Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands are a joy for walkers. There are numerous trails and greenways meandering through idyllic landscapes. Beara Breifne Way The historic Beara Breifne Way is Ireland’s longest waymarked trail, stretching 500km. The follows the legendary 14-day march by the chieftain, Dónal Cam O’Sullivan Beare, and his 1,000 supporters in 1603. Along [...]
Mourne Park, near Kilkeel in Co Down, is home to some of the rarest and most ancient woodland in Ireland. It is now open to the public for the first time in 500 years. The area includes 73 hectares of incredibly rare ancient woodland – defined as having existed continuously since 1600 [...]
The Suir Blueway in Tipperary is home to 53km of stunning scenery and hidden historical gems. You'll enjoy the 21km of walking and cycling trail from Carrick-on-Suir to Clonmel. In addition, there's a further 32km of the waterway to canoe and kayak as far as Cahir. The river towpath from Carrick-on-Suir to [...]
Guest writer and forest bathing guide Cathelijne de Wit outlines the benefits of forest bathing: Everyone who enjoys the great outdoors knows how good it feels to spend time in nature. The fresh air, being surrounded by trees, and the sound of birdsong all have a calming effect on us. Connecting with [...]
Delta Sensory Gardens in Carlow town are an oasis of peace. This is a wonderful collection of interconnecting gardens, set on 2.5 acres. As you walk around, your senses are treated to the sounds of waterfalls and birdsong. Your eyes will fall on flowers and foliage of different hues. Different surfaces from [...]
Courtown Woods is a must-visit when you are visiting this seaside village in north Wexford. It dates back to pre-Famine times, and has a lovely mix of trails. Even better, there's a whiff of garlic in late-Spring, followed by beautiful bluebells in May. There are four short trails here, whereby you can [...]
Guest writer Mary Fleming walked part of the Camino de Santiago while visiting her daughter who was studying in Santiago de Compostela. A branding specialist, she brought her love of design and all things visual to her review! Read on: The Camino de Santiago is evident from the time you land in [...]
Offaly is literally a hidden gem, with its wide-open spaces and stunning nature. Now part of Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands, it is a great spot to switch gears and really relax and enjoy yourself. Lough Boora Discovery Park Lough Boora Discovery Park is ideal for families – and children love the Fairy Trail. [...]
Kilmacurragh Gardens in Co Wicklow are a treat to walk around. If you can, April is a great time to visit, with Rhododendron Week usually the first week of the month. This year, 2022, Rhododendron Week at Kilmacurragh Gardens is from April 2-10. Did you know that Kilmacurragh Gardens is part of [...]
Mullaghmeen Forest is worth a visit – well worth a detour off the Dublin-Sligo road into Co. Westmeath. This is one hidden gem you must add to your bucket list! Mullaghmeen Forest is located between Castlepollard and Oldcastle and is the largest planted beech forest in Ireland. Best of all, this is [...]
