Surfing (Easkey, Strandhill or Enniscrone)
On the Water
Ireland is an island and surrounded by water after all so it only makes sense that you get out and into it (and it's a great excuse for warming up with a piping hot coffee afterwards)! County Sligo is famous for its waves and the beaches of Easkey, Strandhill and Enniscrone are brilliant for beginners and experts alike. There are loads of surf schools to choose from if you want a helping hand plus a good few options for 2-4 day surf camps leaving from the capital!
Photo Credit to: @denisekimages
Benbulben
Hiking + Walking
Known as Ireland's 'Table Mountain', Benbulben is about as picturesque as they come and there's something rather magical about this flat-topped beauty. There are a couple of different looped routes you can take - some of which are a reasonable 1+ hours wandering, but this giant of the north-west is not to be taken lightly. Some parts are best tackled with the help of a guide so make sure you do a bit of homework before you head to the top of the table
Photo Credit to: @ierlandtoerisme
Pudding Row
Coffee
Fancy a bit of a view with your coffee and snacks? Pudding Row is the place to be for breathtaking views of the Atlantic, homemade treats and breads plus fresh, local produce! Unbelieveably cute and incredibly delicious - plan ahead and book a baking class with chef+owner Dervla and head home with some hand-made-by-you baked goods!
Photo Credit to: @puddingrowsligo
Brandon Hill Loop
Hiking + Walking
Geared more towards experienced hikers, the Brandon Hill Loop is 19km+ of hillside + forest terrain taking around 5-6 hours to complete in full. A good bit of planning and prep is required before heading here but the 360 degree views at the top are well worth the climb!
Photo Credit to: @aimsdlegend
Castlecomer Discovery Park
Adventure Park
This is a recreation park with a difference: Castlecomer is a not-for-profit social enterprise, designed to rejuvenate the town of Castlecomer. It's volunteer-run and all profits go towards further social resources and development. Head along for a day of zip-lining, tree-top walking, axe-throwing, archery and mountain biking to name only a handful of the activities on offer!
Photo Credit to: @hobanhotelkilkenny
Aran Artisan Bakery + Bistro
Coffee
The bread here is a work of art and is on its own, worth the journey (near or far). But that's not all that's being offered up at Aran Artisan Bakery & Bistro. Stop in and stock-up on all things sourdough and beyond or stay awhile and wrap your lips around their all-day brunch options and seasonal menu specials.
Photo Credit to: @arankilkenny
Sea Shed Coffee+Surf
Coffee
County Derry is giving everyone a run for their money with this absolute jewel of a cafe. Sea Shed Coffee & Surf does what it says on the tin: a beautiful little shed serving up unbelievable coffee (and hot chocolates!) as well as doubling as a surf school if you're brave enough to don a wetsuit and get a little wet! Service with a smile and coffee with a view. Not to be missed on your Derry excursions!
Photo Credit to: @seashedcoffee
Binevenagh
Hiking + Walking
If you're in Derry but you don't fancy the tougher-going Benbradagh hike, head for the 5km Binevenagh looped walk instead! Follow forest paths toward the summit (there's a bit of a steep climb as you get toward the peak) and get ready for incredible summit views. If you happen to have a bit of luck in you and get there on a really clear day, you can see as far as Scotland!
Photo Credit to: @deborah_kane
Benbradagh
Hiking + Walking
Just over 11km worth of looped, mountainside hiking, Benbradagh is about as Irish a hike as you can get! Plenty of open countryside, boggy marsh land and wild surrounds, this trail rewards determined hikers with 360 degree views at the top. This is a manageable trail though best undertaken with plenty of prep and the right equipment as visibility and terrain can get tricky if the weather gets rough!
Photo Credit to: @brennanalicea
Coffee Time
Coffee
Thatch-roof cottages, an open fire, food homemade from scratch and hot coffee served in the cutest of surrounds. Kilmacrennan's Coffee Time had us at 'hello'! On the way to both Horn Head and Errigal (if you're coming from Letterkenny direction) make sure to pop in for some of the warmest hospitality you can find, from owners Mary-Rose and Branden!
Photo Credit to: @tiscoffeetime
Horn Head
Hiking + Walking
Part of The Wild Atlantic Way, Horn Head is a short but satisfying wander, set above the 180m stone cliffs along the coastline. This is a quiet area and frequented far less by large touring groups so if a bit of chill time in nature is what you're after, the Horn Head Peninsula is a wonderful place to be! You can make it a full looped walk and clock around 15km, starting and finishing the trail from nearby Dunfanaghy.
Photo Credit to: @mickh51
The Errigal Mountain
Hiking + Walking
Coming in at around 4.5km and a moderate 2.5 hour trek, The Errigal Mountain hike offers views of the Derryveagh Mountains and stunning Irish coastline. There are two peaks to summit here and you'll hit the highest (true) peak first though most walkers also head the extra 30 or so metres to the second just to round out the trip! There are plenty of peat bogs int his part of Donegal so lace your shoes tight or be prepared to lose a boot or two in the marsh!
