughtfully prepared
House is surrounded by an area of
using fresh local ingredients.
outstanding natural beauty, with
Temple House still retains its
beaches, mountains and numerous
authentic decoration and furniture
sites of archaeological interest. It is
from that period and delicate
a haven for the outdoor enthusiast,
Chinese porcelain is intermingled
with pike fishing on a private lake
with solid County Sligo squires and
and miles of lovely woodland walks.
their ladies. The main reception
Temple House is a vast classical
rooms are large, bright and
house in the Georgian style, set in
comfortable, while the bedrooms
the centre of a beautiful 1000 acre
– several have canopied beds – are
west of Ireland estate. It overlooks
particularly pleasant, with superb
Temple House Lake and the 13th
views. One is so large that it has
century castle of the Knights Templar,
long been known as ‘the half-acre’.
who owned this land in mediaeval
Guests can relax in the terraced
times. The Perceval family have
gardens or stroll down to the lake,
lived here since 1665 though the
while the more energetic can
present house was built in 1864 by
explore many miles of woodland
the owner’s forebear, who returned
walks, take a boat around the lake,
from China with a rich wife and an
or fish for pike. Within easy reach
enormous fortune, and trebled
are beautiful beaches, numerous
Go Wild Magazine - Summer Edition 2017
- 85 -
www.gowildmagazine.com
FLOWER POWER ON THE BURREN
Loves Me, Loves me not
Charles Lucas, an apothecary, pamphleteer,
more affectionately referred to as ‘Fertile
politician, campaigner, and a County Clare
Rock’ as a result of the 600 different
man wrote of The Burren* in 1736,
flowering plants that are recorded there.
“The part of Ireland called Burren is a small
The Burren is a magnet for nature and
barony in the northwest part of the county
flower enthusiasts. In fact half of the total
of Clare and bounded on the north side
Irish flora is represented in the region, it
by the bay of Galway. It is from one end
is a veritable one-stop-shop destination
to the other a continuation of very high,
to appreciate the exquisite and natural
rocky, lime-stone hills, there being little or
beauty Ireland has to offer.
no plain land throughout the whole. It is
By Deirdre Hynds
Early Purple Orchid
The Early Purple Orchid (Orchis mascula), is a species of flowering plant in the orchid family, Orchidaceae. It is a perennial herbaceous plant with stems up to 50–60 centimeters high, green at the base and purple on the apex. The flower size is about 2.5 centimeters and the color varies from pink to violet and blooms from April
that part of which it is reported that Oliver
There are twenty-seven orchid species
Cromwell said (when he came to storm
indigenous to Ireland, twenty-five of
a few castles in it) that he could neither
them are found in the Burren. Some of the
see water enough to drown a man, wood
more unusual species of orchids found in
enough to hang a man or earth enough to
the Burren National Park include; dense-
bury a man in; notwithstanding it is most
flowered orchid, early-purple orchid,
Sea Thrift
fertile and produces immense quantities
common-spotted orchid, fragrant orchid,
of juniper and some yew, besides great
fly-orchid, bee-orchid, frog orchid, lesser
as sea pink, is a species of flowering
variety of the capillary herbs, virga aurea,
butterfly orchid and autumn lady’s tresses.
verbena and some other common plants. I have found the teucrium alpinum, mango
The best way to experience the raw and
flore of Casper Bauhin and a large shrubby
wild beauty of The Burren is on-foot, and
cinquefoil….”
the onset of summer makes it the perfect time to pack a picnic, don walking books
The delight and pride that Lucas felt when
and hit the pre-Christian green roads and
writing this letter to Sir Hans Sloane in the
walking trails to ensure perfect vantage
late 18th century is palpable, and it is one
point for rare beauties hiding under cracks
that still exists in the area today.
and crevices of the craggy rock.
The Burren has presented botanists with
What to look out for on your trip.
to June.
Sea Thrift (Armeria maritime), also known plant in the family Plumbaginaceae. It is a compact perennial and grows in low clumps and sends up long stems that support globes of bright pink flowers. In some cases purple, white or red flowers also occur.
