Celebrate Slow Travel Month with these gorgeous stays around Ireland …
A counter movement to this generation’s “more is more” motto, a growing number of holidaymakers are prioritising immersive, sustainable travel experiences, in a global movement known as slow tourism. This trend places an emphasis on slowing down, and prioritising a mindful exploration of local history and culture.
Photography; Alan Betson, The Irish Times.
A devotee of seeking out authentic experiences and exploring off-the-beaten path locations is Ludo de Jong, general manager of Anantara The Marker Hotel Dublin. He suggests; “For those looking to discover hidden gems, sites like Coolstays and Host Unusual offer fantastic deals on unique and extraordinary accommodation. These platforms often have exclusive offers that you won’t find on mainstream booking sites. I also follow hashtags like #HiddenGems and #TravelGoals to discover stunning locations and insider tips from fellow travellers.” Discover some of my favourite hidden treasures below …
Lough Erne Resort, Co Fermanagh
Lough Erne invites guests to slow down with its new ‘Move To Our Rhythm’ package, a two-night stay that includes breakfast served lakeside, exclusive access to the Thai Spa and a complimentary local experience. Options include exploring the Marble Arch Caves, Enniskillen Castle, a guided visit to Belleek Pottery, a leisurely walk and tour at National Trust’s Florence Court Estate and Gardens, or climbing the iconic Stairway to Heaven. Guests are also encouraged to connect with the community during their stay, including visiting neighbouring farms and craftspeople because slow tourism isn’t just about switching off, but switching on to everything that local life has to offer. “Fermanagh Time isn’t just a saying – it’s a way of being,” explains Gareth Byrne, General Manager. “We’re proud to champion a pace of travel that’s better for people, the planet and our neighbours.” www.lougherneresort.com
Trinity College Dublin, Dublin City
Trinity presents an eco-conscious (and economical) way to explore Ireland during the summer. The central campus not only offers the Book of Kells Experience, but also interesting Trinity Trails guided walking tours led by students, which include stories of notable alumni from Oscar Wilde to Samuel Beckett, all while strolling around landmarks like the Museum Building, Bell Tower and Front Square. There’s also a new digital exhibition and competitively priced guest rooms. I stay regularly in Rubrics and love waking up on campus, where breakfast is served in The Buttery or you can pick up a great coffee-to-go from Good Vibrations Coffee truck in the New Square. Revenue generated from stays, tours and tickets is reinvested into TCD, helping to fund academic research programmes, heritage conservation and campus sustainability efforts; meaning every visit truly counts. www.visittrinity.ie
SEE MORE: A Stay At Trinity College Dublin
Station House Hotel, Co Meath
One of my favourite boutique hotels in Co Meath has launched a series of midweek escape packages offering guests a chance to reconnect with activities that spark joy. Taking place on selected Wednesdays, these overnight experiences combine a luxurious stay with breakfast, a light lunch or Cream Tea on arrival, dinner in the pretty Signal Restaurant, and afternoon guided workshops on painting with Marguerite Dolan, Pilates with Audrey Clarke, gardening, wine tasting, cookery and a Farm to Fork event at Swainstown Farm. Guests can also take advantage of complimentary bikes to explore the Boyne Valley with scenic cycles to the historic Bective Abbey (4km) or legendary Hill of Tara (6km). www.stationhousehotel.ie
Mount Congreve, Co Waterford
I can’t think of a better environment for horticulturalists than Mount Congreve Gardens, where the choice of accommodation includes gate lodges, cabins and historic apartments – part of its unique Forest Hotel concept. All give access to the gardens (out of hours), Foxford gift shop and The Stables Café. Don’t miss the second edition of “Art in the Gardens” in June, which includes a plein air paint-out offering participants the opportunity to paint alongside artists Dave West, Steve Browning, Róisín Curé, Nina Rumiska and Sebastian Thommen. To enhance the creative spirit, all artists will enjoy a specially prepared picnic courtesy of the café. Truly idyllic! www.mountcongreve.com
Cabin at Ballygarry Estate Hotel and Spa, Co Kerry
If you want to indulge in a peaceful nature getaway, where sustainable practices and memorable experiences take centre stage, then one of Ballygarry’s new (adult-only) cabins will appeal. Choose from one of twelve cabins overlooking the Slieve Mish Mountains, each named after a selection of trees featured throughout the estate. Hotel owner Padraig McGillicuddy explains; “Our Nordic-style cabins provide a commitment to eco-tourism, allowing visitors to enjoy the great outdoors responsibly.” Guests also have access to the 16th century Ballyseedy woods, wildflower meadows and integrated wetlands. www.ballygarry.com
The River Lee Hotel, Co Cork
The Doyle Collection’s “Curated Weekends in Cork” is an ongoing series for four years now, showcasing the city through some of its famous residents. This summer, BAFTA-winner Siobhán McSweeney (of Derry Girls and The Great Pottery Throw Down fame) is sharing her favourite places in the city, including a weekend stay at the hotel that incorporates a behind the scenes tour of The Everyman Theatre, The Opera House and beloved music venue Cyprus Avenue. Guests can enjoy a special KINS facial and a “Cork in Bloom” installation by Fox Flower, in partnership with The Boatyard Distillery, on the River Club Terrace. www.doylecollection.com
SEE MORE: The Cool Girl’s Guide To Cork
Equine & Culinary Adventures
Good Food Ireland, in partnership with the Irish Horse Board, has launched this new initiative to offer private tours that blend equine heritage with fabulous foodie experiences. Explore prestigious stud farms – National Stud & Gardens, Coolmore Stud and Ballypatrick Farm home to Irish Olympic showjumper Greg Broderick – gain exclusive access to champion stallions and visit Irish Olympian Cian O’Connor’s training facility at Karlswood. Alongside these equine highlights, expect gourmet dining throughout the tour, with boutique accommodation in a Palladian manor in the heart of the country, Cashel Palace Hotel in Co Tipperary. www.goodfoodireland.ie