Photo Credit to: @garethwrayphotography
Three Fools Coffee
Coffee
Touting 'good coffee, good service and having a good time', Three Fools Coffee on Grand Parade in Cork City is our kind of spot! They source coffee from all over the globe and they've even got an online store now so you can take the sweet taste of Three Fools home with you! Pop in for a bite, a chat and a cuppa before you hit the hiking trail!
Photo Credit to: @threefoolscoffee
Gougane Barra – Sli Sleitbhe
Hiking + Walking
Nestled in Gougane Barra Forest Park, Sli Sleitbhe is the toughest of a several trails offered in this gorgeous part of County Cork. Though it's only around 1.5-2 hours worth of hiking, the views are absolutely stunning and your perseverance will be rewarded with stunning views, ope mountainside walking and several crossings of Cork's River Lee. Pack a picnic for this glorious forest trail!
Photo Credit to: @aaron_woods_cobh
Beara Way
Hiking + Walking
From beginner to pro, cycle route options along the 140km Beara Way are plentiful and varied. The beauty of this stretch of road is that there's no specific start or stop point so you can pick up or drop off at any point you see fit! The Beara Way runs the entire length of the Beara Peninsula and is well way-marked. Make a weekend of it and stay overnight in any of the lovely towns and villages along the route. Just keep in mind that for one weekend in May the route is taken over by the Ring of Beara cycle event!
Photo Credit to: @naturzeitunterwegs
Ticknock
Hiking + Walking
A stone's throw from bustling Dublin City and accessible via public transport (with an extra 30 minute walk at the end but sure, you're wandering anyway!) Ticknock is a beautiful 10km-ish walk through mountain trails and forest paths. The views here are unbelievable so make sure your phone or camera battery is well charged!
Photo Credit to: @dublinguyphotos
Howth Head Cliff Walk
Hiking + Walking
An easy + beautiful day-trip from Dublin City Centre and a must-see for spectacular coastal views, Howth Head is a jewel in the Dublin trail walking crown. Tackle the full loop for a solid 3+ hour walk or break it off in chunks and stop for a refreshing beverage at Howth summit. This walk is popular among tourists and locals alike and is great for young families and dog-parents too!
Photo Credit to: @masha_white
Bodega
Coffee
The best sandwiches in Howth, top quality coffee and service with a very genuine smile, Bodega sits inside the Howth market and is the perfect spot for a pre-hike fuel-up or post-walk chill out. Try sister-spot Mercato (also in the market) for a cheeky wine on the weekend before you head back to the city!
Photo Credit to: @bodegahowth
Pog
Coffee
With two stunning (aesthetically + culinarily) locations in Dublin city, Pog (Irish for 'kiss') is about to open a third spot in the village of Howth. There's a big focus here on healthy offerings without any loss on flavour. Check out the full protein pancake menu for a visual taste of what's to come!
Photo Credit to: @pog_dublin
Kilmallock Cycle Hub
Cycling
83km routes down to a casual 22km, Kilmallock Cycling Hub offers four different loops with 8 different variations. You'll get great views of Ballyhoura and the Galty mountains, plus you can even detour into the Ballyhoura mountain biking area if you fancy even MORE variation in your cycling! There are also a good few historical sights to see so pick your route according to interest and away you go!
Photo Credit to: @ogaram
Lough Derg Way
Hiking + Walking
5 different trailheads make up the Lough Derg Way and they're all absolute gems. The whole shebang is a solid 64km endeavour so if you're taking off a large bite than make sure you're packing gear + hiking nouse in equal mix! Starting in Limerick City and running north along the River Shannon, there are plenty of options for pitstops along the way so plan your journey as fast or slow-moving as you like!
Photo Credit to: @discoverloughderg
The Milk Market
Point of Interest
Not *technically* a cafe in its own right but The Milk Market is an unmissable Limerick experience and there's so many lovely little pockets and vendors to choose from that you can't not include this spot on any Limerick list! Head over to Mungret Street, make a morning of it or get your caffeine fix to-go and then make your way to Lough Derg or Kilmallock!
Photo Credit to: @gympluscoffee
Bray to Greystones Cliff Walk
Hiking + Walking
Bray to Greystones is an incredibly popular walk amongst locals and tourists alike and it's really not hard to see why. The perfect amble along one of the finest stretches of coastline, this linear walk is easily accessed by public transport from Dublin and lands you in the loveliest little cliffside village of Greystones. Reasonably flat, this trail is suitable for most fitness and ability levels and gives spectacular views across the Irish sea. Make sure you leave time for a bite + a coffee at the end!
Photo Credit to: @gabyindublin
Ballinastoe
Cycling
BYO bike or hire one from the folk at Biking.ie and then get ready for the best in adrenaline-soaked, mud-filled downhill and single-track mountain biking County Wicklow has to offer! The mountain bike trails at Ballinastoe are some of the greatest Ireland has to offer and with plenty of twists, turns and technical rocky areas to keep you occupied (a little sore and A LOT dirty) for hours! Make sure to bring a change of clothes and dress for the weather - there's more than a few exposed stretches of trail here!
