Shannon Airport Guide

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Y Situated in the quaint market town of Ennistymon CM

MY Acres of Grounds and Woodlands for Walking

CMY Tumbling Cascades Waterfall K 140 bedrooms, 9 self-catering apartments and a large self catering cottage. Dine in our Dylan Thomas Bar, our Cascades Restaurant or our River Thai Restaurant. Complimentary leisure facilities include a 20-meter swimming pool, sauna, steam room, outdoor hot tub, Jacuzzi and a gym. Also visit our luxurious River Spa with over 50 treatments on offer. Music Every Night in the Bar for the Summer.

The hotel is on the doorstep of the Cliffs of Moher, the Burren, Doolin Cave and Lahinch Beach and Golf Club, which are only 2 miles away.

For our Latest Special Offers Visit our website www.fallshotel.ie Or Call us on 065-7071004 Falls Hotel.pdf 1 7/8/13 11:06 AM

SHANNON AIRPORT GUIDE

Céad Míle Fáilte... Ireland’s traditional welcome, Céad Míle Fáilte, translates as one hundred thousand welcomes and it gives a brief insight into the famous hospitality and friendliness that this country is most famous for. Though we may not, unfortunately, be able to guarantee you perfect weather throughout your time here, it is safe to say that wherever the road takes you, at journeys end you’ll “The road be met by a smile. will take you The Irish pride themselves on looking at the bright side of life, where it will, on carrying a sense of humour as a given and being proud to the scenery welcome guests to the table. So whether you decide to head for will change, the city lights or a remote outpost the same greeting awaits you; you’ll be treated as a guest and not a tourist. you may encounter It would be impossible and impractical traffic lights for us to provide in these pages a “must --- or you do” list. Our recommendations are C merely suggestions; they are some of the may not, M highlights that we know you’ll enjoy but you may Y by no means is it comprehensive. Your Situated in the quaint market town of Ennistymon have to CM stay may be brief but we’re sure you’ll wait as MY enjoy it. Acres of Grounds and Woodlands for Walking sheep slowly CY

CMY Tumbling Cascades Waterfall The road will take you where it will, the scenery will change, you meander

K may encounter traffic lights or you may not, you may have to wait 140 bedrooms, 9 self-catering apartments and a large self catering cottage. across the as sheep slowly meander across the road, you may win a sheaf of road...” Dine in our Dylan Thomas Bar, our Cascades Restaurant or our River Thai euros on a horse that you picked just for it’s name, you may get a hole-in-one, you may get lost at a crossroads that has no signpost Restaurant. Complimentary leisure facilities include a 20-meter swimming pool, of any form, you may try oysters for the first time and Guinness for the second time, you may well fall in love. sauna, steam room, outdoor hot tub, Jacuzzi and a gym. Also visit our luxurious River Spa with over 50 treatments on offer. The Ireland you’ve read about and heard of is alive and well and looking forward to meeting you. So any of the above may befall Music Every Night in the Bar for the Summer. you; but you will certainly have a unique experience in a country delighted to offer you one hundred thousand welcomes... The hotel is on the doorstep of the Cliffs of Moher, the Burren, Doolin Cave The editorial team The Shannon Airport Guide was and Lahinch Beach and Golf Club, which are only 2 miles away. brought to you by Guerin Media Creative Print Solutions Merrywell House, Unit E Merrywell Business Park Ballymount Road Lower D12. T: + 353 1 4603615 F: + 353 1 4603616 Find out more at For our Latest Special Offers www.guerinmedia.ie Visit our website www.fallshotel.ie Or Call us on 065-7071004 3 SHANNON AIRPORT GUIDE

7. Shannon Airport 81. the Near Neighbours A wecome message from Shannon Airport Tipperary & Waterford show off their hospiltality, horses & hurling 16. on Your Doorstep Limerick & Clare - what to see, where to go, 85. a Day on the COurse how will you ever want to leave? Losing balls all over Ireland, the ‘where to Go’ guide for fanatic and 25. Bunratty novices alike History at the end of the river 88. Shannon River What makes this place so majestic? 53. a Taste of our History When past meets present 92. go west Nature, art, music, film festivals, 61. the Irish Language top-class horse racing, surfing, golf Quick lesson in getting your Celt on and legendary attractions

65. irish Place Names 109. The Midlands Making sense: When Sleeves become What to see in the heart f Ireland Mountains and going to Kill on a Sunday is a good thing 113. The Eastern Side It’s not just about Dublin 67. turn South Cork & Kerry: 117. Dublin, the capital It’s no all about dolphins and beaches Your no-nonsense guide to the City

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Publishers Note: On behalf of Guerin Media Ltd we would like to extend our thanks to a few different parties involved in this project.

To Shannon Airport, a thank you for having the vision and insight to get involved with our idea and for contributing to help make it a great success.

To Bord Failte, Shannon Heritage and Gerry Lynch in My Destination County Clare, for their expertise, their images and their assistance; without which this publication could never have been nearly as eye-catching and informative.

To our advertisers and contributors: without your generosity and spirit this magazine would quite simply not exist; I hope your footfall surges.

To our own sales, production and design teams: congratulations all on yet another job well done and a product we can all be proud of.

And finally to our readers: thank you for taking the time to pick up a copy of Turas. I hope it helps in some way to may your Ireland adventure a lasting memory.

Best wishes and safe trip, The Guerin Media Team

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2012 of a Government Steering Group to oversee the restructuring of the State Airports and Shannon 2013 Development. An Historic Year: Limerick based and Clare born aviation expert and An Independent lawyer Rose Hynes was appointed as Chairman of an Aviation Business Development Task Force to Shannon Airport: report into the Steering Group on proposals for the restructuring. By the time it did, Rose, since confirmed as Chairman of the new Shannon Airport Authority Board, together with the airport executive, had drawn together a plan and vision for Shannon which they are confident is achievable.

And by all accounts, their confidence is well placed as not only were they busy devising the plan, they were equally active out in the field selling it, and successfully so. The response was such that Airport Director Mary Considine has no doubt but the airport is about to take-off one more time.

C “The great thing about the work of the Task Force is that

M it was not just about putting a plan together. We have

Y been out there talking to airlines and potential investors Shannon Airport has proudly declared CM in aviation related businesses and the response has been

MY its very own independence and set out really positive.”

CY on what it anticipates will be a new era “The immediate focus will be on sustainable traffic CMY of sustained success for Ireland’s most growth. We have already made inroads in that regard K historic airport. over recent months. We have secured new services to Chicago and Philadelphia that will give us a 22% uplift in passengers on transatlantic services alone during The word ‘Shannon’ has long since been the busy summer season.” “We also have a new route a by-word for innovation the world over to Faro and a doubling of our capacity to Bodrum in and is now about to embark on another Tu r k e y.” coming, as it were, after being given its “We see these significant wins over recent months as own wings by Government at midnight a start only and will be working hard to make other on December 31st 2012. equally significant gains over the coming months. Our goal is to increase passenger numbers to 2.5million The theme of ‘Just Think How Far We Can Go’ within five years. That’s over one million less than what had been chosen as the motif for the airport’s we achieved at peak in 2008 so we are confident it is a independence. It is evident across the terminal realistic target.” building today; draped in a huge banner outside facing on to the car park and emblazoned on the floors “We don’t expect it to be easy, however, but are prepared inside. for the hard-work and really excited by the task at hand. We are determined that when we look back in 20 years There is a real sense that this airport, which has we will see the moment Shannon achieved independence traditionally dared like no other to think big, sees as historic, a turning point for the airport as it were.” no boundaries and is on the move up again. The separation process had been months in the making; While securing passenger growth through boosting six months in fact, since the establishment, in June additional and securing new services out of the 7 Clare Coast Hotels 13.pdf 1 8/8/13 2:32 PM

LoCall 1890 130 008

Y CLARE COAST HOTELS visit www.clarecoasthotels.com

CM All the Clare Coast Hotels properties are situated on the beautiful coast of West Clare, stretching from Loop Head on the south, to Galway Bay in the north, with a necklace of small coastal towns and villages, MY

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K Our Promise:

· Warm Welcome · Excellent & Friendly Service · Great Food · High standard accommodation/facilities · Relaxing/stress-free atmospheres · Beach/coastal locations · All the above combined with Great Packages & Rates

accommodation with friendly personal service in a unique coastal landscape setting that is as beautiful as it is tranquil or, of course, can be as wild as the choice of activity preferred. While the local sights and destination provide the reason to visit the area our aim is to

HYLAND’S BURREN HOTEL visit www.hylandshotelburren.com

the tranquility of bygone charm and traditional Irish hospitality will greet you upon arrival at the Hyland’s Burren Hotel.

attracts our guests repeatly return to the hotel again and again...

MERRIMAN HOTEL visit www.merrimanhotel.com At the Merriman Hotel in Kinvara, Co. Galway, you are guaranteed a warm Welcome, Exceptional Service & Fine Accommodation. A superb location on the edge of the Burren... Clare Coast Hotels 13.pdf 1 8/8/13 2:32 PM

LoCall 1890 130 008 SHANNON AIRPORT GUIDE

historic airport will be the core target going forward, the airport also has its eye on another area of growth - Retail Changes at in the same way that it broke new ground for aviation globally past through becoming the birthplace of duty- Shannon Airport: free and aircraft leasing in the past. The Shopping Gateway

“We have a plan that is looking at developing a world- class international aviation services center, akin to what Pumping life into the commercial heart of has been done for finances with the financial sector the South West is something which Shannon through the development of the IFSC in Dublin. We Airport has been doing for over 70 years. have already very significant interest internationally in what we are going to create and believe that we have From its role as a gateway into the south of the the capacity to achieve 3,000 jobs within a three to country, to the spin off jobs it creates around the five year period. This will be across a cluster of diverse international, primarily aviation, related businesses area, it is one of the most important economic centered on the airport and building on the existing stimulators in the region. Broadening the appeal cluster of 40 aviation related companies working at of the airport has taken on fresh impetus this Shannon. We have commitments already by way of year though as the facility is enjoying its first Memorandums of Understanding for 1,000 within the season as a stand-alone entity since its split next three years”. from the Dublin Airport Authority at the beginning of the year. C “That’s a great start and we mean to continue. Shannon

M must deliver on its role as the key economic driver for Continued on Page 11

Y CLARE COAST HOTELS visit www.clarecoasthotels.com the entire region. It’s in all our interests that it does and

CM All the Clare Coast Hotels properties are situated on the beautiful coast of West Clare, stretching from we intend to make it happen.” Loop Head on the south, to Galway Bay in the north, with a necklace of small coastal towns and villages, MY

CMY

K Our Promise:

HYLAND’S BURREN HOTEL visit www.hylandshotelburren.com the tranquility of bygone charm and traditional Irish hospitality will greet you upon arrival at the Hyland’s Burren Hotel. attracts our guests repeatly return to the hotel again and again...

Just 5 minutes from Shannon International Airport

MY CY A Genuine a Céad mile Fáilte awaits you CMY

K at the Oakwood Arms Hotel

• 101 en-suite hotel rooms • Complimentary internet access in all bedrooms • Award winning Pier 17 Restaurant • Voted No 1 Hotel in the Shannon Region by Trip Advisor • Gateway to the West of Ireland

Whatever your requirements, we’ll ensure that you leave refreshed, and planning your next visit to the Oakwood Arms Hotel, the gateway to Ireland’s west

We look forward to having you visit us!

Book now on Tel.+353 61 361500 • Email [email protected] www.oakwoodarms.com Oakwood Arms Hotel.pdf 1 7/4/13 10:30 AM

SHANNON AIRPORT GUIDE

Part of that experience which the airport is offering is their retail area known as ‘The Loop’ which has seen Just 5 minutes from Shannon International Airport considerable investment injected into it over the past year. Shannon, of course, is world famous when it comes to the retail side of its operation since the world’s first duty free experience was founded at the airport in 1957 by Dr Brendan O’Regan.

For generations the stop- over in Shannon en route to America was regarded as part of the excitement on the trip

C across the pond but changes

M to that arrangement led to leaner times at the to the continued success of business at the airport and Y facility. he acknowledges that the year ahead is going to be an CM extremely positive one for all at the iconic venue. MY Now that it is standing on its own two feet and CY “Shannon is the global birthplace of duty free shopping A Genuine a Céad mile Fáilte awaits you offering expanded routes into both America and CMY and that’s a legacy we go out to honour every day. Europe the retail experience at Shannon is also K at the Oakwood Arms Hotel Our focus at all times is making sure that passengers upping its game. not alone get to buy the goods they want, but that the experience is also enjoyable.” • 101 en-suite hotel rooms • Complimentary internet access in all bedrooms • Award winning Pier 17 Restaurant • Voted No 1 Hotel in the Shannon Region by Trip Advisor • Gateway to the West of Ireland The Loop “The Loop is all about enhancing the customer A total of €1m has been invested into ‘The Loop’ experience so that we combine the thrill of shopping Whatever your requirements, we’ll ensure that you leave refreshed, over the past year and this has resulted in an and travel. We have a clear strategy to make airport and planning your next visit to the Oakwood Arms Hotel, the gateway to Ireland’s west enhanced experience for customers passing shopping easy for our customers by consistently delivering quality and value to our customers and by We look forward to having you visit us! through the most historic retail area in global listening to their feedback.” aviation. “Customer service is another core objective of ours while Completed in three phases the new 900 square we are also constantly looking to introduce innovative metre retail sector has resulted in upgraded ways of making things better for our retail and travel perfume and cosmetic areas, a new area totally customers. It’s all about living up to the legacy handed devoted to selling Irish food including a range over to us and the feedback we get from customers suggests we are doing a good job. In the world of of artisan products, a new concession giftware airports, we know that we are never going to top the store from Glenarann, an Irish Memories scales on volume so our way of standing out is by souvenir outlet and a new dedicated Irish making the customer experience a truly better one”. whiskey store. Book now on That aim of making sure they stand out is one which is Brian Aherne, the Head of Commercial at Shannon certainly being met and the reaction from passengers Tel.+353 61 361500 • Email [email protected] Airport, feels that the investment is hugely important has been hugely positive. www.oakwoodarms.com 11 Burren Centre.pdf 1 7/25/13 10:55 AM

The visitor centre in the historic village of Kilfenora boasts a fantastic exhibition, audio visual film theatre, local craft show and tea room.

C Explore the ﬂora, fauna, archaeology and natural M history of the Burren in the Burren Centre. Y Services: Tourist Information Point,

CM Free parking, Beside Kilfenora High Crosses, all Burren reference Maps & Guides MY available in craft shop.

CY Opening Times: Mid March to May 10am to 5pm; CMY June, July & August 9.30am to 5.30pm; September to October 10am to 5pm; K Last Admission 30 min before closing

BURREN CENTRE, KILFENORA, CO. CLARE Telephone: 065 7088030 Fax: 065 7088102 E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.theburrencentre.ie

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The fact that both the new Chairman of the Board “The improvements in the store design greatly enhanced Rose Hynes and her CEO Neil Pakey have worked the appearance and layout, allowing for improved aggressively to make sure that the number of carriers customer flow and shopping experience. Our shopping and cities serviced by Shannon has increased greatly area is spacious, bright and is all about saying to means there are bigger numbers passing through the customers that we are here for them and appreciate their gates of the airport. business. The introduction of our shop and collect service is another manifestation of that as we now have a facility that makes it more convenient for our customers Growing Business to purchase items without having the stress of bringing it In turn the number of new customers on their journey.” experiencing ‘The Loop’ for the first time has also increased – the airport’s passenger numbers Focussing on the wider commercial activity of were up by 8% in June after it had arrested five Shannon Airport the team know that the fact it is now independent means there is a lot of potential for them successive years of month-over-month decline- in the years ahead. Equally that situation brings a lot of and the job for Aherne and all his commercial added pressure but that is something which the whole team is to make sure their time in retail area is team are relishing. a positive one. Naturally their business is dependent on aviation - the “Airports can be stressful places but we have worked simple activity of people flying in and out of the airport. very hard at eliminating the stress so that our passengers So there is an overall operation to sell both the airport can relax and enjoy the time they have here before as a place of choice to customers and then entice them to departure. Our major refurbishment of ‘The Loop’ spend once they use the facility. was completed in December 2011, leading to the introduction of defined categories, including premium “We do see an opportunity, which we will look to brand leaders for perfume and cosmetics, as well as develop to a greater degree over the coming years, to the introduction of the very impressive Irish Whiskey develop non-aviation business at Shannon but right collection”. now, it’s all about passenger throughput and their spend.

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From the moment last year that the green light was In this short window passengers given to Shannon’s separation from the DAA, passenger can be processed through US growth was THE priority as everything flows from there pre-clearance facilities for US – the more passengers through the airport, the more Customs and Immigration, get revenue that drives”. their aircraft refuelled and then have the option to fly directly to “We are delighted therefore to see significant inroads any of 220 US airports, which already in passenger growth thanks to a range of new opens exciting new routing services already secured for the airport this year. This options including to a large has, for example, materialised into an 8% increase number of US domestic airports. in passengers numbers in June compared to the same Now proudly offering five US month last year. Transatlantic was up by a staggering destinations including New 38%, which is equally pleasing considering the average York, Boston, Chicago and spend by passengers on transatlantic routes is well Philadelphia, Shannon Airport is in excess of passengers on other routes. Already, the firmly positioned as the premier decision to separate Shannon is proving the right one transatlantic transit option for and commercially we will benefit from that as well at the US-bound business aviation. airport.” Shannon has traditionally The Loop currently employs 25 fulltime and 19 enjoyed significant numbers seasonal staff, all of whom are from or live in the of aircraft transiting between region, therefore giving a real sense of ‘community’ Europe, the Middle East, Russia amongst staff, which adds to the atmosphere at The and the US over the years due to Loop and, ultimately, heightens the experience for the its geographical location as the passengers. most westerly airport in Europe.

Shannon Airport also helps support employment in Now these reduced turnaround the supply chain, people delivering and manufacturing times, with pre-clearance into goods that are sold at The Loop the bargain, open significant Shannon Airport now has the freedom and additional opportunities for independence to decide its own destiny and the the airport, and customers are message from the whole team is that there’s plenty recognizing the significant more to come. Watch This Space. benefits of transiting through Shannon.

The presence at Shannon of a Shannon Airport number of leading international Major US pre-clearance handlers such as Jet Ex, Universal Aviation and Signature changes... Flight Support also adds to the Shannon Airport is welcoming a major upswing airport’s appeal. in business aviation interest after slashing as Another addition to the overall much as 60 minutes off turnaround times for Shannon offering for business US Customs and Immigration pre-clearance aviation will be the development due to procedural concessions State-side. by Quintessentially Aviation, which is the aviation wing of the The changes have cut turn-around times at the airport world’s leading luxury lifestyle to as little as 45 minutes, which has significantly group Quintessentially, of its heightening the appeal of Shannon -already the only first Irish VIP lounge at Shannon airport in the world to have US pre-clearance for Airport. business jets.

