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A photographer’s guide to springtime in Ireland: how to take pretty seasonal pictures

Springtime in Ireland is a wildlife and landscape photographer’s dream.

The vibrant colours that return after months of winter and the perfect seasonal lighting make for some beautiful scenes.

Many insects, birds and animals come out of winter hiding too, to add interest to countryside photographs. People also come out of winter hibernation to enjoy Spring breaks in the run up to Easter and beyond.

An Irish break offers the ideal opportunity to take the camera out and get some beautiful pictures to remind you of your stay.

Read on for some more seasonal photography inspiration.

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Despite it being Spring, the weather does not always follow suit, especially in Ireland!

So, whenever you are heading out on a nature walk, or exploring a town and want to take some photos, wrap up warm and think about how you can protect your camera or smartphone against any rain.

Don’t be put off taking pictures in the rain, or when the sun is not quite as bright as you would have liked.

You can get some beautiful effects with softer light, as well as some really interesting close-ups of raindrops on leaves or petals and reflections in puddles.

Patterns, reflections and shapes

Look out for other interesting reflections, not only in puddles, but in lakes or ponds, shop window glass and car mirrors.

You could even see what can be reflected back in your Guinness or whisky glass to extend the Irish theme.

Spring flowers can also offer intricate shapes and patterns, which, combined with pretty colours and green foliage, create really beautiful photographs of Spring in rural Ireland.

Walking along the Irish coastline can also help you discover patterns in the pebbles and shingle and the movement of the sea.

You can also use a polarising filter on your camera lens if you want to increase contrast and help the bolder colours stand out, such as a blue sky or green meadow.

Frame your photos

You don’t have to wait until you return home from your Irish Spring holiday to frame your images nicely.

Look for natural frames to include in the photo itself. Hedges, arches, branches and doorways can all add interest to a Spring photo in Ireland and help draw the eye in towards the centre of the photo.

Use dramatic mountains or interesting horizons to add interest towards the back of the picture too. Change the angle to make the natural ‘frame’ work to your advantage. Get down to ground level, or climb up somewhere high and angle the camera down (carefully!)

Keep it simple

We often crave the simplicity of a quiet break somewhere lovely to get away from the complexity of daily life.

So it can work in the same way when taking photos of an Irish Spring scene. Look for smaller details, rather than trying to capture a wider scene.

Pick out a single flower in a meadow or person in a street scene.

Other ideas could include a log covered in moss, a row of spring daffodils or an especially lovely tree covered in spring blossom.

When you look back at your photographs later, it will often be these smaller details that will trigger a happy memory, or start a conversation that inspires you to reminisce about your time in Ireland.

If you need to contact Hidden Ireland to find out more about our country houses, cottage or properties please click HERE

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Mountains, mist and magic: exploring the Mourne Mountains region of Ireland

The Mourne Mountains in County Down are one of Northern Ireland’s most impressive attractions.

Designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and UNESCO Global Geopark, the scenery is glorious and the scope of things to see and do extremely wide. Granite tors sit at the very top, giving a dramatic summit and natural viewing point.

The mountain region is divided into two distinct areas.

The eastern, or ‘high’ Mournes and northern of ‘low’ Mournes.

Each region offers excellent hill walking, cycling and outdoor pursuits.

There is also a wealth of history to explore, such as the eight-foot-high Mourne wall that was built in 1922 to keep sheep and cattle away from the Silent Valley reservoir. The area also has a lively and fascinating past as a smugglers’ haven during the 18th and 19th Centuries.

Hiking, walking and exploring on foot

Such is the diversity of the landscapes in the Mourne Mountains region that you can pretty much find any type of walk to enjoy. Hidden Ireland accommodation bed and breakfast country house hotel cottage rental

Coastal walks along sandy beaches like Murlough Beach offer dramatic and far-reaching views out to sea. Then, there are hill walks that take you through beautiful wooded areas like Tollymore Forest and across heathlands to see the flora and fauna that call the region home.

Choose from circular walks that set out and return from convenient car parks and starting points or linear walks that take you to new destinations and even more exciting adventures.

Walking festivals, tours and events take place every year, including the Wee Binnian Walking Festival in the early autumn. Guided hill walks that suit all levels of hikers and walking enthusiasts take place at different times of the day – and night – to show the region off at its seasonal finest.

Cycling challenges

The Mourne Mountains region is also an excellent choice for cycling fans.

Again, there is a wide range of routes from family friendly trails to more challenging tracks and lanes.

One famous cycling route is the Mourne Loop.

This is a 45-mile circular trail that takes cyclists on a mixed trail along easier flat areas, picturesque coastal paths, with a few challenging climbs and exciting descents thrown in for good measure.

Check out local tourist information sites for details of other self-guided and bookable cycling routes and excursions, including the Mourne trails and ales tour for local ale lovers. You can also hire electric mountain bikes for a different and fun experience exploring the beautiful region in style.

Local history and culture

St Patrick’s Day is only a few weeks away now. Ireland’s history is steeped in legend about this key figure and many others.

