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Pumpkin Patches in Ireland & Northern Ireland

September 16, 2023
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It’s that time of year, the leaves are getting crispy, the smell of cosy fires lingering in the air. It an only mean one thing! Halloween is nearly here 🎃 I always get asked about Halloween events and pumpkin patches in Ireland, so to make life easier for you, I’ve put together a list of Pumpkin Patches in Ireland and Northern Ireland for you and your family to enjoy this spooky season.

Pumpkin Patches in Ireland

Pumpkin Patch in Dublin

Luggwoods, Dublin

Address: Crooksling, Co. Dublin

Luggwoods characters will guide you along theforest trail as you help them find the ingredients for the Friendly Witches Halloween Brew!

She might even have a Trick or Treat for you too!

Set in the foothills of the Dublin Mountains, the Luggwoods outdoor Halloween Family Experience will get the Halloween Antics going, and all you enjoy a safe Halloween season together in the most beautiful and natural surroundings imaginable.

Halloween at Luggwods gives you and your family the opportunity to dress up and get some epic family photos while enjoying the spooky seasonal fun and creating unique family memories that last the test of time.

Don’t be afraid this Halloween and let your children’s Halloween imaginations be truly awoken at Luggwoods this year!

For more information and to book, visit Luggwoods

Pumpkin Patch in Wicklow

Clissmann Horse Caravans & Glamping, Wicklow

Address: Cronybyrne, Rathdrum, Co. Wicklow

For the Donkey Tour – You will be will introduced to your very own donkey who you will be leading to the Pumpkin Patch. Your donkey even has a rucksack to carry your pumpkin back to the yard!

For the Wheelbarrow Tour – Collect your Wheelbarrow from the Parking Garage in the Frightful Forge and set off on your Halloween Adventure through the Farm.

For some Halloween Fun and Frolics wheel your wheelbarrow or lead your donkey to the Pumpkin Patch where you can pick your Perfect Pumpkin and pop it in to the Donkey Rucksack or Trusty Wheelbarrow to bring it back to the yard.

Then adventure through he Spooky farm trail with Witches Wagons, a Fairy Forest, a Ghoulish Graveyard and Halloween Horses.  Our Hocus Pocus Hay Barn has plenty of ghostly games and goodies and why not enjoy a cup of tea, coffee or yummy hot chocolate from the coffee dock!

Enjoy a safe Halloween Season together in the fresh air on our farm in the Wicklow Hills. Our Pumpkin Patch is based on our family farm at Cronybyrne Rathdrum, the perfect place for some Halloween Hocus Pocus in the safest outdoor environment.

There’s lots of outdoor space to explore and our barn areas are open and undercover with lots of tricks and treats to enjoy! Get in to the spirit of things and come in your Halloween Costume – there’ll be great places to take fun family photos and spooky selfies!

For more information and to book, visit Clissman Horse Caravans & Glamping

Pumpkin Patch in Wexford

Ballycross Apple Farm, Wexford

Address: Apple Farm, Ballycross, Bridgetown, Co. Wexford

Bring your ghosts and goblins down to Ballycross Apple Farm this October for some Halloween fun!

Upon entry pick up a Ballycross Apple, take a short walk to the Spooktacular Witches Village and meet the resident Ballycross Witch, pick your own pumpkin* in our patch and take a tractor ride back to the farm.

For more information and to book, visit Ballycross Farm

Pumpkin Patch in Carlow

Rathwood, Carlow

Address: Rath, Tullow, Carlow

There’s something spooky in the forest. This year Rathwood will take you and your family on a Spooktacular Train Adventure through the haunted forest arriving at the spectacular Rathwood Big Top for our thrilling Halloween Pantomime!!!
A (teeny!) Terror at the Toy Shop! 🎃

Witness toys come to life in this HAUNTING yet HILARIOUS HALLOWEEN MUSICAL!
An all singing, dancing, interactive experience for the entire family!
With a host of characters including Papa G the Toy Maker, Wanda the Witch (and her teeny cat Boots) Fairy Sparkle Barbie, lots of enchanted toys and not to mention the villain of the piece…..
The ghastly ghoulish guy we all love to boo……JACK O’LANTERN! When a simple pumpkin gets accidentally magically transformed into a person it all starts to go wrong! JACK wants to RUIN Halloween for the children around the world FOREVER!

Can you help Wanda and the gang reverse the magic and save Halloween once and for all? Join us this October for a frighteningly fun filled family friendly musical!! A (teeny!) Terror At The Toyshop! Includes a spooky train ride through the forest , with a host of boooo-tiful characters to spot on the journey and a trip to the pumpkin patch as you leave the show singing and dancing!

