Seaside Secrets and techniques: 50 finest issues to do alongside the coast of Eire
Spherical that final band, catch first sight of the water, really feel the air in your face, style the salt in your lips. It is a chemical response. It carbonates us.
Why? In fact, there’s the plain stuff. The sense of escape, the views, the stolen moments. The truth that good climate is so uncommon, we all know to treasure it.
But it surely goes deeper. The ocean stokes childhood recollections – of seaside resorts, of racing right down to the water solely to really feel the primary freeze hit your toes and racing again out once more. Of 99s and the stunning pleasure in a sneaky bag of chips. Of poking jellyfish with sticks, forgetting the Issue 50, and discovering sand in locations you did not even know you had.
And it goes deeper nonetheless. We’re an island nation, in spite of everything. No one lives greater than 100km from the coast of Eire. We have grown up with legends of storms and seal individuals, tales of Vikings, St Brendan and the Spanish Armada, the legacy of famine ships and emigration over the water, the actual lives of fishing communities and seaside tourism. On one coast, James Joyce opened Ulysses with views of the ‘snotgreen’ sea. On the opposite, Seamus Heaney discovered a shoreline to “catch the guts off guard and blow it open”.
In compiling our 50 seaside secrets and techniques, we have tried to decide on much less apparent moments. The Irish coast is hundreds of kilometres lengthy, with good biodiversity and sufficient nooks and crannies for a lifetime of exploration. We have skipped stuff everyone knows – the Brittas Bays and Big’s Causeways of this world – to offer oxygen to smaller moments.
Hopefully, they click on for you.
1. Inishowen’s final journey
An final journey on Inishowen. Photograph: Bren Whelan
The place: Inishowen, Co Donegal
Why: Donegal joined the ranks of galaxies far, far-off when Star Wars touched down for a location shoot. Be a part of Bren Whelan on a stellar journey of your personal at Inishowen Head, the place challenges over a half-day embrace hikes, scrambles, climbing and abseiling, in addition to a ridge stroll throughout the narrows of Inishowen Head. You may see hidden sea caves, ridiculous wildlife, and take Instagrams for the ages. – PÓC
Particulars: donegalcombing.ie; from €55pp.
Subsequent up: You’ve got earned a deal with. Get it at Caffe Banba (caffebanba.com), Eire’s most northerly bakery and store.
2. Pizza & Beer at Rathmullan
Rathmullan Home, Co. Donegal
The place: Rathmullan Home, Co Donegal
Why: Is there something higher than a superbly blistered pizza with an ice-cold beer on the facet? No, there may be not. Within the Blue Guide’s beautiful Rathmullan Home, you may take pleasure in each in The Faucet Room. Order up a Funghi, topped with mushrooms and wild garlic foraged on website, together with an Irish craft beer from native Kinnegar Brewing. It is precisely what you want after a protracted stroll on the seashore. – NB
Particulars: rathmullanhouse.com; pizzas from €12.50.
Subsequent up: Head to the Fanad Peninsula for a spot of sea kayaking; donegalseakayaking.com
three. A seashore with no roads
The place: Trá Mór, Dunfanaghy, Co Donegal
Why: You will not discover automobiles lining the roads to this lovely seashore on Horn Head. That is as a result of there are not any roads. Entry is through a 30-minute-or-so stroll by way of the sand dunes from the outdated stone arch bridge close to Dunfanaghy. As you stroll, the sound of site visitors recedes, the roar of waves rises, and also you quickly end up on a wild and windswept strand. Alas, swimming is unsafe. – PÓC
Particulars: govisitdonegal.com
Subsequent up: Keep at Breac Home (breac.home) for coolly curated design and meals on the Horn Head peninsula.
four The world’s most scenic airport
Donegal Airport. Photograph by Owen Clarke, reproduced with permission from PrivateFly.com.
The place: Carrickfinn, Co Donegal
Why: This tiny strip has been voted the world’s most scenic touchdown for 2 years operating – besting the likes of London Metropolis Airport and Saint Martin within the course of. Flights function from Dublin and Glasgow with Aer Lingus Regional, and if the climate co-operates, you are in for a deal with on take-off and touchdown. Final time I visited, I went from airplane steps to exit in simply over one minute, and the only real safety guard was chatting away with passengers in Irish. – PÓC
Particulars: donegalairport.ie; aerlingus.com
Subsequent up: Seize a window seat on the Bar Bistro in Dungloe’s refurbed Waterfront Lodge (waterfronthoteldungloe.ie).