It is thought that St Patrick is buried in a graveyard close to Down Cathedral, located close to this fascinating region.

There are also guided walks along many of the routes St Patrick was believed to have walked in the area.

The Mourne Mountains also have a rich smugglers’ history, with valuable goods such as spices, leather, silk and tobacco coming into Newcastle and being trekked via ponies through the secluded mountain trails.

In fact, one commonly used trail in the high Mournes is still a highly popular walking route today, known as the Brandy Pad.

The unspoilt countryside and sweeping views really can transport visitors back to Ireland’s past, adding to the appeal of this stunning region. Several locations were used as filming backdrops for the HBO series Game of Thrones.

Check out our list of Hidden Ireland accommodation to find the ideal base for some Mourne Mountain adventures of your own.

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Kilmokea House

THE ‘MANA 3 NIGHT RETREAT’

THE ‘MANA 3 NIGHT RETREAT’

at Kilmokea Country Manor & Gardens

May 16th to 19th 2023

Enquiries & To Book phone Emma 051 388109

Kilmokea Retreat

 

‘Start the day off right with Morning movement followed by reflection time throughout the day. End the day feeling relaxed, pampered and inspired’

Day 1

Arrive at Kilmokea between 2.30pm and 3.30 pm for the introduction to your beautiful, individually designed bedroom.

4 pm. Join Johanna and Emma in the drawing room where you will receive a warm welcome followed by a gentle meditation.

5 pm. Time to explore your retreat space before dinner allowing you to unwind and connect with your surroundings.

7 pm. Healthy Organic Vegetarian 2 course dinner in the Dining room.

8:30 p.m. Evening gathering with Qi Gong at the Italian Loggia & Pool.

Day 2

8.00 am.  Energise with Qi Gong movement on the lawn, whilst listening to the morning birds.

8:30 am Breakfast in the Garden Conservatory

10 am Mindful walk to the Vegetable Garden

10:30 am Explore the world of growing your own fruit and vegetables

12:30 pm Lunch in the Garden Conservatory followed by an afternoon of replenishing your inner resources. Press the pause button on everyday life with a relaxing afternoon in the Jacuzzi and Indoor Heated Pool and Gardens.

4 p.m. Forest bathing/ Shinrin Yoku in the Woodlands. This health promoting, nature connection practice aims to enhance wellbeing, relieve stress and encourage relaxation. Enjoy a guided walk, and soak up the healing benefits of the natural environment through one’s five senses.

6.30 p.m. Healthy Organic Vegetarian 2 course dinner in the Dining room.

8 p.m. Evening Meditation under the Stars.

Day 3

8 a.m.  Energise with Qi Gong movement on the lawn, whilst listening to the morning birds.

8:30 a.m. Breakfast in the Garden Conservatory.

10 a.m. Stunning gentle Beach walk, with optional Sea Swim. Enjoy an Introduction to seaweed delights and the practice of earthing.

1:30 p.m. Kilmokea lunch followed by an afternoon of replenishing your inner resources. Press the pause button on everyday life with a relaxing afternoon in the Jacuzzi and Indoor Heated Pool and Gardens.

6 p.m. Open fire dinner in the Woodlands with evening meditation to finish

Day 4

8 am Meditation & Qi Gong movement in the Gardens.

9 a.m.  Breakfast in the Garden Conservatory.

10am Our closing gathering. Depart feeling revitalised, restored & renewed.

Participation in daily activities and workshops is always optional.

Kilmokea Retreat

 

Mana Retreat Hosts.

Emma Hewlett.

Emma Co owns and lovingly looks after Kilmokea Country Manor and Gardens with her husband, Mark. Guests have been staying at Kilmokea under their care for over 25 years, enjoying the Hewlett home with all the gorgeous offerings on site. Extensive gardens, indoor heated pool, tennis court, croquet lawn, jacuzzi, sauna and gym. Emma is the Chef in the evening for paying guests where she prepares a wide range of seasonal organic locally sourced food, much of which is grown in the gardens under her care.

She is an Holistic Aromatherapist who works with organic Irish essential oils. Recently she qualified as a vibrational flower essence practitioner and forest bathing facilitator. She practices Qi Gong and meditation daily, loves being outside and sea swims throughout the warmer months. She spends her relaxing moments on the beautiful local beaches and walking with her dogs in the woodlands amongst the trees.

 

Johanna Brown

A history graduate from Trinity College Dublin Johanna spent over 20 years working and travelling, including 5 years living and working in Jordan. 10 years ago she started running art and nature classes which evolved into her own ‘Forest school’. This involves outdoor education through school programmes  in after school groups and camps. She has also led teacher training in this area, and workshops for mental health.

Passionate about foraging, eco-art and learning more about nature-based solutions she is also a certified Forest Bathing practitioner.  Johanna enjoys Qi gong regularly, meditation, nlp, swimming in the river and sea, and walking. She loves sharing the joys and benefits of nature and leading groups of people outdoors, promoting mindfulness and well-being.