For more information and to book, visit Rathwood

Pumpkin Patch in Kildare

Clonfert Pet Farm, Kildare

Address: Clonfert, Maynooth, Co. Kildare, W23 PY05

This Halloween Clonfert Pet Farm has a fantastic family fun event in store. Including Pumpkin Patch, Fun Fair, Haunted House, and lots more. One of the best places to have fun whilst picking your own pumpkin, ready for carving for the big night. This popular event runs from Saturday 21st to Tuesday 31st October 2023. Tickets go on sale on Friday the 1st of September at 12pm, so mark your calendar and make sure you don’t miss out.

For more information and to book, visit Clonfert Pet Farm

Pumpkin Patches in Meath

Alright Pumpkin, Meath – SOLD OUT

Address: Girley, Navan, Co. Meath

The Alright Pumpkin patch has been growing pumpkins since 2013. They started after they saw their first field of pumpkins while working on farms as a harvester in America. they thought they looked so cool and colourful in the fields and wanted to bring some of those bright colours back to Ireland. It also helped that the area they live in, in Fordstown Co. Meath has very close ties to the origins of Halloween!

For more information and to book, visit Alright Pumpkin (SOLD OUT)

The Ark Puddenhill, Meath

Address: Moorepark, Puddenhill, Co. Meath, A42 Y046

The Ark Puddenhill are hosting a Halloween event this year. Booking includes:

  • Pumpkin picking 🎃
  • Barrel Train Ride
  • Stensils
  • Face painting
  • Indoor and out door play

For more information and to book, visit The Ark Puddenhill

Navan Adventure Centre, Meath

Address: Proudstown Road, Navan, Co. Meath

This will be the biggest event to date here at Navan Adventure Centre and going on previous years it will sell out in record time so we advise getting your tickets early! Each year we build this family fun
event bigger and even better.

‘Pumpkin & Fun’ has been designed to create the best spooky memories
for the little ones.

  1. What your ticket includes:  Professional family fun comedy variety show, 30 mins! (Indoors)
  2. Pumpkin Patch (ticket holding kids can pick a pumpkin)
  3. Pumpkin Carving Area (carving tools provided) (indoors)
  4. Halloween Disco (Indoors)
  5. Inflatables Obstacles Course & Slides (must be 1 meter tall or over)
  6. Junior inflatables area for the small ones
  7. Adventure Obstacle Course
  8. Halloween themed family bingo (Indoors)9. Mini Golf
  9. Football Golf
  10. Off Road Pedal Go-Karting

For more information and to book, visit Navan Adventure Centre

Ballymad Farm, Meath

Address: Piltown Road, Drogheda, Co. Meath, A92 HK44

You can expect a friendly welcome, some Halloween themed photo opportunities, a not so spooky woodland walk, plenty of pumpkins to choose from and a great time with the family on the farm.

Pick your own pumpkin on Saturdays and Sundays throughout October.

For more information and to book, visit Ballymad Farm

Pumpkin Patch in Cork

Joe’s Farm Crisps, Cork

Address: Ballycurraginny, Killeagh, Co. Cork, P36 X582

Every year visitors are welcomed for a pumpkin picking experience where you can enjoy a walk around the farm and have some fun picking vegetables, learning a little about farming and picking your very own pumpkin from their pumpkin patch to take home.

For more information and to book, visit Joe’s Farm Crisps

Pumpkin Patch in Kerry

Killarney Pumpkin Farm, Kerry

Address: Pumpkin Farm, Carran, Killarney, Co. Kerry, V93 HXF6

Situated on the outskirts of Killarney Town in Co. Kerry you will find Killarney Pumpkin Farm, nestled in the quiet hills of Headford. Celebrate The Samhain Festival on Killarney Pumpkin Farm & get immersed in a unique and authentic Halloween experience!

Venture through the rambling vines of the Pumpkin Patch to find your Perfect Pumpkin or Ghoulish Gourd. Soak up the atmosphere in our courtyard and feast on Harvest Eats from eleven77 At The Farm. With treats, tricks and creatures galore there’s pixies, spooks, adventure and more…..

For more information and to book, visit Killarney Pumpkin Farm

Pumpkin Patch in Tipperary

Kingstown Farm, Tipperary – SOLD OUT

Address: Kingstown, Cashel, Co. Tipperary, E25 C432

This Halloween, pick your own pumpkin & get lost in the Corn Maze at Kingstown Farm.