5. Stroll One Man’s Cross
Seventh heaven: the magnificent Slieve League in Donegal
The place: Slieve League, Co Donegal
Why: With a sheer drop of 600m to the wild ocean beneath, the cliffs at Slieve League give a way of the ability of the Atlantic. It is a nice stroll from the decrease automobile park to the principle viewing level, however the additional courageous can proceed on to One Man’s Cross (so named because it’s simply large sufficient for only one particular person) for much more dazzling views proper over to the mountains of Sligo and Donegal Bay. NB. This cross (not pictured) is for skilled hikers solely, and shouldn’t be tried calmly. – YG
Particulars: sliabhliag.com
Subsequent up: Scoff scampi and calamari on the Killybegs Seafood Shack (fb.com/killybegsseafoodshack). Its chowder was named finest in Eire this yr, too.
6. Swim at Bishop’s Pool
Bishop’s Pool, Mullaghmore, Co Sligo
The place: Mullaghmore, Co Sligo
Why: Ever race to the coast on a sunny day, solely to be postpone by the freezing chilly waves once you get there? Properly, at Bishop’s Pool you will not get any of that. This pure rock pool is sort of a little protected cove, with deep waters that get far hotter than the ocean, and flat, large stones excellent for sunbathing. Views over Donegal Bay are beautiful, too. – NB
Particulars: sligotourism.ie
Subsequent up: Seize a chunk in Langs of Grange – it is one of many few pubs left with a grocery retailer within the bar; langs.ie
7 Café Perfection at Pudding Row
Café Perfection at Pudding Row
The place: Easkey, Co Sligo
Why: Journey the size and breadth of Eire, and you would be arduous pushed to discover a café as fantastic as Pudding Row. Chef proprietor Dervla James got here residence to Easkey to arrange store in 2015, and since then it has been flying, with individuals flocking from throughout the land to get their fill of selfmade bagels, sea salt caramel squares and ideal slabs of Victoria sponge. Save room for certainly one of her devilish doughnuts, too. – NB
Particulars: puddingrow.ie
Subsequent up: Stroll the seashore and seize a pint at The Seaside Bar in Aughris Head; thebeachbarsligo.com
Eight. Strandhill’s Secret Seaside
Strandhill
The place: Strandhill, Co Sligo
Why: Most guests to Strandhill (above) stroll left on the sea and alongside the dunes and open sands. However flip proper, cross the little runway on the airport (all the time a thrill), and you may quickly attain the ruins of Killaspugbrone church. And whilst you can by no means swim on the essential seashore in Strandhill, there is a calm little bay simply to the suitable of this outdated church the place you may safely dip into the water (with warning, clearly). – NB
Particulars: gostrandhill.com
Subsequent up: Take a foraging tour with Wild Atlantic Cultural Excursions (wildatlanticculturaltours.com), or an old-school seaweed tub in Enniscrone (kilcullensseaweed.internet).
9. Mullet Over in Mayo
View from inside a coastal watch station on Erris Head, Co Mayo. Photograph: Pól Ó Conghaile
The place: Mullet Peninsula
Why: “Expensive Lord, be good to me. The ocean is so large; and my boat is so small.” So reads an inscription at Scotchport, a stony seashore on Mayo’s distant Mullet Peninsula. This wild Erris outcrop, hooked up like a citation mark to Mayo’s northwest nook, is stuffed with empty seashores, cliff walks (strive the 5km Erris Head Loop, searching for the stony ‘EIRE’ signal). Standing above the gashes and sea stacks, the ocean does certainly appear large, and the boats critically small. – PÓC
Particulars: mayonorth.ie; irishtrails.ie
Subsequent up: Keep at Belmullet Coast Guard Station (belmulletcgs.com). Driving east, cease for ‘Mr Tipp’s Chips’ at Patsy and Wanda O’Neill’s Tea by the Sea at Downpatrick Head.
10. Basking sharks within the bay
The place: Keem Bay, Achill Island
Why: Keem Bay was as soon as the location of a basking shark fishery that contributed to a drastic decline in species inhabitants, however this summer time, a number of sharks have been noticed feeding unhindered within the bay. The sharks, as much as 25 ft lengthy, have been even joined by dolphins. In the event you go, after all, we won’t assure they will be there… however we will assure a seashore to take your breath away. – PÓC
Particulars: achilltourism.com; wildatlanticway.com
Subsequent Up: Get a chook’s eye view of this superior seashore, and close by coast and corrie lakes, on a guided trek with Stroll West Eire (fb.com/walkwestireland).
11. Swim Clare Island’s Cove
Clare Island
The place: Clare Island, Co Mayo
Why: The primary seashore on Clare Island is not essentially the prettiest. However hike or cycle to The Cove, and you will find a stunning little wild swimming spot, proper between the craggy cliffs. Most likely finest for skilled swimmers, it is a little dream of a cove, and only a quick hop from the beautiful Clare Island Lighthouse. – NB
Particulars: clareisland.ie
Subsequent up: Keep in one of many new snugs at Clare Island Lighthouse (clareislandlighthouse.com). Costs from €300 for 2 together with dinner.