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On Your Doorstep: Limerick:

Limerick and Clare Limerick is in a way unlucky to be surrounded by counties with breathtaking natural beauty and rugged With Shannon Airport decreasing in size Atlantic coastlines. For this reason it sometimes lacks in your rear view mirror you are instantly the billing it deserves but it is a county rich in heritage faced with a choice. The surrounding counties and history and a city proud of its culture, sport, style of Limerick and Clare offer a wealth of and festivals. different opportunities; while Clare is famed Situated at the last fording point of the river Shannon, for its natural beauty, stunning scenery and Limerick city has long played a vital role in the politics vibrant traditional music, Limerick is more and economics of the mid west region. Its location has cosmopolitan, a revitalised and rejuvenated city, made it an ideal centre for commerce and trade but its a hotbed of sport and home to Adare, surely one location, its greatest asset, has also cost the city dearly of the country’s most beautiful villages. as time and time again it was besieged, looted and burned by marauding armies. No wonder then that the corporate motto read “an ancient city studied in the So your first choice is whether you want to arts of war” view the majestic river Shannon over coffee and lunch in a riverside café in Limerick City Like most of Ireland’s cities Limerick was founded by or head to see the stunning scenery of the Clare the Vikings, on what is now known as King’s Island, in coastline and listen to Irish music over a pint in the 10th Century. Brian Boru’s victory at Clontarf in a quaint bar. The choice is entirely yours. 1014 led to the city being eventually attacked and the Vikings were forced to assimilate into the mainstream

16 SHANNON AIRPORT GUIDE of Irish affairs. The Normans the forces of King William but plans then O’Connell Street and expanded and fortified the city and the returning forces one year later the surrounding streets offer a when King John arrived in 1210 coupled with the lack of French wealth of choice and all the usual to inaugurate a new castle and support, led to Sarsfield being suspects and store names. Be sure bridge, it was given the status of forced to surrender. The Treaty of to look down the side streets to a city. Throughout this period the Limerick was signed and the city is find quirky smaller boutiques and city was divided into two separate still known as the Treaty city. The stores offering something a little towns, Englishtown and Irishtown, famous Treaty Stone, on which the different. These streets will also because of laws enacted to keep treaty was reputed to be signed, is offer you the chance to see many of the races apart. It was not until the one of the great historical treasures the best pubs, cafes and restaurants early 1600’s that new walls were of the city. in the city. Pull up seat for a while constructed to encompass the and watch the world wander past. entire city. Arriving into the city, to which The city centre is laid out in a grid, it seems all roads lead, you will called Newtown Pery after a local And how these walls were tested eventually come to rest on the 19th Century MP, so getting lost over the coming century as first main artery O’Connell Street. shouldn’t pose a problem. Cromwell and later King William This is a good time to drop laid siege to the city repeatedly. whatever baggage you have on Head south down O’Connell Street One of the city’s favourite sons, board and begin your tour of the and turn left to find the Georgian Patrick Sarsfield led a brave and city on foot. If you decide that House, a mansion built during cunning defence of the city against shopping is foremost in your the city’s redevelopment in the

Riverfest is Limerick’s premier annual summer festival celebrating the city and features live music, a food & artisan craft fair, water sports, fireworks, theatre, a giant BBQ, fashion and the Great Limerick Run!

17 Barratt Tours.pdf 1 7/3/13 12:09 PM BARRATT Tours

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Barratt Tours have been o ering high quality coach service in Limerick for nearly 15 years. Our range of Service includes: Conference & Corporate Travel • Day Tours • Quality Private hire Short Break Holidays • Custom Tours and Transfers • Chau er services Provision of vehicles for TV/Film industry Tours from Limerick, Shannon, Ennis Daily Tours from Limerick, Adare to Blarney Every Saturday Cork City Day Tours Every Saturday Collect from most Hotels, B&B’s and Guest Houses in Limerick FREE OF CHARGE!

Book Online Today! www.4tours.biz Or Telephone: + 353 61 384700 • Mobile: + 353 87 2375986 (Lines open 07.00 - 23.00) Barratt Tours, Annacotty Business Park, Annacotty, Co. Limerick, Ireland SHANNON AIRPORT GUIDE

19th Century and a chance to see You will now also be nearing King If your feet haven’t tired yet then how these houses looked at a time John’s castle, an imposing fives head a little further out the Old when Limerick was booming. The sided Anglo Norman castle, again Cratloe Road to visit the famous house also looks onto the Peoples best viewed from the river side. Thomond Park, home to Munster Park and Limerick City gallery The famous treaty stone is across Rugby. In a sport mad city and both of which are worth a wander the bank, facing the castle from the county Munster Rugby still have around. Interestingly No 1-6 on west and on which it is rumoured top billing. It was in Thomond Park Pery Square, built in 1839, are the the surrender terms of 1691 were in 1978 that this provincial team only terrace in the city which is signed. The castle itself offers a met, and beat, the mighty All Blacks symmetrically designed. chance to revisit the history of the in a game celebrated in song, story sieges, enjoy the gate house, towers and even a stage play entitled Alone Heading back, north, onto and battlements and explore the it Stands. Tours of the stadium are O’Connell Street and further centuries. The site also houses available but if you get the chance onto Patrick Street you begin to Limerick Museum, a purpose built join the other 26,000 people there approach the most visited sites in building adjacent to the castle. It to cheer on Munster in a home the city; the Hunt Museum, St. boasts a range of excellent exhibits game; it’s an atmosphere to relish. Mary’s Cathedral and King Johns which trace the origins of the Limerick also recently celebrated castle. region. Everything from award with much gusto winning winning example of exquisite the Munster Senior Hurling The Hunt Museum has a Limerick lace to the stunning civic championship and their quest to permanent collection as well as antiquities of the Civic Sword, the win the All Ireland title, last won various shows throughout the City Maces, etc are on show all year in 1973, remains on course. They year. It is a mixed collection, the round. would be very popular winners. life’s work of John and Gertrude Hunt and visitors are encouraged to view their diverse hoarding. The building which houses the collection, bequeathed to the people of Ireland, is the former custom house, a stunning building which needs to be viewed from the riverside.

At this point you will be crossing over the river and as you walk you will approach St. Mary’s Cathedral. Built in 1168 by Donal Mór O’Brien, King of Munster, this cathedral contains many unusual and very fine antiquities. The main points of interest are the pre- reformation limestone altar; the Leper’s Squint; the Reardos of the High Altar (carved by the father of Padraig Pearse) and the famous Misericords (a collection of twenty three, 450 year old carved oak seats used by the clergy during religious ceremonies in medieval times. To anyone interested in church architecture and antiquities a visit to St. Mary’s cathedral is a must.

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K Situated in the heart of Limerick by The Milk Market, or overlooking the weir on the Mulcair river in Annacotty, Copper & Spice has a taste for everyone to enjoy. Indian, Thai, Japanese, Malaysian and Korean cuisine can be tasted here in our modern restaurants.

Cornmarket Row: 061 313620 • Annacotty: 061 338791 www.copperandspice.com

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Enj the perfect pint at Durty Nelly’s in a choice sings with live music nightly!

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K Choice of restaurants Our restaurants offer a wide selection of cuisine, from the traditional atmosphere of the Oyster Restaurant to the intimate surroundings of the upstairs Loft Restaurant, Special Dinner Menu from 5.30pm daily from €54.00 per couple (including half carafe of wine!)

Pull your own Pint Experience the thrill of pulling your own perfect pint of Guinness.

Durty Nelly’s Shop Purchase your very own Durty Nelly’s merchandise. The Perfect Gift!

Durty Nelly’s, Bunratty, Co. Clare Email: [email protected] | Tel: 061 364861 www.durtynellys.ie SHANNON AIRPORT GUIDE

Having enjoyed the sights and One of the best examples of the the county. It is said that when the sounds of the city centre and the medieval tower house is Castle level of the lake fell by nine feet in history therein, head out into Matrix near Rathkeale. Its present the 19th Century, artefacts from it the countryside. Limerick’s rural owner has faithfully restored were carried away by the cartload. hinterland features some of the the 15th century fortress, which It appears these artefacts, from finest farmland in Ireland. Known was built by the seventh Earl of shields, axes and swords of bronze as the Golden Vale, the rich alluvial Desmond. However the Normans and gold, were cast into the lake soils are amazingly fertile and have were just another line of people as offerings to the lake gods. They sustained a thriving agricultural who settled Limerick and there are now rest in museums, nationally economy here for thousands of many Stone Age, Bronze Age and and internationally. years. The Normans recognised Iron Age forts to be seen around the value of these lands and every the county as reminders of this. There is a visitor centre and a major Norman family had lands One of the most intriguing pre chance to explore the island of in Limerick. It goes some way to historic sites is the enchanting Knockadoon, festooned with explaining the fact that there were Lough Gur, outside the village of historic sites and also featuring once four hundred and twenty Bruff. It is not an overstatement a cave which is reputed to be the seven tower houses dotted around to say that it is probably the most entrance to Tír na nÓg, the fabled the county’s landscape. important archaeological site in land of eternal youth!

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e Hunt Museum A diverse heritage. Something for everyone

LOUGH GUR HERITAGE CENTRE

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MY MY Visitors to the Heritage Centre can ﬁnd out about the rich Visitors can learn about the history and archaeology of heritage of Lough Gur by visiting the interactive Lough Gur. They can ﬁnd out more about many of the area’s CY CY multimedia exhibition that brings to life over 8,000 of archaeological sites, including some that are not publicly archaeology and history. accessible. CMY CMY The exhibition brings the visitor on a journey through the Visitors also have an opportunity to actively engage with K history of Lough Gur starting during the Mesolithic Era, and the exhibition, and can have a role in forming their K progressing until the 19th century. individual experience at the centre by choosing which interactive elements to investigate, either on their own or The exhibition is suitable for all ages and abilities. with their family/friends.

What is at the Heritage Centre? • Interactive archaeological dig model • Facsimile artefact display • Interactive pot reconstruction model • interactive touch screens • Coﬀee dock • AV presentations • Retail area • 3listening posts • Information point • Dressing-up corner • Rest rooms Opening Times: Mon–Sat 10am–5pm; Sun 2pm–5pm

Heritage Centre Opening Times: 10am to 5pm Monday to Friday and 12pm to 6pm Saturday & Sunday The Hunt Museum, The Custom House, Limerick Heritage Centre Location: Lough Gur Heritage Centre is located 21km from South East of Limerick City. GPS Co-ordinates: N52 31 316’ W 00831.173’ Tel: 353 61 312833 Web : www.huntmuseum.com Admission Rates: €5.00 per adult, €4.00 for Senior Ciizens, €3 per child (no charge for under 5), Family Ticket €15.00 Email: [email protected] www.loughgur.com | telephone: 061 385186 | email: honeyﬁ[email protected] SHANNON AIRPORT GUIDE

Heading towards Kerry from Limerick city you will The heritage centre will give you a great insight come to the beautiful village of Adare, filled daily with and traces the development of Adare from the 13th visitors eager to see this quaint and pretty place. It was Century to the present day. Life of the day in the town the Earls of Dunraven who decided that their estate and its monasteries are depicted in colourful murals village should be pleasing to the eye and they set about while a detailed audio-visual display and models bring making it so in the early 19th Century. Their efforts the past centuries to life once more. were worthy and that work, along with the many medieval remnants, certainly helps make the village so Many of the attractions of the surrounding areas are picture postcard to this day. also highlighted. The centre, the Desmond castle, the Friary, the bustling craft and arts shops, the selection of excellent restaurants and bars, the beauty of the place make a visit to Adare always worthwhile. Though the traffic can be heavy, it’s worth pulling in and enjoying.

Another piece of Limerick history worth visiting and celebrating is the Foynes Flying Boat Museum; recreating and celebrating a time in the late 30’s and early 40’s when Foynes became a vital stop over for transatlantic flights. The Flying Boats were usually the chosen transport of the wealthy and the famous and everybody from Hemmingway to Bob Hope have contributed to the history of the place.

It is also the original source of the world famous Irish Coffee, many of which you will no doubt be offered during your stay here.

23 Carrygerry Country House.pdf 1 8/20/13 10:24 AM

Carrygerry Country House is a 200 year old Manor tastefully restored to its former glory, set in an idyllic mature country setting, and situated near Newmarket-on-Fergus - just minutes away from Shannon.

With 11 elegant guest rooms between our main house and courtyard, all Having won “The Good Food Ireland Country House of the Year”, we individually styled, vary in size, with antique furnishings, some having at Carrygerry pride ourselves on sourcing only the finest local and four poster beds in keeping with the character of this fine old country organic produce to produce a memorable modern Irish dining C house. experience.

M Whether you choice to use Carrygerry as a base to explore the Shannon Our Conservatory Restaurant is open for Dinner from Y Region or as a first or last night stayover, we are ideally situated not only Tuesday to Saturday from 6.30pm to 9.30pm. to Shannon International Airport (10 minutes), but the wonderful market CM town of Ennis, the Cliffs of Moher and the Burren. Our Table D’hote Menu offers a well balanced and thoughtfully selected

MY choice and variety in each course at a cost of €35.00. We are fortunate to have some of the finest golf Courses the West of CY Ireland can offer in very close proximity, Shannon, Lahinch, Adare, Our New Early Bird Menu for €26.50 is served from 6.30pm to 8.00pm Doonbeg & Dromoland to name but a few. The medieval Castle in both Tuesday-Saturday (3 Courses plus Tea/Coffee) CMY Bunratty and Limerick are an enjoyable way to spend a leisurely

K afternoon. Carrygerry Range Niall Ennis Owner /Chef at Carrygerry Country House has launched his On arrival you will experience a relaxed and unique country house own Range of Homemade produce. atmosphere with open fires and antique furniture. With a large Selection of Jams, Chutneys, Sauces, Breads, Tarts & A wonderful setting for an intimate wedding, our historic country house Biscuits. Also his famous Seafood Chowder & Homemade Chicken Liver could be the perfect venue for your big day. Perfect for a drinks Pate won awards in 2012 at the Blas na hEireann Awards held in Dingle, reception or ideal as a background for timeless photographs, the Co Kerry. charming courtyard at the rear of the house is also ideal for special private blessings. We are licensed to hold Civil Ceremonies. All Produce can be bought in local shops or at the house.

Bens Surf Clinic.pdf 1 7/24/13 1:19 PM Adare Taxi Service.pdf 1 6/21/13 3:36 PM

Getting around by taxi? Welcome to Limerick!

C C Contact Michael Leonard on

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Y Y

CM CM 087 9911675

MY MY

CY CY Email: [email protected] CMY CMY Address: Castleroberts, K K

+ Irelands rst Hard board surf school Adare, Co. Limerick + Quality surf lessons based in Lahinch Co. Clare + All levels catered for (group size max 6) + All equipment provided or be coached on your own TAXI + Hard board rentals available Contact Ben on 086 8448622 SHANNON AIRPORT GUIDE

Bunratty Bun na Raite, meaning “End of the Raite river”, is a village in County Clare in the parish of Newmarket on Fergus, Ireland

Heading west from Limerick you will come to Bunratty Castle and Folk Park, one of the most beautiful and popular visitor attractions in the country. The sense of history and the attention to detail about the place make it a great afternoon entertainment.

Stay for the banquet if time and pocket allow, but first wallow in the majestic surroundings of the best kept castle in the land and the brilliant folk park attached.

The site on which Bunratty Castle stands was in origin a Viking trading camp in 970. The present structure is the last of four castles to be built on the site.

Robert De Muscegros, a Norman, built the first defensive fortress (an earthen mound with a strong wooden tower on top) in 1250. His lands were later granted to Thomas De Clare who built the first stone castle on the site. About this time and they agreed to profess Bunratty became a large town of 1,000 inhabitants. loyalty to the King of England. The reign of the In 1318 Richard De Clare, son of Thomas, was killed O’Briens came to an end in a battle between the Irish and the Normans His with the arrival of the followers were routed and the castle and town were Cromwellian troops and the completely destroyed. The castle was restored for the castle and its grounds were King of England but was laid waste in 1332 by the surrendered. Irish Chieftains of Thomond under the O’Briens and MacNamaras. It lay in ruins for 21 years until it was rebuilt by Sir Thomas Rokeby but was once again The O’Briens never returned to Bunratty but later they attacked by the Irish and the castle remained in Irish built a beautiful residence at Dromoland Castle, now a hands thereafter. luxury 5 star hotel.

The powerful MacNamara family built the present Bunratty Castle and its lands were granted to various structure around 1425 but by 1475 it had became Plantation families, the last of whom was the Studdart the stronghold of the O’Briens, the largest clan in family. They left the castle in 1804 (allowing it to fall North Munster. They ruled the territory of North into disrepair), to reside in the more comfortable and Munster and lived in great splendour. The castle was modern Bunratty House, which is open to the public surrounded by beautiful gardens and it was reputed to in the grounds of the Folk Park. have a herd of 3,000 deer. Bunratty returned to its former splendour when Under Henry VIII’s ‘surrender and re-grant’ scheme, Viscount Lord Gort purchased it in 1954. The the O’Brien’s were granted the title ‘Earls of Thomond’ extensive restoration work began in 1945 with the help

25 Discover Killaloe.pdf 1 7/16/13 1:06 PM Killaloe Ballina Easy to reach, impossible to leave

CMY

Tempt your On the water On land Stay Boat cruises, hire your own boat, shing, Hike, cycle, try your hand A host of places to stay sailing, windsur ng & kayaking at being creative & explore the heritage Awardtastebuds winning restaurants, cafés & pubs from charming B&B's to friendly hotels

Only 40 minutes from Shannon Airport - Come and experience it! www.discoverkillaloe.ie SHANNON AIRPORT GUIDE of the Office of Public Works, the Irish Tourist Board facilities. Be sure and drop into Mac’s for a pint! The and Shannon Development. It was then opened to the pub is furnished to reflect the lifestyle of the time public in 1962 as a National Monument and is open and the fact that the publican not only sold drink, to visitors year round. It is the most complete and in former times, but also traded in groceries and authentically restored and furnished castle in Ireland. hardware.

When you visit Bunratty Folk Park you experience a Costumed characters recreate the traditions and living reconstruction of the homes and environment lifestyle of a bygone age and animate the Folk Park. of Ireland of over a century ago. Set on 26 acres, the Among these well known and loved characters are the impressive park features over 30 buildings in a ‘living’ Bean an Ti (woman of the house), RIC (Royal Irish village and rural setting. Constabulary) policeman and Schoolteacher. Traditional jobs and crafts are also represented, milling, Rural farmhouses, village shops and streets are the forge, pottery, printing, baking, farming, etc. recreated and furnished as they would have appeared at that time according to their social standing, from You will also get to visit the beautiful walled garden at the poorest one roomed dwelling to Bunratty House Bunratty House. It is a surviving part of the demesne a fine example of a Georgian residence for the gentry which was originally formed around Bunratty Castle. built 1804 home of the Studdarts, the last family to The garden was built for the house c 1804. As walled occupy Bunratty Castle. gardens go it is small, just less than half an acre, this was due to the fact that a large garden would have The Village Street allows you to experience village life existed within the demesne, located north of the in 19th Century Ireland. The village houses and shops castle. This large garden would have functioned as a in the Folk Park have been chosen from many different kitchen garden for Bunratty House and therefore it was unnecessary to have another large production garden.

The garden was built on the east side of the house and beyond the stables protected from the prevailing westerly winds. It is enclosed by four original stone walls forming an irregular space. Apart from the walls, no original features remain except for a disused entrance to the south wall near the house, which would have been used by the family and a cart entrance near the south east corner, with original Iron Gates. Views from the garden to the east overlook the reclaimed salt marshes of the Owengarney River Valley and to the south toward the River Shannon Estuary. areas, to form a collection of typical 19th century urban Irish buildings including the School, Doctor’s The gardens at Bunratty Folk Park have been restored house, Pawnbrokers, Pub, Drapery, Print works, with the assistance of an ERDF grant through the Grocery, Hardware shop, Pottery and a Post Office. Great Gardens of Ireland Restoration programme.

In the early 19th century the country people provided The project includes the environs of the Folk Park as for most of their own needs in food, clothing and well as the formal walled Regency Garden adjacent supplies and bought only luxuries such as sugar, salt to Bunratty House. Each of the garden plots of the and tea. Fairs and markets at the Village gave the vernacular dwellings in the Folk Park have also been farmers and the rural craftsmen an opportunity of restored, with special attention to the planting and selling their products for cash, while shops provided land use of the period. The concept creates a product, for the rural dwellers needs. which is unique in Ireland and the rest of Europe. Its uniqueness is in the fact that the gardens and environs MacNamara and Sons at the top of the village street form part of the history of the everyday lives of the is a fully licensed working pub in the style of an old inhabitants of the houses as well as depicting Irish fashioned hotel bar and provides modern catering horticultural heritage.

27 Ballymorris Pottery_half.pdf 1 9/27/13 12:14 PM

www.ballymorrispottery.ie

Quality Handmade Pottery, Pottery Classes, Parties and Handprints.

Come visit the working pottery, see the processes C and beautiful finished M

Y pieces, or plan a pottery

CM party to create your own MY masterpiece (Booking CY required for party). CMY K Open 10am to 5pm Monday to Friday. Weekends please phone first.

