Calling all foodies: enjoy amazing August fare, right across Ireland

Posted on 22/08/202322/08/2023 by hiddenireland-admin

We believe that great summer holidays are made even better by making sure that they involve lots of delicious food and drink – the more locally sourced, the better!

Foodies will find much to enjoy in Ireland, home to wonderful main courses, tasty side dishes, decadent desserts and boozy beverages to enjoy at one’s leisure in the company of cherished friends and family members.

Several Hidden Ireland properties serve amazing, home-cooked meals on site. Others are situated within easy reach of some of Ireland’s best restaurants, pubs, cafes and eateries.

Whatever you like to eat and drink, you can be sure that there will be plenty to keep you satisfied during your visit to the Emerald Isle this summer.

Famous foods

Ireland is well-known around the globe for a number of fabulous food and beverages that must be sampled and enjoyed.

Some favourites include Guinness stew, seafood chowder, treacle soda bread and, for those brave enough, black pudding.

For dessert, there is a slice or three of whiskey-laced cake or a brilliantly boozy sherry trifle.

Summer eating

In the summer, staying cool is the order of the day and this is made possible thanks to treats like brown-bread ice cream, Wexford strawberries & clotted cream or just a Baileys on ice for when the sun shines on the glorious countryside and vibrant towns of Ireland.

If your accommodation does not serve home-cooked meals, look out for cafes and restaurants on your travels, or check out reviews online for ideas of where to go to enjoy Ireland’s best-known dishes. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, find a local food market and whip up some delicious Irish treats of your own.

Local fare

A key reason why so many guests enjoy home-cooked food served at Hidden Ireland accommodation is the fact that so many ingredients are sourced within just a few miles of the property.

Local butchers provide grass-fed lamb and beef and locally reared free-range chicken and pork. Vegetables are grown in local soil and berries plucked out of nearby country lanes.

Local artisans supply essential extras such as cheeses, jams, chutneys, yoghurts and porridge oats.

Coastal properties benefit from proximity to local fishing sites, where, during some seasons, sea food can be prepared and eaten on the same day that it is caught.

August alcohol

Ireland is just as lauded for its alcoholic beverages as it is for its delicious food.

Everyone has heard of the world-famous Guinness, plus the country is famous for its rich, earthy whiskeys, just waiting to be sipped gently with or without a cube of ice.

Irish alcohol is a crucial ingredient for many other well-known drinks.

These include the comforting post-dinner drink, the Irish coffee.

The perfect Irish coffee contains just the right mix of black coffee, cream, whiskey and sugar.

Then, there is the equally smooth Irish cream liquor, which combines whiskey with cream, chocolate and vanilla flavourings. Irish cream can be enjoyed as it comes, or added to a cocktail for an intense, unforgettable base note.

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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THE ‘MANA 3 NIGHT RETREAT’

Posted on 17/02/202320/05/2024 by HIBlog

THE ‘MANA 3 NIGHT RETREAT’

at Kilmokea Country Manor & Gardens

May 16th to 19th 2023

Enquiries & To Book phone Emma 051 388109

‘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.

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

Go Exploring at Lough Bawn House

Posted on 20/05/202203/08/2022 by HIBlog

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 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

Book your stay at Orlagh House

Posted on 16/04/202214/04/2023 by Aidan Gallagher

Book your stay at Orlagh House. A Georgian mansion built by Dublin snuff merchant Lundy Foot back in 1790. Frequent visitors to the house included the Great Emancipator Daniel O’Connell, Eoin Mac Neill, Padraig Pearse and William Smith O’Brian.

A truly unique house set on 45 acres in the foothills of the Dublin Mountains, with spectacular views over Dublin City and stretching out as far as the Irish Sea. We are only 25 minutes from Dublin Airport and from Dublin city centre. The house has been lovingly and tastefully restored in recent years, with large drawing and reception rooms and open fires. Our beautiful dining room sits 20 people at our regency table. There is a large games room in the basement of the house with table tennis, pool table, and a full-sized snooker table.

There is lots to do in the area including hiking trails both on the estate and including the Dublin Way and the Wicklow Way. We have an equestrian centre next door with reduced rates for guests and some of Dublin’s most infamous pubs are within 10 minutes of the house, with great local food, traditional music, and Irish dancing.