Photo Credit to: @gympluscoffee
The Happy Pear
Coffee
Something of a national treasure, the folk of The Happy Pear have been keeping the Irish public healthy and the tourist population full+happy since 2004 and their unofficial cafe HQ in Greystones, Co. Wicklow is a bit of a mecca for the walking-weary after tackling the Bray to Greystones cliff walk. Offering all things vegan and vegetarian (plus a full grocery store and workshops+courses), this gorgeous place is a non-negotiable stop-off if you find yourself in Greystones.
Photo Credit to: @thehappypear
The Fat Fox
Coffee
Originally operating a cafe in Camden Street, The Fat Fox opened its doors (errr... windows?) to it's new location in Wicklow with an incredible drive-thru coffee stop and all the Fat Fox trimmings! The coffee here is IMPECCABLE and it is a must-see-and-drink when in Greystones! Keep an eye out and ear to the ground as these guys have a new location announcement up their foxy sleeves in 2020!
Photo Credit to: @thefatfoxofficial
Burren Looped Walk
Hiking + Walking
Certainly not a long walk, but also most certainly not an easy one, the Burren Looped Walk in Co. Cavan is about 8km and will take you around 2 hours to complete, start to finish. This hike is a wonderful mix of forest trail and limestone grassland + pavement, with views of Cuilcagh Mountain and plenty of archaeological and historic sights along the way. Pack a picnic from Chapter 1 and make a day of it - there's picnic tables waiting for you in Blacklion!
Photo Credit to: @gympluscoffee
Chapter 1 Living Food
Coffee
Food AND shopping? Sign. Us. Up. Chapter 1 Living | Food gives you a wonderful retail experience alongside your coffee and snack situation! Important to note: these guys have ACTUAL New York bagels (like, from actual New York) and as if that wasn't enough, they also run a catering service! Set aside a bit of time here, in between you're trail wandering and make the most of the beautiful surroundings, awesome service and truly delicious food!
Photo Credit to: @chapter1livingfoodcavan
Cuilcagh Legnabrocky Trail
Hiking + Walking
A linear walking route, and now made somewhat Insta-famous by a lovely set of stairs, the Cuilcagh Legnabrocky Trail will definitely make you work for that perfect snap! Average walking times for this route vary wildly - from around 2 hours right up to 6 hours, and the trail does take a bit of stamina. Pace yourself, pack snacks + water and layer up! The weather can change rapidly (welcome to Ireland) and there's not a lot of shelter if it gets cold, windy or rainy.
Photo Credit to: @edelquinn94
Ubh Cafe
Coffee
Meaning 'egg' in Irish, Ubh Cafe in Newbridge, Kildare is a beautiful blend of good food, great coffee, gorgeous surroundings and impeccable service. Roasting their own beans since 2016, this lovely little spot is the perfect stop-off pre- or post-hike. Head in for brunch and whatever you do, don't miss the pork belly buns!
Photo Credit to: @ubhcafe
The Woodfield Cafe + Garden Centre
Coffee
A perfect little cafe nestled in a perfect little garden centre - what more could you ask for as part of your Co. Offaly weekend?! Head to Birr and stop in at the Woodfield Cafe and Garden Centre for a brunch, lunch or evening bite of grown-on-site produce and local-supplier delectables! Make sure you grab a slice of some of the incredible cakes on offer here and fuel yourself up for an active weekend!
Photo Credit to: @woodfieldcafe_and_gardencentre
Slieve Bloom Mountains
Hiking + Walking
There are LOADS of walking and hiking options in the Slieve Bloom Mountains so wherever you're at on the ability or fitness scale, there's something here for everyone. And if you're looking for a bit of info with your wandering, there are eco-walk options and guided walks too so you can learn more about the local flora, fauna and history of this beautiful part of Ireland.
Photo Credit to: @scott_coyne
The Offaly Way
Hiking + Walking
A long, linear route, The Offaly Way is around 38km so depending on how much time you have on your hands, commit to the whole thing (perhaps with an overnight stay!) or, carve out a chunk and enjoy a day out! There's a lovely mix of trail type here including forest paths and riverside routes, plus this is a mostly flat hike so it's easy enough on the joints if you don't fancy a high-hill scramble!
Photo Credit to: @gympluscoffee
Coffeewerk + Press
Coffee
Multiple floors of coffee aroma and exquisite Irish + international design pieces, Coffeewerk+Press is a slice of New York-cool amidst Galway unpretentiousness. These guys are also responsible for Artwerk Press and Wooden Heart Toys. We're hooked. Grab a coffee to go and then head for heartland!
Photo Credit to: @coffeewerkandpress
Sky Road Loop
Cycling
Coming in at around 16km, the Sky Road Loop cycling route is a reasonable 1-and-a-bit hours worth of incredible views and 19th Century history. Drink in views of the Atlantic, the islands of Inishturk, Turbot as well as Clifden town and catch a glimpse of Clifden Castle too.