For more information and to book, visit Kingstown Farm (SOLD OUT)

Pumpkin Patch in Limerick

Liskennett’s Equine Therapy Centre, Limerick

Address: Doorlus, Liskennett, Co. Limerick, V35 X242

Pick your pumpkin, listen to some spooky stories, enjoy some festive treats and take a walk on the sensory Halloween trail.

For more information and to book, visit Kiskennett’s Equine Therapy Centre Booking Page

Pumpkin Patch in Galway

Galway Pumpkin Patch, Galway

Address: Castletaylor South, Ardrahan, Co. Galway, H91 V2P5

Tickets for Galway Pumpkin Patch are on sale now! The event opens over four weekends from October 7th. All family tickets purchased include one free pumpkin. Please note individual Adult Tickets DO NOT include a free pumpkin.

For more information and to book, visit Galway Pumpkin Patch

Pumpkin Patch in Kilkenny

Nore Valley Park, Kilkenny

Address: Bennettsbridge, Co. Kilkenny, R95 RXR4

During Halloween there is plenty to keep your little monsters entertained. The annual Torchlight Treasure Hunt is always a hit with children of all ages, as families use their torches to search the farm for hidden reflective clues!

Make sure to dress in your best costume as you’ll be in with a chance of winning our fancy dress competition. Start getting your pumpkin carving tools and ideas ready and bring your carved pumpkin to enter into our pumpkin carving competition. Enter your pumpkin at reception on arrival (*Please note carving does not happen on the night, you bring an already carved pumpkin to be entered into the competition)

The scare maze is sure to send a shiver down your spine and will keep the older children and teens occupied…maybe even parents if they are brave enough! Everyone can enjoy the warmth of the bonfire as they toast some marshmallows.

For more information and to book, visit Nore Valley Park

Pumpkin Patches in Ireland - Carved Pumpkins

Pumpkin Patches in Northern Ireland

Pumpkin Patch in Down

The Ark Open Farm, Down

Address: 296 Bangor Road, Newtownards, BT23 7PH, Co. Down (UK)

Book your tickets for a fun filled Halloween Pumpkin Patch experience down at the farm this October, with loads of activities for everyone.

Grab a wheelbarrow and pick your perfect pumpkin at our pumpkin patch and head over to the carving area; help us scoop the pumpkins out and we will carve it for you, leaving all the mess and dangerous bits to us.

Capture the perfect photo memory at one of our many themed prop stations.

Whilst your pumpkin is being carved adventure on our Halloween trail around the Fairytale Forest to discover some hidden surprises. Find all the answers on your travels and receive a chocolate treat (Free-from option available)! To top that off and to get you in the autumnal mood, we’re also throwing in some marshmallow toasting. Yum!

For more information and to book, visit The Ark Open Farm

Pumpkin Patches in Antrim

Streamvale Farm, Antrim

Address: 38 Ballyhanwood Rd, Belfast, BT5 7SN, Co. Antrim (UK)

This pumpkin patch is back with thousands of pumpkins to choose from!

What’s included?

  • Pick your perfect pumpkin from thousands at our Pumpkin Patch!
  • Our army of carvers will look after you in our marquee, leaving all the smells and mess with us!
  • Get your dancing shoes on at our Broomtastic Disco!
  • Our Spooky Maze is an immersive experience, follow our trail and meet real life characters!
  • Meet our witches in their Witches Kitchen!
  • Looking for the perfect insta photo? There are plenty of picture perfect photo ops across the farm!
  • Tractor & Barrel Rides
  • Cuddle Times
  • Indoor & Outdoor Play Areas

For more information and to book, visit Streamville Farm

Laganvale Farm, Antrim

Address: 55a Sandy Ln, Lisburn, BT27 5TL, Co. Antrim (UK)

Our popular pumpkin picking event is back again! You’ll arrive at the farm and start your visit with the pumpkin picking activity – choose from our wide variety of colours and sizes before scooping out the insides, drawing on your designs and letting our friendly team of carvers finish the job for you.

Once you’ve finished your lantern, you can enjoy the activities around the farm including our creepy maize maze, spooky story-telling, visiting our animals along the farm walk or playing on pedal tractors and go-karts.

We will also have a selection of hot and cold food and drink and picnic space available. (Our tearoom and indoor soft play area will be closed during the event).

For more information and to book, visit Laganvale Farm

Pumpkin Patches in Derry

The Jungle, Derry

Address: 60 Desertmartin Road, Moneymore, Magherafelt, BT45 7RB, Co. Derry (UK)

This Halloween season, The Jungle has conjured up some delightfully frightful ideas and we welcome you all back to our popular ‘HALLOWEE’UNS‘ event, which is specifically for young kids and their families. Why should adults have all the fun after all?