The house really is one-of-a-kind. Make sure to click HERE and book your stay at Orlagh House

WEDDINGS

Orlagh house is the perfect location for couples who want something different from the norm, a unique and truly personal day to remember. Exclusively yours for your wedding day with a second day optional, we also have 14 bedrooms to offer your guests.

We have an in-house catering team who can create your perfect menu, from sit down formal dining to a more laid-back BBQ’. Choose from our indoor ballroom or numerous outside garden areas. Our wedding team are there to help you with everything you may need.

Click HERE to book your stay at Orlagh House

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Best Places to Stay 2022

Posted on 26/03/202214/04/2023 by Aidan Gallagher

This morning the Irish Independent has published its Fab 50: Ireland’s best places to stay 2022. We are so delighted that Hidden Ireland has two houses included in the list! Clonalis House in Castlerea, Co Roscommon and Birdhill House & Gardens in Clonmel, Co Tipperary appear under the heading of “cool castles & character stays”!

Clonalis House

To quote Nicola Brady when it comes to historical properties, Castlerea’s Clonalis House is top of the pile.

Life at Clonalis House is all about kicking back with all the ingredients for a lazy weekend in the country.

Expect the good-old fashioned hospitality of bygone days, roaring turf fires to sit next to and a charismatic ambience. Curl up with a book on a sofa in the library or borrow a pair of wellies and take a stroll in the 700-acre woodland estate.

Clonalis House won the O’Flynn Group Heritage Prize, recognising the dedication to history and preservation of old Irish architecture.

To quote Carol-Anne, from Clonalis House “it’s a never ending project”.

An excellent choice for inclusion in the Irish Independent’s Fab 50, Ireland’s best places to stay in 2022.

Click HERE to book a stay in the beautiful Clonalis House.

Birdhill House & Gardens

Thomas Breathnach called to Yvonne & Robert in Birdhill House & Gardens. Another stunning Hidden Ireland house which is the latest addition to the Hidden Ireland family. Thomas found a villa-like splendour and an all-season appeal , with sun trap terraces, palatial bedrooms, and inviting spaces to curl up in. The house also boasts a beautiful decadent drawing room and a library that is just bursting with character! Condé Nast Traveller has tipped Tipperary as one of the best places in the world to visit in 2022.Click HERE to book a stay in Birdhill House & Gardens!

Click HERE to read the full list of the Irish Independent’s Fab 50 Ireland’s best places to stay in 2022!

Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter for news, updates and any offers that are available!

Treat your Mother to a Hidden Ireland Gift Voucher for Mother’s Day this year and your mum can treat herself to a stay in one of the best places to stay in Ireland for 2022!

Explore the Mourne Mountain Region

Posted on 10/02/202214/04/2023 by HIBlog

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.

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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Ballynatray Estate Riverside

Posted on 30/01/202214/04/2023 by HIBlog

Take a walk on the banks of the River Blackwater in the Ballynatray Estate Riverside you will lose all sense of time and be completely overcome with the beauty of the area. The mesmerising scent of the sea air drifting up the river from the harbour in Youghal.

Take a Ballynatray Picnic with you and explore the stunning parkland and gardens with commanding views of the Blackwater River. Along the riverside Ballynatray Estate offers two private holiday rentals and these are namely The Boat House & The River Cottage

The Boat House

The Boat House is a romantic private holiday rental on the waterfront. It is the ideal adult only location where romantic notions are never very far away. The boat house is an open plan room with a King-size bed in the centre. Soaking in the free standing bath were you can enjoy breathtaking views of the River Blackwater.

The River Cottage

Not far along the Blackwater is The River Cottage which unquestionably enjoys some breathtaking views of the river and some of Ballynatray House because of its unique location. The cottage, split between two levels boasts a magnificent large and spacious master bedroom.

Both of these properties are not self-catering properties.

The clever idea behind these two fantastic holiday rentals because while they are private to just you above all there is also no cooking involved either.

Equipped with a microwave, kettle & fridge it is all that is needed for a couple who love to dine out and not have to worry about the washing up.

Click here to book a stay on the Ballynatray Estate Riverside.

