Just Back From: Ireland and Northern Ireland
Falconry at Dromoland Castle
“Visiting Ireland reminded me of Vermont. when I Finally made it to the emerald isle, I thought, This is home.”
In the past few years, I’ve had the great pleasure of visiting destinations, experiencing activities, and tasting some of the most delectable cuisine from all over the globe. Of course, I’ve shared my stories with the Rising Tide Travel community. However, I’ve been remiss by not chronicling my journeys in on our website’s Travel Log. So, starting with this “Just Back From…” post, let me share a few details of my experience and my love for Ireland and Northern Ireland.
Accommodations/Site Visits:
Ireland:
The Dylan and The Merrion Hotels (Overnights); The Shelbourne Hotel (Site Visit)
Maynooth: Fairmont Carton House (Site Visit)
Tipperary: Cashel Palace Hotel (Site Visit)
Lismore Castle (Site Visit)
Cork: Hayfield Manor (Overnight)
Killarney: Killarney Park Hotel (Overnight); The Europe Hotel & Resort (Site Visit)
Glin Castle (Site Visit)
County Clare: Dromoland Castle (Site Visit)
Limerick: Adare Manor (Overnight)
County Mayo: Ashford Castle (Overnight)
Northern Ireland:
Culloden Estate (Overnights)
Flights:
An easy, direct nonstop flight from Boston (and other major US hubs) to Dublin on Delta Airlines or Aer Lingus. On the return trip, you are able to clear customs in Dublin which is fast and convenient.
Recommended for:
Ireland is a destination for all types of travelers, from couples, multigenerational families, golfers, celebratory travel – Ireland caters to them all.
Not-to-be-Missed experience:
EPIC Museum in Dublin (Every Person Is Connected -takes visitors through the story of Irish Immigration and how the Irish influenced and shaped the world. Exclusive, private 2-hour tours are available. Travelers interested in their Irish heritage can request their genealogy before their visit, then their family story can be weaved into their experience.
A visit with the Jameson Sisters, Kristen, Tara and Andrea are 9th generation direct decedents of the Jameson’s. Visit them and enjoy a pour of their famous whiskey while enjoying their lovely home and gardens.
Falconry at Dromoland Castle
The Guinness Experience
Favorite Wellness experience:
The Beautique Spa at the Hayfield Manor – bespoke, inclusive wellness treatments including treatments for those people with compromised health or those going through cancer treatments. Their incredible team is ready to provide their guests with much-needed rest and relaxation. The spa also has a beautiful indoor pool.
Favorite Culinary experience:
The fresh fish in Ireland was incredible! The diverse offerings of salmon, halibut, sole, lobster, oysters and cod were each prepared with locally grown farm ingredients and served fresh. I especially enjoyed black sole that was deboned and served tableside.
Oh, and don’t forget Sticky Toffee Pudding – delicious!!
Favorite “little something extra”:
Hayfield Manor Spa amenities – GROUND Wellbeing Sleep Ritual Products and their pistachio fudge…absolutely delicious!!
Kudos to:
Marie Chawke – Dromoland Castle arranged for a Horses & Hounds welcome at the castle. Our vehicle was met at the entrance of the castle and was lead down the long, winding driveway to the castle by two gentlemen on horseback with 20 hound dogs. Upon arrival the staff lined the walkway to welcome us to the castle – truly an exclusive experience that makes you feel like royalty!
And of course, Siobhan Byrne Learat from our in-country partner, Adams & Butler for arranging such an outstanding and eye-opening tour of the Emerald Isle. Thank you Thank you Thank you!!
Stay tuned for more “Just Back From…” posts (e.g. Austria, Italy, Scotland, Iceland, Denmark and more!!)
“Ireland is a destination for all types of travelers...”
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