Author Archive: HIBlog

Lough Bawn House

Go Exploring at Lough Bawn House

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Book a stay with Verity and go exploring at Lough Bawn House!

The house and estate has been in the same family since it was built in 1820 by George Battesby, the current occupier, Verity’s, Great Great Great Grandfather. The house is being lovingly restored by Verity, having returned from England to live in the family home. Verity ran her own catering and events company in Gloucestershire for over 20 years. Her passion for cooking & entertaining shines through. Guests enjoy an extensive and varied breakfast with much of the ingredients being grown or reared by Verity herself, and delicious dinners are on offer. Breakfast is eaten in the large newly restored dining room, with wonderful views over the lough and of the parading peacocks on the rolling lawns.

Both of the large, en-suite rooms have fine views down the length of Lough Bane and over the wooded hills while the single room and the twin/double room have sweeping views of the surrounding parklands. Guests are warmly welcomed and encouraged to relax in the homely drawing room in front of a roaring fire or to explore one of the many local historical sites, gardens, walks or cultural entertainments on offer.

What to do!

There is so much you can do while staying in Lough Bawn House! Travel westwards along the River Shannon to the historic town of Athlone, Mullingar and Kells. Heading east brings you to the vibrant city of Dublin! Ramble through beech tree forest at Mullaghmeen or cycle on the Royal Canal Greenway and Old Railway Line.

Play golf at courses in Mullingar, Virginia, Kells Headfort, Slieve Russel, and the K Club. Visit the Lough Crew Megalithic Cairns & Passage Tombs, Hill of Uineach and Newgrange. Visit Tullynally Castle, Belvedere House, Loughcrew, and Ballindoolin gardens. Explore Ireland’s Ancient East with historic places like Fore Abbey with it’s Nellie and Nancy walk and Trim Castle. Kilbeggan Distillery Experience, Lockes Museum, Causey Farm, Sheridan’s Cheesemongers and farm shop.

Click HERE to learn more or to book a stay with Verity and go exploring at Lough Bawn House

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Visit Donegal with Hidden Ireland

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Why not visit Donegal with Hidden Ireland and stay in the beautiful Frewin?

Formerly a rectory, Frewin is a fine Victorian house in mature, wooded grounds on the outskirts of Ramelton, Donegal, skillfully restored by its current owners, Thomas Coyle and Regina Gibson. Both are natural hosts and their warm, genuine welcome makes their guests instantly at home. Ramelton is a charming heritage town on the River Lennon and a historic early port. Home to many important buildings from the 17th and 18th centuries. This is one of the most beautiful parts of Ireland with wonderful empty beaches, rivers, lakes, a spectacularly rugged coastline and the mountains of the Glenveagh National Park.

Ramelton was once prosperous as a centre of the linen industry and a port, and still largely unspoilt today. There is an early church and the many merchants’ houses are fine examples of 17th century and Georgian architecture. There are also a number of large stone warehouses along the quaysides.

At the head of Lough Swilly, a deep inlet of the sea reaching right into the heart of County Donegal, Frewin is located in one of the most beautiful parts of the county. The area is surrounded by high mountains, yet is within a short drive of wonderful, almost-deserted beaches. Lough Swilly, Mulroy Bay and Sheephaven, lakes and wild open countryside, all bathed in the brilliantly clear Donegal light. Nearby is the Glenveagh National Park, centred on the Victorian-baronial Glenveagh Castle with its spectacular gardens, and Derek Hill’s Glebe House and Gallery at Church Hill.

Click HERE to learn more about Frewin or to book your stay with Thomas & Regina in beautiful Ramelton.

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Slieve Bloom Mountain Bike Trails

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Are you looking for an activities holiday this year? If the outdoors is your thing then why not try the Slieve Bloom Mountain Bike Trails.

There are currently 35km of new mountain bike trails (MTB), with trailheads at Kinnitty and Baunreagh. These trails, which are waymarked in one direction and designed specially for mountain bike use, vary in difficulty. They range from the grade trails: ‘blue’ (moderate, with some single-track sections) to ‘red’ (difficult/severe, with challenging climbs and tricky descent).

The trails have been developed by Coillte in partnership with Offaly and Laois County Councils and are funded by the Dept. of Rural and Community Development.

There will eventually be 100km of biking tracks to explore on the Slieve Bloom Mountain Bike Trail, so keep an eye on the site for new developments!

Where to Stay?