As the spooky and haunting time of year creeps in, we would like to invite all of your little monsters along to experience a Halloween extravaganza, filled with wicked, weird and wonderful activities. During the event they will enjoy some pumpkin picking, a haunted Haycart Ride where you’ll hear some spooky stories and a host of other adventure activities. We will also be giving out prizes for the best costumes, so all types of ghostly and fang-tastic costumes are encouraged.

This year, we have grown our own pumpkins, so rather than just lifting a pumpkin off the ground as in previous year, you will get to enter the pumpkin patch and physically pick your own pumpkin! You can then take it home after the event and carve and decorate it!

For more information and to book, visit The Jungle

I hope you found Pumpkin Patch to suit you and your family 🎃 I’ve missed any or you know of any other pumpkin patches in Ireland or Northern Ireland please let me know and I’ll add them to the list. Happy Halloween! 👻

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Things To Do

My Favourite Hikes In Ireland

June 15, 2023

I’m an absolute lover of all things nature, not only do my hikes help me physically with my fitness but they also do wonders for my mental health. There’s nothing that grounds me more than immersing myself in nature – the best reset button you could ask for! I’ve put together a list of some of my favourite hikes in Ireland that I recommend to people time and time again. I hope you get some inspiration for when you next put on your hiking boots.

Coumshingaun Lake, Co. Waterford

I visited Waterford properly for the first time last year and couldn’t finish the trip without doing the stunning 7.5km Coumshingaun Lake Loop. It’s a glacier lake nestled below sheer c-shaped mountainsides, that was more spectacular than I could have imagined. There’s a decent walk up to the lake itself if you’re not feeling a long hike but if you have the time and the energy, my god it won’t disappoint! We fluked it by arriving on a glorious sunny day which highlighted all of the tones on the hills and made the water glisten.

We walked up the left side of the lake – I huffed and puffed my way up but damn it I got there! The views were amazing from the offset but when we reached the top of the hill and couldn’t see an obvious way to the very top so we climbed up the rocks and over (probably not to be advised but we made it). After we got over the rocks we reached the sweet, sweet flat ground at the top and my god the view was absolutely spectacular! We took loads of breaks up the top for snackies and to take in our surroundings.

Sitting on a rock at the top, is still one of my favourite memories! So many times you hear about a hike and it just doesn’t live up to your expectations but the hike at Coumshingaun was simply not one of them. The walk down was a little tricky but we sat and dangled our feet in the lake when we got down – I only wish we had our togs!

It instantly became one of my favourite hikes in Ireland and I genuinely look forward to being able to do it again!

The Spinc, Glendalough, Co. Wicklow

While we travel around a good bit trying out different hikes and places to go, The Spinc has to be my favourite hike close to home (Dublin). Situated in Glendalough, Co. Wicklow, we can travel there with ease when we’re looking to get a decent walk in. We’ve done this 9km hike at all times of the year and in all kinds of weather (mild blizzard included) and I never tire of it.

I’m not sure which is the ‘right way’ to do the loop but we usually go down the left side of the lake and up the steps in the woods – this is where I test any changes in my fitness… Once at the top, you can follow the trail made of railway sleepers while you look down on the beautiful glacier lake. This trail can be quite busy in parts in comparison to Coumshingaun where we came across a handful of people in our whole time there.

One of my favourite times to do this hike is around Autumn as you can hear the deer calling during the rutting season. That said, if you manage a sunny summer day without too much of a crowd, it’s hard to beat.

The view from the Spinc route in

Cliffs Of Moher Cliff Walk, Co. Clare

If you follow my Instagram account you’ll know that there’s a special place in my heart for the Cliffs of Moher. When thinking of hikes in Ireland it might not be something that springs to mind, but the cliff walk from Liscannor to Doolin is a really nice ‘little’ jaunt. Stretching over 13km along the cliffs from the Hags Head at Liscannor to the beautiful town of Doolin. The walk offers so many different views of the cliffs but one key tip is don’t forget to look back too so you don’t miss any of the amazing views the walk has to offer.

Nearly every time I’ve been in Clare, we’ve done at least part of this walk. We’ve walked it in all weathers and it is breathtaking regardless of whether the sun is beaming down or it’s overcast. On cloudier days, the cliffs look so dramatic but when the sun is out and bouncing off the water below I could sit there for hours. I have to say my favourite time is at sunset, just see the picture below and you’ll understand.