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Self-Catering at The Courtyard Mallow

Posted on 28/01/202214/04/2023 by HIBlog

Self-Catering at The Courtyard Mallow is a must for anyone touring the South West of Ireland. The Courtyard, located at the rear of the main Georgian house has been lovingly renovated. Each apartment in The Courtyard, Mallow is elegantly decorated with its own unique style and story. Having scoured vintage and antique shops around the country to add that extra flare and individuality to the living spaces of The Courtyard apartments. We use White & Green luxury organic cotton bed linen on all beds and Dalkey liquid handmade soap to ensure our guests can fully unwind during their stay. All bedrooms are ensuite for your comfort and privacy.

The Blackwater

Named after the powerful Blackwater river which passes through Mallow as it crosses Munster from Kerry to the sea in Youghal. The first bedroom has a 6ft super-king sized bed and the second bedroom has a 5ft king-sized bed. Its modern and stylish kitchen and living area is the perfect spot to relax after a busy day exploring the wonders of Cork and Munster.

The Mount Hillary

Named after Mount Hillary, a 400m mountain located to the west of the property. The first bedroom has a 5ft king sized bed and the second has two 4ft 6in queen/double beds. This apartment is ideal for a family, with its multiple beds and comfortable living areas.

The Gortnagross

Named after Gortnagross – the name comes from the Irish Gort na gCros, meaning the Field of Crosses. This stylish apartment has one bedroom with a 6ft super-king sized bed. This apartment is ideal for a couple looking to relax in a romantic atmosphere in the Munster area.

Click here to book a Self-Catering stay at The Courtyard, Mallow.

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Kiltariff Hall Country House

Posted on 27/01/202214/04/2023 by HIBlog

Set at the end of a short drive lies Kiltariff Hall Country House surrounded by mature oak, sycamore and pine trees. Lovingly cared for down the generations Kiltariff Hall Country House has been part of the history of Rathfriland since the 1750s. Catherine Cummings owns Kiltariff Hall Country House and loves sharing with guests the beautiful history of the house including the fact that it was her grandfather who actually built the house in 1888.

The House:

The reception rooms in Kiltariff Hall are beautifully spacious with high ceilings and ornate cornicing. The dining room boasts a large antique table and a Broadwood grand piano. The house also has many of the original fireplaces, pitch pine doors and woodwork. The bedrooms are exceptionally comfortable with well appointed en-suite bathrooms. There are exquisite views of the Mourne Mountains from one side of the house. Outside there is a vegetable garden and a patio for relaxing. Bedrooms are refreshed daily with fresh filtered water, milk and delicious home baked treats. Kiltariff Hall also has broadband internet available in every room.

Good Food:

Enjoy a traditional “Ulster Fry” or smoked salmon and scrambled egg in the dining room overlooking the garden. For a lighter breakfast, a selection of fresh fruit, yoghurt and cereal is available from the buffet on the sideboard. Kiltariff Hall’s own walled vegetable garden provides the fruit when in season. Catherine also has a variety of her own homemade preserves and freshly homemade wheaten bread. Vegetarian, Vegan and Gluten Free options available upon request.

Click here to book a stay in Kiltariff Hall Country House

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Christmas time at Hidden Ireland

Posted on 16/12/202114/04/2023 by HIBlog

Have you ever wondered what it would be like around Christmas time at Hidden Ireland?

We took a little look at what could be expected if we stayed at Roundwood House around Christmas time. The thoughts of a brisk walk in the morning and taking in the magical surroundings sometimes with a little snow! Back to the library and settle down with a good book and maybe even a little glass of mulled wine. Let your toes toast happy at the roaring fire. From the library head for the drawing room where you can meet some of the other guests or have a chat with Hannah & Paddy complete with coffee and homemade biscuits.

This could be you this year or even next year! At Hidden Ireland we have a Gift Voucher Competition running at the minute! Get you name into the draw and you could easily be warming your toes at the Roundwood Library fire this Christmas time.

To win a €500 Hidden Ireland Gift Voucher all you need to do is purchase one of our Hidden Ireland Vouchers before Tuesday 21st December 2021, and your name will automatically be entered into the draw to win.

Hidden Ireland Gift Vouchers are an ideal stocking filler for Christmas, Anniversary or Birthday present. All our Gift Vouchers are valid for 5 years and we can email or post them directly to you or the recipient! Happy shopping from the comfort of your own house!

Hidden Ireland will announce the winner on Wednesday 22nd December 2021. Do not delay; get your name in that draw now!

Click here to buy your Hidden Ireland Gift Voucher.

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