Ballymorris Pottery, Cratloe, Co. Clare | 061 357118 | www.ballymorrispottery.ie

Skycourt Centre_Tideswell Properties.pdf 1 7/4/13 4:49 PM

CMY

SHANNON AIRPORT GUIDE

Once you leave the heady surrounds of Its bare limestone escarpments and rocky hills give the Bunratty you have now begun your journey through impression of a barren land but that is far from true. Co. Clare. In terms of raw beauty it is hard to match Within its confines the Burren hoards seven thousand the coastline of Clare. From Kinvara to Kilkee the land years of history, including Stone Age, Bronze Age and and sea meet to create scenes of absolute splendour. Iron Age forts, farms and burial grounds. Add to this the Burren’s astounding variety of flora and it’s easy to The raw power and beauty of the west coast is see why it attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors apparent form the moment you look away from the every year. relative calm of Galway Bay, where in between lies the spectacular Black Head, where the rock formations of However North Clare isn’t just about the Burren. the Burren fall away to the sea. The equally spectacular Cliffs of Moher are not to be missed. Have your breath taken away by seeing what North Clare boasts the charm and culture of the 700ft of sheer rock face standing against the Atlantic matchmaking festival held each year at the spa resort fury looks like. It is one of the most jaw dropping of Lisdoonvarna; West Clare retorts with the wild sights on this island. Take a trip up to O’Brien’s tower, exuberance of Milltown Malbay’s Willie Clancy Week; north from the cliff faces and use the viewing tower to the eastern half of the county has it’s own particular fully appreciate the setting. Alternatively stroll around beauty, although not as wild and rugged as the north the visitor centre and its information on the wildlife and west, the grasslands around Tulla and Quin have and history of the area, with interactive screens and 3D wonderful pastoral charm. projections. In truth one of the best ways to view the cliffs is by boat, available from Doolin which is nearby. The Burren dominates North Clare. This unique natural environment stretches to over 100 square miles and is These trips run regularly and give a great perspective rightly considered one of Ireland’s greatest treasures. of the wall of rock above you.

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Fishing was once the very life blood of communities like Kilkee, Carrigaholt and other villages on the Loop Head peninsula but game fishing and other marine activities, including diving and dolphin watching, have now largely replaced this industry.

30 SHANNON AIRPORT GUIDE

This area is also awash with beautiful beaches at Lahinch or Fanore and there are great little pubs and restaurants to be found in towns like Ballyvaughan, Lisdoonvarna, Kilfenora, Corofin and Ennistymon. Clare is another sporting county (is there any county in Irelands that isn’t?) and they boast great tourism numbers for two particular sports, golf and surfing. Lahinch is famed for both as is Doonbeg in West Clare where surfers come from all over the globe to enjoy the waves and golfers come from all over the globe to play the spectacular Greg Norman designed golf course. The sea played a major role in the design of these top class golf courses and it is the sea that has influenced many of the traditions of West Clare. Fishing was once the very life blood of communities like Kilkee, Carrigaholt and other villages on the Loop Head peninsula but game fishing and other marine activities, including diving and dolphin watching, have now largely replaced this industry.

Dolphin watching trips are available from Carrigaholt and Kilrush Creek marina. The Shannon has one of the last remaining pods of estuarine dolphins in Europe and they often can be seen jumping and playing close to shore and further out in deeper waters. The trips normally take a couple of hours and you’ll often find company in the form of the dolphins swimming alongside the boat or riding the bow wave. Hydrophones are usually supplied to allow you to hear their communication.

Of Course there are a lot more things to do in North and West Clare without ever getting your feet wet; the usual array of walking, climbing, pony trekking, cycling, etc are widely available. It is difficult to find natural beauty, craic and culture in one charming mix but Clare delivers such a package.

The attractions of East Clare are often overlooked by travellers favouring the more noted, rugged and famed sights and sounds of the Atlantic side. But East Clare has a wealth to offer. The region is dotted with a multitude of Gaelic castles, tower houses and abbeys, testament to the continued lordship of the O’Brien and McNamara clans in the area up to the 17th Century. These legacies of the past include the 12th Century Ennis Abbey and the medieval Quin Abbey. Nearby Knappogue and Bunratty castles stage nightly medieval banquets featuring Irish music, song and dance.

Loophead Lighthouse on the north side of the mouth River Shannon, in County Clare Triathlon Races Doonbeg; Inset bottom: competitors at the Inset top: Surfing off 31 Shannon Golf Club.pdf 1 8/20/13 12:02 PM

SHANNON GOLF CLUB 18 HOLE CHAMPIONSHIP COURSE….. ONLY A 9 IRON FROM SHANNON AIRPORT!

Surf lessons for all ages. M Surf equipment rental. Y

Irish Sur ng Association Approved school. CM

MY Established 13 years, family run business. In Lahinch, Co.Clare. CY CMY Enjoy the facilities of this 18 Hole Parkland Championship Golf

K Course, regarded as one of the best in the Midwest area and only minutes from Shannon Airport for as little as €25.00!!! Considered to be an ideal starting or nishing point to your gol ng holiday, Shannon boasts being the host venue to the National Cups & Shields Final, European Ladies Junior Championships, Irish Close Championship and Men’s European Strokeplay Championship.

Disembark your ight to enjoy an Early Bird Rate of just €25.00 Monday – Friday. This fantastic offer is also available all day on Wednesday’s. Green Fee rates are available on request Mention this advertisement and receive a 10% discount Contact: 087 9833018 or 065 7082771 (not available on early bird rate). Shannon Golf Club, Shannon Airport, Shannon, Co. Clare Website: www.greenroomlahinch.com Tel: +353.61.471849 | Fax: +353.61.471507 e-mail: [email protected] Email: [email protected] www.shannongolfclub.ie

Grovemount House.pdf 1 7/23/13 11:53 AM Clare Language School.pdf 1 7/27/13 7:15 PM

Grovemount House

C Grovemount House C Family run guesthouse situated in the M outskirts of Ennistymon Town. M

Y Y Adjacent to the Cli s of Moher, CM The World famous Burren, and Lahinch. CM MY MY

CY It is the ideal location for golfers, surfers, walkers and cyclists. CY

CMY There is an abundance of award winning restaurants CMY

K in the area as well as traditional pubs where you can K enjoy the very best of IrishTrad music.

Prices are from €35 per person sharing and include full Irish Breakfast. Grovemount House Lahinch Road, Ennistymon, Co Clare

Tel: +353 (0)65 7071431 Fax: +353 (0)65 7071823 Email: [email protected] SHANNON AIRPORT GUIDE

Although solidly inland, East Clare is not without its watery delights. The region has more than forty lakes providing top class course and sport angling. Among the most celebrated of these lakes is Lough Graney which provided the inspirational setting for Brian Merriman’s 18th Century epic poem Cuirt an Mhean- Oiche (The Midnight Court), a racy and bawdy poem that railed against celibacy and the sexual neglect of women.

Ennis, the county town of Clare, is one of Ireland’s finest towns. Beautifully centred on an island in the Fergus River, its small narrow streets and squares give it an intimate and friendly atmosphere. The town developed around a medieval Franciscan abbey which Nearby to Lough Graney, in Tuamgraney, is the was founded by the O’Brien Kings of Thomond in country’s longest serving church, dating from 996AD 1240, the ruins of which can still be seen today. and open to visitors daily. The town has changed much in the interim but it’s as The largest of the lakes in Co. Clare is Lough Derg, charming as ever and expanding to accommodate a which forms the counties eastern boundary. Isolated fast growing population. by the empty heights of Slieve Bernagh and Slieve Aughtie mountains, the lake is a genuine jewel. It is the Over the centuries Ennis developed a reputation as largest of the river Shannon’s lakes and probably the a market town and that tradition continues today. most popular for water sports. It is among the busiest Visitors still enjoy the wide range of shopping the town sections of the waterway for cruisers and also used offers, particularly the abundance of home-produced widely for sailing, wind surfing and water skiing. crafts. The lake is bordered by some beautiful small towns, Terryglass and Garrykennedy on the Tipperary side Music is an integral part of the Clare scene and this is and Killaloe on the Clare side would be some of the of course very evident throughout Ennis. The town is best known but each oozes character and charm. one of the best in the country for traditional sessions and every night there are usually a number to choose Killaloe is one of the oldest settlements in Co. Clare. It from; it’s simply a matter of finding them as they may is situated at the southern end of Lough Derg, where not be flagged in advance. Sit in and enjoy. Ennis the great river narrows, and its old quarter is centred is also home to the Glór Music Centre. The Centre on the 13th Century cathedral of St. Flannan. Beside provides a forum for Irish and international musicians the cathedral is the Thogrim Stone, a carved stone and artists to showcase their work and celebrates the that bears both Celtic ogham and runic inscriptions. traditions and evolution of Irish music. Killaloe is a very popular tourist centre and is served well by excellent facilities and a wealth of good bars With Lough Derg, The Burren National Park, the and restaurants. famous Cliffs of Moher, the river Shannon, you’d

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Temple Gate hotel.pdf 1 8/1/13 11:07 AM

Temple Gate Hotel welcomes you...

Y Only CM 15 minutes MY from Sha CY nnon FREE breakfast when you book a room Airport CMY

K Book a room only rate and get breakfast for up to 2 people free.

Temple Gate Hotel is a charming, family owned and run hotel, set in the perfect location to wander the cobblestone streets of Ennis or explore the West of Ireland. The Square, Ennis, Co. Clare Telephone: 065 682 3300 | Fax: 065 682 3322 Email: [email protected] Twitter: @templegatehotel | Facebook: facebook.com/Templegatehotel GPS: N 52 50.654 W 8 58.924 | FREE car parking & FREE Wifi WWW.TEMPLEGATEHOTEL.COM SHANNON AIRPORT GUIDE think that Clare has more than her fair share of the Voyage of St. Brendan the Navigator, reputed to natural wonders but we must also make mention of have discovered America centuries before Columbus. the stunning Aillwee Caves at Ballyvaughan. With its St. Brendan the Navigator (who died c. 583 AD.) stalactites, stalagmites, relics of bears and waterfall, it was, according to a 9th century manuscript, “The has become one of the most visited attractions in the Navigacio”, the first man to discover the ‘Promised country. If you can take nature making your jaw drop Land’ across the Atlantic. This place he called High again, make it an essential part of any trip to the Burren. Basil and it first came to him a dream.

In 1976 Tim Severin, a modern day explorer, built a leather-hulled boat based on the vessel described in the manuscript, and on the Currach still used on Ireland’s West Coast. He and his crew then made the voyage with stops on the Aran Islands, in Donegal, the Hebrides and in the Faroes, over-wintering in Iceland, and proved it was possible for St. Brendan to have made the voyage to America in such a craft. The actual boat used in this endeavour is on display in a specially constructed glass boathouse, reminiscent of a glacier. You’ll wonder how St. Brendan survived that arduous journey all those years ago.

Craggaunowen also includes a Ring Fort, a true It is also important that you take some time reproduction of a farmer’s house, dating from the 4th to experience the Living past Experience in or 5th century. Ring forts, of which there are about Craggaunowen. You get a genuine sense of stepping 40,000 examples throughout Ireland, were the standard back in time. There are a number of fascinating type of farmstead during the early Christian Period elements to Craggaunowen. You’ll insight into how (5th -12th centuries AD). the Celts made their homes on a Crannog (meaning ‘young tree’), a reconstructed lake-dwelling or artificial The contemporaries of the people living in Ring forts island on which people built houses, kept animals, and produced the magnificent artefacts of the Golden lived in relative security from enemy clans or invaders. Age - the Ardagh Chalice, the Tara Crannogs were found in Ireland during the Iron Age Brooch, the Book of and early Christian periods. Though some homesteads Kells, the Derrynaflan were inhabited during the Late Bronze Age and in Hoard and many some cases were still being occupied as late as the 17th other masterpieces. century. Souterrain (below ground) Crannogs were constructed by placing layers of stone, or underground brushwood, tree trunks and even, old dugout canoes, passages designed on the lakebed. These were held together by wooden primarily as food pilings and the platform was covered with a layer storage areas, were of earth or sand. On this the inhabitants built their ventilated, but draft thatched houses of wattles and mud and surrounded free. They maintain a themselves with a protective timber fence. These constant temperature artificial islands were generally approached by dugout of around 4 degrees no matter how hot it gets on the canoes or by various types of causeways or bridges. surface. They could also be used as places of refuge The exhibit also includes an original dugout canoe so during attacks on the Ring Fort, many souterrain have you can see for yourself exactly how they travelled. secondary or tertiary chambers which are difficult to Another important attraction at Craggaunowen is the enter, thereby affording their occupants a measure of ‘Brendan Boat’, the hide boat in which Tim Severin security. sailed from Ireland to the United States, re-enacting

35 SHANNON AIRPORT GUIDE

You can also see Fulacht Fia, a many medieval objects, were exhibited. reconstructed cooking site which was The entire exhibition now resides in the common throughout the country. Hunting Hunt Museum in Limerick City. It was John parties used them over a long period of Hunt who came up with the concept for time, from the early Bronze Age to the Craggaunowen as you see it today and he Elizabethan period. A rectangular hole was generously donated it and his collections to dug in low-lying land where it was sure to the people of Ireland. fill with water. This was clad on the four sides with wooden sections. Stones heated Before you leave you’ll also see an Iron Age on the campfire were then used to boil the wooden track or Togher, originally laid in water in the wooden trough. A joint of 148AD. It was excavated in 1975 at Corlea venison was then wrapped in straw and put Bog, Co. Longford and a section of it was into the boiling water and cooked for a set then moved to here for study and display. period. In some places, transport was a major problem during the Iron Age. Near the sea Craggaunowen Castle itself was built by or rivers, skin covered boats or dug-out John MacSioda MacNamara in 1550 a canoes made travel easy. In order to reach descendant of Sioda MacNamara who built areas far from waterways it was necessary Knappogue Castle in 1467. It is a typical to travel through the heavily wooded or example of a fortified Tower House, which bog covered countryside. was the ordinary residence of the gentry at the time. After the collapse of the Gaelic Occasionally to connect two important Order, in the 17th century, the castle was sites or places, wooden roadways were built left roofless and uninhabitable. across bogs or marshes. These were made by placing runners of birch or alder on The restoration work was completed the surface and covering them with large in 1965 by John Hunt, who added the oak planks to make a road. Your visit to extension to the ground floor where part Craggaunowen will leave you with a great of his collection of antiquities, containing sense of history and some stories to tell! 36 SHANNON AIRPORT GUIDE

There are of course numerous Clare Archaeology Centre, Dysert tomb carvings dating from the 15th other attractions dotted around O’Dea Castle: Home to the O’Dea Century this idyllic county, some of which clan until 1691 this castle is located you may not want to miss: in one of the richest archaeological Kilrush Heritage Centre: “Kilrush areas in Europe. Open daily May- in Landlord Times” depicts Clare Heritage and Genealogical September. the story of Kilrush from its Service, Corofin: Portrays the establishment as an estate town by traumatic period of Irish culture Cruises: take a trip up the majestic the Vandeleur landlords at the end which includes famine and Shannon River or a trip to one of of the 18th Century. It’s the starting emigration. They also offer a Clare’s beautiful islands. Maybe point for a heritage walk through professional genealogical service take the 30 minute trip from the town of Kilrush. Open daily to anyone wishing to trace their Doolin to the Aran Islands. Or take June to September. ancestry. Open all year round. a ferry to Scattery Island, the site of a monastic settlement where the You will of course find many other Cratloe Woods House: dating round tower and several churches distractions and attractions as your from the 17th Century this is the can still be seen. Or if you’re here travel around this very special part only example of an Irish longhouse in autumn take a cruise to see if of the world. We hope you get time which is still lived in as a family you can find any passing migrating to move further around the country home. The house is steeped in Minke whales. There’s a world of than only Limerick and Clare but if history and features works of art, choice. you don’t, you’ve chosen a great place curios and, in the yard, horse to start and finish! drawn farm machinery and a pet’s Ennis Friary: Founded by the corner. Open June to September, O’Brien Kings of Thomond in the Monday to Saturday. 13th Century, the chancel has rare 37 Shannon Airport Taxi Service.pdf 1 7/8/13 12:10 AM Wild Honey Inn.pdf 1 8/7/13 12:39 PM

Wild Honey Inn LISDOONVARNA, CO. CLARE 065-7074300 www.wildhoneyinn.com Kate Sweeney and Aidan McGrath

Michelin Guide: Michelin Bib Gourmand good food at reasonable prices. AA Guide: 4 AA Star rating for accommodation and 2 C C AA Rosettes for food.

This is a hidden gem not M M to be missed in the North Clare area. Y Y ‘Wild Honey Inn is a gorgeous place, in every CM CM since of the word. Fáilte Ireland should make food MY MY like this mandatory at regular intervals around

CY CY the country to show what we can do when we do it right’. CMY CMY Catherine Cleary, Irish Times OFFICIAL SHANNON AIRPORT TAXI SERVICE food writer. K K Desk is located in the arrivals Hall Make Wild Honey Inn your base for a special Burren Available to cover a Nation Wide Service experience. Fleet of 30 Quality Cars Relax in stylish rooms and Sightseeing tours and light courier work. enjoy award winning food.

E-Mail: [email protected]. Telephone: 061 471538 Mobile: 087 2662413 Cliffs of Moher – 14.3 km www.shannon airportcab.com Ennis – 38.1 km Shannon Airport – 64.1 km

East Clare Touris.pdf 1 8/2/13 10:07 AM

CORI Quarter_Layout 1 7/24/13 12:15 PM Page 1 Visit East Clare

C EAST CLARE has it all for that perfect get-away M relaxing break or longer holiday. Y With excellent accommodation and dining you will be well

CM fortified to enjoy the activities and amenities of the region.

MY Fishing, water sports & cruises on Lough Derg and the other smaller lakes, hill-walking on the East Clare marked way, CY golf, pitch and putt and horse-riding are all readily

CMY available for the active tourist.

K You will also see our new visitors - The White Tailed Sea Eagles. For those with a more sedentary holiday in mind, visit the renowned Heritage sites, enjoy the truly Irish Traditional music sessions & concerts and enjoy the unique atmosphere of an Irish pub. Contact any of the providers on the website and all arrangements will be made for you. East Clare 40 minutes drive from Shannon Airport. www.visitclare.net City of Culture Page FNL_V1 09/08/2013 14:59 Page 1

.ie ure cult yof ckcit limeri

Ireland’s NATIONAL CITY OF CULTURE

MMaarrkketiinngg CCoommpanyy CLiffs of Moher.PDF 1 7/5/13 11:39 AM

CMY

KIDS GO FREE! CLiffs of Moher.PDF 1 7/5/13 11:39 AM Cliffs of Moher Editorial.PDF 1 7/24/13 11:07 AM

Cliffs of Moher Visitor Experience Ireland’s most visited natural attraction

The Cliffs of Moher are Ireland's most visited natural O'Brien's Tower stands proudly on a headland near the attraction offering a truly world class visitor highest point of the Cliffs; built in 1835 it served as a experience. Rising to 214m/700ft high at the viewing point for visitors who even then flocked to the highest point and the Cliffs extend for 8 kilometres Cliffs of Moher. The roof top of O’Brien’s Tower offers above the Atlantic Ocean on County Clare’s west the best photo opportunity. Amazingly from here five coast. From the Cliffs one can see the Aran Islands counties can be viewed on a clear day. and Galway Bay, as well as The Twelve Pins and the Maum Turk Mountains in Connemara and Loop Travelling time from Shannon Airport by car: Head and the Kerry Mountains to the south. Allow 45mins – 1 hour.

The Cliffs of Moher are a Special Protected Area under Cliffs Coastal Walk

C C the EU and Irish wildlife legislation. They are home to Beyond the Cliffs of Moher visitor centre you can now

M M Ireland’s largest mainland seabird nesting colony explore a new 20km coastal walking trail which will

Y Y with up to 30,000 breeding pairs including guillemots, bring you along one of the most outstanding CM CM razorbills & puffins. landscapes of Ireland. MY MY

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CMY The eco- friendly visitor centre, opened in 2007, From Liscannor and Hags Head in the south, along the CMY

K K includes a major exhibition area containing multi-media majestic Cliffs of Moher to Doolin in the north, the trail exhibits and displays on many aspects of the Cliffs of provides views over Aill Na Searrach, the Aran Islands Moher. The visitor centre building operates using and Galway Bay. The trail follows the line of the cliffs and environmental best practices focusing on efficient water passes through the grounds of the Visitor Centre. and waste management, energy saving and environmental awareness. The grass roofed building is set into the hillside which minimises the visual Cliffs of Moher impact on this fabulous scenic location. Visitor Experience, Liscannor, Co. Clare Indoor visitor facilities include the Exhibition, toilets, coffee shop, gift shop, first aid room, tourist P: +353 65 7086141 KIDS information and a restaurant with panoramic views W: www.cliffsofmoher.ie of the Cliffs and Liscannor Bay. External facilities F: www.facebook.com/mohercliffs GO FREE! include coach drop off and pick up points, over 700 E: [email protected] meters of safe walkways and viewing areas, disabled and bicycle parking, picnic areas, and six craft shops.

