You’ve probably heard of the Causeway Coastal Route – it’s one of the most scenic drives in the world. But Ulster, Ireland’s northernmost province, saves some stunners for people who aren’t afraid to get off the tourist path. Way, way off the tourist path. This article is based on a podcast episode featuring Adam Stewart,…
I’m not sure why it is, but the places that make the most impact and touch you most deeply are always the most difficult to write about. I’ve been trying to string together words to adequately share our visit to The Lost Valley for a few weeks now. I read and re-read the entry in…
The most remote county in the Republic of Ireland is receiving some much-deserved attention this year. National Geographic Traveller described Donegal as being “in a real sweet spot- off radar and hard to access, but on the cusp of a breakthrough.” And, as any good Star Wars fan knows, Episode VIII: The Last Jedi filmed…
Unlike many castle hotels in Ireland, Lough Eske Castle Hotel in Donegal doesn’t offer a plethora of estate activities. And that’s not a bad thing. My stays at this Donegal castle hotel have been peaceful and unrushed. In fact, it is the most relaxing hotel stay I’ve ever experienced in Ireland. The Lough Eske Castle…
Ireland is a country known for stunning landscapes and natural beauty. The abundant rainfall that contributes to the country’s ’40 shades of green’ is also at least partially responsible for the lush gardens you’ll find across the country. While the majority of public gardens seem to be concentrated in the ‘sunny southeast’, you can easily…
Round towers are an -almost- uniquely Irish structure. (Only 3 ancient round towers exist outside of Ireland.) In Irish they are called cloitheach (cloy- cach), meaning bell house, and were probably built between the 9th and 12th centuries. This article is also available as a podcast. To listen please scroll to the player at the…
The only guide you need for staying on the Ashford Castle Estate. Choose Ashford Castle or The Lodge at Ashford Castle.
One of Ireland’s most popular luxury escapes, Ashford Castle in Mayo, has added new experiences that take you off the estate and introduce you to the taste, history, and culture of Connemara. Hoping to add a stay at Ashford (or any other castle) to your Ireland itinerary? It’s possible – with a little planning! The…
It is rare for my family to visit Ireland and not buy an OPW (Office of Public Works) Heritage Card. The €90 family fee (2019) allows access into dozens of OPW Heritage Sites across Ireland. CLICK HERE to pin this to your Ireland vacation board! What Sites Can I Visit with the OPW Heritage Card? Some…
Jody welcomes returning guest Paula Carroll, Director of Sales and Marketing for Ashford Castle. Celebrating 80 years of hospitality! Welcom to Ashford Castle This article is based on a podcast episode featuring Paula Carroll, the Director of Sales and Marketing for Ashford Castle. If you prefer to listen to the podcast, you can find the…
Atop a hill overlooking the charming town of Westport in County Mayo, Knockranny House Hotel is a perfect accommodation for travelers looking for affordable luxury along the Wild Atlantic Way. Knockranny House Hotel in Westport After a week in Dublin for Temple Bar Trad Fest we were more than ready to slow down and relax…
This article is based on a podcast episode featuring Anthony Gray, owner of Eala Bhàn and Hooked in Sligo. If you prefer to listen to the podcast, you can find the player at the bottom of the page. Who is Anthony Gray? Anthony Gray is an award winning chef, owner of Eala Bhàn and Hooked…
Halloween in Ireland, traditionally known as Samhain (SOW-in), marks the end of the harvest season and the beginning of the ‘darker half’ of the year. Rituals and traditions that we still carry out today were begun in Ireland as far back as 10th century- including pumpkin carving, the wearing of costumes, and trick or treating. Ireland, an already magical…
The end of October may not seem like the ideal time to visit Ireland. The days are getting shorter, the air a bit cooler, the pubs a wee bit quieter. But if Halloween is your favorite holiday, I would encourage you to visit Ireland as Samhain (SOW-een) draws near. As the final harvest approaches and…
Read more about Glenveagh National park and other highlights of County Donegal
Jody is speaking with Jonathan Keane, the Executive Head Chef at The Lodge at Ashford Castle. Enjoy this chat about Irish food with the Best Chef in Connaught. This article is based on a podcast episode. If you prefer to listen to the podcast, you can find the player at the bottom of the page….
Jody is speaking with Paula Carroll, Director of Sales and Marketing, and Thomas Bruin, Activities Manager, for The Lodge at Ashford Castle. Discover how you can enjoy a luxury stay on a castle estate without the huge price! This article is based on a podcast episode. If you prefer to listen to the podcast, you…
This article is based on a podcast episode featuring Biddy, from Westport House, in Westport County Mayo. If you prefer to listen to the podcast, you can find the player at the bottom of the page. Exploring Westport House and County Mayo In the beautiful County Mayo, Ireland, Westport House is a treasure trove of…
Jody’s guest is Gerard Bourke the 6th generation landowner in Uggool, County Mayo’s Lost Valley. He and his family welcome tourists to take a step back into Ireland’s past. This article is based on a podcast episode featuring Gerard Bourke. If you prefer to listen to the podcast, you can find the player at the…
It’s the county that inspired W.B. Yeats, yet Fáilte Ireland figures reveal it is the least visited county along the Wild Atlantic Way; the tourists that do find their way here pass through with quick glances through a window as they travel from Point A to Point B. With miles of inland and ocean water ways,…