After our Travel Classics Ireland magazine conference, we went to discover Ireland’s hidden treasures! From the majestic Kylemore Abbey to the tranquil Lough Inagh Lodge, and the rugged beauty of The Lost Valley of Uggool, watch my videos below and join us on our journey through picturesque landscapes and enriching experiences. Delight in the speed of the sheepdog, indulge in luxury at Knockranny House Hotel, and explore the wild beauty of Achill Island. Relax in the rejuvenating Voya Seaweed Baths, savor the warm hospitality of Harvey’s Point Hotel in Donegal, and uncover the craft at the Boatyard Distillery and Belleek Pottery. We uncovered the true essence of Ireland’s unique and captivating destinations.
Kylemore Abbey
Kylemore Abbey is a Benedictine monastery founded in 1920 in County Galway, Ireland. The abbey was originally built as a private residence in the late 19th century, and was later sold to the Benedictine nuns who turned it into a monastery. The chocolate shop at Kylemore Abbey is known for its delicious and high-quality handmade chocolates and fudge, which are made using traditional recipes and techniques by the Benedictine nuns. The chocolate shop offers a wide range of flavors and varieties, including dark, milk, and white chocolate, as well as truffles, pralines, and chocolate bars. The chocolates and fudge are made with natural ingredients and locally sourced Irish butter, giving them a unique and delicious taste that visitors from all over the world come to enjoy. Kylemore Abbey also has a history as a school. In 1923, the Benedictine nuns established an international boarding school for girls at Kylemore Abbey. The school was renowned for its academic excellence, and attracted students from all over the world. The school remained in operation until 2010, see my next video about our garden tour.
The Kylemore Abbey Walled Garden is a magnificent Victorian style garden located in Connemara, Ireland. Built in the 19th century by Mitchell Henry, as a tribute to his beloved wife Margaret, the garden boasts a stunning array of colorful flowers, a vibrant central walkway and many apple trees! I loved seeing the gardens again.
Lunch at Lough Inagh Lodge
Lough Inagh Lodge is a luxurious fishing lodge situated on the banks of Lough Inagh in Connemara, Ireland. Renowned for its excellent fishing opportunities, the lodge has won the prestigious “Great Fishing Houses of Ireland” award for its exceptional hospitality and commitment to providing guests with an unforgettable fishing experience. With world-class amenities and a warm, welcoming atmosphere, Lough Inagh Lodge is the perfect destination for anglers and travelers alike.
The Lost Valley of Uggool
The Lost Valley of Uggool near Louisburgh in County Mayo, Ireland is a magical place steeped in history, culture, and natural beauty. Explore this must-visit destination with Gerard Bourke, whose family has lived here for generations. We fed baby sheep, watched the sheep dog run and were mesmerized by the sheer awe-inspiring majesty of the landscape. It is the essence of the Irish countryside with authentic Irish charm.
Watching the highly skilled sheepdog work was incredible! These dogs help keep livestock safe and the one we saw was SO FAST! We loved being in The Lost Valley with Gerard Bourke, whose family has lived here for generations.
Traveling with my hula hoop is always a fun adventure, but hooping in the stunning Lost Valley of Ireland was truly unforgettable. The rolling green hills and picturesque countryside were the perfect backdrop for my hooping session, and the sight of baby sheep grazing nearby made it all the more magical. It was a moment of pure joy and serenity, and a reminder of the simple pleasures that travel can bring. I’ll always cherish this quirky and memorable experience in the heart of Ireland.
Where to STAY? Knockranny House Hotel, Ireland 🇮🇪
Knockranny House Hotel is a member of the Original Irish Hotel Group and located in Westport, Ireland. It offers elegant accommodations with stunning views of Croagh Patrick mountain and Clew Bay. The hotel features a spa, gym, restaurant, and bar, making it a perfect destination for a relaxing and luxurious getaway.