Photo Credit to: @mr.mooose
The Twelve Bens
Hiking + Walking
Spanning from the centre to the north of Connemara National Park, the Twelve Bens are a group of mountains that offer a good height range and loads of trail options, catering to casual and experienced hikers alike. Spectacularly beautiful, the 'twelve pins' range from 400m (Bengoora-Diamond Hill) to 729m (Benbaun) and can be hiked individually or in looped + horseshoed groups.
Photo Credit to: @eyem_vision
The Wilds
Coffee
Sourcing their offerings from local, seasonal suppliers, The Wilds cafe in Enniscorthy is a dream for the walking-weary and, let's be honest here, anyone who likes to eat or drink. 3Fe coffee is the cup of choice (round of applause), the ricotta pancakes are to die for and there's a bit of home-and-lifestyle shopping to be done here once you've had your fill of caffeine and brunch!
Photo Credit to: @thewildsireland
Mount Leinster
Hiking + Walking
If you're looking for a bit of walking+hiking choose-your-own-adventure-style, then the trails offered by Mount Leinster could be for you (this spot has been used in the Tour of Ireland too so you could always switch walking for cycling). There are multiple routes to choose from here and you can pretty easily clock up a good few k's. Waymarking exists but you're best to pack your orienteering equipment for this part of the county - as with most of Ireland, the weather can change rapidly.
Photo Credit to: @jasdoc33
The Nine Stones Route
Cycling
Centred in County Wexford, the Nine Stones cycling route is part of Wexford's growing cycle trail network and dips in and out of Counties Carlow + Wicklow too! With some steep climbs come rewarding views and this particular 118km route is not for the faint of heart...! There are options for accommodation along the route so why not make a weekend of it and head for the hills!
Photo Credit to: @gympluscoffee
The Hazel House
Coffee
Dublin’s The Hazel House is a bit of a slashie, as in, it’s a cafe slash craft shop slash petting farm slash woodwork school and we are all about it. They also run events including mountain walks, movie nights and pizza & wine evenings. There’s no shortage of activity, charm or gumption ‘round these parts!
Pop in for a whole lot of South Dublin loveliness before (and after) your climbing or walking expeditions. There’s a full breakfast menu, gourmet salads & sandwiches, meats smoked on-site and sweet treats galore. Coffee is always on the go and basically, there’s no excuse not to stop by!
Photo Credit to: @thehazelhouse
The Wall
Indoor Activity
Is it raining in Dublin? Huh. Weird. How ‘bout a little indoor activity then? The Wall in Dublin’s Sandyford is a bouldering facility that claims status as Dublin's biggest and best.
You’ve heard of rock climbing, but what is bouldering you ask? Great question. Bouldering is very similar to rock climbing but there are no harnesses involved. Instead, climbers scale shorter, angular walls, kept safe by a very thick padded layer on the floor. The walls here start at a manageable 3.8m and top out at 4.5m on the competition wall.
It’s an easy enough sport to pick up and the only equipment you need is a pair of shoes and some chalk for your hands. Rumour has it that there’s a Super Nintendo system for any extended climbing waits you may find yourself in and Saturdays & Sundays they also run Aerial Silk classes if you fancied a bit of acrobatics after your Spiderman antics!
Photo Credit to: @thewalldublin
Seefingan
Point of Interest
On the border of Counties Dublin & Wicklow is the mountain Seefingan, rising 724m and neighboured by two similar peaks, Seefin and Seahan Hill. All three of these summits also have a significant historical marker on their crests in the form of a cairn or passage tomb and all are ripe for the hiking!
If you’re looking for a solid day’s worth of activity, look to walking the Seefin - Seefingan - Kippure loop. The views are spectacular on a clear day and the passage tomb of Seefin & the cairn at Seefingan date back up to 5,000 years ago. Mental.
The full loop will take around 5 hours to complete. If you are attempting the whole shebang, make sure you pack appropriate gear - low clouds can appear almost out of nowhere and reduce visibility down to just a couple of metres!
Photo Credit to: @nickyd0000
Lena’s Tearoom
Coffee
We’re working on an addition to the name of these gorgeous vintage tea rooms in Carrick-on-Shannon (Lena’s Tea+Coffee Room anyone?) but regardless, don’t let the name fool you. Lena sells coffee too and it's delish. As is her epic range of home-baked goodies.
Stop by Lena’s for a coffee and a sausage roll pre-activity and then swing back on your way home for another coffee, maybe just one more sausage roll….. and a few take-home sweet treats perhaps..?
Photo Credit to: @lenastearoom
Eagle’s Rock
Hiking + Walking
Abandoned at the edge of the Dartry Mountains, the towering Eagle’s Rock stands in the Glenade Valley and at 330m, it is the tallest free-standing rock tower in Ireland.
Eagle’s Rock itself has only ever been summited twice - once in 1971 and a second time in 2012. You can, however, get up close and personal with The Eagle and walk to its base. And while not a long walk (3km - ish), it can be a little challenging - there’s the potential for some hands-and-knees scrambling to be done!