Staff are available on the cliff edge and around the site for visitor assistance, information & safety. Celtic TShirt Shop.pdf 1 7/24/13 1:21 PM Ballyvaughan Walking Club.pdf 1 8/6/13 1:19 PM

Take a walk in the heart of the Burren one of Europes most unique landscapes

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Y Y THE BALLYVAUGHAN FANORE WALKING CLUB Venture into the heart of the Burren with the CM CM Ballyvaughan Fanore Walking Club. MY MY Give yourself a real treat, walk and explore this wonderfully rich unique landscape with the club as your host. CY CY Join this active group of walkers as a visitor, for a day, CMY CMY or take out annual membership.

K K All details and walks schedule available on Website: www.ballyvaughanfanorewalkingclub.com Telephone: +353 87 7779714 Live life to the full - walk the breathtaking Burren region with the Ballyvaughan Fanore Walking Club

• Hike the Burren with the Ballyvaughan Fanore walking club... visitors always welcome! www.ballyvaughanfanorewalkingclub.com 087 7779714 • Take part in the clubs annual events Clare Burren Marathon Challenge annually on last weekend in May. www.clareburrenmarathonchallenge.com 087 7779714 • Burren Peaks Walking Festival annually on last weekend in Sept. www.burrenpeakswalkingfestival.com 087 7779714.

Clare Museum.pdf 1 7/10/13 12:09 PM Glynn Coaches.pdf 1 7/22/13 10:57 AM

C C

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MY MY CY CY Tulla Road, Ennis, CMY CMY

K K Co. Clare, Ireland

Visit Clare Museum Tel: +353 (65) 682 8234 At Arthur’s Row, Ennis. 6,000 years of archaeology and history Email: [email protected] excitingly captured in the Riches of Clare exhibition. Web: www.glynncoaches.com Admission is FREE. Opening hours: Tuesday to Saturday: 0930 – 1300 hrs and 1400 to 1730 hrs (subject to change) Last admissions at 1230hrs and 1630 hrs. | Closed on Bank Holiday Saturdays. The Ennis Tourist O ce is also located at the Clare Museum for tourist information. www.clarelibrary.ie | telephone: 065-6823382 | email: [email protected] Ballyvaughan_Fanore Tourism_editorial page 1.pdf 1 8/14/13 1:15 PM

SPECIAL ADVERTISING FEATURE

WELCOME TO BALLYVAUGHAN CAPITAL OF THE BURREN

Ballyvaughan is not just an idyllic destination; while there why WELCOME TO BALLYVAUGHAN not enjoy the excitement of all the local amenities. – CAPITAL OF THE BURREN www.discoverballyvaughan.com There are an abundance of exciting activities to choose from an enchanting picturesque village of thatched including, surfing, and swimming, cycling, walking, climbing, cottages on the West Coast of Clare. With a kayaking and fishing. Check out the calendar of events for what is dramatic backdrop of the historic limestone happening in Ballyvaughan or visit the web site landscape and overlooking Galway Bay this is www.discoverballyvaughan.com the ideal base for any traveller to explore, relax and enjoy the amazing Burren. Explore the many hiking trails that crisscross this amazing and Stroll along the water front with its sail boats and catch one of the unique world UNISCO designated landscape. amazing sunsets. Take the Burren Atlantic drive, voted one of the top ten drives in the world. This coastal route, with the Atlantic The Ballyvaughan Wood Loop is an easy walk for most to enjoy. The Black Head and Caher Valley Looped walks are more C Ocean on one side and the Burren limestone rising up on the other, is both dramatic and enchanting. The drive includes some challenging taking you to the heart of The Burren and offering M of the most historic monuments of the Burren and the breath some wonderful views of Galway bay and the Aran Islands (see Y taking Cliffs of Moher. www.shannonregiontrails.ie).

CY CMY An Fulacht Fia Restaurant K Coast Road (R477), Ballyvaughan, Co Clare

A piece of Italy in Ballyvaughan

Open 7 Days a week in high season & week-ends only GEORGINA during the Winter months CAMPBELL’S A La Carte served from 5.30pm – 9.00pm Early Bird Offer available from 5.30pm – 6.30pm recommended by BEST IN IRELAND 2012 WINNER ireland-guide.com recommended by Best Ethnic Children’s Menu Available 2012 Bridgestone Guides Restaurant Sunday’s at An Fulacht Fia L'Arco is an authentic Italian restaurant Sunday Lunch & Casual Dining served from 1.00pm Off Main Street, Ballyvaughan, Co. Clare. www.burrenrestaurant.com Tel: 065 7077300 Open from 5.30pm Tel: 065 7083900 Email: [email protected] GPS: N 53.1154, W -9.1487 Website: anfulachtfia.ie

43 Ballyvaughan_Fanore Tourism_editorial page 2.pdf 1 8/14/13 1:13 PM Ballyvaughan_Fanore Tourism_editorial page 3.pdf 1 8/14/13 1:15 PM

SPECIAL ADVERTISING FEATURE

A destination stop WELCOME TO BALLYVAUGHAN for anyone touring the Burren. CAPITAL OF THE BURREN

Drop by the Farmers Market on Saturday for a great variety Whether following the Woodland trails, watching the of local produce and a chat. falcons and hawks at the Bird of Prey Centre or taking the peaceful Mountain Walk you are guaranteed a day to You can enjoy this informal social gathering for both local remember. residents and visitors alike with live traditional musicians providing the entertainment. Quality Gifts and Souvenirs are available locally. Linn Fashions & Gifts, stocks beautifully hand crafted gifts and A visit to the Craft Fair is a must. Open every Sunday from Ladies fashions of international and Irish leading labels. Food Service Times May to October this Craft Fair showcases the vibrant art June to September - Midday to 9pm and craft scene in the Burren region. Information, maps, books on the locality, are available at Oﬀ Peak: Oct to May - Midday to 8pm The Tourist Information Centre in the Gift Shop (visit Enjoy an Arts Exhibition at the Burren College of Art in the www.linnfashionireland.com). FOR BOOKINGS: picturesque grounds of Newtown Castle. Please Call: 065-7077059 Quinn Craftshop (www.craftshop.ie) has a wonderful Email: [email protected] C Bring the family for a fun packed day to the famous Aillwee selection of quality Irish made products and beside this the C Cave with its Bird of Prey Centre and Farm Shop home to Ballyvaughan self catering cottages Web: www.monks.ie M M its award winning Burren Gold cheese. (www.ballyvaughan-cottages.com). Y Y

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The Village Stores B A L L Y V A UGHAN

B A L LY V A UGHA N

BOOKSTORE GIFTS IRISH CRAFTS & FASHION FOODSTORE DELI BAR NEWSAGENT TOURIST INFORMATION GIFTS & CRAFTS

44 Ballyvaughan_Fanore Tourism_editorial page 3.pdf 1 8/14/13 1:15 PM

The Village Store is a little oasis in the heartSPECIAL of ADVERTISINGBallyvaughan. FEATURE Its extensive deli, fresh fruit and vegetables and “ready to go” tea and coffee or a nice wine- are all you need for a Burren picnic or trip to nearby Blue Flag accredited Fanore Beach.

When the day is done why not enjoy great food in one of a number of award winning restaurants. A destination stop There are a variety of menus to suit all tastes and budgets. for anyone touring the Burren. From the opulent dining experience of An Fulacht Fia (www.anfulachtfia.ie) with its beautiful view of Galway Bay to the world famous seafood menu of Monks (www.monks. ie) Bar and Seafood restaurant on the pier (you must try their famous chowder) or L’Arco Italian restaurant (visit their web site www.burrenrestaurant.com), winner of “Best Casual Dining” award 2012 and 2013 by the Restaurant Association of Ireland. Or perhaps you just want to relax with tea and cake in one of the many pretty tea-rooms or coffee houses.

End your evening on a high note enjoying a variety of music for the young and not so young in the local bars where a warm Food Service Times welcome awaits you. You may not want to leave. June to September - Midday to 9pm Oﬀ Peak: Oct to May - Midday to 8pm For all information on Ballyvaughan including accommodation, what to see and do, and to check the FOR BOOKINGS: Calendar of Events for what is happening go to Please Call: 065-7077059 Email: [email protected] C www.discoverballyvaughan.com Web: www.monks.ie M or visit us on Facebook.

CM Burren Smokehouse.pdf 1 7/11/13 8:57 PM

CMY

K Burren Smokehouse Visitor Centre & Burren Brewery in the Roadside Tavern

C A Real Irish Food Experience

Y Taste Smoked Salmon from the Burren CM • Irish Artisan Food & Gifts

MY • Worldwide Mail Order Service CY

CMY • DVD in English, French, German, Spanish, Italian and Dutch

OPEN DAILY Lisdoonvarna, Co Clare www.burrensmokehouse.ie [email protected] +353 65 7074432

45 SHANNONSPECIAL AIRPORT ADVERTISING GUIDE FEATURE Burren & Cliffs of Moher

Gregans Castle Hotel.pdf 1 8/8/13 11:08 AM Adventure Burren_2.pdf 1 7/31/13 11:37 AM

ADVENTURE BURREN Walk! Climb! Enjoy!

ECOTOURISM CERTIFIED C C QUALIFIED STAFF M M Y Y SPECIAL 3 DAY BREAK: CM CM 3 DAYS ACTIVITIES - 2 NIGHTS MY MY B&B - LUNCH ON ACTIVITY DAYS CY CY

CMY CMY SEE THE UNIQUE

K K BURREN LANDSCAPES. ONE DAY AND HALF DAY WALKS Luxury Country House and Restaurant, AND CLIMBS ON THE BURREN. Corkscrew Bar, Afternoon Tea, Gardens. SMALL GROUPS, In the Burren and only 20 minutes from the Cliffs of Moher QUALITY EXPERIENCE. 5km south of Ballyvaughan village on N67. Email: [email protected] or Call Christy on 087 2244569 Tel. 065 7077005 | [email protected] www.gregans.ie www.adventureburren.com

46 SPECIAL ADVERTISING FEATURE Burren & Cliffs of Moher Geopark

With its magnificent limestone together with a guide to provide you backdrop and UNESCO- with some local history? Or if cycling is more your speed, why not try a guided recognized Global Geopark tour through the limestone mountains? status, the Burren & Cliffs of Moher Geopark, has emerged as For the more adventurous, try your a leading holiday destination in hand at surfing the waves on the Ireland, and with this comes a beautiful gold sandy beach of Fanore host of local businesses waiting to or jump in a sea kayak in Ballyvaughan Bay to enjoy a guided tour complete show you just what the region has with seals, hidden coves and islands. to offer. And what is has to offer Or how about strapping on a helmet is something truly unique. and delving down into the complex network of caves that are buried deep While the world famous Cliffs of beneath the limestone pavement? Moher are one of the most spectacular sites in all of Ireland, what lies around Brush up on your history with a visit them offers just as much beauty, to the Burren Centre in Kilfenora, or history and activity - and all in one discover the roots of Gaelic Games at very accessible area - the Burren. the Michael Cusack Centre in Carron.

Why not grab your hiking boots and For a more relaxing trip, enjoy the

Burren & Cliffs of Moher Geopark.pdfhike the 1many 7/23/13 way-marked 12:30 PM trails peacefulness of yoga and meditation

COME WITH US INTO THE WILD BURREN

M From archaeology to adventure, from geology to botany, discover the pristine beaches and the limestone mountains. Y Uncover magical caves, hidden churches and sacred wells. CM Find yourself walking on waymarked ways or hiking across the Burren limestone, cycling, sur ng, kayaking or caving.

MY Sit silently in the National Park, discover the ‘fertile rock’.

CY Taste artisan produce and fresh local foods, or sit back and enjoy the great traditional music.

CMY Relax and unwind. Nourish your mind, body and soul. Come to North Clare, to this magni cent region, to the Burren and nd everything you want. K

Come into the wild Burren and be amazed, be captivated, be free! www.burrenecotourism.com

47 sessions or discover your inner artist and learn to paint. Or find yourself relaxing in a cozy chair by a fire in the many award-winning hotels in the area.

And for the foodies, well, this is a paradise! Local producers of high-quality cheese, pork, beef, lamb, seafood, organic veggies, ice cream, and even beer, collaborating with many award-winning, chef-led restaurants and eateries. You can try them all along the newly created Burren Food Trail.

On top of all the sights to see and activities to take part in, on a visit to the Burren & Cliffs of Moher Geopark what you will find is a community that has passion and pride for the region they live and work in. Emerging from this community spirit came Burren Ecotourism, a network of local businesses with a philosophy of awareness, conservation and sustainability.

It is these businesses that seek to ensure that you, the visitor, not only have an exciting and memorable holiday experience but also that you feel you have supported sustainability and conservation efforts in the local community - many members of Burren Ecotourism have been independently eco-certified.

Michael Cusack Centre.pdf 1 7/17/13 2:26 PM Vaughans Pub.pdf 1 8/13/13 11:12 AM

Michael Cusack Centre & The Cusack Way Walking Trail

C C M M Vaughan’s Pub Y Y CM The centre is dedicated to CM & Kilfenore Hostel MY Michael Cusack, founder of MY the GAA. At the centre in Situated in the heart of the Burren, 20mins drive to the Cliffs of Moher, CY CY Vaughan's Pub is Co. Clare’s oldest & most famous traditional Irish pub. Carron, visitors can enjoy a CMY visit to the famine era CMY With Céili Dancing twice a week all year round, group facilities, cottage and walk the new food served daily and Kilfenore Hostel next door, K K here is your perfect stay in West Ireland! Burren walking trail to Cahercommaun cliﬀ fort. At our hostel we pride ourselves in our friendly service. Why not enjoy quality accommodation in the tranquillity of the Burren. We offer you an opportunity to stay in Kilfenora, one of the most historical and enduring Irish country villages in North Clare. Opening times: open 10 am - 4.30 pm (April – Sep) Coﬀee shop, gift shop, walking trail & free parking onsite From Shannon go to the M18 Tel: 065-7089944 | Email: [email protected] Take the N85 to Ennis & follow the Lahinch sign post SatNav: Lat/long 53.02333,-9.07617 Turn right onto the R476 GPS coordinates: 53.03530,-9.07689 Web: www.michaelcusack.ie Phone +353 (0)65 708 8004 | Email : [email protected] www.vaughanspub.ie | www.kilfenorahostel.com Founding Patron: Pat O’Donnell

48 SPECIAL ADVERTISING FEATURE The network prides itself on bringing communities together, and helping them work towards a common goal – to provide genuine and authentic experiences for all visitors to the region.

Whether visiting the Burren & Cliffs of Moher Geopark as an afternoon outing or for a full two-week vacation, there is so much available here to fill each and every moment, no matter what your interest!

So come, into the wild Burren we go. Spend a day, or spend a week; it is like nowhere else. Come and see the pride, the care, the passion of the community. Discover that everything you want is within reach. So come, and be, in the Burren.

The Burren & Cliffs of Moher Geopark and Burren Ecotourism work together to promote the Geopark as a leading sustainable visitor destination, celebrated for high standards in visitor experience, conservation and learning. Both are committed to the promotion of responsible tourism that conserves the environment and improves the well-being of local people.

‘So come and be in the Burren’ www.burrenecotourism.com.

Tel: 00353(0)657075761 email: [email protected] www.doolincave.ie

The palest gleam in the darkest deep.

49 Doolin2Aran.pdf 1 8/1/13 2:47 PM

Come sail with us to the Or cruise under the Aran Islands... Cliffs of Moher

Y Daily sailings from Doolin Co. Clare

CM 1 April - 31 October

CY www.doolin2aranferries.com

CMY [email protected]

K Tel: 065 7075949 or 087 2453239

We’d be delighted to have you aboard!

at the time charting the caves of the Burren area with their university. They left Who’s got the ‘WOW’ factor! their group on Whitsunday and went exploring on their own. They noticed a small stream disappeared at the bottom of a huge limestone cliff. They pulled The Great Stalactite at back some boulders and dug their way into a narrow passage and managed to wriggle their way for about a quarter of a mile until they reached the large Doolin Cave is the longest chamber that contains the stalactite. • The cave tour takes approx. 50 minutes! free-hanging stalactite • Tours every half hour in high season and in the Northern hourly at other times! • Perfect for families! Hemisphere and is a • There are 120 steps down to the cave, every 10 steps, there is a landing with seating! stunning underworld • With Farm animals and nature trail it is the wonder. ideal day out for all! The Great Stalactite is a world-class Natural wonder at Doolin Cave, and is becoming one of the most important eco-tourist attractions in Ireland. Measuring 7.3 metres (23 feet) in length, it is recognised as being the longest stalactite in the Northern hemisphere. The Great Stalactite has been opened Directions: up to the eyes of the world. Doolin Cave is located From the moment you descend over 80ft into the first tunnel, with your guide, 15 minutes drive you will enter a world carved by water. Donning your hardhat, you will follow the from the Cliffs of Moher rough-hewn route of the early explorers who first discovered the cave. When you enter the stunning, cathedral-like dome that houses the huge stalactite, you will and 5 minutes from Doolin on the be briefly plunged into a world of primitive darkness. Then, in a flash, you will R479 (Doolin to Fanore Road) be awed as the subtly-lit stalactite appears before you. And, far below, a magical stream carries to the hills outside, the water that carved the primeval world around you. 45 minutes from Shannon Airport. 3.5 hours from Dublin. History 1 hour from Galway City. In modern times the cave was discovered in1952 by J.M. Dickenson and Brian 3 hours from Cork. Varley of Craven pothole Club based in the Yorkshire Dales. They were students Lat Long Co-ordinates 53.0419, -9.3450 Building a sustainable future: SPECIAL ADVERTISING FEATURE The Burren Food Trail www.burrenecotourism.com/food

The fertile valleys of the Burren have you to enjoy. The Burren Food Trail long been known for their quality is more than a listing of quality food food produce. establishments – it uncovers for you the path that your food takes from Each of the featured restaurants offers In recent years, this food tradition field to plate. a Burren Food Trail Signature Dish to has expanded through the emergence savour. of many award-winning chef-led You can decide for yourself how to restaurants and high quality food follow the Trail – stop at every point Each member has achieved recognised producers, as well as an increase in or else dip in and out along the way, quality awards and standards, and has practising market gardeners and according to your taste, interest and also signed up to the Burren Food growers. location! Trail Customer Promise: you will find staff who are knowledgeable about We invite you to join us and get The members of the Burren Food the regional food story, information involved in our Burren food story. Trail are bound by their commitment on local food events as well as a We are passionate about our food, to building a sustainable future for commitment to maximise the use of growing and producing it locally for the region. local ingredients in all prepared food. Ballyvaughan Farmers Market.pdf 1 7/15/13 12:47 PM Cafe Linnalla.pdf 1 7/22/13 10:19 AM

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CM CM MY MY Visit Cafe Linnalla CY CY the most westerly ice cream parlour in Europe! CMY CMY Taste real ice cream made here on our farm, K K see the shorthorn cow, whose milk we use...

Enjoy great coffee, ice cream, milkshakes, smoothies and mouthwatering deserts.

Open daily 11am to 7pm

Cafe Linnalla, Ice Cream Parlour and Desert House New Quay, Burren, Co Clare

www.linnalla.ie | 087 6183894

51 Stop by for lunch or dinner and enjoy a deliciouS Selection of SaladS, pizzaS, paStaS, tapaS and grilled meatS. great Selection of wineS available by the glaSS. beSt coffee in town Served all day.

Awarded ‘beSt place to eat in clare’ FBD Clare Business Excellence Awards

ReseRvations (065) 686 8669 open 7 days from 10.30am to 11pm

HaRMonY RoW, ennis access from Harmony Bridge, abbey st carpark

www.rowantreecafebar.ie

Untitled-8 1 8/6/13 6:09 PM SHANNON AIRPORT GUIDE A Taste of Our History they called the Fir Bolg and Tuath De Dannan – a belief that has spanned the ages as the mounds are still known today as fairy forts.

The timing of the Celts coming to Ireland is a matter of scholarly dispute but it is widely accepted that they were the dominant force in the land by 400 – 300BC. Their hegemony was to last for another 1,500 years, while their cultural influence has continued to the present day.