12. The Misunderstood Heron
Seaside treats on the Misunderstood Heron
The place: Derrynacleigh, Co Galway
Why: Keep in mind the times when, should you have been in the course of the countryside and peckish, one of the best you possibly can hope for was a crappy espresso and a plastic sandwich from a storage? Properly, these days are gone. Out in Connemara, among the many beautiful backdrop of Killary Bay, this meals truck doles out the best possible in Irish produce and seafood – suppose smoked salmon on crusty sourdough, connoisseur empanadas and, after all, mussels from the bay simply behind their backs.
Particulars: fb.com/misunderstoodheron
Subsequent up: Head out on the water for a ship tour of the Killary Fjord; killaryfjord.com
13. Go over to Omey
Coast at Claddaghduff with Omey Island, Connemara
The place: Claddaghduff, Co Galway
Why: There are not any roads to Omey Island. To get there, you should anticipate low tide, and ease the automobile or bike over the uncovered sandy causeway… a weirdly nerve-wracking sensation even when the ocean is miles away. Whenever you get there, stroll or drive to the tip of the highway, or stroll across the island to the suitable, passing the ‘sunken’ St Feichin’s Church and all types of Nat Geo-style views en route. Simply remember to return to the mainland earlier than the tide is available in! – PÓC & YG
Particulars: Test tide occasions at crusing.ie/tides/galway
Subsequent up: Drive the Sky Street, and keep over at carbon-neutral campsite, Clifden Eco Seaside (clifdenecocamping.ie).
14 Derrygimlagh Lavatory
Alcock & Brown’s touchdown website at Derrygimlagh
The place: Ballinaboy, Co Galway
Why: We would jump over the pond with out a care these days (thanks, US Preclearance!), however 100 years in the past that wasn’t the case. On June 15, 1919, John Alcock and Arthur Brown touched down within the bogland of Derrygimlagh, after setting off from Newfoundland the day earlier than. The pair have been the primary to efficiently fly continuous over the Atlantic. Lease a motorbike in Clifden and tour across the space on two wheels. – NB
Particulars: wildatlanticway.com.
Subsequent up: Keep on the Connemara Nationwide Park Hostel, Letterfrack Lodge (connemarantionalpark.com), and do not go away with out consuming at its pretty Lodge Restaurant.
15. Stroll Inishturk
Inishturk. Photograph: Getty Photos
The place: Co Mayo
Why: 9 miles out to sea, Inishturk is a small island (it’s simply 5km x 2.5km), however a stupendous escape for walkers and people eager about nature and chook life. Take to among the island’s nation lanes or the 2 essential looped walks to discover rocky cliffs, sea stacks and sandy seashores. Or take a ship journey from the harbour to go angling within the surrounding waters. – YG
Particulars: inishturkisland.com
Subsequent up: Stroll on Carraroe’s ‘coral’ seashore. Trá an Dóilín’s sand is definitely product of coralline algae referred to as maerl.
16. Worm your approach to Ballot na bPeist
Ballot na bPeist
The place: Inis Mór, Aran Islands, Co Galway
Why: Translated from the Irish because the ‘worm gap’, Ballot na bPeist is a rectangular-shaped pool set on the base of the cliffs at Dún Aonghasa on Inis Mór. The pool, also called Serpent’s Lair, fills with seawater from beneath the cliffs, and appears extra artifical than a pure marvel – be sure that sea circumstances are calm earlier than planning a go to. Crimson Bull has held well-known cliff-diving occasions right here. – YG
Particulars: Security first. This stroll is for skilled hikers, as there is a cliff and rock stroll concerned.
Subsequent up: Dine and keep at Inis Meáin Restaurant & Suites (inismeain.com). Advance reserving is a should.
17. Shuck Off!
Ciara O’Halloran and her father Gerry, of Crimson Financial institution Meals Firm – amongst 21 seafood producers chosen as members of the Style the Atlantic – A Seafood Journey path, developed by BIM in partnership with Failte Eire. Image: Sean Curtin True Media.
The place: Flaggy Shore, Co Clare
Why: Learn to shuck oysters (and never chop your fingers off) because of this skilled expertise from native oyster specialists Redbank Meals Firm. It is a part of a Style the Atlantic foodie path initiative by Fáilte Eire and Bord Iascaigh Mhara, which goals to get guests up shut and private with the locations their seafood comes from. All in a panorama which impressed poet Seamus Heaney. – PÓC
Particulars: Reserving important (airbnb.ie/experiences/231945). Workshops value €45pp with oysters and wine.