While you are considering being on the adventurous side you can book your stay with Hannah & Paddy at Roundwood House which is set at the foot of the Slieve Bloom Mountains. Just over an hour from Dublin, Roundwood House is surrounded by mature trees, lawns, gardens and delightful, extensive outbuildings. It is a historic home of architectural interest and was once described by Desmond Guinness, co-founder of the Irish Georgian Society, as having a “marvellous doll’s house-like quality”.

A rambling avenue leads you through a welcoming committee of animals and into a bright, spacious hall. There is a drawing room, study and dining room, where the combination of log fires, antique furniture and absence of televisions may actually make you believe you’ve been transported back to the 18th century. (A bottle of wine tends to hasten the trip.)

The area is picturesque, unspoiled and peaceful – a delight for hikers and cyclists of all abilities. Horse-riding, fishing and golfing are also available locally. There is no reason why you can not take some time off and feel the wind in your face while you are out on the mountain bike and then relax in the evening and let Paddy cook you dinner that will awaken all your taste buds!

Click HERE to book your stay! Do not delay!

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Yoga, Music & Poetry in Ireland

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Yoga, Music and Poetry in Ireland

Temple House

 

 

 

 

 

We’ve got something special to share with you. If you like poetry, music and yoga in good company read on. There are only a few spots left.

Join Irish yoga teacher Dearbhla Kelly along with Irish musicians Liam Ó’Maonlaí, Rónán Ó’ Snodaigh and Grammy-nominated kirtan singer Dave Stringer, for a week-long immersion in Irish culture, music, poetry and landscape. Stay at the historic Temple House in County Sligo close to the Atlantic coast, Neolithic sites and Yeats’ country.

This one of a kind yoga retreat curated by Dearbhla will showcase the stunning natural beauty of the Emerald Isle and introduce you to the depth and richness of Irish culture, the deliciousness of Irish farm-to-table food and the warmth and friendliness of Irish hospitality.

Registration fee is per person. Room fees are not based on occu

pancy. Cost for each room can be shared amongst occupants.

HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE:

Personal interaction with world renowned traditional musicians Liam and Rónán, both of whom are steeped in Irish history and folklore, as well as being native speakers of Gaelic

Daily morning yoga classes with Dearbhla featuring musical accompaniment by Dave

Storytelling evening with Irish seanchaí

Tour of Yeats country with local Yeats scholar

Guided visits to Neolithic sites (Carrowkeel Megalithic Passage Tomb Site 3200 B.C.E. – 2400 B.C.E and Queen Maeve’s Cairn https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Knocknarea 3000 B.C.E)

Kirtan with Dave – you are welcome to bring musical instruments to join in

Evening music jams with Dave, Liam and Rónán

Irish pubs and optional activities at Temple House (bodhrán classes with Rónán, horse riding, eagle flying, fishing etc)

 

REGISTRATION INCLUDES:

  • Coach to / from Dublin

  • 6 dinners at Temple House

  • 4 lunches at Temple House

  • 6 breakfasts at Temple House

  • Closing brunch at Temple House

  • 7 morning yoga classes with musical accompaniment

  • Evening music performances

  • Guided tours of Yeats Country and Neolithic sites

NOT INCLUDED:

  • Flights

  • Hotel in Dublin

  • Covid tests

  • 1 evening meal at a restaurant in Sligo town

  • 2 pub lunches

  • Alcoholic beverages

  • Optional activities

 

*Registration fee is per person. Room fees are not based on occupancy. Cost for each room can be shared amongst occupants. Many rooms are suitable for 2-3 persons.

Email Dearbhla with questions about anything: hotels in Dublin, activities, on site accommodations.

“Click here to register for Yoga, Music & Poetry in Ireland at BrightStar Events”

Quay House Self Catering

Self-catering stay at The Quay House Clifden

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Book a Self-Catering Stay at The Quay House Clifden

Perched on the edge of Clifden Harbour, The Quay House is just minutes from the centre of this vibrant, engaging town. Dating from 1820, it is Clifden’s oldest house, originally built for the harbour master. The present owners are Paddy and Julia Foyle, whose family have been involved in tourism in the region for almost a century. They are constantly on hand to share their suggestions of what to see and do. Paddy & Julia also preside over the finest of breakfasts–the perfect start to a day exploring Connemara.

The Quay House stands right beside the harbour in the market town of Clifden, long considered the capital of Connemara, a beautiful region of mountains, lakes and coastal inlets and the most westerly part of County Galway. Fishing boats and traditional gaff-rigged Galway Hookers are moored right alongside the house, yet it is just a short walk from the centre of the town, with its colourful restaurants, cafes and shops.