There’s a shuttle bus that runs between Liscannor, The Cliffs of Moher Visitor’s Centre and Doolin so you can walk from one end to the other and get the shuttle back. We’ve done the full walk before, had a pint of Guinness in Gus O’Connor’s pub, and then shuttled our way back to Liscannor where we were staying at the time. Our regular walk there is from the Hags Head to the Visitor’s Centre and back, followed by some food in Lahinch or Liscannor.

The Cliffs Of Moher at sunset - Hikes In Ireland

Gleninchaquin Park, Co. Kerry

A few years back, we asked for recommendations for places worth visiting near Kenmare and Gleninchaquin Park was by far my favourite. In such beautiful surroundings, every route will be a treat. You are met with a spectacular waterfall as soon as you arrive and the park has six different routes to suit any level of fitness.

Our first trip was on a seriously humid day, but all the huffing and puffing (and giant hair) was worthwhile. Looking out across the valley and lakes while standing on top of a waterfall is just something else. The hike up and over the waterfall is 3.9km and will have you both on and off-trail, following little red markers dotted along the mountainside.

Sheep roam freely in the park – I may have got too close to one accidentally and saw a look in it’s eye that I never want to see again! Joe nearly fell over laughing at me running and squealing! So worth a warning, if you’re not into being up close to animals, this one might not be for you… I’ve had so much fun on this trail and I’d go back in a heartbeat.

The field before the waterfall in Gleninchaquin Park, Co. Kerry, dotted with sheep - Hikes In Ireland

Mullaghmore Mountain, Co. Clare

Of all of the hikes in Ireland that I’ve done, this one is the most unique in my opinion! Mullaghmore is a mountain in the middle of the Burren that looks like, what I can only describe as, a soft-serve ice cream. You set off across the moonscape of the Burren and follow little markers that stand out against the vast grey surroundings.

Again, with this one, there are a few different routes marked out but we followed the 7.5km one that would allow us to see as much as possible. There is a bit of scree and a little bit of climbing involved. It’s definitely not one for people with weak ankles unless in supportive boots as there are unsteady rocks throughout.

We hiked up and over the top of the mountain, offering views across the entire Burren from the summit. On our way back down you could see Fr.Ted’s house off in the distance. Queue, Niamh quoting Fr Ted and singing the theme song the whole way back to the car… I’m a great hiking partner – I swear!

I am starting my decent from Mullaghmore Mountin in The Burren - Hikes In Ireland

Have you tried any of these hikes in Ireland? Are there any hikes I should add to my list for when I’m out exploring?

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Things To Do Uncategorized

The Sea & Me

October 22, 2020

I’ve always been drawn to the water – my parents used to call me a mermaid. I used to spend my summers in Wexford and would spend days on Curracloe Beach with my family and friends.

Some of my favourite childhood memories are of running along the sand dunes and playing in the sea until my lips turned blue and my teeth were chattering. Running up to my family, absolutely rattling, and grinning from ear to ear. I’d wrap myself in towels and have a sandwich (with extra sand) while staring out at the waves – bliss!

Since then the water has been a source of comfort and relaxation. Whenever I find myself stressed or overwhelmed, I’m drawn towards nature, especially the sea. I’ll sit listening to the waves lap against the shore and it instantly lifts me. I’ve recently discovered that this is a phenomenon called ‘Blue Mind’.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CFXvViQAgjY/

After cutting short an ill-fated trip to Barcelona in 2013 (long story), Joe, my now-husband, and I wanted to make the most of our remaining time off and booked a trip to Lahinch, Co. Clare. It was then that I rediscovered the fun and joy the water could bring. We started travelling to Lahinch regularly to surf.

Finding Sea Swimming

In 2015, on the way back from one of our surf trips, I started feeling strange. My face felt numb, followed by my arm and then my leg. After a few months in and out of hospital getting every test under the sun, I was diagnosed with chronic hemiplegic migraines. They are a rare form of migraine that mimic a stroke. I get paralysis down my right side and have balance issues, as well as all the more typical migraine auras.

I’ve had a headache every day since June 22nd, 2015, have had to take a year out of work, and learn to walk again. 

Migraine, who knew?!

Around the same time, Joe was going through a pretty stressful time at work and had suffered a couple of panic attacks. He was hoping to find an east coast alternative to surfing that would help him get into a “flow state” and relax. At this point, I should say he was not a confident swimmer, despite being able to surf.