Follow the track from the carpark, which will take you up to the base of the mountains and then it’s a mountainside walk across to the foot of Eagle’s Rock. We say ‘walk’, but it really is a bit of a slide-walk-crawl affair at points. Take your time and wear good boots!
Photo Credit to: @rrphoto.eu
Shannon Blueway
On the Water
Variety, as they say, is the spice of life and the Shannon Blueway has it in droves. With four separate ‘blueways’ - the Shannon and Shannon-Erne both snake through County Leitrim - you can choose your own adventure here for days.
Want to go for a wander? Get a bit of distance with the 14km Battlebridge Lock to Acres Lake walk - floating boardwalk and all! Or if cycling is more your thing, grab your wheels and take a trip along the Ballinamore Looped Cycling Trail. This 4.5km route takes you rolling along the Shannon-Erne Waterway and through the picturesque town of Ballinamore.
The Blueway has a range of other organised, on-the-water activities dotted along its margins as well, so if you’re looking for a bit of canoeing, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, or maybe fancy hiring a motorboat then there’s a plethora of options for you!
Photo Credit to: @bluewaysireland.ie
Smuggler’s Cafe
Coffee
We’ll admit, Portmagee’s Smuggler’s Cafe is probably technically a restaurant but the coffee is GoOoOoOd and the food is exactly what you’ll need after your jam-packed weekend of stretching yourself.
Grab a coffee & a bite, and if the weather is cooperating - perch yourself on one of the picnic tables outside to soak in the views and the sunshine. If it's a bit more wet and wild, slide inside for a warm snack and a hot choccy. Bliss.
Photo Credit to: @smugglerscafeportmagee
Kerry International Dark Sky Reserve
Point of Interest
Ireland’s first Dark-Sky Reserve and the only one in the Northern Hemisphere with a Gold Tier designation, the Kerry Dark Sky Reserve is a seriously magical sight to see. The reserve covers a whopping 700 square kilometres and if you’re looking for the best stargazing opportunities, you best head straight for the core zone.
The Glen (St. Finian’s Bay) is only about 15 minutes drive from both Portmagee and Ballinskelligs (though one half of Ballinskelligs is actually in the core zone too) and is a beautiful spot within the core to get your astro-tourism game on. If you have a telescope then definitely bring it with you for some amplified night-sky watching, but the light pollution here is so low that you really only need your own two eyes!
Photo Credit to: @davidbehan
Bolus Head Loop Walk
Hiking + Walking
Located on the Iveragh Peninsula and coming in at around 9kms (or about a 3-hour walk), the Bolus Head Loop is a lovely little activity for a sunny weekend day. Drink in clear views of the Skelligs and across the Atlantic as you wind and climb your way toward the Bolus Head apex.
The summit offers more incredible views of St. Finian’s & Ballinskelligs Bays and you can spend a bit of time exploring around the ruins of the old World War II army barracks at Bolus Head. Keep your eyes peeled for a bit of wildlife in these parts too - gannets, sea eagles, dolphins and puffins have been known to frequent the skies and waters!
Photo Credit to: @echtierland
Church Lane
Coffee
Church Lane Coffee in Newry has found a most excellent niche in procuring and providing specialty coffee, brunch, and casual Mexican dining! Ehrm… you had us at 'Hello'…
The late-opening cafe works alongside Belfast company Bailies Coffee Roasters to source some of the best beans on the planet. These guys also do a breakfast burrito as well as a selection of lunchtime tacos so really, why wouldn’t you? In fact, do you really need to climb that mountain today…?
Photo Credit to: @church_lane_coffee
Mourne Range
Hiking + Walking
There are SO MANY OPTIONS in this region that we almost didn’t know where to begin. There is a multitude of peaks in the Mountains of Mourne and the walks & hikes here range from around 1 mile to 22+ miles so there are options for all fitness, age, and ability levels!
For a quiet, ambling coastal stroll, check out the Annalong Coastal Path - a linear route of about 1.5 miles taking in the Annalong Cornmill, Annalong Harbour and breathtaking views of the Mourne Mountains. If you want a bit more of a challenge, Slieve Donard is the highest peak at 850 metres and is about 4.6km from starting point to summit - not bad for the views you’ll get at the top! The return trip will take around 4-5 hours and the hike is steep in places so best to be kitted out with good equipment.
If you’re up for an extended adventure, the Mourne Wall Challenge might be for you! This circular hike follows the Mourne Wall for about 32km, taking in 7 of the Mourne Mountain’s highest peaks. Happy trails!
Photo Credit to: @gympluscoffee
Rostrevor Mountain Biking
Cycling
The Rostrevor mountain biking trails are located alongside Lough Carlingford and run throughout the Rostrevor Forest to the North of the lough.
There are four main trails to choose from: Red Trail, Black Trail, ‘Mega Mission’ and ‘On the Pulse’, catering to newbies as well as the more experienced riders among us. Bike hire is available on-site and there’s even a service to take you to the top of the trails for those of you who are far more focused on the downhill portion! Before you start your rapid descent though, make sure you make the most of the insane coastal views at the top!