Subsequent Up: Nab an ice cream at Café Linnalla, created utilizing milk from a household farm (linnallaicecream.ie).
18. Stroll to the Cliffs of Moher
The place: Doolin, Co Clare
Why: Over 1,000,000 individuals go to the Cliffs of Moher yearly. A tiny fraction walks. Be a part of them by beginning out from Doolin, following the 8km cliff path because it rises to heights of over 700 ft. Developed along with native landowners, the path is a stunner – from pops of pink sea thrift to teeming chook life and, after all, the cliffs themselves. You can too proceed south from the cliffs in the direction of Hag’s Head and Liscannor – 20km in complete. – PÓC
Particulars: cliffsofmoher.ie; wildatlanticway.com
Subsequent up: See the cliffs from beneath on a cruise (doolin2aranferries.com), and comply with in Metallica’s footsteps with a chunk at Vaughan’s of Liscannor (vaughans.ie).
19. 100computer Pure Tenting
Pure Tenting, Loop Head, Co. Clare
The place: Loop Head, Co Clare
Why: In the event you fancy tenting, however not the bit the place you wrestle with tent poles because the wind whips round you, then head to Pure Tenting, the place all the work is completed for you. You possibly can e-book certainly one of their canvas bell tents or eco picket cabins, and reap all the advantages with none of the hassle. – NB
Particulars: purecamping.ie; bell tents from €60 an evening. See additionally loophead.ie
Subsequent up: Dip into The Lengthy Dock in Carrigaholt for a dreamily cosy hearth pint and opulent native seafood; thelongdock.com
20. See Scattery Island
Scattery Island, Co. Clare. Photograph: Fáilte Eire
The place: Off Kilrush, Co Clare
Why: Sitting on the mouth of the River Shannon, Scattery Island is the right peaceable escape for a number of hours. Boat journeys depart frequently from Kilrush marina (taking round 20 minutes) and when you get to the island, you may take a (free) tour of the monastic website, stroll to an outdated navy battery, have a picnic or simply benefit from the wild chook and flowers, spending round two hours in complete. – YG
Particulars: scatteryislandtours.com; adults €20, kids €10.
Subsequent up: Make it a combo bundle by including on a mini estuary cruise or a dolphin-watching journey.
21. Drive the Shannon Estuary Manner
The place: Co Limerick and Co Clare
Why: The Shannon Estuary Manner is a 207km looped drive taking you from Limerick Metropolis alongside the shores of the estuary, with all kinds of heritage websites alongside the way in which – from the Franciscan Friary at Askeaton to the Foynes Flying Boat Museum. Stroll the quick Knight’s Stroll within the village of Glin, then take the ferry from Tarbert to Killimer, preserving a glance out for dolphins, earlier than driving again alongside the Co Clare facet, stopping at Clarecastle village or Bunratty Citadel and People Park. – YG
Particulars: wildatlanticway.com; limerick.ie
Subsequent up: Relaxation your head with Estuary views at Beds of Silk (bedsofsilk.com), a luxurious glamping website at Labasheeda.
22. Nun’s seashore
Nun’s Seaside, Ballybunion. Photograph: Pól Ó Conghaile
The place: Ballybunion, Co Kerry
Why: Ballybunion has its outdated Males’s and Girls’ seashores. Observe the Cliff Stroll alongside the coast, nonetheless, and you will find one much more lovely – Nuns’ Seaside, a horseshoe-shaped cove simply north of the fortress. It is beneath a convent, and the ocean stack within the center is named the Virgin Rock. Admire the view, however do not climb down right here – head again to the principle seashores for swimming. – PÓC
Particulars: ballybunion.ie; gokerry.ie
Subsequent up: Search for the 9 Daughters blowhole. After listening to that his daughters have been set to elope with 9 Vikings, a neighborhood chieftain is alleged to have tossed them into it!
23. Sleep in Peig’s Cottage
The place: Nice Blasket Island, Co Kerry
Why: A ship journey to the Blaskets is among the finest issues you are able to do on this little island of ours. These islands mark essentially the most westerly level in Eire, and the crystal-clear waters that line the shores are heavenly. Head out to Nice Blasket Island to discover Trá Bán and the outdated stone cottage husks (one has been restored by the OPW). You possibly can even sleep in Peig Sayers’ cottage. – NB
Particulars: greatblasketisland.internet; non-public rooms from €100 per night time (April-Oct); boat excursions from €60.