Stop by for lunch or The Irish Celtic or Gaelic society was based on dinner and enjoy a small kingdoms and five provinces; Munster, Leinster, Ulster, Connaught and Meath, the deliciouS Selection of leaders of which vied for the title of Árd Rí or SaladS, pizzaS, paStaS, High King. tapaS and grilled meatS. However, although divided politically, Gaelic great Selection of wineS Ireland was united by a common law and language, and a common tradition of poetry available by the glaSS. and music that formed the basis of a coherent beSt coffee in town cultural identity. Served all day. This society was a heroic one and their epic myths and legends tell of the exploits of Fionn Mac Cumhaill and his followers the Fianna; or Awarded Cuchulainn, the warrior of Ulster, and his war against Connaught’s Queen Medbh. ‘beSt place to eat in clare’ The first great challenge faced by Gaelic Ireland FBD Clare Business Excellence Awards was the arrival of Christianity, when in 432AD a former slave from Roman Britain called Patrick started his mission. St. Patrick’s work ReseRvations (065) 686 8669 proved extremely successful and by the middle of the seventh century Ireland had become one open 7 days from 10.30am to 11pm of the leading centres of Christianity in Europe.

The fusion of Celtic and Christian influences HaRMonY RoW, ennis provided the impetus for an artistic golden age. Irish Monks produced amazing illustrated access from Harmony Bridge, abbey st carpark gospels such as the exquisite Book of Kells (which can be seen to this day in Trinity College, Dublin) while silversmiths gave us priceless artefacts such as the Ardagh and Derrynaflan chalices.

This golden age was however brought to an abrupt end one hundred years later when Viking raiders from Scandinavia started plundering monasteries and other settlements.

To truly appreciate Ireland it is useful to have a basic knowledge By the end of the ninth century they had of the country’s history, for Ireland is still one of those places established settlements of their own, which would develop into the first cities in the where the past still impacts on the present and where history is country, including Dublin, Limerick and never too far away. Waterford. The Vikings’ grip on the country was finally To truly appreciate Ireland it is useful to have Ireland truly is an ancient land. It is estimated broken in 1014 when Brian Ború, probably the a basic knowledge of the country’s history, for that Stone Age hunter gatherers from Britain only High King to command any real authority, Ireland is still one of those places where the first settled here around 9,000 years ago. defeated the invaders at the battle of Clontarf past still impacts on the present and where Neolithic migrants introduced farming around outside Dublin. history is never too far away. 3,000 years later and these people are credited with building the incredible passage tombs Unfortunately Brian Ború did not survive the Old Norman castles are among our most visible of the Boyne Valley in Co. Meath, such as battle and with him died any chance of a stable historical relics, as well as medieval abbeys and Newgrange and Knowth. monarchy being established. The intermittent Gaelic tower houses. However older still are the warfare, which characterised the century that Celtic monastic sites with their round towers, The Celts believed these tombs to have been followed his death, was to hasten another great www.rowantreecafebar.ie or the Iron Age and Bronze Age ring forts. built by people with magical powers – whom invasion – this time by the Anglo-Normans. 53

Untitled-8 1 8/6/13 6:09 PM My Destination County Clare.pdf 1 8/11/13 1:28 PM Something Special.pdf 1 8/21/13 10:39 AM

All you will ever need to know about County Clare!

• Where to eat?

• Where to stay?

• What to do? • What to see? 8 Lwr. Market St., Ennis • How to get the Tel: 065-6823800 C most from your stay! C M M Gifts for all occasions... Y Y

CM CM Stocklist of: Killarney Crystal MY MY Galway Crystal | Aynsley China CY CY Dunoon China | Yankee Candles CMY CMY Killarney Jewellery & Irish Gifts

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Locally informed, globally inspired www.mydestination.com/countyclare

The Ravine Hotel and Nellies Bar.pdf 1 8/19/13 1:10 PM CORI Quarter_Layout 1 6/13/13 8:35 PM Page 1

Ra vine Hotel

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MY , ng ngs n d ncng.

CY Big TV Screen for sporting events. Situated in main street Lisdoonvarna. CMY In the heart of a beautiful scenic area close to the famous K Cliffs of Moher and Doolin with access to ferrys to the Aran Islands and also near the Coast Road and Burren walks. B&B with en-suite rooms and full Irish Breakfast. Food served daily including fresh cod cooked in a homemade beer batter, chowder, soup, roast beef & chicken, salads, wraps, sandwiches, cakes scones and cold beers. Bus Tours Catered For. A Gre Wlcm r Ni! Tel: 065 7074043 www.ravinehotel.net SHANNON AIRPORT GUIDE

Their arrival in 1169 was the result of a falling Elizabeth, set about a more thorough conquest and the Protestants supporting William. out between two Irish kings, Tiernan O’Rourke of Ireland and this brought her into conflict and Diarmuid Mac Murrough. The feud with the mainly catholic Gaelic chieftains, led William’s forces won two resounding victories began when, it is said, McMurrough abducted by Hugh O’Neill, and Anglo-Norman barons, at the battles of Boyne and Aughrim, at which Tiernan O’Rourkes wife Dervogill, although it such as the Fitzgeralds. After more than twenty point James fled to France, leaving his Jacobite does appear that she was not entirely unwilling years of war, the Irish were finally defeated at army to finally surrender in 1691 following two to be abducted. The resulting scandal cost the battle of Kinsale in 1601. sieges of Limerick. McMurrough his lands in Leinster. This defeat was followed by the confiscation Through the eighteenth century Ireland He fled to England where he enlisted the help of large tracts of lands and paved the way for enjoyed a prolonged period of peace and of Norman barons and returned to recover his the plantation of the country by English and relative prosperity. However, this was shattered kingdom. However, his actions changed the Scottish settlers. These plantations generally when a French-influenced republican group course of Irish and British history, as affairs failed in the south but the settlements in Ulster known as the United Irishmen led a bloody within and between the two islands became were to prosper. revolt in 1798. increasingly intertwined. Through the seventeenth century Ireland Led by a Protestant called Theobald Wolfetone, The Norman lords never fully conquered was drawn into most of England’s domestic the United Irishmen drew support from all Ireland and, although loyal to the English conflicts. During the English Civil War the religious groups in Ireland, but their rebellion crown, they were well assimilated into Gaelic Catholic Irish rebelled and attacked and failed and the English government responded society by the start of the sixteenth century. massacred Protestant settlers in Ulster. to the crisis by dissolving the Irish parliament Indeed by this time the royal writ was restricted and the Act of Union created the United to Ireland’s main cities and a small area around This resulted in a savage response from the Kingdom of Britain and Ireland. Dublin known as the Pale. Beyond the Pale English Lord Protector, Oliver Cromwell, (from which the phrase originates) English law whose forces rampaged through the country, For the next 120 years much of Ireland’s was weak at best and mostly irrelevant. killing many thousands, deporting many more political energies were focused on re- as slaves to the West Indies and provoking a establishing an Irish parliament and, or, However, love was to play another cruel legacy of hatred. independence. Efforts to attain these goals trick on Anglo-Irish affairs. When Henry alternated between the peaceful political VIII declared himself head of the English Following the restoration of the English endeavours favoured by Daniel O’Connell and Church following the Pope’s refusal to annul monarchy, the Catholics had the misfortune to later Charles Stuart Parnell, and the violent his marriage to Catherine of Aragon, Ireland once again back a loser. When in 1688 James revolutionary methods of the Young Ireland and England were placed on opposite sides of II was deposed in favour of his son in law, the movement and the Fenians. Europe’s religious wars. Dutch and Protestant William of Orange, the Henrys Protestant daughter and successor, Irish split, with the Catholics supporting James However, it was famine rather than revolution

Irish Emigrants leaving Queenstown Harbour, Cork | The Illustrated London News, Sept. 5, 1874 55 SHANNON AIRPORT GUIDE

which was to leave the greatest imprint on Irish Volunteers staged a rebellion in Dublin However, failure to develop the country nineteenth century Ireland. By the start of the and proclaimed Ireland an independent economically led to mass emigration through 1840’s Ireland was the most densely populated republic. The rising was suppressed and the the 1930’s, 40’s and 50’s. Indeed it was not until country in Europe, with more than eight leaders, including Padraig Pearse and James Ireland joined the European Union (then the million inhabitants. Connolly, were executed. EEC) with Britain and Denmark in 1972 that this trend was arrested. The bulk of the poor lived on potatoes but Hostilities erupted once more in 1919 when disaster struck when the crop was struck by Sinn Fein, the political wing of the Irish North of the border, simmering Catholic blight in 1845. Volunteers, reaffirmed the republic after resentment at their treatment in what they winning a majority of Irish seats in the regarded as a Unionist dominated state led Over the next five years the crop would fail Westminster elections. once more to violence. By 1969 British troops on three more occasions and by 1851 the were called in to restore order and prevent population had fallen to five million. A bitter guerrilla war ensued between the rioting. volunteers, who were led by Michael Collins It is estimated that one million people perished and were now known as the Irish Republican These troops however soon found themselves during the Great Famine from starvation and Army or IRA, and the British army and police. facing a new IRA, the Provisionals, who disease, while a further two million emigrated To reinforce the police the British raised wanted the British to withdraw and Ireland to America, Britain and beyond – setting a another force from demobilised British troops. to re-unite. Protestant or loyalist paramilitary trend that continues to this day. This unit became known as the Black and Tans, groups, such as the UDA (Ulster Defence because of the colour of their uniforms, and Association) and UVF (Ulster Volunteer The famine left many of Ireland’s estates with earned a fearsome reputation for viciousness. Force) vowed to prevent this and thus began massive debts and for the next two generations a campaign of sectarian killings and political a protracted struggle ensued between landlords After more than three years a peace treaty assassinations. and tenants for the land of Ireland. In the was eventually agreed between the warring end the tenants won out, but while the land sides. The deal established a dominion or Irish In the twenty five years of violence that struggle had ended, the political situation was Free State in 26 southern counties, while six followed more than 3,400 people lost their as fractious as ever. counties of Ulster got home rule within the lives. Thankfully a concerted peace drive in United Kingdom. the early nineties finally proved successful in On the eve of the First World War Ireland 1994 when hostilities ended and negotiations was divided into two distinct political The deal split the republican movement and a got under way between the various political camps; A Catholic nationalist majority were brief but savage civil war followed in the south parties. Issues relating to civil and cultural in favour of home rule for the country and in which Michael Collins was killed. Violence rights, decommissioning of weapons, justice the restoration of an Irish parliament in also rocked the new state of Northern Ireland and policing were central to the negotiations Dublin while Ulster’s Protestant or Unionist as Catholics and Protestants rioted in Belfast. and an agreement was reached on Good Friday community, fearing that their rights would not 1998. be protected in a Catholic dominated Ireland, After these initial bouts of political turmoil, demanded that they be excluded from the both states settled into relative peace. The anti- The process has ebbed and flowed in the home rule process. treaty republican leader Eamonn de Valera intervening years but the sands of time appear Ireland was on the brink of a Civil War when emerged as the main political force south of to be carrying us towards a lasting solution and the Great War erupted in Europe. the border and proceeded to take the state out a peaceful Ireland. Matters at home were finally brought to a head of the British Commonwealth and keep the in Easter 1916 when a group known as the country neutral during the Second World War.

56 2009, 2010 & 2011

IN THE HEART OF ENNIS, QUALITY ACCOMMODATION IN RESTORED GEORGIAN BUILDING, CHOICE OF ROOMS, MANY WITH ENSUITE, LICENSED CAFÉ BAR, FREE LIGHT BREAKFAST, FREE WIFI AND INTERNET, FAMILY FRIENDLY.

BEDS FROM €16.00, PRIVATE ROOMS FROM €20.00

BOOK ONLINE AT: www.rowantreehostel.ie

Harmony Row, Ennis Co. Clare Reservations Tel: 065 686 8687 email: [email protected]

Ennis is a vibrant town renowned for traditional Irish music and friendly folk. Just 20 mins from Shannon Airport it is the ideal base to explore County Clare, The Burren and the Cliffs of Moher.

Untitled-8 1 8/6/13 6:10 PM Park Inn Radisson.pdf 1 8/13/13 12:07 PM

Enjoy a special Corporate Room rate from Rates

M €59

CM Breakfast from 6am to 10am MY Free

CY Food served 24 hours

CMY WiFi and Ideal for the business guest K Car Parking Shannon Airport at your door * Terms and Conditions apply, subject to availability

Call 061 471122 www.parkinn.ie/airporthotel-shannon [email protected]

CORI Landscape Half_Layout 1 6/26/13 12:24 PM Page 1 Shannon Golf Club.pdf 1 8/20/13 12:02 PM Ballinalacken Castle Country House Hotel.pdf 1 8/13/13 1:56 PM

SHANNON GOLF CLUB 18 HOLE CHAMPIONSHIP COURSE….. B n lack Ctl ONLY A 9 IRON FROM SHANNON AIRPORT! Cry H H

If you are looking for a country house C C weekend or relaxed hotel M M accommodation, then a few nights Y Y stay at our hotel in Doolin, Co Clare, CM CM is just right for you. We offer luxury MY MY accommodation and style at CY CY Ballinalacken Castle Hotel, full bed

CMY Enjoy the facilities of this 18 Hole Parkland Championship Golf CMY and breakfast and dining in our K Course, regarded as one of the best in the Midwest area and only K award winning restaurant. minutes from Shannon Airport for as little as €25.00!!! Considered to be an ideal starting or nishing point to your gol ng holiday, Shannon boasts being the host venue to the National Cups & Shields Final, European Ladies Junior Directions: Take the R476 north of Doolin. 2 miles at junction R476 + R477 is hotel. Championships, Irish Close Championship and Men’s European Strokeplay Championship. From Lisdoonvarna take R477 coast road – 3 miles from town. Ballinalacken Castle Country House Hotel is located on the R477 road, Disembark your ight to enjoy an Early Bird Rate of just €25.00 Monday – Friday. at satellite navigation co-ordinates: This fantastic offer is also available all day on Wednesday’s. N 53o 02' 46" - W 9o 20' 27" - OR - N 53.04619o - W 9.34097o Green Fee rates are available on request Mention this advertisement and receive a 10% discount Ballinalacken Castle Country House Hotel, (not available on early bird rate). Doolin, Co Clare, Ireland Shannon Golf Club, Shannon Airport, Shannon, Co. Clare Tel: +353.61.471849 | Fax: +353.61.471507 Phone: +353 (0)65 7074025 | Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] www.shannongolfclub.ie www.ballinalackencastle.com

Bunratty Castle Hotel.pdf 1 8/2/13 10:59 AM

www.bunrattycastlehotel.com

Y Nestled in the heart of the

MY historic medieval village of Bunratty CY BUNRATTY CASTLE HOTEL IS WITHIN 10 MINUTES TO SHANNON AIRPORT, OUR HOTEL IS CMY BUT A SHORT STROLL AWAY FROM THE FAMOUS 15TH CENTURY BUNRATTY CASTLE & FOLK PARK.

K Bunratty is an ideal base for visiting and touring the unspoiled, cultural West of Ireland with Galway and Connemara, the world renowned Cliffs of Moher and the Burren all within an easy day trip. The Hotel has been restored to its rightful position as one of the most intimate and charming hotels in the west of Ireland. It embodies the highest of traditional values, with spacious rooms, glorious dining and a spa of exquisite indulgence.

Bunratty Castle Hotel, Bunratty, Co. Clare, Ireland Tel: +353 61 478 700 | Email: [email protected] Burren Forts_Caherconnell Fort & Sheepdog Demonstrations.pdf 1 8/7/13 12:15 PM

Caherconnell Fort & Sheepdog Demonstrations

CMY

Caherconnell Fort, in the heart of the world famous Burren region is a 'must see' for anyone visiting the area. The fort is over 1000 years old and is one of the most unique sites in the Burren. Caherconnell is also home to the Burren's premier Sheepdog Demonstrations where the unique skills of the Border Collie and the farmer can be experienced in the comfort of our covered viewing area. The Burren holds within it's landscape many stories waiting to be told and our International Archaeological and Geological ﬁeldschools held each summer see students attend from all over the world to gain practical experience on one of the world's most unique landscapes

• Craft Shop • Mountain Haven Café • Delicious Lunch Menu • Audio Visual Experience • Self Guiding Tours • Free Car Parking • Burren Information Point

Open March-October-See website for more details and Demonstration Times

Caherconnell-A Modern Experience of a Magnificent Past

Caherconnell Fort & Sheepdog Demonstrations, Caherconnell, Carron, Co. Clare, Ireland Tel: 0657089999 | Email: [email protected] www.burrenforts.ie | www.cafs.ie Burren Forts_Caherconnell Fort & Sheepdog Demonstrations.pdf 1 8/7/13 12:15 PM

Caherconnell Fort & Sheepdog Demonstrations SHANNON AIRPORT GUIDE

The Irish Language It is believed that Irish was the majority language of the country for more than 2,000 years.

CMY

K As you make your way across and around the country you will notice that most signposts are written in both English and Caherconnell Fort, in the heart of the world famous Burren region is a 'must see' for anyone visiting the area. Gaelic. It may be of some small help to The fort is over 1000 years old and is one of the most unique sites in the Burren. Caherconnell is also home to familiarise yourself with a few basics to the Burren's premier Sheepdog Demonstrations where the unique skills of the Border Collie and the farmer can perhaps aid you on your way. be experienced in the comfort of our covered viewing area. The Burren holds within it's landscape many Although English is the everyday language stories waiting to be told and our International Archaeological and Geological ﬁeldschools held each summer of the vast majority of Irish people, Gaelic see students attend from all over the world to gain practical experience on one of the world's most unique (or Irish as it is more commonly known) is landscapes actually the country’s first official language. However, its everyday usage is now limited • Craft Shop to areas along the western seaboard. These • Mountain Haven Café districts, which are known as Gaeltachts, • Delicious Lunch Menu are to be found in counties Donegal, Mayo, Galway, Kerry and Cork. There are also two • Audio Visual Experience small Gaeltachts in Waterford and Meath. • Self Guiding Tours • Free Car Parking It is believed that Irish was the majority • Burren Information Point language of the country for more than 2,000 years. Like Scots Gaelic, with which it is closely related, Irish is derived from the Open March-October-See website for more details and Demonstration Times Celtic family of Indo-European languages. Caherconnell-A Modern Experience of a Magnificent Past

Caherconnell Fort & Sheepdog Demonstrations, Caherconnell, Carron, Co. Clare, Ireland Tel: 0657089999 | Email: [email protected] www.burrenforts.ie | www.cafs.ie 61 SHANNON AIRPORT GUIDE

Up until the start of the 18th Century the language was spoken throughout Ireland. However, as England’s influence on Irish affairs grew, the use of the Irish language was abandoned by the ruling and mercantile classes and gradually its use became associated with ignorance and poverty.

Even so, Irish was still the vernacular of close to four million people up to the eve of the Great Famine (1845 – 1849). Unfortunately, it was spoken mainly by the poorest of society whose numbers were ravaged by the severity of the famine.

For those that managed to survive the famine, even in the early years, emigration became an ever popular option and the native Irish speaking population was decimated.

Since then the language has been in continual decline. While it is compulsory in both primary and secondary school throughout the country, it is estimated that the numbers using it as their first language in Gaeltacht areas has fallen to about 30, 000.

The news, however, is not all bad and the story is not all doom and gloom.

There are now more than 280,000 fluent Irish speakers outside the Gaeltachts and this number continues to rise, growing perhaps mainly down to the increasing popularity of all- Irish schools.

These Gaelscoileanna are now to be found throughout the country and their influence on sustaining the language cannot be underestimated.

Most Irish people will remember and use a few words and phrases from their time in school and we always appreciate a visitor who makes the effort to join in.

