The Emerald Isle 2017

Ireland – a word that conjures up many images such as Dublin, Rolling Hills, St Patrick, Leprechauns, Music, Family Trees and History. In the last few years, TV Shows, Movies and Dining have stepped to the forefront, so there truly is something for everyone on this amazing island.

I had the opportunity to travel to Ireland in October with Tourism Ireland on an 8 night tour. There was a focus on highlighting The Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland’s Ancient East, Northern Ireland, Dublin – A Breath of Fresh Air and some of the lesser known gems that each region offered.

Day 1 Dublin to Belfast

Leaving St John’s on the overnight direct Westjet flight to Dublin, I tried to get a little nap during the 4.5 hours as there was a busy itinerary awaiting in Ireland. On landing in Dublin, our group quickly met one another as we boarded our private coach and headed north. Our first stop this morning was approx. 80mins away at the Slieve Donard Resort & Spa, located in Newcastle. This was our first introduction to Irish Tea & Scones after a short walk of the grounds and resort to stretch our legs. The sea air and breeze also helped wake up those that didn’t get a nap on the flight.

Back on the road, there was some excitement building as we were heading to Winterfell! If you haven’t seen Game of Thrones, Winterfell is the name of the castle that the show began and is actually filmed at Castle Ward, just 40 mins outside of Belfast. If you are a fan of the show, you need to make time to tour the grounds (so many filming locations), have an archery lesson and even enjoy dining at a camp. Make this a full day trip from Belfast so you are not disappointed. Lunch was next on our itinerary and we were off to meet Tracey Jeffrey of NI Food Tours at her home. As we were welcomed by Tracey, we also met Fred who introduced us to the art of bread making (Irish style) along with some stories of life growing up around Strangford Lough. Some great laughs were shared as we enjoyed our freshly made bread, lite lunch and some amazing deserts. I’m sure not many of us wanted to leave, but the tour does not wait and it was off to Belfast.

 

We all know something about the Titanic either by movie, books or visiting a museum, but in Belfast, the Titanic Experience was getting ready to surprise us. This unique building is so much more than a museum about the ship, it’s the history of how ship building put Belfast on the World’s map. Spread over a number of floors with each dedicated to a specific topic, it will not take long to find an area that will have time almost stop. From looking out at the slip where the Titanic was built, to virtually exploring areas of the ship, reading about the shipbuilders and owners, walking through the various cabins of the Titanic, following the various enquiries that followed the disaster and finally ending in an area where you find yourself standing on a glass floor as you watch the remains of the ship on the seafloor pass underneath you. We only had 35 mins to take in this outstanding experience, so it’s a definite must do for my next trip to Ireland and will be heading there for at least half a day.

Getting late in the day, we had a short drive to our hotel for the night located in the “heart” of Belfast, The Europa. Before we headed out for dinner tonight, we had to stop into The Crown pub which is right across the road for a quick pint and to take in this landmark of pubs.

Day 2 Belfast to Derry-Londonderry

This morning started with an odd atmosphere even though the group was well rested from our long first day and we were looking forward to our busy day, Ireland was about to be hit by their first hurricane in over 50 years. The storm was arriving from the south so we had a few hours to make our journey from Belfast to Derry-Londonderry. This meant our morning drive of Belfast was a little rushed yet we did see what is known as “the trouble areas” where walls/gates were built to keep the communities separated along with one of the jails used during the times. After touring the area, it does make you reflect on what occurred just a few decades ago, but today, there is a sense of “rebuilding” and the city offers tourists a great experience as the people want to share their stories while also showing how the region is moving forward.

As we left Belfast, our journey took us along the Causeway Coastal Route which offers some amazing scenery along the north coast. Glenarm Castle Gardens Tea Room was our “rest stop” just over an hour into the drive. The weather was a little overcast and light rain, but we still had time to wander the gardens/grounds before warming up with some tea and scones. We continued along the Causeway Coastal Route passing small towns and communities that offered travellers looking for some “downtime”, the opportunity to stay in a variety of accommodations. Game of Thrones fans also have the opportunity to visit a few more filming sites along this route. Our next “rest point” was at the top of hill overlooking the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge but as the winds were increasing, it was only a few minutes before we were on the go again as The Giant’s Causeway was our next destination.

 

On arrival, we found out the country had now officially shut down for the day due to the hurricane having made landfall on the south coast The exhibition hall was closed, yet the pathway to the Giant’s Causeway was still open for those willing to walk the 1 km to the site. After some discussions with our guides/host and the site staff, we opted to walk down and as we did, the sun broke through the clouds and the temperature hit 15 degrees….let’s just say we “thanked” Tourism Ireland for this perfect time to arrive, the Giant’s Causeway does not disappoint. Lunch was just down the road from The Giant’s Causeway at the Smugglers Inn and this is where I saw the first of many palm trees in Ireland!

 

Our afternoon itinerary quickly changed during lunch due to hurricane updates as it was decided to head straight to our hotel in Derry-Londonderry and brace for the storm. Our walking tour of the city walls was changed to meeting with the guide at the hotel conference room, yet he still brought the city, its history, charm and walls to life as he shared his stories. The remainder of the afternoon/evening was spent in the hotel enjoying a great meal, drinks and stories amongst our group. The hurricane…we were fortunate, it headed a little further east so we had some winds, but we made off much better than the southern part of the island.

Day 3 Derry-Londonderry to Donegal

This morning was an early rise as I had a small opportunity to walk the walls of the city before we continued on our journey. I have to say, I was not disappointed as I strolled these walls before the city started to wake. My next trip back to Ireland will have at least 2 nights here to explore further and if you are a fan of Halloween, you may want to consider attending their annual Halloween festival!