Subsequent up: Pop into Caifé na Trá in Dunquin for a cuppa; fb.com/caifenatra
24. Uncover Seaweed
Atlantic Irish Seaweed – foraging in Kerry. Photograph: Pól Ó Conghaile
The place: Caherdaniel, Co Kerry
Why: The coast of Eire has its huge moments, and its small wonders. Seaweed is a kind of. Take a Seaweed Discovery Workshop with John Fitzgerald of Atlantic Irish Seaweed, a hands-on introduction to all the pieces from bubbly bladderwrack to “the truffle of the ocean” (the peppery-pungent dulse, or dillisk). The workshops wind up with a stunning tasting lunch. – PÓC
Particulars: atlanticirishseaweed.com; from round €50pp.
Subsequent up: Accomplished the Ring of Kerry? Drive the Skellig Ring, with a cease on the Skelligs Chocolate Manufacturing facility.
25. Journey the Dursey Cable Automotive
The place: Beara Peninsula, Co Cork
Why: OK, this won’t be for these with a worry of heights. However should you’re ready, Eire’s solely cable automobile (and the one one in Europe to go over the ocean) is a thrill. The quick journey will provide you with a tremendous view over the waters of Dursey Sound beneath. Whenever you disembark, go away time to discover the beautiful little island and its strolling trails. – NB
Particulars: durseyisland.ie; €10 return.
Subsequent up: Reward your self with a bowl of mussels and a pint at Helen’s Bar in Lauragh.
26. The Lighthouse Stroll
The Sheep’s Head Manner. Photograph: Pól Ó Conghaile
The place: Sheep’s Head, Co Cork
Why: The Sheep’s Head is the forgotten youngster of Irish peninsulas… with a number of house to your self.
Particulars: The quick, four.2km lighthouse loop should not take greater than an hour and a half, taking you from the automobile park at Tooreen (comply with the blue arrows), from the Dunmanus to Bantry facet of the peninsula with views you may be Instagramming simply as quickly as you come back to cellphone reception. – PÓC
Particulars: thesheepsheadway.ie
Subsequent up: Keep at Blair’s Cove (blairscove.ie) on Dunmanus Bay. 4 courtyard suites overlook the water.
27. Take the Fastnet Rock Tour
Situated between Cape Clear and Mizen Head, the enduring Fastnet lighthouse, referred to as the teardrop of Eire, has lengthy been an emblem of West Cork
The place: Schull or Baltimore, Co Cork
Why: Set on a lonely offshore rock, the enduring Fastnet Lighthouse has all the time had an aura – and for a lot of of those that emigrated to America by ship in previous occasions, it was the final Irish construction they noticed. Discover among the rock’s secrets and techniques on this new day tour, which features a cease on the Fastnet exhibition on Cape Clear Island in addition to a visit out across the rock by ferry. – YG
Particulars: fastnettour.com; adults €40.
Subsequent up: Discover the Gaeltacht island of Cape Clear (it has a storytelling competition in September (capeclearisland.ie).
28. Splitting Heirs
Inheritor island off the West Cork coast
The place: Inheritor Island, Co Cork
Why: There’s Paris, France; and there is Paris, Co Cork. Only a five-minute boat journey from Cunnamore Pier, Inheritor Island is sort of a little renaissance rock in Roaringwater Bay. Its tiny hamlet known as Paris (simply do not anticipate the Eiffel Tower), and the island hosts a bread-making faculty (thefirehouse.ie), cookery faculty (islandcottage.com) and yoga retreat (heirislandretreat.ie). – PÓC
Particulars: heirisland.ie
Subsequent up: Take a starlight/moonlight kayaking journey with Atlantic Sea Kayaking (atlanticseakayaking.com).
29. Tuck into the Meals Depot
Tuck in on the Meals Depot
The place: Courtmacsherry, Co Cork
Why: In the event you’re a fan of connoisseur road meals, you may go nuts for Meals Depot. This funky little meals truck is run by MasterChef winner Diana Dodog, and from this seaside base she whips up dishes filled with flavour, like pork stomach banh-mi wraps and grilled halloumi buddha bowls. It is solely open at weekends, and put together to queue… – NB
Particulars: fooddepotireland.com
Subsequent up: Take a stroll at lovely Dunworly Bay.
30. Stroll by Paradise
Ballycotton Island, Cork
The place: Ballycotton, Co Cork
Why: The stroll from Ballycotton to Ballyandreen seashore units you up with ocean on one facet and sloping meadows on the opposite. You may cross a legendary native swim spot referred to as ‘Paradise’, and the observe continues, over loads of stiles, for 5 miles to the seashore. Admire stonking views of the native lighthouse (boat excursions are additionally accessible), and end with seafood on the Bayview Lodge – PÓC
Particulars: ballycotton.ie; thebayviewhotel.com
Subsequent up: Keep on the newly restored lighthouse keeper’s home in Youghal (airbnb.ie/rooms/21929963).