You won’t be expected to hold a conversation but the following phrases are easy to learn, easy to remember, understood everywhere and useful to have:

Hello: “Dia dhuit” (dee ah gwit) It literally means “God be with you”

Goodbye: “Slán” (slawn)

Thank You: “Go raibh maith agat” (guh rev mah ag ut)

How are you?: “Conas atá tú” (cun iss a tah two)

Cheers: “Slainte” (slawn – cha) Said while raising a glass, usually the first of the evening

I’m going home: “Táim ag dul abhaile” (tah-I’m egg dull awal ya) Said while lowering a glass, usually the last of the evening

62 SHANNON AIRPORT GUIDE

63 Keatings Bar.pdf 1 8/20/13 1:25 PM

THE IRISH TIMES

The Best Place to Holiday in Ireland WINNER LOOP HEAD PENINSULA Keating’s Bar & Restaurant is a vibrant, family run business, The BestTHE Place IRISH TIMES to Holiday charmingly situated in the heart of Kilbaha Village on the Loop in Ireland 2013 The Head Peninsula in West Clare. Overlooking the harbour, at the THE BestIRISH Place TIMES mouth of the River Shannon, this gorgeous, family friendly to Holiday in Ireland restaurant is the perfect place to stop on your trip around Loop Head. FINALIST

C The ‘Keating’s’ menu boasts numerous locally sourced seafood

M dishes as well as other delectable delights, such as steaks, stir fry’s, chicken dishes and a special children’s menu. Unwind and Y relax after your meal, with a host of speciality coffees to choose CM from, as well as a full bar and a million dollar view in what is now

MY famously known as the ‘Nearest Bar to New York’.

CY With it’s stony beaches, new playground and endless approved

CMY walks, Loop Head is a haven for young families as well as a prime attraction for nature enthusiasts, geologists and K birdwatchers. The friendly staff at Keating’s will provide you with local information and a guide to various local activities, from visits to the nearby Loop Head Lighthouse to dolphin watching, guided walks and much more. Keating’s Bar & Restaurant is a seasonal business - Operating daily from 11am, May through to September. In April and October the Restaurant is open weekends only.

Keating’s Bar & Restaurant, Pier Road, Kilbaha, Co. Clare 00353-65-9058009 | Bernie: 00353–86-8241846 | Email: [email protected] www.keatingsbar.com Keatings Bar.pdf 1 8/20/13 1:25 PM

SHANNON AIRPORT GUIDE

THE IRISH TIMES

C The ‘Keating’s’ menu boasts numerous locally sourced seafood dishes as well as other delectable delights, such as steaks, stir rish place names M I fry’s, chicken dishes and a special children’s menu. Unwind and Y relax after your meal, with a host of speciality coffees to choose One of Ireland’s unique features is the country’s place names. Every inch of the island seems to have a place name – CM from, as well as a full bar and a million dollar view in what is now not just every town and village but every field, hill, stream, wood, mountain and crossroads; and every name tells us MY famously known as the ‘Nearest Bar to New York’. something of the history, use or topography of the place itself.

CY With it’s stony beaches, new playground and endless approved Mainly due to the fact that the majority of place names were translated phonetically from Irish to English, the meaning CMY walks, Loop Head is a haven for young families as well as a prime attraction for nature enthusiasts, geologists and is usually derived from the Irish version of the name. Although the names may not always lend themselves readily to K birdwatchers. The friendly staff at Keating’s will provide you with simple translation, some general rules do apply: local information and a guide to various local activities, from visits to the nearby Loop Head Lighthouse to dolphin watching, guided walks and much more. Ard: Meaning height or elevation. Ennis or Inis: Means island Keating’s Bar & Restaurant is a seasonal business - The town of Ardmore is translated from the The town of Ennis in Co. Clare is Operating daily from 11am, May through to September. Irish Árd Mór, literally meaning the “big height” called after an island on the River Fergus In April and October the Restaurant is open weekends only. Bally: Means a place or a town Kill: Means Church The town of Ballywilliam is a direct translation The town of Kildimo, from the from Baile Liam, literally Liam’s town. Irish Cill Díoma, means the “Church of St. Dimo” Cloon: Means a meadow The town of Clonmel, or Cluain Meala, means Knock: Refers to a hill literally the honey meadow when translated. The town of Knockbane, or Cnoc Bán in Irish, means “the white hill” Derry: Means an oak wood. In Irish the city of Derry is called Doire Colmcille Rath or Lis: Both mean fort or stronghold or Colmcille’s oak wood The town of Liscannor, from the Irish version Lios Ceannúir, Drum: Refers to a ridge means the “ringfort of Canar” Drumfada is the “long ridge” or Druim Fada in Irish. Slieve: Means mountain and comes from the Irish word Sliabh - Slievenamon, from the Irish Dun: Means a fort Sliabh na mBán, means Dunmore, from the Irish name Dún Mór, “mountain of the women” means “the big fort” Keating’s Bar & Restaurant, Pier Road, Kilbaha, Co. Clare 00353-65-9058009 | Bernie: 00353–86-8241846 | Email: [email protected] www.keatingsbar.com 65 Aran Sweater Market.indd 1 8/12/13 11:34 AM SHANNON AIRPORT GUIDE Turn south FROM THIS PLACE:

Cork and Kerry Picture Postcard

Cork and Kerry share the southwest corner of the island of Ireland. They are among the most popular areas in the country for visitors, both blessed with stunning natural beauty, rugged charm, tradition and facilities to match any destination worldwide. It is no surprise that visitors here are drawn to this area and to witness for themselves the splendour of the south west of Ireland. [Continued overleaf]

Aran Sweater Market.indd 1 8/12/13 11:34 AM SHANNON AIRPORT GUIDE

Yet again your trip to this area will give you a treasury of choice; do you need a cosmopolitan city, Ireland’s second city and in the eyes of the locals the real capital, or do you need to visit the highest mountain in the country and witness the beauty of the Macgillycuddy Reeks?

Cork and Kerry have it all; it’s up to you how you choose to spend the time. So ignore the fact it may be raining and get out there and enjoy it.

Cork:

Cork is the single largest county in the culture, artistic temperaments, renowned and form the heartland of the alluvial rich country in terms of landmass, stretching good food, stunning scenery and area known as the Golden Vale. These from the beautiful Beara Peninsula in the undoubted charm. At no point will you be areas are the powerhouse of the thriving west, all the way east to Youghal on the in any doubt as to where you are! Irish dairy industry and the towns of Waterford border and north to Charleville Charleville, Mallow, Mitchelstown and to meet the Limerick border. Cork people The name Cork comes from the Irish Fermoy have prospered thanks to the are by nature immensely proud of their word for marsh or soft ground, corcach. bounty of farmland that surrounds them. county and the saying is often seen in the The county owes its name to the city, Irish dairy farmers have justifiably become written word “Irish by birth, Cork by the which is built on a series of hills around world leaders. Grace of God”. They are the “rebel county”, marsh ground. Some areas of the county, independently spirited and ferociously particularly in east and north Cork, boast Cork City is the second largest in the patriotic for their patch. It is a county of some of the best farm land in the world country and referred to as the second

Titanic Trail.pdf 1 8/19/13 11:12 AM

CMY

DEPARTS EVERY DAY • One of Ireland’s very best urban guided walking tours of the town where Titanic made its last stop... AT 11AM FROM • See all the actual buildings streets and piers where Titanic passengers embarked. THE COMMODORE HOTEL. • An engrossing historical walk through Cobh exploring its fascinating diversity of military, DURATION 60 MINUTES. COST maritime & social heritage. €9.50 PER PERSON. • Advance booking required for afternoon tours and for all tours in winter months (Oct to Mar). EXTRA TOURS CONDUCTED AT 2PM IN • This tour is recommended in the Rick Steeve’s guide, Lonely Planet, Let’s go Ireland and many more. JUNE, JULY AND AUGUST (€12.50). Contact MICHAEL MARTIN | Tel: +353 87 2767218 | Email: [email protected] | BOOK ONLINE NOW: www.titanic.ie SHANNON AIRPORT GUIDE

capital or ‘Southern Capital’, though as their longboats and river access inland. ships became the backbone of the city’s previously mentioned, locals may dispute In the twelfth century, the Normans economy. At this time a strong merchant the notion of second. They will cheerfully created a fortified, walled city on the site class sprung up in the city and many of remind you that you’re in the real capital. and it rapidly became one of the main these emerging business names are still in cities in the country. The city prospered, existence to this day. In the seventh century St. Finbarr is struggled, was assailed and prospered reputed to have founded the city when he again for centuries but forged further The end of the Napoleonic wars did see established a monastery and school on the ahead of many other Irish cities in the the city and the merchant classes suffer site. The Vikings then decided to make a eighteenth century when it became the same unfortunate economic and home there in the tenth century. Situated a major port of call for international social fate as the rest of the country. The on the mouth of the River Lee it suited the shipping. The provision of butter and most significant development in the city Norsemen very well, offering shelter for pickled meats for westbound sailing during the nineteenth century was the

69 Mizen Head SIgnal Station.pdf 1 6/27/13 2:53 PM

MIZEN HEAD SIGNAL STATION Ireland’s Most Southwesterly Point!

C Ballyhass Lakes Mallow For All Ages in Any Weather Co.Cork 4 Star M Accommoda on Y Outdoor adventure CM activities available Kerry, Cork & Limerick on site from Feb all within an hour drive MY - Oct. Kayaking of our loca on. CY 160m Zipline & many more If you are on a tight sight seeing CMY

schedule, Ballyhass is the perfect K base location. Under an hour drive from Cork, Limerick and Killarney. This combined with unbeatable on-site facilities including a 13 acre ﬁ shing lake, should make your Contact: 028-35225/35115 www.mizenhead.ie accommodation choice an easy Open daily from Mid Mar-Oct Weekends Nov-Mid Mar one. Book online now www.ballyhasslakes.ie or call +353 22 27773

Untitled-3 1 Randles Hotels.pdf 1 7/25/13 10:46 AM 8/8/13 1:42 PM Dingle Bay Hotel.pdf 1 7/8/13 12:33 AM

EXPERIENCE 4* KILLARNEY’S

C C

M M

Y Randles Hotels Y 2 Nights Luxury B&B CM CM from €89*pps MY MY "Offering True Irish Hospitality" CY Stay 2 Nights CY Dingle's Newest Town Centre Hotel CMY Enjoy Wine & Chocolates on Us CMY 25 Luxury Bedrooms K K Car Park Golf Drying & Storage Room Lift Wheelchair Access Leisure Club & Zen Day Spa Paudie's Bar: Seafood a Speciality Reduced Tee Times & Amazing Group Rates "Go Where the Locals Go" * Offer Subject to Availability 00353 66 9151231 CALL 1850 60 30 50 [email protected] WWW.RANDLESHOTELS.COM www.dinglebayhotel.com SHANNON AIRPORT GUIDE establishment of University College Cork excellent museum and interpretive centre remarkable for its physical beauty and a in 1845. But the doldrums were not to last. celebrates the history of the port and the microclimate in which certain tropical famous traffic that passed through there vegetation thrives. One of the most The twentieth century provided much over the years. You can even buy your own peaceful and beautiful places in the world needed respite and the fortunes of the city ticket and enjoy a reconstruction of the is to be found at the source of the river Lee took a turn for the better. Henry Ford, final moments of passengers before they in Gougane Barra, reputed to be the site of himself descended from Cork emigrants took their steps towards the Titanic; you St. Finbarr’s first monastery. to the United States, built one of his motor also get to check at the end if you were car factories in the city of his ancestors. one of the lucky few who survived that The towns and villages of west Cork have At the same time, the Dunlop tyre fateful night. become famous for the uniqueness and company also located a factory in Cork speciality of their food production and and they became major employers in the The county of Cork is a place of contracts restaurants. It’s an area rich in colour and area. These factories continued production and great beauty. The rolling fertile fields culture, with thriving cottage industry right up to the 1980’s and since then, the of the north and east are in sharp contrast and a natural setting which is almost city and its environs host the bulk of the to the spectacular mountains, valleys unmatched. ‘Clonakilty Black Pudding’ pharmaceutical industry in the country. and coastline of a wilder and untamed is famous worldwide as a delicacy while west Cork. These topographical and the town of Kinsale is renowned as “the The beautiful town of Cobh, on the geographical differences are also reflected gourmet capital of Ireland”. For many of outskirts of the city, was the main in the people and their history. While the these coastal towns fishing remains a vital departure port for millions who left Rebel County is something they all gladly source of income with substantial fishing the area over the centuries to seek their rejoice in, its rebellious heart would be fleets based in Bantry and Castletown fortune, particularly in the United States. found in the west while the easterners Bere. Up to the 1960’s its deep sea anchorage would be seen as more conservative. ensured its position as an important Any visit to Cork is akin to taking a cross port of call for much of the transatlantic West Cork is without question one of the section of Ireland. It is a combination of passenger traffic between Britain and the most beautiful areas in Ireland. Its Atlantic natural beauty, wild countryside, fertile US. The town is also famous as the last coastline is dotted with breathtaking farmland, a thriving urban centre, modern port of call of the ill-fated ocean liner beaches and cliffs. The area around industry and a warm welcome. the Titanic on her maiden voyage. An Glengarriff and nearby Garnish Island is

71 CORI Full size_210 7/5/13 11:26 AM Page 1 CORI Full size_210 7/5/13 11:26 AM Page 1

SHANNON AIRPORT GUIDE Kerry:

Kerry is a place for visitors of every kind, from the sightseer to the mountaineer, the diver, the driver, the historian, the linguist, and the connoisseur of fine literature. A trip to the stunning south west of this island never disappoints.

The people of Kerry regard their county the Macgillycuddy Reeks. It is in these of Kerry”. This name is given to a series of as so distinct that they refer to it as the mountains that the highest peak in Ireland, roads which literally go full circle around Kingdom. If the truth were to be told it is Carrauntoohill, sits and is a popular choice the entirety of the peninsula, beginning more like a number of Kingdoms, divided for mountaineers looking for a view that is in the town of Killorglan. The town itself as it is by a number of mountain ranges unbeatable on this island. is famous for its annual festival, the Puck and comprising of almost three different Fair, where a captured mountain goat is peninsulas. The town of Killarney itself is a Mecca for crowned king for a week and presides over tourists, its name is synonymous with the the festival from a specially constructed The mountains and its peninsular coastline heart of the tourism sector and the long perch overlooking the main street. He is grant Kerry some of the most breathtaking history of hospitality in Killarney cannot fed and watered well during his brief but scenery in the country. Inland, the Lakes be overlooked. celebrated reign and then released back of Killarney remain probably the most into the mountains at week’s end. famous Irish tourist attraction of all. The largest peninsula in Kerry is the This series of lakes is overlooked by the Iveragh peninsula, home to the world magnificent mountain range known as famous tourist trail known as the “Ring Continued overleaf

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The route from Killorglan on the famous Ring takes one south to Killarney and into the Macgillycuddy Reeks through the spectacular Molls Gap. From this elevated and breathtaking spot one can continue via the town of Kenmare, famous for its rhododendrons, or further on over the mountains to the town of Sneem. Yet further west are Caherdaniel and Derrynane, the home of the great 19th Century politician Daniel O’Connell. It was here that O’Connell’s family made their fortune in smuggling! Danile O’Connell himself went on to become an MP and led the struggle for Catholic Emancipation from the Penal Laws.

Going north a small detour will take you out through stunning Waterville and on to Ballinskelligs. From here it is possible to visit one of the most ancient monastic sites in Europe, Skellig Mhicil, literally a large rock out in the Atlantic where a community of monks took refuge from the sinful world and the marauding Vikings in the ninth and tenth century. Further north the route brings you to the island of Valentia, which was world famous as the terminus for early transatlantic telecommunication lines.

Going west from here the road leads you to Cahirciveen and back into Killorglan. The northern peninsula begins at Tralee Bay and Kerry’s county town, Tralee. It is famous for the annual Rose of Tralee festival and one of the most renowned folk theatres in the world, Siamsa Tire. Immediately west of Tralee is the beautiful Dingle peninsula where one of the last remaining Irish speaking communities in the country is found. The area is famous for a spectacular road over the mountains to Dingle known as the Conor Pass. The mouth of the Brandon creek on the northern coast of the peninsula is the place from which the legendary St. Brendan set off on a voyage said to have brought him to America. Off the most westerly point of the peninsula are the famous Blasket Islands, birthplace of some of the most prominent writers in the Irish language of the 20th Century.

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golf and tourist destinations and is visited by thousands of Belfast Galway Lahinch people from all parts of the globe to explore its natural beauty Dublin Dromoland and to engage in the many cultural and outdoor activities on Limerick Doonbeg Cork SHANNON offer, with golf being a major attraction. AIRPORT Adare FERRY Some of the finest links and parkland courses are spread across Ballybunion Tralee KERRY AIRPORT this region and its counties of Clare, Limerick, Kerry and Cork. Dingle Being a tourist destination the region has a multitude of top Dooks Killarney class accommodations, restaurants, pubs and nightime Ring of Kerry Cork activities that suit all budgets. The South West is serviced by CORK AIRPORT Waterville Old Head 3 international airports at Shannon, Cork and Kerry and the ferry service at Cork. Let us make your dream visit come true in a place ‘where golf is not just a game but a way of life’.

ADARE BALLYBUNION CORK DOOKS DINGLE DOONBEG DROMOLAND KILLARNEY LAHINCH OLD HEAD RING OF KERRY WATERVILLE TRALEE

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Slea Head affords extraordinary views of the Atlantic before The town of Listowel is the literary heart of Kerry. Among its you make your way into Dingle. The town was once a famous sons are Bryan McMahon and John B. Keane, major peaceful fishing village but is now a thriving cosmopolitan figures in recent Irish literary history. town, home to renowned restaurants and cultural activities A lifetime experience... from traditional music to theatre and the visual arts. ON Playwright and essayist John B. Keane is famous for works the southern side of the peninsula is the town of Annascaul, such as “Moll” and “Sive” and probably best known for “The birthplace of Tom Crean. Crean was a famous explorer, part Field”, a play that hit the big screen starring Richard Harris. of three major expeditions to the Antarctic with Scott in 1901 Listowel Writers Week, held each June, attracts writers and and 1910. He was also a central figure in Shakleton’s epic critics from all over the globe. Celebrated poet Brendan journey on the Endurance in 1914. Tom Crean died at his Kennelly hails from the neighbouring north Kerry village of home in Annascaul in 1938. Ballylongford.

The plains of north and mid Kerry are the agricultural Kerry is a place for visitors of every kind, from the sightseer backbone of the county. The most successful agri- food to the mountaineer, the diver, the driver, the historian, the business in the country, the Kerry Group was founded in the linguist, and the connoisseur of fine literature. A trip to the main town in north Kerry, Listowel. The Kerry Group is now stunning south west of this island never disappoints. a major player in the global food industry. Continued overleaf

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K THE SOUTH WEST OF IRELAND is one of the world’s favourite golf and tourist destinations and is visited by thousands of Belfast Galway Lahinch people from all parts of the globe to explore its natural beauty Dublin Dromoland and to engage in the many cultural and outdoor activities on Limerick Doonbeg Cork SHANNON offer, with golf being a major attraction. AIRPORT Adare FERRY Some of the finest links and parkland courses are spread across Ballybunion Tralee KERRY AIRPORT this region and its counties of Clare, Limerick, Kerry and Cork. Dingle Being a tourist destination the region has a multitude of top Dooks Killarney class accommodations, restaurants, pubs and nightime Ring of Kerry Cork activities that suit all budgets. The South West is serviced by CORK AIRPORT Waterville Old Head 3 international airports at Shannon, Cork and Kerry and the ferry service at Cork. Let us make your dream visit come true in a place ‘where golf is not just a game but a way of life’.

ADARE BALLYBUNION CORK DOOKS DINGLE DOONBEG DROMOLAND KILLARNEY LAHINCH OLD HEAD RING OF KERRY WATERVILLE TRALEE

SWING (South West Ireland Golf Ltd) Tel: +353 (0)66 71 25733 24 Denny Street, Tralee, Fax: +353 (0)66 71 23651 Co. Kerry, Ireland. E-mail: [email protected] 77

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You’ll find a wealth of opportunity to relish in this place and it would be foolhardy to attempt to make “must do” suggestions for you; but just in case here are just a few brief highlights you may find time to enjoy:

The Blarney Stone Those who wish to receive the “gift of the gab” must kiss the famous Blarney Stone, a rough block of limestone set high on the walls of Blarney Castle.

Ballybunion Home to stunning beaches, seaweed baths and caves to take your breath away.

Beara Peninsula As remote and spectacular as you’ve heard.

Blarney Woollen Mills World famous for its range of woollen and craft goods.

Blasket Islands The setting, the wild Atlantic, the history; an afternoon you’ll never forget.

Cobh The most famous point of departure for millions of emigrants over the centuries, and the last port of call for the Titanic on that fateful day.

