NearyNogs Stoneground Chocolate, Newry, Co. Down
Indulge in an artisan chocolate experience
Tucking into an Easter egg is a seasonal delight for young and old so why not make it extra special by seeking out a craft chocolate experience in Ireland. The island’s craft chocolate scene is thriving as more people discover the exceptional confectionary that results from the combination of premium dairy produce and the skills of Irish artisans.
At Lorge Chocolatier in picturesque Kenmare, County Kerry, Master Chocolatier, Benoit Lorge leads a small team making handmade chocolates. He also runs chocolate-making classes that are a fun, hands-on way to find out what goes into making his delicious gourmet treats. Hazel Mountain Chocolate, located on the edge of the famous Burren landscape in County Clare, is one of Ireland’s bean to bar chocolate factories. You can drop into the factory any time to watch the artisan chocolate being made or book a 45-minute immersive experience and get up close to the magic. And in the gorgeous setting of the Mourne Mountains in County Down, NearyNógs Stoneground Chocolate Makers share their passion for ethically sourced beans, sustainable processes and sublime chocolate in a Master Craft Chocolate Experience that combines a taste journey with storytelling.
The Irish National Stud and Gardens, Co Kildare
Get up close to spring’s new life
As spring paints the Irish landscape with colour and renewed growth, there is a wonderful opportunity to take a moment to appreciate the new life that the season brings. And there is nowhere better to do this than at Ireland’s renowned National Stud. Each spring the stud welcomes some 300 new thoroughbred foals, and a guided tour will take you to see the mares and foals as the new arrivals playfully explore their surroundings. Follow the tour with a visit to the stud’s marvellous Japanese Gardensas they awaken after winter and walk the Path of Life that traces the human journey from birth to death. A stroll through the raw beauty of adjacent St Fiachra’s Garden, which commemorates the patron saint of gardeners, is also a delight in spring when ducks, rabbits, squirrels and other wildlife will be busy with their spring chores.
There is nothing more indicative of spring in Ireland than fields full of frolicking lambs and for those looking to get up close to these cuties, there are farms that offer the chance to hold, feed and cuddle them. In County Kerry, Aedán’s Farm offers a Hold a Baby Lamb experience where you can hold and bottle-field a lamb. The farm is located on stunning Slea Head on the Dingle Peninsula and also presents sheepdog demonstrations. In the fields beside the farm, amazing Neolithic beehive structures link back to Ireland’s ancient past and are fascinating places to visit as part of your farm experience
Kylemore Abbey, Co Galway
Explore early Christian heritage sites
The island of Ireland is dotted with important early Christian heritage sites which draw many visitors, especially around the holy time of Easter.
One of these is the atmospheric sixth‑century monastic settlement at Glendalough, nestled in a valley in the beautiful Wicklow Mountains. Founded by St Kevin, it was one of the great centres of learning in early Christian Ireland. The ruins of the monastic buildings now create a tranquil space that is perfect for pilgrims and those seeking a place for quiet reflection.
On Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way, Kylemore Abbey is a striking neo-Gothic building that was built as a token of love and later became home to an order of Benedictine nuns. A visit here is a chance to combine an exploration of spiritual heritage with immersion in the beauty of the Connemara landscape and the ordered splendour of the abbey’s Victorian walled gardens.
For those seeking connection to Ireland’s ancient past, a visit to the Beaghmore Stone Circles in County Tyrone will take you back over 4,500 years to arrangements of standing stones that are said to be linked to the lunar calendar. Follow the Solar Walk from the stones to nearby OM Dark Sky Park to discover more about the astronomical importance of the area.