31. Chill on the Copper Coast
Waterford’s creamy Copper Coast
The place: Co Waterford
Why: You’ve got heard of the Wild Atlantic Manner. However what about Waterford’s Copper Coast? Stretching roughly 40km between Tramore and Dungarvan, it is a criminally underrated vary of coves, sea stacks and copper mining heritage. Stradbally is a standout seashore – from the second you see the ocean between little gaps of forest, you may be in love. Be careful for Tramore’s Steel Man, too – it was erected by Lloyd’s of London to stave off shipwrecks. – NB & PÓC
Particulars: coppercoastgeopark.com; visitwaterford.com
Subsequent up: Cycle a stretch of the Waterford Greenway. Dungarven to Durrow has champion coastal views.
Extra:
10 of essentially the most superb out of doors swims in Eire
32. Shipwreck & SPA
The Cliff Home
The place: Ardmore, Co Waterford
Why: You by no means really want a motive to stroll the cliffs at Ardmore. Whether or not you are desperately scanning the ocean for dolphins (prime tip – there is a whale-watching publish on the prime the place individuals share their day by day spots) or simply out to blow off the cobwebs, you are all the time in for a deal with. Maintain an eye fixed out for the rusty shipwreck of the Samson crane barge, which ran aground in 1987. – NB
Particulars: irishtrails.ie; approx 4km (one hour).
Subsequent up: Keep on the Cliff Home (above), one of many most interesting seaside accommodations within the land, and e-book certainly one of their new out of doors spa remedies. cliffhousehotel.ie, rooms from €199.
33 Fish… AndChips
AndChips
The place: Dungarvan, Co Waterford
Why: Anybody who has been to the seaside has had a monstrous hankering for fish ‘n’ chips. AndChips, a cool new chipper serving no matter’s recent that day, is the place to slake it. You would possibly discover hake, plaice or ling, all encased in an ideal, smackable batter, with selfmade tartare sauce, mushy peas, and chips you may be dreaming of for years to return. Take it out to the harbour and eat it proper on the water’s edge – once I did the identical a number of weeks again, I noticed some lovely jellyfish swimming by my ft. – NB
Particulars: andchips.ie; fish and chips from €9.50.
Subsequent up: A seaweed tub at Sólás na Mara; solasnamara.ie
34. Dunmore East Delights
Dunmore East, Co Waterford. Photograph: Pól Ó Conghaile
The place: Co Waterford
Why: Dunmore East sits proper on the mouth of the Waterford Estuary, and its quick cliff stroll brings you west alongside a path from the previous convent. Look out for seabirds like gulls, fulmars and kittiwakes alongside the 2km route, in addition to passing seals, dolphins or whales. – YG
Particulars: Begin from the parking space behind the Previous Convent
Subsequent up: Nab some recent fish and chips from the East Pier meals truck (on Fb) within the harbour.
35. Buried treasure on the seashore
Greenback Bay, on Wexford’s Hook Peninsula. Will you discover the buried treasure? Photograph: Pól Ó Conghaile
The place: Greenback Bay, Co Wexford
Why: There is no finish of tales alongside the southeast coast, however my favorite is that of the buried treasure at Greenback Bay. Pirates are mentioned to have stashed a hoard together with Spanish right here within the 1700s, although they have been thwarted earlier than they may come again to recuperate it (should you discover it, we’ll settle for a 10computer fee). – PÓC
Particulars: visitwexford.ie
Subsequent up: Proceed your circuit of the Hook, taking within the lighthouse, Baginbun seashore and the spooky Loftus Home.
36. Saltees & Chips
The Saltee Islands. Wexford in Eire’s sunny south east.
The place: Kilmore Quay, Co Wexford
Why: The Nice and Little Saltee Islands lie a 5km boat journey from Kilmore Quay, providing among the best birdwatching journeys on the coast. The islands are privately owned (the Nice Saltee even boasts a self-styled ‘prince’), with visits restricted to between 11am and four.30pm. They’re supreme for nature walks and birdwatching, with the stays of historical graves, ring forts and a promontory fort to see, too. – YG & PÓC
Particulars: salteeislands.data; visitkilmorequay.ie
Subsequent up: Whenever you get again, order lemon sole and chips from the Saltee Chipper at Kilmore Quay.
37. Stroll Raven Level
Completely gorgeous night in The Raven #Wexford #sundown2017 #beachlife #visitwexford pic.twitter.com/7POmmiZ6U0
— Hooked Kitesurfing (@HookedKitesurf) January 2, 2017
The place: Curracloe, Co Wexford
Why: Raven Level Wooden lies between Wexford’s slobs and a strand voted Eire’s Favorite Seaside on this yr’s Reader Journey Awards: Curracloe. A 7km loop will take you across the forested spit of land right here in lower than two hours, or you may simply dip in for a bit and switch again… it is a spectacular and little-known escape on the east coast. – PÓC
Particulars: visitwexford.ie
Subsequent up: Drive the R742 north to Courtown. Open farms, hidden seashores and foodie treats await.