Cork City A bustling, historic city that is now a modern and thriving commercial centre. Small enough to do on foot, important enough to make sure not to miss.

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Dingle Peninsula A magical and enchanting region and a chance to hear the Irish language spoken with gusto.

Glengarriff Some of the most scenic landscapes in the country

Garnish Island A ten minute boat trip to an island oasis, a magnificent garden created out on a rock.

Killarney National Park Lakes and mountains of unrivalled natural beauty. You may also be told stories about local Leprechauns.

Kinsale The gourmet capital of Ireland; I need say no more.

Ring of Kerry Spectacular driving route to witness the beauty of the region

Skellig Remote island rock where the ruins of a tenth century monastic settlement can still be seen.

Tralee The county town of Kerry and home to probably the most famous festival in Ireland.

Valentia Island The most westerly inhabited point in Ireland and Europe.

Youghal Historic town where the river Blackwater meets the sea.

79 • Superior 3* Hotel • Abbots Steakhouse • Abbots Bar • Leisure Centre • Solitude Spa • Suites and Lodges

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it was built on a massive limestone outcrop The Near Neighbours and includes a beautiful Romanesque church, a medieval cathedral, a Gaelic tower house Tipperary & Waterford and round tower and a unique high cross and Tipperary is Ireland’s largest inland county. Lying on the eastern edge exquisite Hall of Vicars. Another historical site of note is Cahir Castle. of Munster, the county is a mix of open grassland, mountain and river Built by the Anglo-Norman Butlers, the valleys and is most famous for its hospitality, horses and hurling. earls of Ormonde, it was one of the greatest strongholds in Munster. Attacked by the earl of Essex in 1599, it survived the Cromwellian and One of the traditional hurling strongholds in Williamite invasions. In the 19th century it was Munster and Ireland, the Tipperary team is refurbished by the Earl of Glengall and is open Tipperary Factfile: fervently supported. Their home ground in to the public. Country Ireland Thurles is regarded as the finest hurling pitch Province Munster in the country and crowds in excess of forty Tipperary is not short on wild and natural thousand pack it every year for championship beauty and is an ideal location for anyone County South Tipperary games. The spectacle of a passionate packed wishing to get away from the hustle and Population (2006) crowd and two teams doing battle, on a glorious bustle of city life. The villages of Terryglass ad • Town 5,065 pitch in the summer sunshine is one not to Garrykennedy on the shores of Lough Derg are • Urban 4,415 be missed. It reveals all that is great about our a veritable Mecca for river cruisers and you can • Environs 650 national sports. be assured of a hearty welcome and food and craic galore. The national and international fame of Waterford Factfile: Tipperary’s horses continues to reach even The Galtee, Knockmealdown and Comeragh Country Ireland dizzier heights. The world famous Coolmore Mountains are some of the most scenic inland Stud is located outside the village of Fethard ranges in the country and offer excellent Province Munster in the south of the county, while the renowned opportunity to explore and breathe in some County Waterford training facility of Ballydoyle is nearby. The fresh mountain air, while the River Suir will Population (2011) stables have produced or trained so many make most anglers wonder if they will get to see • City 46,747 racing legends it’s impossible to know where any other part of the country at all. • Urban 51,519 to start but the well known names of Sadler’s Wells, Giants Causeway and Rock of Gibraltar To the south of the Comeragh Mountains lies instantly spring to mind. Waterford. As relaxed a place as there exists in Ireland, Waterford’s beautiful spread of Tipperary’s main tourist attraction is the Rock mountains and sea make it a truly special spot of Cashel. The ecclesiastical capital of Munster, in which to spend some of your time here. Continued on Page 80 81 Visit the Waterford Crystal faCtory

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The county boasts a wonderful and sparsely populated coastal region The coming of the Vikings marked the beginnings of the city, which complete with empty strands and unexplored coves and beaches. developed from the settlement established by the Norsemen on the Along the coast are some of the most picturesque and enchanting southern bank of the River Suir. Through medieval times it became one fishing villages in the country such as Dunmore East, Bunmahon and of the primary ports in Ireland, trading with the south west of England, Annestown. the Continent ands later the colonial settlements of Newfoundland.

Further inland you’ll find the stunning Comeragh Mountains. Now Today it is a busy and bustling city, vibrant and growing. It has played largely uninhabited the mountains are an ideal destination, particluarly host to everything from tall ships to music festivals and the local press for anyone interested in hill walking, with guided tours available from will keep you up to date with the numerous local activities that you can local operators. The sights are breathtaking as is the countryside. enjoy.

Waterford was originally populated by a Celtic tribe known as the It is also home to the world famous Waterford Crystal company, whose Deise, before coming under the control of the Vikings and then later the expertly crafted crystal products are found in the finest stores across the Normans. They left a number of important historical sites around the world. The visitor centre is the biggest tourist attraction in the south east county including the Celtic monastery of St. Declan at Ardmore. and a must see.

84 SHANNON AIRPORT GUIDE A Day on a Course How do you start to sell a product? You must first ensure that the packaging is correct, that your target market is impressed, that it compares well with other similar products currently available and most of all that it does exactly as it says on the tin. Golf in Ireland is a wonderful product which is being excellently marketed at the moment but in essence it is a product that simply sells itself. A composite of links, parkland and heath courses it offers the complete package, truly a golfing Mecca.

The joys of playing our lush green courses can of course be somewhat a great score and look back wondering what all the fuss was about. But tempered at times by the very nature of our much bemoaned climate. remember to truly appreciate links golf you need that driving rain that “Four seasons in one day” is how Crowded House described the Sydney falls at an angle and a strong howling gale; it may feel rotten at the time climate but it applies only too well to the conditions you’ll experience but when you roll in that birdie as the drips cascade down your face it’ll on our fair isle. Always pack the wet gear, as a matter of course, but it’s feel like no place else on earth. no harm to have the shorts at hand as well. However, and this is the main point to remember, regardless of what the heavens decide should Old Head of Kinsale: be the backing track to your game, you’ll thoroughly enjoy the golf, the A simply breathtaking course set out on the cliffs and probably as welcome and the conditions on and off the course. spectacular a setting for a course as you’ll find in Europe. It will be windy, it may be dry. Bring a camera and enjoy. Tourism naturally plays an enormous role in the Irish economy and golfing tours are the fastest growing group in that sector. You can Fota Island: be guaranteed the famous Céad Míle Fáilte (one hundred thousand Former home of the Irish Open and Irish Seniors Open this parkland welcomes) from all the clubs that you visit. It is part of the Irish course can be seen from the main road into Cork City and each time I demeanour to show you our broadest welcome and to make you feel as if pass it I swear that I’ll pull in for a quick eighteen. It looks spectacular you’d been here all your life. Every golf club is also acutely aware that this and the course is excellent. It’s not too intimidating for the high influx of touring players is a huge boost to the game and the clubs in this handicapper and yet the experienced golfer needs to tread cautiously country and income from visiting golfers is always welcome. As always, before taking any shot for granted here. Excellent greens. be sure that you take advantage of the hospitality at the nineteenth hole after your game, where you can recount tales of birdie misses and bad Co. Louth Golf Club: luck to the locals. This is Ireland; everybody loves a good story. Another former home of the Irish open this course, known as Baltray, looks the real deal. Again it is a links, this time within an hour’s drive of It would be difficult to script a piece on our golf and our golfing heritage Dublin and offers the usual slickness of a true links course. without highlighting some of the truly memorable courses nationwide that you should endeavour to play during your visit. We are blessed to As I mentioned these courses are genuine greats so, if you get the chance have some of the most famous links courses in the world on our shores to play any of the above, enjoy. but don’t forget to look inland for some absolutely spectacular parkland treats also. In this piece I could easily recommend the usual suspects, the Go, for example, to Donegal for a week’s golf and witness a selection of courses that everyone and anyone you meet, anywhere around the world, some superb links courses, such as Rosapenna or Ballyliffin, famed and seem to have played. These are some of the famous ones: renowned courses that will really test your mettle. My lists are not all inclusive but, since I’ve been asked and you’re taking the time to read Royal County Down: this, I will offer my opinion. So here are, in absolutely no particular One of Irelands oldest courses; laid out initially by nature then tweaked order, other than as they occur to me, a top twenty of the others, my own just a little by mans hand. The course is in Newcastle, Co. Down and best of the rest if you will, along with my features many blind shots, narrow fairways and slick greens. We’d all reasons for recommending them. like to think that narrow fairways suit us but let’s be honest, bring your A These I can recommend from game or else risk losing every last ball in your bag. personal experience and I have had the privilege to enjoy: Enniscrone: A jewel in Co. Sligo, again a course that man had little design work to [Continued overleaf] do, just turn up and play really! Like all links courses the difficulty can often lie in the conditions and on a benign day (unfortunately few and far between in reality, particularly on the west coast) you may well have

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Palmerstown House Co. Kildare: The European Club, Co. Wicklow: A little slice of Augusta National and the former home of the PGA in Great links course that runs alongside the Irish Sea on our east coast. Ireland. Visually it is breathtaking. Long and tight with loads of water Long, winding and tough the European does not give away pars or this course rewards patient golf. Walk around with a smile. birdies easily. Every shot is tricky. A fantastic test of golf.

Tralee Golf Club, Kerry: Dromoland Castle, Co. Clare: A fantastic course set along by Banna strand in Co. Kerry which has Lush and gorgeous parkland course in the sumptuous surroundings of the most picturesque back nine you’ll ever experience. Tough links, Dromoland Castle. The sheer number of magnificent mature trees on especially if the wind comes up but gorgeous. this course make it just a beautiful place to play golf. Feel privileged to be in such a glorious place. The Heritage, Co. Laois: A big stunning Seve Ballesteros designed course that will test all your shots. The ninth and eighteenth mirror each other around a lake and can Adare Manor, Co. Limerick: seriously damage a good card if not respected. This parkland treat will Former home to the Irish Open Adare Manor is a long tough Parkland leave you drained. course that plays as good as it looks. It has it all. Take a trip round the course from the back tees if you want to see what the pros faced. Very Rosslare Golf Club, Co. Wexford: intimidating. Tight links course that forces you to play conservatively. The course is situated in the heart of the sunny south east, so you may even get out in Glasson, Co. Westmeath: your shorts and features very quick greens, especially in summer. Not Superb parkland course that uses all the natural local beauty to long but nice and tough. You’ll have to play well to score here. maximum effect. It has one of the best par fives in the country, which is immediately followed by one of the best par threes. Great on-site facilities too. Brilliant package. Mount Juliet, Co. Kilkenny: A real beauty. For some reason playing Mount Juliet feel like playing Druids Glen, Co. Wicklow: really luxurious golf. The place is manicured and I would wager that Home to two courses the Druids Glen or Druid’s Heath experience is one this is the course with the best set of greens in the country. Put simply, not to miss. Both are very scenic, with loads of water in play all over the playing here is an all round treat. place, just a lovely place to play golf.

Carlow Golf Club, Carlow: Courtown Golf Club, Co. Wexford: Heath based course that is testing and very easy on the eye. Tricky little Tree lined fairways and excellent fast greens make Courtown a stiff run offs around many of the greens mean that your short game will be test. It is a course that lulls you into feeling that you have a good score sorely tested. Nice and mature. coming then suddenly you can bogey three in a row out of nowhere. Not imposing to look at but tricky and very enjoyable. Ballybunion Golf Club, Co. Kerry: This is probably the most famous of all the courses in the land and you Tullamore Golf Club, Co. Offaly: do feel a bit privileged to be walking those hallowed fairways. Tom Mature course which boasts some fabulous holes. Always in the best of Watson said it’s a course that “you will always enjoy and never tire of condition, Tullamore is just one of those really enjoyable rounds of golf. playing…..I consider it a true test of golf”. Sharp man that Tom Watson. This is another course that will tease you into making mistakes unless you give full concentration to each shot. Not long, but deserving of every The K Club, Co. Kildare: respect. Having famously hosted the Ryder Cup the K club offers two world class parkland courses. Manicured to perfection you can just imagine tipping Carton House, Co. Kildare: the peak of your cap to the attendant masses as you walk up eighteen…. Two fantastic courses in one spectacular setting. The O’Meara course is a at least I do. Highly regarded and for good reason. manicured parkland course that full utilises the hills, trees and waterways of the area. The Mongomery Course, now home to the Irish Open, is an Portmarnock Links, Co. Dublin: inland links that will severely test you on every facet of your game. There World famous links that places every emphasis on accuracy off the tee. are, it seems, about forty thousand bunkers on the “Monty”, visit them at Another place that feels like such a treat and you can’t wait to get off and your peril. tell people that you were playing Portmarnock today. Bring all the golf balls that you currently own. Castleknock Golf and Country Club, Dublin: A newish gem of a parkland course with a great selection of different Rathsallagh Golf Club, Co. Wicklow: holes that’ll make you think on each tee box. Gorgeous to look at, Lovely parkland with superb greens. Not so tight that you will leave brilliant facilities and superb greens; It’s a joy to visit without a ball in your bag but a great course to plot your way around. Very picturesque and the clubhouse does fantastic food. The type of place So there you have it, my top twenty. I have no doubt that you’d love to be a member. anybody who would choose to invest the time to put together their own particular top twenty would dismiss Lahinch Golf Club, Co. Clare: A world famous links and it is a tough test. Lots of semi blind tee shots several of my choices, as is their right. Play enough to that require accuracy and consistent striking. If you are not playing with decide for yourself, but be sure to enjoy the wealth of a local arm yourself with a stroke saver. It should help, at least a little. golfing delights that Ireland offers.

87 Lahinch Golf & Leisure Hotel LAHINCH • COUNTY CLARE • IRELAND

WELCOME TO THE 4 STAR LAHINCH GOLF & LEISURE HOTEL. CONTACT The Hotel is located in the heart of the choice for a relaxing seaside break or to from the renowned championship links Telephone (065) 7081100 charming seaside village of Lahinch, explore all of the wonderful attractions and at Lahinch Golf Club. Facsimile (065) 7081228 overlooking the stunning landscape of activities that Co. Clare has to offer. The famous Cliffs of Moher, Burren Email [email protected] County Clare and the Atlantic Ocean. The hotel is a stone's throw away from landscape & Aran Islands are all within a The Lahinch Golf & Leisure Hotel is an ideal Lahinch's famous beach and a short walk short drive from Lahinch. www.lahinchgolfhotel.com

The River By tradition the Shannon is said to rise in the Shannon Pot, a small pool on the slopes of What makes the Cuilcagh Mountain in County Cavan, from where Majestic Shannon the young river appears as a small trout stream. Surveys have defined a 12.8 km² immediate pot so Special catchment area covering the slopes of Cuilcagh. The River Shannon is the longest river This area includes Garvah Lough a couple of in Ireland at nearly 225 miles long and kilometres to the northeast and drained by flows from the Shannon Pot in County Pollnaowen. Cavan before entering into the Atlantic Ocean at the Shannon Estuary. In total, Further sinks that source the pot include Pollboy the Shannon runs through 11 of Ireland’s and, through Shannon Cave, Pollahune in Cavan 32 counties and three provinces, Munster, and Polltulyard and Tullyrrakeeragh in County Leinster and Connaught. As the river Fermanagh, Northern Ireland. The highest point travels through the estuary, it passes in the catchment is a spring at Tiltinbane on the western end of the Cuilcagh mountain ridge. through Limerick City and by Shannon Airport. From the Shannon Pot, the river subsumes a number of tributaries before replenishing Lough Allen at its head. 88 SHANNON AIRPORT GUIDE

The river runs through or between 11 of Ireland’s the River Shannon with Dublin City. counties, subsuming the tributary rivers Inny, Suck and Brosna, before reaching the Shannon The other most notable canal joins the River Estuary at Limerick. Its total length this means it Shannon with the Shannon - Erne Waterway is the longest river in both Ireland and the wider System. There are several smaller canals dotted British Isles. Apart from being Ireland’s longest along the river. river, the Shannon is also, by far, Ireland’s largest The river began flowing along its present course river (by flow), double the flow rate of Ireland’s after the end of the last glacial period. second largest river, the River Corrib. According to Irish mythology, the river was named Despite travelling for such a journey from source after a woman named Sionann, the granddaughter to estuary, the Shannon only falls by 76m from of Lir. She went to Connla’s Well to find wisdom, source to sea level. This factor combined with despite being warned not to approach it. excellent lakes, including Lough Allen, Lough Ree and Lough Derg, means the Shannon is the In some sources she, like Fionn Mac Cumhaill, centre of water sports in Ireland. As such there is caught and ate the Salmon of Wisdom who swam a huge market for boat rentals during the summer there, becoming the wisest being on Earth. and people can cruise large sections of the river without having to go through any locks. However, the well then burst forth, drowning Sionann and carrying her out to sea, (a very The river has several canals attached, most notably similar tale is told of Boann and the River Boyne). the Royal Canal and the Grand Canal which join Continued overleaf

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It is believed that Sionann was the goddess of the remaining Irish landowners would go to “Hell or river and this would have been common in Irish Connaught”, referring to their choice of forced mythology. The drowning of a goddess in a river migration west across the river Shannon, or death, typically represents the dissolving of her divine thus freeing up the eastern landholdings for the power into the water, which then gives life to the incoming English settlers. land the river touches. In the Williamite war in Ireland (1689–91), the The Shannon River also reputedly hosts a river Jacobites also retreated behind the Shannon after monster named Cata, first appearing in the their defeat at the Battle of the Boyne in 1690. medieval Book of Lismore. In this manuscript Athlone and Limerick, both with commanding we are told that Senán, patron saint of County bridges over the river, saw bloody sieges. Clare, defeated the monster at Inis Cathaigh. Cata is described as a large monster with a horse’s As late as 1916, the leaders of the Easter Rising mane, gleaming eyes, thick feet, nails of iron and a planned to have their forces in the west “hold whale’s tail. Sightings are difficult to authenticate! the line of the Shannon”. However, in the event, the rebels were neither well enough armed nor Vikings settled in the region in 10th century and equipped to attempt such an ambitious policy. used the river to raid the rich monasteries deep inland. In 937 the Limerick Vikings clashed with The Shannon River has always been closely those of Dublin on Lough Ree and were defeated. bound up with Ireland’s social, cultural, military, economic and political history and remains so to In the 17th century, the Shannon was of major this day. strategic importance in military campaign in Ireland, as it formed a physical boundary between The main stopping points on the River from North the east and west of the country. to South are Boyle, Leitrim, Carrick on Shannon, Roosky, Lanesborough, Glasson, Athlone, In the Irish Confederate Wars of 1641-53, the Shannonbridge, Banagher, Portumna and Killaloe. Irish retreated behind the Shannon in 1650 and held out for two further years against English The counties touched by the river are Cavan, Parliamentarian forces. In preparing a land Leitrim, Roscommon, Longford, Offaly, settlement, or plantation after his conquest of Westmeath, Galway, Clare, Tipperary, Limerick, Ireland Oliver Cromwell reputedly said the Kerry. 90 Untitled-1 1 8/12/13 10:56 AM SHANNON AIRPORT GUIDE

92 Go West! The West of Ireland is a place apart. Stretching from Galway to Donegal, its breathtaking scenery and laid back atmosphere draws millions of visitors across the River Shannon each year. And few leave disappointed, for this is truly one of the magical regions of Ireland.

The attractions are legendary, and they are not limited to the natural environment. The West has everything from top-class horse racing to international music, art, film and festivals, and from diving and surfing to golf. If it’s there to be done, the West has it. Continued overleaf

93 SHANNON AIRPORT GUIDE

Galway:

Galway City is Connaught’s main urban centre and it’s fitting that such fine province has such a lively and cultured capital. With a small population not much in excess of 80, 000 Galway is relatively small but it brims with energy and life.

Renowned as a city of the arts Galway is home to the famous Druid Theatre Company, and also the street theatre specialists Macnas – who add so much colour and verve to festivals across the country each year and especially the Galway Arts Festival each summer.

Though the city has year round attractions it is during the summer months that the place is at its most lively. The city fills through the month of July, when the Arts and Theatre festivals take place. However, these are scarcely finished when the world famous Galway races begin in Ballybrit, just outside the city.

The biggest race meeting in the Irish calendar in terms of attendance and spend, the Galway races bring tens of thousands of visitors to the city for the first week of August each year. It can be hectic and feel a little daunting but for all this the style, the atmosphere and the spirit make it great craic. The bedlam is worth it.