After years of slow progress with my migraines, I heard about a documentary called ‘100 days of Vitamin Sea’ which followed a girl with similar issues to mine using wild swimming to manage her illness. I thought, what’s the harm? We decided to try sea swimming as a kind of an experiment to see what, if anything, would happen. This decision was nothing short of life-changing!

https://www.instagram.com/p/CECtFXJgXLC/

More Than Mindfulness

So on June 1st, 2019, we went for our first sea swim at The Vico in Dalkey. It was a bit of a choppy day, so I gingerly entered the surprisingly icy water and swam about a little. Joe, not being a confident swimmer, belly-flopped in and went hell for leather to get to the ladder. 

It was a short but transformative experience. 

I entered the water with the right side of my face drooped from paralysis and emerged like a new person. My body buzzing from the zing of the cold, and a full smile plastered across my face.

Don’t believe me? You can see one of my sea transformations for yourself in the pictures below.

  • Before
  • After

Forty Foot Fans

We started going regularly, venturing to different swimming spots depending on the tide. The day after our wedding was no exception. We got married in Dun Laoghaire in September 2019 and started our married life with a swim at the Forty Foot. 

A dip in the sea has become an essential part of my ongoing battle with migraines. 

Outside of the physical benefits, we both saw the mental benefits. Joe’s stress reduced after a few weeks and when the migraine took away the control I had over my own body, sea swimming gave me some control back. 

We both emerge from the water lighter and happier, somehow transformed by the water. Having the Forty Foot within driving distance of our home has made such a difference to our lives – I only wish we lived closer.

There’s an amazing community spirit around the Forty Foot and Sandycove. When you’re in the water there are no judgments made about job title or status. Everyone is on a level playing field. All squawking and laughing, united in their internal battle to take the initial plunge.

I never grow tired of seeing grown men line up, totally carefree, to gleefully jump off the rocks into the water. Greeted every time with friendly “hellos” and reassuring fibs of “it’s lovely and warm once you’re in there”, as you walk towards the steps. There’s a special kind of madness that bonds everyone.

We really struggled without this connection during the initial lockdown as the Forty Foot was beyond our 2km. Counting down the days until we could be reunited with the embrace of the sea and the buzz of other swimmers brought to life after their dip.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CAYUpTmA2OJ/

Helping My Healer

Spending all that time in the water made us increasingly aware of the volume of plastic in our seas and the negative impacts humanity was having on our world.

We knew we had to try and do our bit to protect the sea we love so much. This was the beginning of a move towards living a more eco-friendly and sustainable lifestyle.

Over the years, we’ve made changes to our lifestyle to reduce the amount of plastic we consume. We’ve also started doing our own #2MinuteBeachClean after our swims. I keep a produce bag and gardening gloves in my swimming bag – it makes it so much easier to do our bit. I plan to get something better down the road but this does the trick for now.

Doing my #2MinuteBeachClean

On the way back to our car we pick up any rubbish we see and put it in the public bins. Then it’s just a matter of flinging the bag and gloves in the wash with my swimming gear when I get in. The volume of litter and plastic you can pick up in a matter of minutes is truly heartbreaking. Finding seaweed entangled with countless pieces of plastic, you can’t help but think of how much must be out there.

It’s so sad to think that the people enjoying our coast are contributing so much to the damage. If you’re not able to fit in a #2MinuteBeachClean yourself, please ensure you leave no trace. If you can, please do them as often as possible. It may seem like a never-ending task, but if we all do our small part, we can make a difference.

We have recently started our own sustainable clothing brand called Against The Tide Apparel. With this, we hope to build a community of like-minded sea lovers who care for, and want to improve, the state of our planet and oceans.

The sea gives so much to us, we need to protect it and the wildlife that live there.

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Dublin Things To Do

Stand Up Paddleboarding In Dun Laoghaire

September 3, 2020

Anyone who knows me knows I’m obsessed with the sea and a big believer in ‘Blue Mind’ (the mildly meditative state brought on when near, in, on, or underwater). You’ll regularly find me down at the Forty Foot, transformed into a big kid living her best mermaid life. One thing I wanted to try out for ages is stand up paddleboarding, so when I heard that the guys from BigStyle were opening their SUP school in Dun Laoghaire I was stalking their Instagram to see when we could go down. You’ll know from a previous post that I stayed in the BigStyle Atlantic Lodge last year and had an amazing time, so I knew we’d be in good hands.

Where in Dun Laoghaire?