The Quay House was originally built as a residence for the Harbour Master, but it subsequently became a Franciscan monastery, then a convent and finally a Country House Bed & Breakfast owned by the Pye family, so it has had a long and chequered career. Today it is run as a Town House by the Foyle family, whose forebears have been entertaining guests in Connemara for nearly a century.

In the self catering part of the Quay house there is a fully fitted kitchen complete with washing machine & dryer and all mod cons. The decoration of the main reception rooms displays their eclectic collection of pictures and objects, which reflects their wide-ranging interests and tastes, and their close attention to detail. The bedrooms are also individually decorated and furnished. Some have good antiques and original paintings, several have working fireplaces, and all overlook the harbour.

Nearby are wonderful beaches, coastal walks, sea and trout fishing, horse riding, cycling, several golf courses and links, and a vast choice of hill and mountain walks.

Click HERE to book a Self-catering stay in The Quay House in Clifden Co Galway.

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Celebrate your wedding with Hidden Ireland

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Celebrate your wedding in a truly unique style at one of Hidden Ireland’s beautiful historic houses.

With our comprehensive selection of the best wedding venues in Ireland, we can offer a breath-taking setting for your big day, with the ceremony taking place in either the verdant gardens or luxurious period interiors of one our many stunning houses, you will be sure to have memories to cherish forever, and photographs that will be the envy of everyone you know.

By choosing a Hidden Ireland house you will ensure your wedding is a lavish and memorable occasion, with photographs and memories worthy of a grand period drama, and a sense of romance and tradition that is unrivalled.

What’s more, Hidden Ireland will lend you all of their wedding planning expertise and knowledge, ensuring that everything runs smoothly and stress free throughout.

Take advantage of our expertise, experience and enticing selection of the best wedding venues in Ireland

When planning a wedding you always want to make sure you can standout, not just with a theme and style that are your own, but with a venue that will set you apart from the crowd. Hidden Ireland can offer you just that, with all their venues offering character, tradition and personality. Not to mention the benefits of their renowned catering expertise and years of wedding planning experience.

Hidden Ireland houses have been fulfilling the wishes of couples for years, always making sure to take the time to listen and understand, never losing sight of what matters. This is why we have put together a hand-picked list of unique venues for you to browse through, each with their own unique qualities and style. Once you’ve found the right one for you, simply contact the venue and you’re on your way to the perfect wedding.

Our Stylish wedding venues are renowned for their grand receptions

A Hidden Ireland property is a fantastic choice for any union, with their historic properties guaranteed to imbue the proceedings, and startle your guests, with a sense of grandeur and elegance. Supported by Hidden Ireland’s excellent food and wine, and with exclusive use of the property, you can enjoy the perfect wedding experience.

Several of our houses are spacious enough to accommodate the wedding party in one splendid room. Others, particularly those with sprawling and breath-taking gardens, provide the perfect backdrop for a marquee wedding.

Click HERE to see all our wedding venues located all around Ireland.

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Temple House

Temple House on the Wild Atlantic Way

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This is the perfect time to book a stay at Temple House on the Wild Atlantic Way and explore all that Sligo has to offer!

Temple House, Ballymote, Co Sligo is one of the finest estates in the west of Ireland. The great house, which was remodeled in 1864. Nestled in a wooded demesne, looking out over the Templars’ castle to Templehouse Lake. Despite its vast size this is a comfortable, welcoming family home with many original contents. The owners are Roderick and Helena Perceval, whose family has lived here since 1665. Temple House is surrounded by an area of outstanding natural beauty, with beaches, mountains and numerous sites of archaeological interest. It is a haven for the outdoor enthusiast, with fishing on a private lake and miles of lovely woodland walks.

Temple House is a vast classical house in the Georgian style, set in the centre of a beautiful 1000 acre west of Ireland estate. This of course is ideal for exploring the Wild Atlantic Way and in particular Sligo, Donegal, Leitrim & Mayo.  After a day exploring you can then return to the house and be welcomed with a mouthwatering menu for dinner and plenty of rest and relaxation afterwards. Sipping a glass of wine while overlooking Temple House Lake and the 13th century castle of the Knights Templar.

Roderick & Helena are welcoming and consummate hosts taking great pride in the character of their home, north west Ireland and the special nature of Temple House Estate.

Temple House still retains its authentic decoration and furniture from that period and delicate Chinese porcelain is intermingled with solid County Sligo squires and their ladies. The main reception rooms are large, bright and comfortable, while the bedrooms – several have canopied beds – are particularly pleasant, with superb views.