Photo Credit to: @gympluscoffee
The Heron Cafe
Point of Interest
Happy, quirky, Cork-born and highly caffeinated (just like us - no wonder we like this place), The Heron Cafe in Fermoy is going to give you the refuelling and re-energising you need to make it up the mountain and then coast down the hill!
The beauty of the latte art here is matched in flavour by the Badger & Dodo coffee underneath and the menu is perfect for pre- or post-trail snacks. Famous for their baked goods, grab a few cookies (or cakes or slices) for your backpack and get moving!
Photo Credit to: @theheroncafe
Galtymore and the Cushnabinnia Horseshoe
Hiking + Walking
There are a good few walking and hiking options in this part of the country but the Galtee Mountain Route is one that is particularly breathtaking. Rising 919m this 13km route will take you right to the high-point of the mountain which sits smack bang on the Limerick-Tipperary border.
There are a couple of route options here to extend or shorten your walking time but around the 5-hour mark is what you can expect all in all. With winding rivers, craggy cliffs, bogs, climbs, icy lakes and tales of mythical snakes, the inland mountain range of The Galtees will keep you on your toes for the day.
There’s also a little Buddha statue that someone has placed gently on the summit, plus a structure that looks decidedly like a certain company’s logo and we’re not saying, but we are just saying… potential awesome things might come to those with the most imaginative ways of incorporating said structure into Hoodies in the Wild snaps… Possibly.
Photo Credit to: @allaroundireland
Ballyhoura Mountain Biking
Cycling
With biking trails starting at a manageable 6km and skyrocketing up to an expert 50km, mountain biking in Limerick’s Ballyhoura will fit the bill no matter your skill level. There’s bike hire available close by as well so if you don’t fancy lugging your gear (or don’t have any!), then you can still experience the beauty of Ireland’s largest mountain bike trail network.
Design by famed trail-designer Dafydd Davis, the system has been created to get a good amount of variance in your ride including single-track, boardwalk and forest road sections. If you’re keen to experience Ballyhoura but aren’t so convinced on the speedy cycling option, never fear! There are way-marked walking routes here as well so you can take a bit more time meandering, rather than careening up and down the hills!
Photo Credit to: @tommy_cmedia
This Must Be The Place
Coffee
There’s no doubt about it, This absolutely IS the place! Fresh, cute, quaint. Coffee to die for. Food to live for. A loyal local following and a blossoming ephemeral one, This Must Be The Place is a gorgeous cafe and eatery is destined for great things (and now, we are destined for regular travel to Mayo to visit!).
Run by a husband & wife team, this gorgeous spot sources local produce and serves perfectly extracted caffeine hits. These guys have also made cabbage dishes look like Michelin-star plates and we couldn’t be any more into this. Wait...
...We discovered they do beetroot lattes... (whaaaa…?!). SOLD.
Photo Credit to: @thismustbetheplace_westport
Mweelrea Summit
Hiking + Walking
This 814m summit hike is one for the more experienced hillwalkers among us - there can be some fairly hairy climbs and the weather at the peak can change rapidly. Parts of the course can be completed in around 3 hours but if you’re looking for the full Mweelrea experience, you’ll need to set aside around 8 hours for the 16+km trail!
Mweelrea Mountain is bounded by Ireland’s only true fiord, Killary Harbour to the southwest and Doolough Pass, a glacial valley to the northeast. It’s the highest peak in Connaught and for the ambitious hikers and climbers out there, your grand efforts will be rewarded with vast vistas across the Atlantic and back toward inland Ireland.
If you’re ready to tackle this monster of a hill, make sure you go prepared - compass, maps, proper attire, water, phones and chargers (as well as great personal care) are all requisite!
Photo Credit to: @gympluscoffee
Clare Island
Hiking + Walking
Around 3.5 miles off Mayo’s coast lies Clare Island, long-ago home to infamous Irish ‘Pirate Queen’ Grace O’Malley’s forebears and contemporary home to walking and cycling routes, 2 pubs, some accommodation and plenty of fascinating history.
There are four different walking routes on the island as well as bike hire if you fancy exploring the longer-to-get-to parts of the island. Check out ‘The Great Hill’ of Knockmore, the historical sites along the Clew Bay Archaeological trail or scale the Knocknaveen mountain.
Keep an eye out for the island’s spectacular wildlife including puffins, otters, grey seals, kestrels, and gannets and if it’s summertime (or you’re really brave), bring your togs for a dip on Clare Island’s sandy beaches!
Photo Credit to: @gympluscoffee
The Stuffed Olive
Coffee
Run by a Mam-and-two-daughters team, The Stuffed Olive is a cafe, wine & food store in the town of Bantry and stocks pretty much everything that we want to eat and drink all the time.
The ladies at The Stuffed Olive create a selection of lunches, salads, and baked goods daily using as much local produce as is humanly possible. They also stock a posh selection of wines, chocolates and pasta. The coffee is divine, there’s outdoor seating and it’s the perfect place to stop and stock up on delectable goodies to take to Dursey Island with you!