You’ll find the lads in the car park of the West Pier in Dun Laoghaire. The stand up paddleboarding school is easy to spot as it’s made up of large shipping containers and looks unbelievable (see image above). It’s super accessible, there is loads of parking in the area (heads up: it’s paid, so bring a few euro for that) and if you’re on public transport, there are bus routes and a dart station a few minutes walk away.

What’s involved?

If you’ve tried stand up paddleboarding before, they offer rentals for €25 for an hour and a half (includes SUP, wetsuit and buoyancy aid). If, like me, you’re new to the world of SUP, you can book in for an hour and a half long lesson for just €45 (*pricing at time of posting). We went out in the evening to enjoy the sun setting at the end of our lesson.

We arrived down 15 minutes before our lesson, as requested. Our instructor Peter talked through all the safety measures, COVID measures, and kitted us out in our wetsuits and life jackets. With all of that done, we wandered towards the water. I was a little nervous because my balance isn’t the best and I’m possibly the least coordinated person on the planet but onto the water we went.

Dun Laoghaire Harbour is the perfect place to test out your stand up paddleboarding skills as it’s so sheltered and calm. When we got out on the water Peter showed us how to paddle properly and how to do some basic turns. We did a lap of the harbor, testing out some new skills along the way. I’ll admit, I started getting a bit cocky so Peter challenged us to try some more advanced turns and that’s when I came crashing back down to earth (or into the water in this case). I got my first full turn done, gloated, and then faceplanted into the water 🤣 Honestly though, it all just added to the fun and the experience.

By the end of the lesson, I was feeling really comfortable on the board and was confident that I could steer my way around and most importantly get back on if I fell off… 🤣 I’ll definitely be back down to the lads soon to rent some boards for some chilled out fun on the water. Check out the BigStyle website if you’d like to book in or find out more about stand up paddleboard lessons or rentals in Dun Laoghaire or the Atlantic Lodge.

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Dublin Things To Do

Mobile Sauna In Dun Laoghaire Is Bringing Sea Swims To A New Level

March 17, 2020

Sea swimming has taken on somewhat of a renaissance. There are amazing people who have been doing this for years but there seems to be new generation of sea swimmers – like myself – who are just getting into it. Most of us have decided to take the plunge due to the health and mindfulness benefits associated with it. 

Dublin (and Ireland) has an abundance of amazing swimming spots. The key ones for me include Sandycove, The Forty Foot, Sea Point, Hawk Cliff and White Rock. Each spot has its own character and community of dedicated sea swimmers. FYI, sea swimmers are some of the friendliest people you will ever meet. If you’re tight on time and can’t always work with the tides then White Rock and The Forty Foot are the spots for you. Both will allow you to swim at high or low tide without having to walk out for miles. Recently, Sandycove/The Forty Foot have been winning out over all others for me due to the addition of Dublin’s first mobile sauna – you heard that right, a mobile sauna!

My Swimming Experience

I started sea swimming in on the 1st of June this year, after hearing about a documentary called 100 Days Of Vitamin Sea. It follows a girl with chronic migraine using wild swimming in the treatment of her migraines. Naturally intrigued, after suffering with chronic migraine for nearly five years, I decided to give it a try…

From day one, I fell in love with the post-swim feeling! It also helps to relieve my symptoms which is amazing, even if it’s temporary. Over the summer we went to White Rock a few times a week and enjoyed bobbing in the water watching the Dart go by. As we swam, I couldn’t shift this nervous feeling that I wouldn’t be able to keep it up during the winter months – I’m well known for my cold blooded, lizard-like qualities. However, just in time for the colder months, Fad Saoil Saunas came to my rescue.

Post-Swim, Sandycove

Mobile Sauna

Fad Saoil is an amazing mobile sauna that can be found at the Forty Foot from Friday-Sunday every week. Offering you a toasty 15 minute sauna session for just €10. There’s nothing quite like the feeling of accomplishment after braving the elements and getting into the sea. However, I’d be lying if I didn’t say I’m loving the cheeky bonus of knowing that there’s a delish sauna to hop into afterwards. The sauna also has a large window facing out over the Forty Foot, so you get views across to Howth while you sit, soaking in the warmth – magic!

Joe in Fad Saoil Mobile Sauna

Our self-care routine over the weekend now factors in the sauna as a must. We swim in Sandycove for approx 10 minutes (this has dropped dramatically from our time over the summer) and then hop into the sauna for 15 minutes, before finishing with a quick dip in the sea to close our pores after. I can’t stress enough how much this sets you up for the day when done in the mornings.

Health Benefits

There are loads of health benefits associated with sauna use and cold exposure. I’m not an expert so here’s a video with Dr. Rhonda Patrick discussing some of the benefits with Joe Rogan, if you’re interested.

