The blog is on an island-hopping adventure right now. In Part I of our trip around Ireland’s treasured islands, we went from beaches to the Burren, ancient monasteries to modern luxury. But we’re not on dry land yet. Part II is here, and our first stop is Ireland’s West Coast… Clare Island, County Mayo Remember [...]

We all know appearances can be deceiving. Just one look at the pretty garden forecourt of Gleeson’s Townhouse and Restaurant and you’d think it was where tranquility lived. And you’d be right – almost. You see, inside that lovely old stone building in County Roscommon, hiding among the atmosphere of old world calm is a [...]

Readers, there’s something in the water. In the sea and the lakes. Ireland’s glittering portfolio of islands, from isolated outposts in a stormy ocean to near-tropical isles of golden beaches and unique culture, is certainly something. These islands harbour astounding landscapes, unmatched tranquility, distinctive communities and ancient traces of former settlers. So I tried to [...]

It’s true what they say, the old ones really are the best. Thanks to the Irish Landmark Trust, some of Ireland’s oldest and most historic buildings have been tenderly restored so we can bed down for a night or two in these fascinating places! We’ve cherry-picked a few romantic hideaways where we know we’d like [...]

The Ring of Kerry is a stunning Irish coastal ring route and a national natural treasure. We found a man who knows the Ring as intimately as we know the drive home. Tour guide and general Kerry know-it-all, John Hickey, takes us on a detailed view-by-view tour of this enchanted stretch of Ireland’s landscape… Depart [...]

David Flynn and his twin brother Stephen are the bright inspired minds behind The Happy Pear in Greystones, County Wicklow: an all-round temple to healthy delicious food in the form of a natural food market, café restaurant, and juice and smoothie bar. With the calendar officially declaring the dead of winter now, and us here [...]

On the first day of Christmas, my true love sent me to Ireland for a twelve day party. On the second day of Christmas, my true love sent me To Kilkenny on Ice I fell down but it’s part of the party. On the third day of Christmas, my true love sent me To Santa [...]

Having rejoiced at the news of Dublin‘s UNESCO City of Literature status we got to thinking about all of Ireland’s wonderful books. With so many to choose from, we decided to do what we do best and make a little shortlist. But we wanted to be able to show you the books, too, so myself [...]

It’s the giddy first day of your holiday, you suck in a tantalising first breath of your exciting new surroundings, and bound into the hotel lobby with the springing step of someone whose office is thousands of miles away. Key card in the slot and open sesame! You’re in your deliciously calm, crisp-sheeted room. What [...]

Fact: Dubliners love a good story. A Dubliner can take something as everyday as buying milk into an epic tale of romance and bravery (or a first date on June 16th into one of the most acclaimed novels of all time – take a bow Mr Joyce). Considering the wit in our words and heritage of [...]