Click HERE to book a stay at Temple House on the Wild Atlantic Way

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Ballynatray Coach House Area

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Are you looking to book a beautiful family holiday this summer? Book your stay at Ballynatray Coach House Area where there is plenty of room for a family to spend some quality time together. Located right on the edge of Ireland’s Ancient East Ballynatray is the perfect spot to explore the south. There are four different self-catering options in the Coach House area.

The Coach House

Ballynatray Estate Ballynatray Estate

The two storey Coach House takes centre stage in Ballynatray Coach House Area. It has been transformed into a beautiful, luxurious 4 bedroom self catering property. Downstairs, a very relaxing style open plan kitchen & dining area with comfortable couches which allow for great conversations even while you prepare a bite of lunch or dinner.

 

The Garden Flat

Ballynatray Estate Ballynatray Estate

Set in the Ballynatray Coach House Area, the Garden Flat has two double bedrooms on the ground floor which would ideally suit two couples. One of the bedrooms can be changed to be a twin room. A large bathroom and the kitchen is well equipped, decorated in the style of a country kitchen with painted units, stone floor and large kitchen table to seat ten.

 

The Groom’s Flat

Ballynatray Estate Ballynatray Estate

Renovated & situated in the Coach House Area the Groom’s Flat is an ideal self catering option for two people. The Groom’s Flat now boasts a beautiful open plan structure which allows guests the feel of an authentic cottage; complete with the original stone floor in the kitchen and a small wood burner. The double bedroom benefits from French doors, whilst the heritage bathroom includes a shower and is decorated with small hand painted tiles.

 

The Garden House

The Garden House The Garden House

The Garden House is a quaint little cottage that sits at the bottom of the walled garden. Set across two floors it boasts a beautiful double room complete with comfortable armchairs either side of the open fire. This is an ideal adult only location where romantic notions are never very far away.

Click HERE to book a stay in the Ballynatray Coach House Area.

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Happy St Patrick's Day

Happy St Patrick’s Day!

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Happy St Patrick’s Day from everyone in Hidden Ireland!

The Confessio of Patrick tell us that when Patrick was about sixteen, he was captured by Irish pirates from his home in Britain. Taken as a slave to Ireland, looking after animals; he lived there for six years before escaping and returning to his family. After becoming a cleric, he returned to northern and western Ireland. In later life, he served as a bishop, but little is known about the places where he worked. By the seventh century, he had already come to be revered as the patron saint of Ireland.

Saint Patrick’s Day is observed on 17 March, the supposed date of his death. It is celebrated inside and outside Ireland as a religious and cultural holiday.

Legends

The Shamrock – Patrick taught the Irish about the doctrine of the Holy Trinity by showing people the shamrock, a three-leafed plant, using it to illustrate the Christian teaching of three persons in one God.

Snakes – St Patrick is said to have banished all the snakes from Ireland.

Hidden Ireland

Hidden Ireland has houses dotted all over Ireland close to places where St Patrick spent time. From the slopes of the Mourne Mountains to Croagh Patrick on the Wild Atlantic Way. Choose one of our Country House B&B’s, Exclusive Rentals or Cottages & Gate Lodges to stay in as you explore the Emerald Isle!

Why not buy someone a Hidden Ireland Gift Voucher so they can explore all that Ireland has to offer?

Happy St Patrick’s Day everyone!

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Wild Atlantic Way

Explore the Wild Atlantic Way

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Is it time you went to explore the Wild Atlantic Way?

The Wild Atlantic Way is a world-renowned touring route up the wild and rugged west coast of Ireland. The northerly tip starts on the Inishowen peninsula in Co Donegal and it finishes in the beautiful town of Kinsale in Co Cork, some 2,500 km.

If you are limited on time you can do it in a week but 2-3 weeks would be better. It is a driving (or cycling) tour that meanders its way casually along the Atlantic coast line. The Wild Atlantic Way highlights some 188 of the very best discovery points to see! It also affords you the opportunity to steer off the well sign posted route and explore many more memorable attractions.

You need not try to do it all. Pick out a region or two and explore at a leisurely pace. Come back another time to do some more. Maps are deceiving in Ireland. It takes longer than you might expect because there is so much to see and do around every bend in the road and behind every blossom laden hedge.

Hidden Ireland & The Wild Atlantic Way

Hidden Ireland accommodation is scattered up and down the trail giving you a great choice of where to stay while you explore the Wild Atlantic Way. An historic Country House bed and breakfast might suit you for a couple of days or a whole house vacation rental in a cottage, lodge or even a manor might suit an extended stay better. It will be a memorable experience to share with friends or family.

Make sure to check out what Hidden Ireland can offer as you explore the Wild Atlantic Way! We even have a map to help you organise your trip along the west coast! Click HERE to check it out!

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