Features

Howard Hastings, Managing Director, Hastings Hotels makes his predictions for travel in 2022. Hastings Hotel Group is the largest independent hotel operator in Northern Ireland with six luxury hotels, including the Grand Central and Europa Hotels in Belfast and the five-star Culloden Estate and Spa just outside the city. It also co-owns the five-star Merrion in Dublin. “Last year we enjoyed...

West Wicklow Festival brings exciting line-up of classical music stars to Russborough for ‘Winter Weekend’ Superstar Latvian duo Kristīne and Margarita Balanas, mezzo-soprano Sharon Carty, violinist Mairéad Hickey and pianists Gary Beecher and Fiachra Garvey will perform over a single weekend at Russborough House.     Thursday 30 September: The West Wicklow Chamber Music Festival has launched its inaugural ‘Winter Weekend’, a...

West Cork’s spectacular landscape holds many secret places, just ready to explore with the family. Make amazing memories with these great family activities in West Cork. From fairy trails to dolphin watching, there’s so many things to do in West Cork for families, here are some of the places you just have to visit. Exploring Kinsale As the kids ask ‘are we...

Your ultimate hiking guide - explore 25 epic Irish trails There’s nothing quite like the feeling of fresh air on your face and rugged terrain underfoot as you reach the summit of one of Ireland’s majestic mountains. Wander down woodland routes, escape to the coast on stunning seaside walks and conquer the highest peaks in the country, where spectacular views...

48 HOURS... ON THE CLARE COAST By Ed Leahy Where better to start two days in Clare than Father Ted's house for a cup of tea and some homemade scones. I crossed the Clare border somewhere along the road from Gort to the old fishing town of Corrofin, and was welcomed into the Banner County by the wonderful backdrop of the Burren...

Cliff divers set to soar feet first at Ireland’s Downpatrick Head The Irish leg of the 2021 Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series awaits the cliff diving elite with rugged conditions in a brand-new location on September 11. Written by Katrin Strobl c/o RED BULL IRELAND Halfway into the season, the world’s best cliff divers – including the reigning champions Rhiannan Iffland from Australia and...

One of Ireland's most famous hotels is celebrating its 50th anniversary - and how it withstood the Troubles to emerge as an iconic beacon of hope for Belfast. Whilst often referred to as ‘the world’s most bombed hotel’ - having been targeted 33 times due to its visibility as a landmark building - The Europa Hotel has been transformed into a...

When you holiday in Ireland, it's good to know that the stunning views and gorgeous coastlines are not the only things you can enjoy for free. Discover amazing museums, spectacular landscapes and insightful visitor centres. There's no end to the exciting things to do in Dublin and fantastic places to go in Ireland Here's a list of 20 free things...

EXPLORE DONEGAL In the county that boasts the highest number of Blue Flag beaches and the longest coastline in the country; you’re never too far from a beach.  Portnoo and Sheephaven Bay are popular, but there are literally hundreds to explore, whether your preference is the panoramic type or the small inlet cove. Take a gentle stroll along the shores...

Top 5 cycles to explore the island of Ireland   World Bicycle Day on 3 June is the annual opportunity to pay tribute to the bike, not to mention the huge number of beautiful places around the island of Ireland that are explorable on two wheels.   In Ireland, cycling is all about the scenery, the joy and the experience, be it for...