* Quote provided with thanks from Clare County Library, and imagery provided by Burren Yoga Centre.
a long-standing geographical conundrum - how can a landscape, measuring some 250 square kilometers, and comprised mainly of a harsh karst rocky terrain produce such a plethora of unusual flora species? The name ‘The Burren’ originates from the Irish word ‘Boireann’, which unsurprisingly translates as ‘Great Rock’, but the seemingly barren stretch of land is often
Go Wild Magazine - Summer Edition 2017
Spring Gentian
The Spring Gentian (Gentiana verna) is a species of the genus Gentiana and one of its smallest members, normally only growing to a height of a few centimeters. The vibrant and vivid blue flowers are 1–2 cm in diameter, with a deeply five-lobed corolla, and bloom in late spring to early summer.
- 86 -
www.gowildmagazine.com
Responsible whale and dolphin watching from Baltimore, West Cork with zoologist Nic Slocum aboard Voyager or Liscannor Star T: +353 (0) 86 120 0027 E: nic@whale.ie W: www.whalewatchwestcork.com
n i d n o m a i D A h g u o the R Deirdre Hynds visits Burren Yoga and Meditation Centre
The weary traveler does not need to rely on sat-navs prone to bouts of existential doubt to recognise they are nearing The Burren. The grey glint of the karst terrain shines like a beacon in the cold evening sun, and has provided geographical markers through the ages. Increasingly
narrowing
roads
promise
peaceful isolation ahead and set the tone perfectly for the detox yoga weekend retreat hosted by Burren Yoga and Meditation Centre, located in Cappaghmore, an unplottable rural idyll a ten-minute drive from Kinvara. The Centre squats comfortably in the belly of The Burren. The exterior is modestly appropriated, the searching eye might pick up on a playful shade of lilac, or a portal dolmen style garden ornament as a mark of he is happy to guide you along your journey
something that sets the small complex apart
too.
from sparse and distant neighbours. The
Dave’s piercing blue eyes and Californian tan
two small buildings of the centre are framed
might conjure up the stereotype of ‘hippy
audibly by the evening birdsong punctuating
yogi’ but his demeanor is serious, calm and
The facilities of the Centre are charming,
the stillness. Trees lean in and listen. Signs of
brisk. The somewhat superficial effervescence
clean and comfortable; carved wooden beds
calm bode well for visitors who are harried of
often associated with yoga, meditation and
are straight out of Tolkien’s hobbit-inhabited
mind and body.
mindfulness, has the same limited appeal of a
Shire, bathrooms and showers are communal,
scoop of sherbet that fizzles into a nothingness
but there are plenty to go round, and a
Host and Burren Yoga founder, Dave
and leaves a cloying aftertaste – Dave stands
generosity of spirit termed ‘Karmic Yoga’
Brocklebank
guests
in stark contrast to this, he is energetic but
pervades the Centre, which mitigates any
individually, and takes them on a personalised
calm, friendly but not over-bearing. His
early morning gridlock.
tour of the buildings. Dave is a Dubliner,
background in engineering and psychology
whose life has followed the daily pattern of
rings true to his careful and methodical
The ‘detox’ element of the retreat finds form
the sun, rising in the east, and settling in the
nature, you get the distinct impression that
in a gentle discouragement of digital devices,
west. Brocklebank travelled westwards in
you are in safe hands with Dave, and with
newspapers, and basically any unwelcome
1999 in search of the perfect setting to create
a professional career that echoes the twists
reminders of the outside world, the Centre
a comfortable yoga centre, and Burren Yoga
and turns of the Connemara roads – you
seeks to assume the mantle of protector,
first opened its doors in 2000.
understand that Dave is a journeyman, and
not only safe-guarding the inhabitants from
greets
all
of
his
Go Wild Magazine - Summer Edition 2017
- 88 -
www.gowildmagazine.com
that’s not to suggest it is less challenging,
will particularly enjoy organised walking
it can be much more difficult to confront
trips in the locale, designed to accommodate
personal anxieties and insecurities on the
varying levels of fitness.