 

Everything you need to relax at Kilmokea Country Manor & Gardens:

3 nights accommodation in beautiful individually designed bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms, cotton sheets and floral bathroom soaps.

Invigorating Water from our own well which has been filtered through reverse osmosis and a vortex.

Daily delicious, nutritious, locally sourced, organic vegetarian food with a vegan option available by prior arrangement.

Secluded Property with Historic Gardens which highlight the location of the mythological foundation site of Ireland, with the first landing of Cassair, followed by peaceful Celtic monks in the 7th century who farmed the lands. The Viking boats which sailed up the River Barrow and settled at Kilmokea preceded the arrival of the Normans in 1169. Kilmokea are proud members of Hidden Ireland and offer accommodation to guests wishing to experience authentic Irish hospitality in their historic home.

What to Bring:

Optional to bring a musical instrument, a story or song for the Open Fire evening in the woods

Outdoor activities will require appropriate clothing so please bring a coat, outdoor footwear, sun cream, a water bottle  and Beach towel if swimming

Feel free to wear pyjamas for the meditation or loose comfortable clothing.

Click here to learn more about this amazing retreat

Lough Bawn House

Go Exploring at Lough Bawn House

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.

Lough Bawn House Lough Bawn House Lough Bawn House

What to do whilst at Lough Bawn House!

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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Roundwood House Country Houses Accommodation

Slieve Bloom Mountain Bike Trails

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”.

Slieve Bloom Mountain Bike Trails Slieve Bloom Mountain Bike Trails Slieve Bloom Mountain Bike Trails Slieve Bloom Mountain Bike Trails

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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Hidden Ireland Country Houses Accommodation

Celebrate your wedding with Hidden Ireland

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.

Celebrate your wedding Celebrate your wedding Celebrate your wedding

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

Celebrate your wedding

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

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 on the Wild Atlantic Way Temple House on the Wild Atlantic Way Temple House on the Wild Atlantic Way

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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Wild Atlantic Way

Explore the Wild Atlantic Way

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.

the Wild Atlantic Way the Wild Atlantic Way the Wild Atlantic Way

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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Preston House

Exclusive Stay at Preston House

Book an exclusive stay at Preston House and find our beautifully restored 18th Century Georgian House. Preston House has a private courtyard and wooded garden. This beautiful property is located on the Main Street of the picturesque Heritage Town of Abbeyleix.

Preston House is the perfect space to unite for family gatherings or private parties. Explore this home from home with the comforts of a fully equipped country kitchen, a drawing room, a music parlour & two dining rooms. There are six luxurious suites in Preston House. Each suite is individually decorated with a quirky mix of chic and antique furnishings. This provides ample living space to comfortably accommodate 14 people.

Preston House Preston House Preston House

The country manor kitchen was originally designed to cater for up to 80 people but it’s perfect for large or small gatherings. The individual room mixes are the perfect setting for family dining, relaxing with friends or celebrations. Preston House as a whole can be transformed into an event space, a cultural gathering or wellness space. With a beautiful courtyard for outdoor dining, Preston House is the perfect place as a unique wedding setting.

The Lords Walk is just a short walk from Preston House, every day, there is an adventure waiting in Laois. With its mountains, canals, forest trails, rivers & lakes, Laois is truly an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise, Preston House and Abbeyleix is the perfect starting point to explore!

Preston House is only one of the beautiful Exclusive Rentals available through Hidden Ireland.

Click HERE to book an exclusive stay at Preston House!

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Explore the Mourne Mountain Region

Explore the Mourne Mountain Region! From dramatic mountains sweeping down to the sea to miles of sandy beaches and magical Forest Parks. The Mourne Region has it all.

The Mourne Mountain range has many walks for all abilities and boasts many wonderful views. The tallest peak Slieve Donard was the inspiration for the Percy French song “Where the Mountains of Mourne sweep down to the sea” as it dominates the quaint seaside town of Newcastle. The world class Royal County Down Golf Club sits between Newcastle and Murlough Beach which is a protected wildlife reserve and one of the most picturesque places for a swim in Ireland.

Mourne Mountain Region Mourne Mountain Region Mourne Mountain Region

 

When you are exploring the Mourne Mountain Region there are 3 forest parks in the area. Tollymore Forest is 3 miles outside Newcastle and Castlewellan Forest is 5 miles from Newcastle. It has many forest walks and a mature maze to keep you occupied for hours.  Kilbroney Park can be found in the pretty village of Rostrevor and was one of the areas which inspired CS Lewis to write The Tales of Narnia. You can climb up to the Cloughmor Stone and look out over Carlingford Lough to the Cooley Mountains. All three parks have designated bike tracks and bike hire is available.

Downpatrick is also close by and you can visit St Patrick’s Grave at the Cathedral and follow St Patrick’s trail. The many stone circles and Neolithic Dolmens in the area are also well worth a visit.

There is so much to discover in the Mourne Region and all over Northern Ireland. To learn more about discovering Northern Ireland click HERE.

Hidden Ireland also have two Country Houses, namely Kiltariff Hall & Tyrella House  where you can stay and explore this whole area

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