Photo Credit to: @thestuffedolive
Dzogchen Beara Buddhist Meditation Centre
Meditation
The only one of its kind on our Make Life Richer Map, and the first Tibetan Temple in Ireland, Dzogchen Beara Buddhist Meditation Centre is a sanctuary of calm in a very speedy world. Physical activity is key, obviously but a big part of enriching your life is focusing inward and looking after yourself on a mental health level.
Dzogchen Beara is located in the townland of Allihies and looks out at the sparkling Bantry Bay. They offer drop-in meditation and mindfulness sessions as well as full-scale self-care and meditation retreats and a care centre where guests can stay and experience one-on-one sessions with trained staff.
The centre also has a cafe on site so if you’re feeling a little peckish after a meditation sesh, swing by and soak in the views from their outdoor courtyard.
Photo Credit to: @dzogchenbeara
Dursey Island & Cable Car
Point of Interest
Just off the Beara Peninsula, deep in West Cork lies Dursey Island, home to a handful of semi-permanent residents and frequented by dolphins, whales, and seabirds throughout the year.
Accessible to the public via Ireland’s only working Cable Car - The Dursey Island Cable Car, naturally - the island is perfect for a sunny Sunday stroll through rolling hills, along rugged coastlines and for exceptional wildlife viewing. The Cable Car was built, in part at least, due to the turbulent nature of the Dursey Sound, the water body separating Dursey from the mainland.
There are no shops, pubs, or restaurants on the island so if you’re planning on wandering, bring a little something to keep your sustenance levels up!
Photo Credit to: @allaroundireland
Middletown Coffee Co.
Coffee
With a rotating menu of coffee providers (including Dublin’s incredible 3fE coffee), this cafe is one of the prettiest, tastiest, loveliest sights we’ve ever seen. Nestled in the town of Ballymena, Middletown Coffee Co. started as a pop-up enterprise before branching out with their own permanent physical location back in 2015.
Run lovingly by Ballymena natives, M-Town caters to a hungry as well as thirsty crowd and their menu is packed with mouth-watering dishes fuelled by local producers. The menu updates regularly so it might call for a couple of return visits!
Also, whoever is curating their Insta feed is a legend.
Photo Credit to: @mtowncoffee
Fairhead Walk
Hiking + Walking
There are a few trail options in this stunning part of Northern Ireland. Fairhead, aka Benmore aka Bhinn Mhór offers walks ranging from 1.5 to around 3.4 miles in length so you’re bound to find something to meet your desired exertion levels!
The shortest of the routes, Lough Dubh Walk (1.5 miles) is a loop trail taking you up to the Fairhead cliffs, past the Black Lake and through picturesque farmland. At the other end of the Fairhead spectrum is the Murlough View Walk which includes a few steep inclines, rewarded with spectacular sea views over Murlough Bay.
This is a region steeped in history and myth - The Fairhead Cliffs overlook the Sea of Moyle which, according to legend is the 900-year place of exile for the Children of Lir - turned into swans and banished because of an evil curse!
Photo Credit to: @gympluscoffee
Carrick-A-Rede
Point of Interest
Carrick-a-Rede, a tiny island just off the tip of Northern Ireland is home to a single dwelling (a fisherman’s cottage) and can be accessed only by the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge which swings nearly 100ft above the Atlantic and is 20m end-to-end. Constructed by salmon fisherman in the mid-1700s the bridge was used frequently by anglers catching fish that had arrived from the Rivers Bann and Bush to spawn.
The island itself is a beautiful spot for a short wander but if you fancied a slightly longer jaunt, the Carrick-a-Rede Coastal Walk is a great add-on to this little journey. The path follows the coast toward Ballintoy and is a gentle hour-long amble, good for all levels and all family members - pups included!
Photo Credit to: @turismoirlanda
The Pod
Coffee
Parked up at the Largy Viewpoint, sits what is possibly the World’s Cutest-And-Most-Hipster Coffee Caravan to ever grace this green & blue planet of ours. The Pod is a ‘Bespoke Mobile Specialty Coffee Bar’ that spends its days far up the country and high above the sea, dispensing hot mugs of coffee from Climpson & Sons roasters of London Fields.
Pop into The Pod for a caffeine boost + sweet treat, and catch the first morning rays before the trek ahead of you, or the last light of the day before your journey home.
Photo Credit to: @the_pod
Bluestack Mountain Walk
Hiking + Walking
Sectioned into six different routes, the Bluestack Mountain Way is 65km of trail that can be devoured in a 2.5 hour bus tour, broken off into meals with a few one-day trips to the area or nibbled at throughout a 3-day, overnight hike. Your choice how you’d like to tackle this beast and how long you’d like to take doing it! The trail in its entirety joins Donegal Township with the small west coast village of Ardara and there are plenty of places you can stop over along the way for accommodation and something warm in the belly!
The walk will have you meandering through some of the most beautiful scenery Ireland has to offer. Pass by Lough Eske on your way towards Disert where there is a mysterious mountain graveyard site. Continue on through the boglands of Meenawannia and alongside the Owenea River. This is a longer walk but there are few major inclines so the pace can be set to any level!