mat than a stiff neck or knee, and reflective
the relentless sharp jabs delivered by 24 hour news feeds and social media sites over the course of the weekend, but also more importantly to sharpen awareness of the long terms corrosive affects that living in this constant state of ‘connectedness’ can have on us. The yoga room is the focal point of the weekend, it feels safe and calm. There are no clocks or mirrors to distract, and yogis can estimate the time of day in the bright sundial space by familiarising themselves with the daily journey of the west coast sun as it shifts from corner to corner. The yoga classes of the weekend are from the Satyanada tradition described as a traditional form of Yoga, which includes Asanas, Pranayama, Tantric practices, Cleansing practices, Mind focusing practices, Pratyahara and Meditation. The novice yogi need not be deterred by such unfamiliar phrases, they are explained with patience and care by Dave and the team. Satyanada Yoga is ostensibly a more gentle physical form of yoga than sibling styles Asthanga and Iyengar yoga,
Go Wild Magazine - Summer Edition 2017
meditation provides the backbone of all of
The Detox Retreat costs €320 per person
the postures and sequences. Dave’s mantra
sharing, and if you are travelling as a couple
is to help people be the best that they can
and want your own room it is an additional
possibly be, and with the Satyanada practice,
€90. At first glance this may seem a little
he is working on the very foundation of your
expensive, but the weekend offers value for
being, it is a very deep transformational yoga,
money. Dave is very focused with equipping
that works on many levels.
the guests with the tools and information to continue the healthy habits and lifestyle
Hard work on the mat is rewarded by hearty
after their time spent at the Burren Centre,
food in the kitchen, and if the yoga room
so consider it a long-term investment in your
functions as the womb of the Centre, the
health and wellbeing.
kitchen, run by former Hare Krishna chef is the heart. Geroid’s warming
Two nights feels a little short, and I think
and filling dishes certainly didn’t feel like
if aspiring yogis are really looking to
a ‘detox’ diet, and there were no half filled
make positive changes, it might be worth
bellies after liberal feasting on soul food
considering the week long retreats which
that included; Kahitari a flavorsome Indian
work out at approximately €730 for a shared
stew made with mung beans rice veg and
room, or €820 for a double room. Guests are
spices, ‘Shepardless Pie’, comprised of puy
offered the opportunity to purchase Burren
lentils topped with a sweet potato and
Yoga CDs, these are invaluable if you want
coconut layer, which were served alongside
to continue your practice, but do push up the
kaleidoscopic side dishes like fennel, orange
price of the weekend by another €15.
Gearoid,
salad with toasted almonds, beet and apple salad with toasted sesame seeds, and vegan
The German Philosopher Nietzsche once
Coleslaw with a sunflower base.
said, “Haste is universal because everyone is in flight from himself”, the Burren Yoga
Each day of the weekend retreat starts at
operates as a personal red light, a reminder
7.30am under a morning moon, and the
to press pause and take time for yourself, and
itinerary, which spans from Friday evening
in an increasingly frenetically paced lifestyle,
to Sunday afternoon is well designed to
is an invaluable prompt to emotionally and
allow for personal down time between yoga
psychologically stop and smell the roses.
and meditation sessions, much needed after unfamiliar bouts of deep introspection.