Exploring Achill Island, Ireland 🇮🇪
Not only did we put out toes in the sand and chilly water at Keem Bay but we HULA HOOPED too! Achill Island, the largest island off the coast of Ireland in County Mayo, is connected to the mainland by a bridge. The island is known for its rugged beauty, with stunning beaches, cliffs, and hills. It is formerly the site of a basking shark fishery as well as the filming location for The Banshees of Inisherin
Hooping at Achill Island , Ireland 🇮🇪
Thank you to my incredible Travel Classics Ireland 🇮🇪🇮🇪 group for being so supportive of my time in the hoop! I loved hooping with you in Achill Island and appreciate all your help with the filming!
Relax and Renew at Voya Seaweed Baths in Ireland 🇮🇪
Voya Seaweed Bath in Ireland is a spa treatment that provides a rejuvenating and therapeutic experience using hand-harvested seaweed. Seaweed has been used for centuries in Ireland for its medicinal properties and is believed to have various benefits for the body. I loved BOTH my visits!
The spa is located in Strandhill, County Sligo, which is known for its beautiful beaches and stunning coastline. The seaweed used in the bath is sustainably harvested from the nearby Atlantic Ocean, where the cold, nutrient-rich waters provide an ideal environment for seaweed growth. During the treatment, the seaweed is soaked in hot water, releasing its natural oils, minerals, and vitamins. The resulting bath is said to stimulate blood circulation, ease muscle tension, and promote relaxation. The seaweed’s detoxifying properties are also believed to help remove toxins from the body and improve skin conditions, such as eczema and psoriasis. Voya Seaweed Bath is a popular tourist attraction, offering visitors a unique and luxurious spa experience in a breathtaking natural setting. The spa also offers a range of other treatments using organic seaweed-based products, such as facials and massages. Overall, it’s an excellent way to unwind and enjoy the therapeutic benefits of nature.
Harvey’s Point Hotel in Donegal, Ireland
Harvey’s Point Hotel in Donegal, Ireland is a luxury retreat with a refined elegance that exudes tranquility and sophistication. Nestled in the heart of the magnificent Donegal countryside, the hotel offers stunning views of the Lough Eske and is renowned for its world-class hospitality, exquisite dining, and opulent accommodations
For video #3 from Harvey’s Point Hotel in Donegal, Ireland, enjoy our morning stroll and our decadent breakfast! Thanks to Amy, George and Susan for all of the walks, talks, photo tips and flower and bird information!
Tour at Boatyard Distillery, Ireland 🇮🇪
Boatyard Distillery in Enniskillen, Northern Ireland, offers an immersive tour experience where visitors can delve into the art of gin-making. Explore the distillery, witness the meticulous distillation process, and savor the exquisite flavors of #Boatyard Double #Gin. Discover the craftsmanship and passion behind this award-winning Irish gin. We put our OWN LABELS on bottles!!
Irish ☘️ Art at Belleek Pottery
On our visit to Belleek pottery in Ireland, we explored the rich heritage of this renowned craftsmanship. I participated in the pottery-making process, painting green shamrocks on one of the Belleek pieces. I love ceramics and notably, Belleek pottery had the honor of crafting a coronation gift for the king.
Thank you to Ashford Castle, Travel Classics Ireland and Tourism Ireland for my amazing adventures!
Enjoy more of my travels in Ireland
- Travel Classics Ireland 2023 Conference at Ashford Castle and on MSN
- Unforgettable Ashford Castle for the Travel Classics Ireland Conference 2023 and on MSN
- Wild Atlantic Way Adventures: Ireland’s Coast Gem and on MSN
- Enchanting Escapes in Northern Ireland’s Beauty! and on MSN
- Interview with Nina Ruggiero, Travel and Leisure Digital Editoral Director and on MSN
- Interview with Ambassador Bryne Nason and on MSN
- Travel Classics Ireland 2017
- Dublin Adventures 2015
- VIDEOS: from 2023 Conference and tour, from 2017 Travel Classics Conference and and my St. Patrick’s Day adventures in Dublin 2015
Learn about my upcoming book, Brave-ish, One Breakup, Six Continents and Feeling Fearless After Fifty!
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