Our itinerary this morning had us heading back into the “south” of Ireland, yet we were actually travelling to the northwest area of the Wild Atlantic Way enroute towards Donegal. If you enjoy changing scenery, then this is your region…rolling hills, green fields, barren landscapes and more. First stop today was Glenveagh Castle and National Park where we toured the grounds of what was once a private home with some interesting history. If you enjoy walking, strolling or hiking, there are dozens of trail options in this National Park.

Arranmore Island was next on the itinerary and to reach this island of 400 people, there is a short 15 min ferry ride from a unique community called Burtonport. My time on Arranmore Island had me feeling like I was in Newfoundland from the surrounding views of the ocean and bays.

Final stop today was Donegal and our hotel The Mill Park Hotel which offered the atmosphere of the country home. There was a little time to tour the city centre along with a private tour of Triona, home to some great Irish Tweed and more before heading back to the hotel for our dinner. After dinner, a few of us wandered back into town to enjoy a pint at the local pub. Who knew that on a Tuesday evening, this quaint pub would be standing room only with all ages taking part in the singing and playing of a few tunes? It’s in these smaller towns that you get a true pub experience.

Day 4 Donegal to Cavan

Today was another fully packed day and I was looking forward to seeing what else Ireland had to share with me. Our first stop was at Solis Lough Eske Hotel & Spa, located approx. 10 mins from Donegal, but felt completely in the country as we wound through quite lanes. If you are looking for a property that can deliver on “wow”, it’s well worth planning at least 1 night here.

Next stop was Strandhill where you had the option of strolling a sand beach, surfing, golfing, shopping or dining and even spot a few more palm trees. We were hosted for lunch at The Draft House Pub which offers a great menu as well as come outstanding craft beers. Who knew beer with a touch of chocolate milk would be very tasty.

Our afternoon stop was just outside of Sligo at the Lissadell House. Here you will find a property that Leonard Cohen spent time at as well as hosting a few concerts. As we toured the home (with the current owners), we learnt the history of this fabled home and the efforts of the owners to restore the property. There was even a “touch” of Downton Abbey as we descended to the servant’s level to see how their daily lives/work was completed.

Late this afternoon, our tour headed away from the Wild Atlantic coast and we headed inland to Cavan where we would spend the next two nights at the Slieve Russell Hotel & Spa.

Late this afternoon, our tour headed away from the Wild Atlantic coast and we headed inland to Cavan where we would spend the next two nights at the Slieve Russell Hotel & Spa.

Day 5 Cavan

Today was an all-day “speed dating” workshop where I met with 50 of 72 suppliers that had travelled from across Ireland. Even though I never saw the outdoors today, I did make a number of solid contacts that offer accommodations, tours, attractions, transportation, pubs/dining and private guides. As I ended my day, I couldn’t help to think how beneficial the workshop was when planning vacations for my clients in the coming months. I did have a few minutes to wander the hotel and visit the golf pro shop where I learnt that a round of golf is open to anyone and rates are very affordable.

Day 6 Cavan – Portmarnock

The trip was winding down as we headed towards Dublin, but an alternative to staying in the city centre, we were hosted by the Portmarnock Hotel & Golf Links. Being just under 20mins from Dublin allows you to unwind and relax in this quaint seaside community, but still experience the “hustle” of Dublin.

Before we arrived in Portmarnock, we had a few stops and our first was in the town of Carlingford. This town was a little surprise as we wandered the shops, had a lite lunch and met with the owners of Carlingford Design Centre. It was here that you meet a few local artisans who are willing to give you a hands on lesson in their crafts. You may find some great “one of” souvenirs as you explore their shop. If you enjoy some outdoor activities, Carlingford once again will not disappoint as there are numerous trails for walking/hiking/biking and many marine activities.

Departing Carlingford, school was waiting for us, but not your traditional class, we were heading for Listoke Distillery & Gin School. On arrival, we were met by the owners who shared a little history of their grounds as we strolled towards the “classroom”. I have to say, it was one of my favorite classes as I knew little about gin when I walked in, but by the end of our time and some tastings, I had a new found appreciation for this up & coming drink of Ireland.

Day 7 Dublin - A Breath of Fresh Air

Our last full day in Ireland was not about slowing down, we had a fully packed itinerary waiting for us. Malahide Castle was first today and have to say I was surprised at what I found. Being Saturday, the grounds of the property were full of families participating in practices and games of various sports. We had a tour of the castle which was occupied by same family until the late 1970s when the last descendant passed, leaving the property to the community.

After a short drive to Dublin, one of the iconic stops was next, the Guinness Storehouse. Here we had a private tour which is a great benefit as there is so much to see and do throughout this busy spot. One highlight was taking part in learning to pour the perfect pint in a private bar located on the 4th floor. Many people opt to enjoy their pint of Guinness at the Gravity Bar which offers 270 degree views of Dublin, but I have to say, the private bar offered a chance to relax without the crowds and chat with our guide who shared a number of tips on how to truly enjoy the Guinness Storehouse.

Back in Cavan, I met the sales manager of Dublin’s newest top attraction, EPIC, so we altered our itinerary and made a stop here to experience it firsthand. The history of Ireland is displayed in such a unique way by embracing technology, you have to ensure you don’t miss this spot on your next trip to Ireland.

With 3 free hours in Dublin, you may think that’s plenty of time, but you won’t believe how fast the time goes by! A few of us headed for Brazen Head Pub (oldest pub in Ireland), then towards St Patrick’s Cathedral, through Temple Bar to Grafton Street, Dawson’s Lounge (smallest pub) and finally to Fire Restaurant for our farewell dinner. Dublin is an easy “walking” city, but if you want to enjoy all it has to offer, plan at least 3 days before heading out to other areas of Ireland.