www.burrenyoga.com
Travellers from outside of The Burren region
Tel: +353 (0)91 637680
- 89 -
www.gowildmagazine.com
Presents
Best places to stay on the Wild Atlantic Way
Best hotel in the world
The Lodge at Ashford Castle, Co. Mayo The Lodge at Ashford Castle has been named as one of the top 10 best hotels in the world by Condé Nast. Sitting within the magnificent 350 acre estate of Ashford Castle, The Lodge overlooks magical Lough Corrib. Originally built in 1865, it’s now part of the award winning Red Carnation Hotel Collection offering mellow country house hospitality, exuding classic refinement with modern appeal. Enjoy fine dining in Wilde’s Restaurant, a rejuvenating beauty treatment, an exceptional range of estate activities and warm smiles at every turn. A host of thoughtful touches will ensure your stay is one to remember. See www.thelodgeac.com
Best for escape
Eccles Hotel Glengarriff, Co. Cork Steeped in over 250 years of history and heritage, ECCLES Hotel in Glengarriff is an idyllic taste of West Cork. Located directly on the Wild Atlantic Way, one look at the sparkling sea views that stretch out across Glengarriff Bay and Garnish Island to the Atlantic beyond and you’ll know why it was an inspiring retreat for literary greats like George Bernard Shaw and William Butler Yeats. Relax in a charming setting that’s beyond compare. Explore all the amazing things to do in the surrounding area. Taste a menu that celebrates the finest local artisan producers and enjoy the warmest of West Cork welcomes with live entertainment every week. For best rates and great Spring Summer Break Offers visit www.eccleshotel.com
Best Spa Break
Inchydoney Island Lodge and Spa The stunning setting of Inchydoney Island Lodge & Spa overlooking the wild waves of the Atlantic Ocean and beautiful beach of Inchydoney makes the perfect backdrop for a getaway filled with pampering and relaxation. Spend the afternoon in the hotel’s spectacular seawater spa and experience an Elemis Taster Facial tailored to your skin or an Elemis Back Massage. Enjoy full access to the heated Seawater Therapy Pool, Sauna, Hammam and Relaxation Areas and when you are pampered from head to toe, before making your way to the Lounge for a sumptuous Afternoon Tea. www.inchydoneyisland.com
Best views
The Lake Hotel Killarney, Co. Kerry The four star, family owned and run Lake Hotel enjoys a unique location on the lake shore, just 2km from Killarney town and adjacent to Killarney National Park. With 131 bedrooms, the elegant Castlelough Restaurant, Lakeside Bistro, Devil’s Punch Bowl Bar and numerous lounges offering magnificent lake views, The Lake Hotel has much to offer. A Huggard family hotel since 1940, a long tradition of Irish warmth and hospitality awaits you at The Lake Hotel, Killarney. www.lakehotelkillarney.ie
Best for the Mid-West
Savoy Hotel, Limerick The Savoy Hotel is a luxurious boutique property ideally located in the heart of Limerick City. With its central location, the 5 star hotel is gateway to The Wild Atlantic Way and has some wonderful attractions on its doorstep, such as the Cliffs of Moher, King John’s Castle, Thomond Park, home of Munster rugby, and many more. Everything that you might want out of your city visit, from shopping to site-seeing, cocktails to luxury massages, is right on your doorstep. The Savoy Restaurant on the first floor provides wonderful dining option for breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner. www.savoylimerick.com
Presents
Best for families
Treacys West County, Co. Clare Contemporary and relaxed, Treacys West County Hotel in County Clare is one of the best hotels in Ennis, making it an ideal base to explore all the gems of County Clare including Bunratty Castle, the Aillwee Caves and the world famous Cliffs of Moher. Treacys West County Ennis boasts 152 recently refurbished bedrooms, each elegantly appointed with en-suite bathroom, a welcome tray and satellite TV and complimentary Wi-fi. The Leisure Club features three pools, sauna, steam room, and gym. Avail of their in-house Kid’s Club which runs during school holidays, which is sure to keep your little ones entertained.