38 Chunk right into a buffalo burger
Chunk right into a burger at The Strand, Cahore.
The place: Cahore, Co Wexford
Why: “We’re a little bit secret right here,” Patrick Hanley, who runs The Strand bar and restaurant along with his spouse, Aileen, informed me. He means Cahore Level as a lot because the bar… although each are true. Wooden-fired pizza and the ‘Macamore burger’ are highlights of a stunning menu – the latter made with native Macamore Buffalo, O’Neill’s bacon jam and Wexford cheddar. Chow down after a stroll across the Level, and lap up the views. “There are 4 huge screens right here,” Pat says. “They usually’re all overlooking the water.” – PÓC
Particulars: thestrandcahore.ie
Subsequent up: Keep in a single day at one of many new pods at Morriscastle Strand (morriscastlestrandcom).
39. Shine on, Silver Strand
Pól Ó Conghaile at Silver Strand, Co. Wicklow.
The place: Silver Strand, Co Wicklow
Why: The west coast does not have a monopoly on magical seashores. Here is a stunner in Eire’s Historic East – a cove that starred on display screen in The Rely of Monte Cristo. Entry is through a non-public campsite, Wolohan’s, so you may have to pay €Eight-10 per automobile should you’re not sleeping on website. – PÓC
Particulars: silverstrand.ie
Subsequent up: The Bray to Greystones cliff stroll is well-known, however you too can trek from Newcastle to Greystones alongside the coast.
40. Secret Greystones
The place: Greystones, Co Wicklow
Why: There’s extra to Greystones than the Cliff Stroll (above) and Glad Pear. Begin with a lesser-known hike just like the Little Sugar Loaf, earlier than hitting the harbour. One little chipper, Sweeney’s, is driving out the event right here like Mr Fredrickson’s home within the Pixar film, Up (its fish is freshly battered, and chips could be made gluten-free). Throughout the highway, there is a nifty burrito truck hidden within the yard subsequent to the Seaside Home, and decide of the swim spots is the cove between the north and south seashores. – PÓC
Particulars: greystonesguide.ie
Subsequent up: Head to the village for Pakistani fare, washed down with a Wicklow Wolf beer, at Daata; daata.ie
41. Large it up on Bray Head
Fats Biking on Bray Head. Photograph: fatbikeadventures.ie
The place: Bray, Co Wicklow
Why: Searching for a coast of Eire journey close to Dublin? Bray Adventures is only a quick hop from town, and from their hub you may leap onto a SUP board, paddle in a kayak or, for the actual daredevils, go coasteering (€49pp). You may don a wetsuit and swim within the sea and into caves, climb rocks after which fling your self off them. – NB
Particulars: brayadventures.ie
Subsequent up: Go on a fats bike journey (above); fatbikeadventures.ie
42. Stroll The Nice South Wall
Two walkers get pleasure from a stroll alongside the Nice South Wall, which extends some 2km into Dublin Bay. Within the close to distance are the towers of the Pigeon Home energy station, a Dublin icon.
The place: Dublin
Why: Stretching from the foot of the Pigeon Home Towers to the Poolbeg lighthouse, the Nice South Wall is among the capital’s best-kept secrets and techniques. Initially commissioned to fight silting and shelter ships, the construction was accomplished in Dalkey granite by 1795, and stays a wonderful path into Dublin Bay as we speak. From right here, views from Terminal 2 to the north to the Sugar Loaf within the south… simply watch your step in windy climate. – PÓC
Subsequent Up: Keep in a Martello tower (martellotowersutton.com). It prices from €420 for 2 nights midweek.
43. Go to Eire’s Eye
Eire’s Eye, Howth, Co Dublin. Photograph: Getty
The place: Off Howth, Co Dublin
Why: This tiny island off north Dublin is stuffed with fascinating sea birds like gannets, gulls and puffins, and there is a lengthy sandy seashore which is ideal for swimming and picnics. There are return boats each hour so you may keep on the island so long as you want – take a look at the Martello tower and the outdated church ruins if you are having fun with the escape from the mainland. – YG
Particulars: islandferries.internet; €15/€10pp.
Subsequent up: Go to the Hurdy Gurdy Museum in a Martello tower in Howth. It is stuffed with traditional and classic radios.