Through the centuries Galway maintained close trading links with France and Spain, and even today the city has a recognisable continental feel. Its narrow streets and small shops and pubs have an intimate and friendly charm and there is a palpable buzz about the place at all times.

One thing which you will constantly come across in Galway city is music - it is simply everywhere. Enjoy a stroll through the city after dark and every second pub will have live music coming out its doors; everything from the very best of traditional Irish music sessions, to jazz, blues, rock and country; it’s all there.

Shopping in Galway City is a very pleasant experience, with its mixture of traditional arts and crafts available as well as the very best in contemporary designs and goods. The city prides itself on being quite stylish and the mix of outlets reflects this very well, from top international fashion houses to local markets.

Outside of the city the magic of Galway continues unabated. The east of the county is sheep country, where stock is kept in fields separated by long high stone walls. The mighty river Shannon marks the boundary of the county here and cruise boats can be hired from both Portumna and Ballinasloe to enjoy the river. SHANNON AIRPORT GUIDE

To the west and north of Galway City lie the wild and beautiful areas of Connemara and Joyce Country. This is some of the most awesome scenery Ireland has to offer. Rugged and desolate, it is also a haunting environment, replete with abandoned farms and villages form a bygone era.

As the wind whistles across the mountains and lakes it seems to carry with it the cries of the thousands of people who were forced to leave their homes for different shores.

Connemara is blessed with a multitude of place worth visiting. There is Killary harbour, Ireland’s only fjord, and the stunning Inagh Valley that runs south from it. Connemara National Park, near Letterfrack, is one of the treasures of the west, while the towns of Clifden and Roundstone carry a wonderful attraction and charm.

Off the coast are the two splendid island of Inishboffin and Inishturk. Both are inhabitied and give a great insight into coastal life in Ireland. Ferries to the islands are available from the small port of Cleggan, near Clifden.

Galway has a wealth of different visitor attractions to enjoy, from the modern and cultural, to the coastal and historic. It has something for everybody’s taste. Once again, we can only make suggestions, but these are some of the most notable:

Battle of Aughrim Interprative Centre:

This interpretive centre tells the story of the final deadly battle at Aughrim on July 12, 1691 when 45,000 soldiers from eight different European countries changed forever the course of both Irish and European history. Through three dimensional and audio-visual displays based on Captain Walter Dalton’s account of the battle, the centre follows the events of the last great battle on Irish soil in detail. The village of Aughrim is located between the towns of Ballinasloe and Loughrea and is located close to the N6. The centre is open from March to October, seven days.

Dunguaire Castle:

Built by the O’Hynes in 1520 Dunguaire Castle was acquired by the mayor of Galway in the 17th Century and was subsequently purchased by Oliver St. John Gogarty, an accomplished surgeon, poet and wit who was represented as Buck Mulligan in James Joyce’s Ulysses. The castle became a meeting place for the literary revivalists, led by W.B. Yeats, his patron Lady Gregory, George Bernard Shaw, Edward Martyn and J.M.Synge.

The bardic tradition is reflected in the Medieval Banquet held each night (during season) and celebrates the richness of Ireland’s literary and musical past and evokes the colourful characters who make up the castle’s illustrious history.

Galway Irish Crystal Heritage Centre:

At the Galway Irish Crystal Heritage Centre visitors can avail of guided heritage tours, exhibitions on old Galway, audio-visual presentations on life in Galway, an excellent restaurant and a showroom of Galway Irish Crystal, Belleek Pottery and Aynsley China. It is located just five minutes drive from Galway City Centre on the N6 Dublin road.

Glenowla Mines, Oughterard:

Glenowla Silver and Lead Mine is Irelands only show mine and dates back to the 19th century. Located a couple of miles outside Oughterard it is reputed to have been one of the richest and productive mines of its time and has been restored to a depth of 65 feet underground. Guided tours are available where you are led down into the mine by steps handrail and lighting and guided through the large marble chambers and caverns.

Here you can see silver, lead, calcite, quartz and other mineral formations in the mine. On the surface there is a visitor centre hosting many examples of minerals from the area, an Agents Cottage, a Gunpowder House and a Winding Stow.

Ionad Arann – Aran’s Heritage Centre, Innismore:

This centre introduces visitors to the landscape, culture and traditions of the beautiful and rigged Aran Islands. The history, geology and present lifestyle of the people of Aran are illustrated through a series of display charts, photographs and maps. This centre explores the currach making traditions and the occupations which gave the islanders such a precarious existence in the past. Learn how the inhabitants cultivated bare rock by laying down layers of sand, seaweed and meagre soil to grow their crops. Open April to October every day.

Kylemore Abbey, Connemara:

Kylemore Abbey Demesne and Victorian gardens are located in the heart of the Connemara mountains and it is without question one of the most recognisable and breathtaking sights in Ireland. Home to the Irish Benedictine Nuns it boasts a marvellous gothic church, superb restaurant, pottery and one of the finest craft shops in the country, along with the largest walled garden in Ireland, which has been painstakingly restored to its Victorian splendour. Open all year, seven days and not to be missed.

95 Westport House Editorial.pdf 1 8/7/13 2:01 PM

SPECIAL ADVERTISING FEATURE

Treasure your family time

Something for Everyone in the Family

There is so much fun to be had for families at the estate’s outdoor amusements in the Pirate Adventure Park. Kids can take the plunge on the Cannonball Run slide, which will leave them screaming for more, while thrill seekers will give a hearty welcome to the Pirate Queen Swinging Ship and the Pirate Plunge log flume ride. The 8 foot Swan Pedalo Boats are a tranquil treat on the lake and younger children will enjoy the Westport House Express train ride, Gracy’s Bouncy Castle and the Pirates Playground. For indoor fun at the farmyard, the Pirate Dens soft play area has a dedicated space for babies and big kids alike, while the estate also offers a pitch & putt course, table tennis, pottery painting, Go Karting and even fishing! Ireland’s Most Beautiful Historic Home – still owned by the same family that built it Westport House is one of the few remaining privately owned historic houses in Ireland, which is a huge attraction for those interested in history as you can hear all about the Browne family who have lived on the estate since the 16th Century and the infamous Pirate Queen Grace O’ Malley, who even makes an appearance

C to tell her story to young history buffs.

M A total of 30 rooms and 5 exhibitions Y are open to the public.

CM MY Make a Holiday of it at the top rated 3 star CY Caravan & Camping Park CMY

K Complete your family break with a stay at the caravan & camping park set in the lush grounds of Westport House surrounded by ancient trees with Croagh Patrick and Clew Bay in the background, with free hot showers, electrics, WiFi, recycling, picnic and washing up areas, along with Gracy’s Bar & Restaurant, which has music at weekends.

Adventure seekers will be on a high Already established as the adventure hub of the West, Westport House’s Adventure Activity Centre is reaching new heights this summer with the introduction of their custom built, never-seen-before in Ireland, Sky Challenge, which is a must for beginners and adrenaline junkies alike! Visitorslooking for an extra high can try their ZipWire, and after getting into the swing Special Events Calendar of things, take on more grounded thrills, from, archery, laser combat games, laser clay 2013 - 2014 pigeon shooting and the massively popular • October 27th: Fireworks Extravaganza custom-built zorbing. Everyone from eight • October 26th to November 4th: years and upwards can enjoy the Adventure Halloween Fest featuring children’s Activity Centre, which is set inthe pristine natural lakeland and parkland setting of the workshops, activities, rides and amusements historic House‘s 480 acre estate. • November 23rd to December 24th: Winter Wonderland, a magical Christmas With a fantastic offering like this it comes as no surprise that Westport House Experience itself was recently voted one of the Best Family Visitor Attractions in Ireland. There are plenty of great reasons to bring children and visitors for a fun day • June 28 & 29, 2014: out or longer to Westport House and Pirate Adventure Park and create long Westport Festival of Music & Food lasting memories. You can contact Westport House on 098-27766 or email [email protected] For full details on activities, tickets and prices visit www.westporthouse.ie for available dates and to explore your options. Westport House Editorial.pdf 1 8/7/13 2:01 PM

Westport House.pdf 1 7/21/13 2:29 PM SPECIAL ADVERTISING FEATURE

Treasure your family time

Something for Everyone in the Family

There is so much fun to be had for families at the estate’s outdoor amusements in the Pirate Heritage, family fun and adventure – something for everyone in the family

Adventure Park. Kids can take the plunge on the Cannonball Run slide, which will leave them C screaming for more, while thrill seekers will give a hearty welcome to the Pirate Queen M Swinging Ship and the Pirate Plunge log flume ride. The 8 foot Swan Pedalo Boats are a tranquil treat on the lake and younger children will enjoy the Westport House Express train ride, Y Gracy’s Bouncy Castle and the Pirates Playground. For indoor fun at the farmyard, the Pirate CM

Dens soft play area has a dedicated space for babies and big kids alike, while the estate also MY offers a pitch & putt course, table tennis, pottery painting, Go Karting and even fishing! CY

Ireland’s Most Beautiful Historic Home – still owned by the same family that built it CMY

K Westport House is one of the few VISIT remaining privately owned historic houses There has been a ‘big house’ on this site since the 1500’s, when as well as indoor soft-play. Adventurers WEBSITEOUR in Ireland, which is a huge attraction for Grace O Malley, the famous Pirate Queen, built one of her many over 8 years of age will enjoy the thrills of specialfor o castles here. The current House – built in 1730 by the same the Adventure Activities such as zorbing, www f those interested in history as you can hear .West fer por s family who still own and operate it today - has an abundance zip wires, high ropes, archery and laser tHouse.i e all about the Browne family who have lived of artefacts, artwork and treasures that will fascinate all culture- combat games. Clearly, the award winning on the estate since the 16th Century and vultures! The Pirate Adventure Park – perfectly suited to children Westport House & Pirate Adventure Park in the infamous Pirate Queen Grace O’ under 12 years, will leave the kids screaming for more with Co. Mayo is the perfect destination for family fun, heritage and Malley, who even makes an appearance rides, slides, boats, trains, pitch & putt, go karting, playgrounds adventure activities.

C to tell her story to young history buffs.

M Westport House & Pirate Adventure Park, Westport, Co. Mayo, Ireland. +353 (0) 98 27766. www.westporthouse.ie A total of 30 rooms and 5 exhibitions Y are open to the public.

MY CORI Quarter_Layout 1 7/4/13 4:55 PM Page 1 CORI Quarter_Layout 1 7/1/13 11:57 AM Page 1 Make a Holiday of it at the top rated 3 star CY Caravan & Camping Park CMY

Leenane Cultural Centre:

Designed to reflect the local sheep and wool industry, Leenane Cultural Centre is situated overlooking the stunning Killary harbour. Wool handcrafts, including cardigan, spinning, weaving and the use of natural dyes are all demonstrated. Over 20 different breeds of sheep graze on the lands around the centre and visitors will appreciate the harmony between man and animal, particularly under the skill of the sheep dog.

Local history and places of interest are featured on a continuous audio-visual display, available in French, German, Italian, English and Irish. Open March to October seven days.

Leisureland, Galway:

Leisureland is one for the kids and for the kid in all of us. It is located in the heart of the popular seaside resort of Salthill, just minutes outside Galway City, and offers a fun park, entertainment and events that all members of the family will enjoy. Aquapark, mini golf, concerts, etc; if you’re nearby, take an afternoon off from travelling and go and get wet.

Rinville Park, Oranmore:

Just five minutes form the charming village of Oranmore, Rinville Park is a terrific amenity, developed around an historic castle, stately home and a fine estate demesne which dates from the 16th century. There are a multitude of walks to choose from, through woodlands, open farms and by the sea and the park offers a recreational facility of outstanding beauty. There is access to Rinville Point and Saleen Point, where views of Galway City, Galway Bay and the Burren can be enjoyed. The park has picnic areas and a children’s playground and is open all year round with no admission fee.

Royal Tara China Visitors Centre:

Royal Tara China is the country’s leading manufacturer of fine bone china, giftware, tableware and hand painted pieces. Tara Hall, the base for the company, is a fine Georgian style mansion, only minutes from the city centre. It was formerly the seat of the Joyces, one of the ancient tribes that founded Galway City. You can enjoy free guided tours to watch the master craftsmen at work and then relax in an excellent coffee shop. Open all year every day.

St. Nicholas Collegiate Church, Galway:

The Collegiate Church of St. Nicholas is the largest Medieval parish Church in the country still in constant use and was built in 1320 on the site of an earlier chapel. It still retains the chancel and nave from that time. During the 16th century, during a time of great prosperity in Galway, the church was developed further and extended, thereby giving it the unusual shape obvious today. Christopher Columbus is said to have worshipped here in 1477.

In the year 1652, after a nie month siege, the town was taken by Cromwellian forces who repeatedly made the church their headquarters and destroyed many of its features.

Thoor Castle, Ballylee:

Nobel Prize winner William Butler Yeats, poet and senator, bought this ancient Norman tower and adjoining cottages in 1916. His collection of poems, “The Tower” contains several poems written at or about Thoor Ballylee. It was both his monument and symbol. It has been painstakingly restored and looks much the same as it did in the 1920’s when Yeats and his family occupied the property.

It includes an audio-visual presentation on the life and times of WB Yeats, a bookshop specialising in Anglo-Irish literature with an excellent children’s section, tearooms, riverside walk to an ancient mill, tourist office, etc. Open Easter to September, seven days.

Town Hall Theatre, Galway:

The Town Hall Theatre in Courthouse Square, Galway was built in the 1820’s as a courthouse and was later used as a Town Hall. It was re-opened a few years ago as a state of the art municipal theatre. It is one of the best attended and best loved theatres of its size in the country. Local press will have details of upcoming events.

Tropical Butterfly Centre, Connemara:

This Tropical Butterfly Centre has created a tropical paradise for its winged guests where you can see free flyinig exotic butterflies in the natural environment. On show is an array of insects including an assortment of butterflies from South America and South East Asia. You will even get the opportunity to see butterflies emerging from their pupae in the hatchery before they get transferred to the tropical environment.

Safe behind glass, visitors can view living insects, giant spiders and small reptiles in their native surroundings. These are on show alongside a spectacular display of mounted butterflies from all over the world, with special emphasis on education and conservation, including species from Ireland and the UK. Many of these are also on sale in the retail shop, along with other souvenirs. Open May to Sept seven days.

98 SHANNON AIRPORT GUIDE

Mayo:

In the north of Connemara lies Mayo. One of Ireland’s largest counties, mayo boasts a stunning west coast that mixes amazing beaches with Holy Mountains, Stone Age farms and cracking towns.

One of the biggest attractions in west Mayo is Croagh Patrick, Ireland’s holiest mountain. It is recorded that St. Patrick spent forty days and forty nights on the mountain’s summit praying and fasting. Every summer tens of thousands of locals and visitors alike climb The Reek (as it is known locally) to commemorate his penance.

The climb, though arduous, is very well worth it as on a clear day there is a spectacular view out over Clew Bay from the summit. The bay marks the beginning of Ireland’s drumlin belt, a line of low hills that cross the entire island. In Clew Bay however the island take the form of small islands and it is said that there is an island in the bay for every day of the year.

This part of Mayo is synonymous with the famous 16th century Gaelic pirate queen, Grainuale or Grace O’Malley. The leader of a branch of the O’Malley clan, Grainuale was the scourge of shipping on the coast for more than thirty years. She lived by smuggling, rebellion and piracy and would surely have been hanged for her actions had she not sailed up the Thames in one of her galleys and met with England’s Queen Elizabeth herself to remonstrate with her. She survived and her ancestors went on to become the Lords of Mayo. The family seat is Westport House which is open to the public throughout the year. Westport itself is a magnificent town. A very popular with tourist destination and weekend retreat, it combines the necessary attractions of a visitor centre with the charm of a local market town.

To the south of Clew Bay lies Achill Island, Ireland’s largest island. The island is easily accessible by bridge from the Currane Peninsula and encompasses dramatic land and seascapes. Achill has numerous Blue Flag beaches and many sites of archaeological importance. Among these are the famous deserted village of Slievemore and Kidamhnait Castle.

To the north of Clew Bay is located one of the historical treasures of the West, the Ceide Fields. The 5,000 year old farms lay beneath two metres of bog outside the villages of Ballycastle and Balderg until discovered by archaeologists.

This is a complete Neolithic farming landscape that includes regular field patterns and dispersed settlements. A visitor centre at the site provides a detailed explanation of the fields and their significance.

But these are merely as taste of the attractions that lie within Mayo. Once again we’ll suggest some to you:

Achill Island:

As we mentioned earlier the island is easily accessible and has provided stunning scenery to inspire artists and writer for any years. Apart entirely from its historical treasures ad stunning beaches, it has a wealth of facilities from golf to diving, walking, painting and heritage, traditional music and dance and an environment where the Irish language is used often in a relaxed and informal manner.

Ballina:

Ballina, home of the famous River Moy, is Mayo’s largest town. There is a stunning variety of restaurants, pubs and clubs in this town which is famed for its hospitality and excellent accommodation base. Among Ballina’s key visitor attractions are the ruins of Moyne Abbey and Rosserk Friary, dating back to the 15th century.

St. Muredach’s Cathedral also stands imposingly on the banks of the river; but it is the river itself which also provides a huge attraction. It is internationally renowned as an exceptional salmon fishery and every year it produces thousands of salmon to the rod.

The famous Ridge Pool, the salmon angler’s paradise, is located in the heart of the town. It is a favoured fishing retreat of any angler and you can expect to see a few famous faces in the crowd.

Each July Ballina also hosts a famous festival, a frenzy of activity providing week long entertainment, novelty and culture for all the family.

Ballintubber:

A few miles south of Castlebar lies the village of Ballintubber. Its history goes back to pre-Christian times; people came from the east through Ballintubber on their way to visit the holy mountain on the west coast, now known as Croagh Patrick. When St. Patrick brought Christianity to Ireland in c441AD he founded a church at Ballintubber.

The present Abbey was founded in 1216 by King Cathal O’Conner and is the only church in Ireland still in daily use that was founded by an Irish King.

99 Ocean Llodge Killadoon.pdf 1 8/6/13 7:02 PM The Lough Allen Hotel.pdf 1 7/31/13 10:11 AM

Ocean Lodge Surround yourself by our Killadoon captivating landscape

C C The Lough Allen Hotel & Spa is ideally located to M M explore all the North West has to offer. One of the most stunning locations in Ireland! Y Y A family run hotel, we pride ourselves on exceptional hospitality. Dominated by the Atlantic Coast Line and nestled at the foot of the Mweelrea CM CM Mountain range overlooking of Clew Bay, Ocean Lodge Killadoon is a wonderful We have a Full Leisure Centre with Swimming pool, steam rooms & outdoor hot tub. MY base from which you can explore the wild and wonderful West Coast. MY Our Oshadi Spa offers a wide range of treatments and CY The hotel bar combines charm and character with a first class service, CY guarantees you will leave revitalised & refreshed. live music, excellent cuisine, a first-class pint and great craic! CMY CMY If Golf is of interest we have excellent Golf Packages available to include a round of Golf in Carrick on Shannon - see www.carrickgolfclub.ie K Spectacular views from our Seaview Restaurant & Bar! K Experience our wonderful home cooked food and service of exceptional standards Our Lake Side location makes it an excellent base for your Family Break, we have a full kids club during Summer Months. by our chef, Alan Heanue; using locally sourced ingredients including fresh fish. Within close proximity of Lough Key Forest Park - www.loughkey.ie, Walking, Boat Trips, Fishing, Cyling & much more ...! Arigna Mining Experience - www.arignaminingexperience.ie, Moorlands Equestrian centre - www.moorlands.ie Killadoon is a perfect walking destination; we can offer mountain & hill walking, and Electric Bike Trails - www.electricbiketrails.com coastal and Island walks all through unspoilt varied and rich landscapes. Whether you are a lone traveller, a couple, family or group, The area also offers a wide range of other activities. we have everything here for you at The Lough Allen Hotel & Spa.

The Ocean Lodge, Killadoon Louisburgh, Co Mayo We look forward to welcoming you. Tel: 00 353 (0)98 68605 | Mobile: 00 353 (0)872965483 For Bookings & Enquiries contact our Reservation Team on 0719640100 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] or visit www.loughallenhotel.com Web: www.oceanlodgekilladoon.com

Mayo Leisure Point.pdf 1 7/17/13 12:30 PM Shannon Mining Experience.pdf 1 6/12/13 11:29 AM

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