Best for mini-moons
Ice-House, Co. Mayo Located on the Wild Atlantic Way, overlooking the River Moy and the woodlands beyond, the Ice House, Co. Mayo is a truly one-of-a-kind place for a romantic mini-moon. The hotel’s dedicated ‘Romance Curators’ pride themselves on helping to create authentic experiences. The bespoke mini-moon experience includes an overnight stay in one of the Ice House’s luxurious guest rooms, a rose petal turndown with a delicious sweet treat plate, a bottle of bubbles on ice and a romantic in-room bubble bath. Toast to future happiness with a glass of bubbles in the outdoor hot tub as you watch the sun set over the River Moy and enjoy a romantic dinner in the atmospheric Pier restaurant. The team can also arrange flowers in the room before arrival. www.theicehouse.ie
Go Wild Magazine - Summer Edition 2017
- 92 -
www.gowildmagazine.com
Best for exploration
Salthill Hotel, Co. Galway Located on the midway point of the Wild Atlantic Way, the Salthill Hotel is one of the most luxurious hotels in Galway and it’s the perfect base to explore the amazing hidden gems that this county has to offer. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along Galway’s famous Promenade, right on the hotel’s doorstep or have a swim in the beautiful Atlantic Ocean from Blackrock. Exclusive packages start from as little as €139pps & include 2 nights’ bed and breakfast and a sumptuous gourmet dinner on 1 night in the award winning Prom Restaurant. Day tours of the Burren and Cliffs of Moher or Connemara and Kylemore Abbey are available from the hotel during your stay. www.salthillhotel.com
Best for Weddings
Dunmore House Hotel, Clonakilty Wedding Venue of the Year at the 2017 Irish Wedding Awards Marrying location with passion, Dunmore House Hotel is a private oasis, perched above the Atlantic Ocean in the serene Clonakilty Bay, West Cork. Dunmore House Hotel’s private beach, five-star food and service, stylish and sophisticated reception suite and team of creative and willing staff compose just some of the elements that create a ‘dream come true’ experience for brides and groomsto-be. It is this unique combination that resulted in them taking home the coveted title of Irish Wedding Venue of the Year at the inaugural Irish Wedding Awards 2017. For more information on the award-winning Dunmore House Hotel, Clonakilty visit www.dunmorehousehotel. ie or to enquire about booking a wedding in this magical venue, please call Dunmore House Hotel Wedding Planner, Anne Marie Harte on 023 8833352. For wedding inspiration or to share in the memories of previous happy newlyweds, check out their Facebook page @Dunmorehouse.
Go Wild Magazine - Summer Edition 2017
- 93 -
www.gowildmagazine.com
To the Waters and the Wild Val Robus, a middle aged adventurer, shares her exciting journey of becoming Sligo’s favourite scenic photographer and blogger
“A couple of years ago, if you had told me I would be jumping off cliffs into the sea and attempting to surf, I’d have thought you were crazy. Little did I know when I started my Wild Atlantic Way journey that I would come face to face with my fear of the sea - and my fear of trying to squeeze into a wetsuit – and absolutely love it”, enthuses Val Robus. “I was invited to have a photography exhibition about the Wild Atlantic Way by the Hawk’s Well Theatre. I didn’t want it to be just about the exhibition though. I wanted each image to have a story behind it. I also wanted to challenge myself and so my adventure began”.
Carne Golf Links, Mayo
On a rainy day in May, Val found herself in Erris, County Mayo with WaveSweeper. They suggested coasteering. Nothing too wild, just diving from a cliff into the freezing cold sea, the usual. Before she, quite literally, took the plunge, she was a nervous wreck, but went by the motto ‘feel the fear and do it anyway’. “And I’m glad I did, because it was one of the most thrilling experiences of my life. I have such fond memories of sitting on the edge of a cliff being fed wine gums. I also couldn’t stop laughing – even under the water!” This sparked something in Val that she knew existed – a sense of adventure and a desire to get out there and live. Her huge passion for photography certainly helped. Opportunities were plentiful with her new busy lifestyle. “I remember reading through tourism
Go Wild Magazine - Summer Edition 2017
Afternoon Tea
guides and all of the pictures showed fit, wetsuit-clad young people with bodies like Pamela Anderson. I thought to myself, ‘If they can do it, why can’t I?’” One thing led to another and before Val knew it, she was snorkelling in Mullaghmore, Sligo with WaveSweeper. “It was amazing swimming amongst all the sea creatures. I felt like Ariel – the Little Mermaid – not the washing powder!” “I had such fun in Enniscrone trying my hand at Stand Up Paddling Har-
- 94 -
bour Sup ‘n’ Sail. I spent more time in the Atlantic than on it. I went kayaking down the River Moy in Ballina with Paddle and Pedal. There was horse riding under the shadow of majestic Benbulben with Island View Riding Stables. You name it, I’d have probably already done it or was going to do it!” As with all new experiences, it didn’t all go swimmingly for Val. Getting into a wetsuit felt like quite the challenge to begin with, especially as she hit herself in the face on her first attempt. She expected to be a pro surfer dude after one
www.gowildmagazine.com
lesson, but alas, she spent more time being flung off the surfboard and into the waves than attempting to actually surf! Zipwiring with ZipIt Adventures in Lough Key Forest Park, Co. Roscommon was another big hurdle. “Tarzan I am not, as I discovered when I was soaring through the air at a considerable height with nothing but a harness and a thin net to separate me and the ground.” Next Val went glamping at Belmullet Coast Guard Station. “I was just feet away from the Wild Atlantic Way in a little wooden pod. It was heavenly.” It wasn’t all high adrenaline. There were guided walks in Leitrim, foraging in Mayo, seaweed baths in Sligo and “as for the food – it was just something else – but that’s for another time”. Val had fallen in love with being out and about on land, sea or in the air, and she wanted to show everyone else how exciting life can be if you just let it. “I proved to myself, and others, that women of a certain age can do anything if they put their minds to it. If you are looking for the adventure of a lifetime look no further than the Wild Atlantic Way.”