44. Killer views at Clogherhead
Strolling Clogherhead, Co Louth this afternoon… wanting south in the direction of the Boyne estuary and Skerries. You don’t must go west for views, you already know 😉 #BoyneValley #IrelandsAncientEast pic.twitter.com/V4QUMp10tw
— Pól Ó Conghaile (@poloconghaile) October 17, 2018
The place: Port Oriel, Co Louth
Why: The quick stroll round Clogherhead will put salt in your lips in jig time. As the one excessive, rocky headland between Dublin and the Mourne Mountains, the views are particular too – ranging on my go to from Skerries to the Cooley Peninsula. The kerbstones round Newgrange have been quarried right here, and you may substitute any misplaced energy with a heat bowl of chowder from the little range effervescent away in Fisherman’s Catch in Port Oriel. – PÓC
Particulars: fishermanscatch.ie
Subsequent up: Head north to The Glyde Inn and its restaurant, Linn Duachaill. It received Pub of the Yr prize at this yr’s Irish Pub Awards (theglydeinn.ie).
45. Cycle the Carlingford Greenway
Carlingford Greenway. Photograph: Fáilte Eire
The place: Carlingford, Co Louth
Why: The newest of Eire’s greenways is that this little stretch between Carlingford and Omeath, alongside the shores of the lough. It is solely 7km lengthy, so it is a straightforward one to sort out with the youngsters, and the views alongside the way in which are fabulous, with the mountains, inexperienced fields and, after all, the water all alongside you. – NB
Particulars: carlingfordandcooleypeninsula.ie
Subsequent up: You possibly can’t come to Carlingford Lough with out scoffing a number of native oysters.
46. St John’s Level
St John’s Lighthouse, Co Down. Photograph: Tourism Eire
The place: Co Down
Why: There’s one thing so dreamily romantic about lighthouses. And the one at St John’s Level is a severe magnificence – on the finish of one of many longest peninsulas on the island, you could not ask for a cooler coastal setting. And you may keep in one of many lightkeeper’s cottages, too. All of your lighthouse fantasies? Fulfilled. – NB
Particulars: irishlandmark.com; charges from €451.
Subsequent up: Head to the beautiful Murlough Seaside in Co Down.
47. A ghost by the coast
The place: Ballygally Citadel Lodge, Co Antrim
Why: A ghost room! Climb the spiral staircase at this historic lodge (it dates from 1625) and you find yourself in a cold room wherein a black cloak is draped over a chair overlooking the ocean. Outdoors, the Mull of Kintyre could be seen on clear days, and panels inform the tragic story of a girl named Isabella, who leapt from these heights and sometimes returns to hang-out guests with rising temperatures and… the odor of vanilla. – PÓC
Particulars: hasting shotels.com/ballygally-castle
Subsequent up: Recreation of Thrones-themed afternoon tea (£24/€27pp; 24 hours’ discover required) with Kingslayer cupcakes and Baratheon Bread, anybody?
Extra: The Causeway Coast: Our final driving information
48. Get to The Gobbins
The place: Islandmagee, Co Antrim
Why: Tie up your shoelaces and brace your self, as a result of a stroll over the Gobbins cliff path is not for the faint-hearted. What it’s, although, is spectacular, taking within the wild coastal terrain of the Causeway Coast through steep steps, slender pathways and hovering bridges. There have been a number of closures for renovations lately, nevertheless it’s now open and taking bookings till November. – NB
Particulars: thegobbinscliffpath.com; £15/€17.
Subsequent up: Name into Carrickfergus Citadel, on the shore of Belfast Lough; discovernorthernireland.com
49. Make for Maegden
Tuck in at Maegden…
The place: Bushmills, Co Antrim
Why: There’s an artwork to creating the right cheese toastie. And should you ask me, Maegden comes fairly rattling near perfection. From the hatch of this retro caravan parked up on the Causeway Coast, these toasties come overflowing with one of the best Irish cheeses, oozing out of buttery, tangy sourdough. Oh, and their brownie ice cream sandwiches are pure filth. – NB
Particulars: cheesemaegden.com, toasties from £6/€7.
Subsequent up: Eat your means across the coast with Causeway Coast Foodie Excursions; causewaycoastfoodietours.com
50. Keep on the Waterfall Caves
The Waterfall Caves at Duncrun Fishing Lakes
The place: Limavady, Co Derry
Why: These three subterranean, self-catering hideaways are like hobbit holes in Westeros. Scenes for Recreation of Thrones have been filmed by Binevenagh Mountain close by, and the Causeway Coast stretches fabulously in entrance of you. Fish within the lake, slink within the sizzling tub, and heat your self by the hearth pit – the caves have been certainly one of our Fab 50 finest locations to remain in Eire for 2019. They’re pet-friendly, too. – PÓC
Particulars: From £110/€123 per night time; waterfallcaves.com
Subsequent up: Take a look at close by Dunluce Citadel, an impressive medieval destroy perched on the sting of a moody basalt outcrop.
NB: All costs topic to availability and alter.
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