Sliabh Liag
Hiking + Walking
Little known fact: It’s the cliffs at Sliabh Liag not the Cliffs of Moher that are the tallest accessible cliffs in Ireland.* Who knew?! There’s lots going on up here so you can pick and choose how you want to tackle these giants of the north which, by the way, are an intimidating 1,972ft tall - twice the height of the Eiffel Tower.
You’ve a few different walking & sightseeing options here: there are two car parks on the way up to Sliabh Liag and It’s about a 1.5km walk from the lower car park up towards the cliffs. If that length doesn’t boost your adrenaline enough, the Pilgrim Path is an epic add-on to the walk that will take you up a little higher and along a climb rich in ancient Irish history. This one’s not for the faint of heart though - Stay curious AND cautious folks!
*The cliffs at Sliabh Liag are technically the fifth tallest cliffs in Europe and the second tallest in Ireland behind Achill Island in Co. Mayo. They are, however, the tallest accessible cliffs as the other four are either completely inaccessible or accessible only with special equipment.
Dodi Cafe
Coffee
As if the small surfing town of Lahinch could be running any hotter... in strolls Doria, owner of brunch & lunch eatery DODI Cafe adding a swift kick of cool to the seaside setting.
The cafe opens Friday to Monday and serves up a Middle-Eastern inspired menu including poached eggs on greens, sweet potato hash, tabbouleh & chorizo dishes, and lemon & Poppyseed pancakes (plus they do matcha lattes!). Clean, minimalist interiors with a seaside calm and a to-die-for menu? Sign. Us. Up.
Photo Credit to: @dodicafe
North Clare Cycle Network
Cycling
Starting at 18km (around 1.5 hours) and stepping up gradually to a whopping 47km (closer to 5 hours), these four coastal and Burren-based cycling routes will keep you busy for Day One and possibly more than a little sore on Day Two!
Each route has its trailhead centred in the village of Doolin (the unofficial home of trad music), and all have various stop-offs along the way. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or an intrepid newbie, don’t forget to take a few breaks so you can catch your breath and take in the spectacular surrounding landscapes.
If you’re looking for an extra challenge, take a tour up to Corkscrew Hill between Ballyvaughan and Lisdoonvarna. This roadway takes in hairpin turns and steep inclines - all worth it for the views and bragging rights!
Black Head Loop Walk
Hiking + Walking
The trailhead for this 26km walk in County Clare sets you in Fanore, a quiet beach town at the mouth of the Caher River. You’ll start the loop on the seaside taking in those delightful coastal views before winding your way through mountain passes, Burren landscape, a few stretches of sealed roads and alongside stone walls. If you time it right, the wildflowers here are spectacular when in bloom.
This hike is perfect if you’re looking for a bit of a challenge: at a decent pace, the loop will take you around 7 hours to complete and there are a few steep inclines along the way. If you’re short on time though or looking to break things up a bit, the walk can be cinched in the middle (by cutting through the Caher Valley) and split nicely into a nearly-even 2 walks - Saturday AND Sunday sorted!
Photo Credit to: @fredcorcoranphotographer
Coach House Coffee
Coffee
Smack-bang in the middle of the Waterford Greenway, Coach House Coffee is our top pick for a midway cycle or walking break on your Waterford tour. These guys are serious about their coffee and source all beans through Coffee With a Conscience. Coffee is delivered weekly to the cafe (fresh-to-death-beans anyone?) and you can even check the source, roasting dates, and roaster on their blackboard!
Lunch menu options abound (sambos, burgers, salads, and sweet treats) plus there’s a decent range of options for our vegetarian community too!
Photo Credit to: @coachhousecoffeeirl
Coumshingaun Loop Walk
Hiking + Walking
A four hour-ish commitment if you’re walking right to the top but the incline is moderate and the view is INSANE (serious business photo ops up here lads). Nestled in the Comeragh Mountains, the Coumshingaun Loop will take you around the perimeter of the Coumshingaun Corrie Lake where you can play a game of ECHO! (ECHo... ECho... Echo… echo...) to your heart’s content.
This natural amphitheatre is one of the most spectacular in all of Europe. The surrounding cliffs rise 365m above the lake and legend has it a WWI Veteran nicknamed ‘The Hermit of Lackendara’ inhabited one of the lake-side caves upon his return from the war.
Photo Credit to: @gympluscoffee
The Waterford Greenway
Cycling
If cycling or walking is your jam then The Waterford Greenway needs to move up on your list of places to go and things to do. It’s 46km of off-road bliss stretching the length of the old Waterford to Dungarvan railway line. No, you don’t have to do all of it. Yes, we would LOVE to hear from you if you do.
The Greenway is a dog-friendly trail and there are plenty of history- and myth-rich spots along the way for short breaks. Our personal favourite is the Cloughlowrish Stone near Shanacool which, according to legend, you cannot tell a lie in front of or the stone will split in two!
Photo Credit to: @waterfordgreenway