Denis from Wild Atlantic Cultural Tours
Galloping along Enniscrone Beach, Sligo
Zoe Dunne - Leitrim Surf Company
That’s Val Robus – a true inspiration to all!
Carrowteigue, Mayo
Go Wild Magazine - Summer Edition 2017
- 95 -
Broadhaven Lighthouse
www.gowildmagazine.com
Bibi Baskin Irish TV presenter, journalist and hotelier, Bibi Baskin, shares her love of Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way.
B
ibi was the first woman in Ireland to have a chat-show of her own, on Ireland’s national TV station, RTE. She has also worked on both radio and TV in the UK, performing various presenting jobs with the BBC and ITV. After a career in the media, she moved to India where she bought a dilapidated landmark building in a coastal town in Kerala, south India which she refurbished and converted into a successful business, a recognised Heritage Hotel of India. Having moved back to Ireland, she currently guest presents on TV and radio and gives Motivational talks around the country. She also manages Social Media accounts for SMEs and blogs regularly at bibibaskin. wordpress.com What is it about the Wild Atlantic Way that you love? I love the very thing the title encapsulates – the wildness. Nature at it’s most natural self and not too much man/machine influence. I find that emerging myself in this even now and again is good for wellness, for mind, body and spirit. It’s about the sense of freedom it gives you, the sense of the eternity of nature when not tampered with too much by us. It brings us back to a feeling of belonging in the world and that produces relaxation which is an aspect of Irish life and western civilization that seems to be very much lacking.
Best Hotel? For me it’s the former Cartlon Hotel, now MacDonald’s. The location is exemplary set in 90 acres of woodland with views of Oysterhaven Bay and an elegant interior design. Their pillows are hard though! Best Activity? Indian thought has influenced me hugely and part of that way of life is very unlike our western style. India taught me that life should not be all about running around and busy-ness, so for an activity I like to sit in a mindful way, focusing on these beautiful and peaceful surrounding and contemplating how great life is over all. Next? The Wild Atlantic Way again and again.
Your Must Visit Spot? Kinsale.
Go Wild Magazine - Summer Edition 2017
What’s so special about this place? For me Kinsale is one of only a handful of Irish towns that has created and nurtures a sense of internationalism, an acceptance of different cultures and different ways of life. Where else in Ireland would you get such bright and undeniably cheerful colours painted on to quirky buildings? A walk around this charming little town transports you to Continental Europe and suddenly you are lost in your own reverie. Then it’s a gourmet desination and I have a huge interest in food - growing it, cooking it and eating it. There is a plethora of good restaurants in the town from fine dining to wholesome rustic food to casual cafes.
- 96 -
www.gowildmagazine.com
key s i h W Whiskey En s g n i t s a T EST. 2015
27th
FEE M COF PREMIU
www.flanagansonthelake.com
ary
Janu
Ideally located in the heart of Limerick City Your gateway to The Wild Atlantic Way