Booking for weekends opens on Tuesdays and can be booked on their website or through the GloFox App. If you’re like me and use the sauna on a regular basis, you can buy a block of credits at a discount. They can also be booked for private events – the magic of being mobile. If you’re interested in giving it a try, check out  Fad Saoil Saunas website to find out more and to book.

View of the Forty Foot at Fad Saoil Mobile Sauna
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Not Just A Yoga Retreat On The Wild Atlantic Way

March 17, 2020

In September, we decided to honeymoon around Ireland, we wanted to stay local as we’re very aware of the carbon footprint that would be involved in doing long haul flights. There are so many amazing things to do right on our doorstep, so we decided to take advantage of it and offset our carbon footprint by planting native trees. We spent five days doing the “not just a yoga retreat” in the BigStyle Atlantic Lodge on the Wild Atlantic Way. We couldn’t have been happier with our decision.

Driving through Louisburg, we looked at each other with thinking “what did we get ourselves into?”. On arrival, that feeling totally lifted! We were welcomed into the lodge, which immediately felt like an old friends house. Kris and the lads have really created something magical on the Wild Atlantic Way.

The Atlantic Lodge is reminiscent of Irish College but for grown-ups. Once you step into the Lodge the rest of the world just kind of melts away. Thankfully, in this particular Irish College, the Irish and awkward dancing is replaced with surfing, hiking and outdoor hot tubs. I remember during my Irish college days, the food was questionable at best so I survived on a diet of Drifter Bars, brown bread and jam. But in the Lodge you are spoiled with an array of comforting and delicious vegetarian goodness. Porridge, paella, pizza and chickpea burgers to die for.

Our Arrival To The Yoga Retreat

Day one, we drove up from Lahinch, had something quick to eat and then prepared for our first surf lesson. Getting in the sea is one of my favourite things to do – nothing really bonds you with a group more than collectively being battered by the sea 🙂

Me Post Surf At Atlantic Lodge Yoga Retreat

I don’t know what exactly I was expecting from the rooms but it was so much better than what I had in my head. It was like a slightly pared-back version of a modern hotel room rather than a hostel. There was a fab ensuite and an incredibly comfy bed (probably made more comfy with the post surf tiredness). The walls in the rooms and corridors were covered in pictures of the guys adventures around the world. The style and pictures gave it a really personal touch, which I loved.

We went downstairs for a chill out by the fire while Pete, our fantastic yoga instructor, cooked us up a feast. This man is a miracle worker, he managed to get Joe to happily eat vegetarian for the full five days. We genuinely thought he’d be sneaking out for a steak at some point to keep him going. The pizza making workshop was so much fun. Everyone got hands on, rolled out a pizza and topped it with whatever hey fancied. We all had a couple of drinks and shared the pizzas as they came out of the oven.

Pizza Workshop At Atlantic Lodge Yoga Retreat

Yoga & Other Bits

Every morning we did a yoga class and followed it up with a hearty breakfast. Activities consisted of hikes, surf lessons, acro yoga (this was so much fun), a massage workshop and sea swims. There was a good amount of chill out time between activities which was great. Being forced to sit and chill was a blessing in disguise. During the down time, people just chatted, played games, read books and just completely unwound.

There was nothing about this yoga retreat that didn’t leave you feeling revitalised and centred again. We were there from Mon – Fri and when we left we were the perfect balance of rested and energised. It also isn’t your average yoga retreat as you are free to have a few drinks if you fancy it. One of my favourite moments was following up a sea swim with a couple of beers and chats in the hot tub while looking out across the bay, soaking in the Wild Atlantic Way.

Outdoor area with Hot Tubs At Atlantic Lodge Yoga Retreat

The key to this amazing place is the team that work here – they’re more like a family than colleagues. As I said before, it’s like being welcomed into an old friend’s home. With stunning views of the West Coast, this is a place I was genuinely sad to leave and I would go back without hesitation.

They also provide amazing surf and adventure retreats to Portugal, so you have the added bonus of some (pretty much guaranteed) sun. Regardless of the retreat you choose, you’re guaranteed to have the craic and return home reenergised.

If you’re looking for a yoga retreat on the Wild atlanticWay, I couldn’t recommend a stay in the Atlantic Lodge more, you can find all the info you need on the BigStyle website.

The lads are building a new stand up paddle boarding school in Dun Laoghaire this summer. I will definitely be down the second it opens and will report back.

View From Atlantic Lodge Yoga Retreat
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