Join us on a trip of a lifetime that will leave you feeling as lucky as the Irish! There is so much to explore when it comes to the little island country of Ireland that it’s hard to know where to start. On this travel guide we will be closely following the route from coast to coast that our travel expert Gabi took on her most recent trip to Ireland.
DUBLIN
No better place to begin our adventure than the Irish capital itself, Dublin. A city known for its literary background, lively pubs, and spirited people we have narrowed down where to stay, where to eat, and what to do on your next visit to the land of Guinness.
WHERE TO STAY
The Shelbourne
This historic property has been a favorite by celebrities and heads of state for many years and one step through the marble lobby and you will instantly know why. This luxury hotel is located directly in front of St Stephen’s Green which offers guests the most scenic of morning walks. During your stay enjoy one of the many dining options on property as they are all a unique experience in themselves. Whether you want to enjoy some afternoon tea by the big bay windows facing the gardens in The Lord Mayor’s Lounge or sip on a neat glass of Irish Whisky in the highly exclusive 1824 Bar there is something for everyone!
WHERE TO EAT
The Ivy Cottage
A cute little cafe offering all the classic Irish coastal delicacies located in a charming little cottage covered in ivy as the name suggests right on the main street of colorful little homes.
Russell’s Fish Shop
Enjoy some fresh lobster rolls and fish & chips at this cute little to-go stand (only open in the warmer months) after a long day of exploring the beautiful cliffs.
Russell’s Seafood Bar
Located in the Fiddle + Bow Hotel and open year round this cozy little spot has some of the best cocktails and most delicious fish you will ever try! Sit by the fire, warm up and enjoy! (open year round)
WHAT TO DO
Visit the Cliffs of Moher
There are many ways to visit the majestic cliffs. You can bike, hike, drive, or even boat to this heritage site and no matter which way you decide on you are guaranteed to be left in awe.
Listen to Live Irish Music @ Gus O’Connor’s
Doolin is known for being the capital of traditional Irish music and there is one spot in particular that all the locals recommend. No visit to Doolin is complete without stopping at Gus O’Connor’s for some live music every night of the week.
CONG, COUNTY MAYO
This small little village isn’t just any ordinary little town in Ireland, this is the site where the notorious film from the 1950’s ‘The Quiet Man’ was filmed and hosted its film premier. This is also the site of the historic Ashford Castle which used to be owned by the Guinness family but now is a classic hotel with the most excellent service who has hosted members of the English royal family and other celebrities alike.
WHERE TO STAY
Ashford Castle
WHERE TO EAT
The Dungeon
“As its name would suggest, the unique setting located on the lower ground floor of the castle invites diners to enjoy a range of dishes from the bistro-style menu with a focus on traditional Irish cuisine beneath the historic curved stone ceiling. Together with a relaxed ambience, it makes for a wonderful and memorable dining experience.” – Ashford Castle
Cullen’s at the Cottage
“This traditional thatched cottage – which used to be Cong Cinema, showing films on Tuesdays and Thursdays, and the first place to show The Quiet Man even before it was shown in Hollywood – today provides a relaxed dining experience. With a casual dress code, enjoy international and local dishes inspired by our owner Beatrice Tollman, including our delicious signature dish ‘Chicken Peri Peri‘. It is slow-cooked in our rotisserie oven in the main dining area, so mouth-watering aromas greet you as soon as you enter the restaurant.
The perfect place to watch the world go by after a walk through the gardens or a round of golf. Open seasonally, Cullen’s is just a short stroll over the bridge from the castle.” –Ashford Castle
George V Dining Room
“Ashford Castle has been hosting distinguished guests for almost 800 years – one of the most prominent being the Prince of Wales, who subsequently became George V of England. In honour of his visit in 1905, the Guinness family built a special dining room that still bears his name proudly to this day.
The graceful setting, with rich, panelled walls and twinkling Waterford Crystal chandeliers bestows a grand sense of occasion. Our fine dining restaurant offers an expression of culinary expertise from the Estate reflecting Chef Liam Finnegan’s flair for excellent produce and perfectly executed plates. Our dishes are complimented by a fine selection of wines from Head Sommelier Paul Fogerty.
– Ashford Castle
What to Do
Lake Cruising at Ashford Castle
Lake cruising at Ashford Castle is a wonderful way to explore the pristine surroundings and soak up the scenery at leisure. With 365 islands and surrounding Connemara Mountains, you will have a great opportunity to photograph Ashford Castle from the water.
The Falconry School
Ireland’s oldest Falconry school is located here on Ashford Castle where you can learn how to fly a hawk and observe these majestic creatures in action!
Ashford Castle Golf Club
For all our Golf enthusiasts you will be excited to know that the 9-hole, 2996-yard, par 35 parkland course was designed by the renowned Irish golf architect Eddie Hackett and is excellent for golfers of all levels. Green fees are complementary to hotel guests and they provide the latest Titleist clubs.
Thank you for joining me on this virtual journey through Ireland! Stay tuned for our future trips and don’t forget to
Boarding soon,
xx Gabi
