Ultraluxe Country Pursuits & Activities in Ireland – Webinar 8th of December 2020
For the latest episode of our Irish Ultraluxe Webinar – we explored the exciting and traditional theme of Country Pursuits. We had our trusted suppliers from all over the isle showcase the many wonderful country pursuits they have on offer. Everything from Salmon fishing on the River Moy to true relaxation at yoga retreats in the Carlow countryside.
A recording of the webinar on Ultraluxe Country Pursuits & Activities in Ireland can be watched HERE.
The webinar began with the owner of Adams & Butler, Siobhan Byrne Learat talking about how Ireland is truly a great gem for anyone who wants to experience traditional country pursuits. We then welcomed John Fitzgerald from Atlantic Irish Seaweed. John explained how he takes clients walking along the coast, exploring and examining all the different spices of seaweed and the nutritional benefits associated with each species. John also mentioned he can take clients out on his boat to catch fish and make fresh sushi & ceviche onboard! Ireland’s rich abundance of natural resources lends itself perfectly to organic and sustainable delights such as these.
Next, we heard from the charming Mount Falcon property which is a must- visit for any fishing enthusiast. The stunning Mount Falcon Estate is situated on the banks of Ireland’s beautiful River Moy, the most prolific Salmon River in Ireland, with an annual rod catch of approximately 9000 Salmon. You can learn all styles of fishing with expert ghillies and world class equipment available to rent. Mount Falcon has an abundance of activities for you to enjoy, as well as an option of self-catering lodges for any groups or families looking for that extra bit of privacy.
The world-renowned Ashford Castle showcased all the wonderful country pursuits available on the castle grounds, with extra attention to their exceptional Falconry School. Shane Barrett with Ashford Castle explained what clients can expect when experiencing Falconry at the castle. The one-hour private Hawk Walk gives you the incredible opportunity to fly your very own Harris Hawks under the guidance of your instructor. After you have been introduced to your hawks, you will set off into the enchanting woodlands surrounding the Castle to fly your hawks. This experience provides the opportunity to fully take in the true magnificence of these birds as they follow you from tree to tree, swooping down to land on your gloved fist.
Adams & Butler could not have a webinar on country pursuits and not talk about equestrian experiences, let alone, not have Castle Leslie Estate featured – an equestrian bliss. Luckily, our good friends at Castle Leslie joined us on this webinar to talk about their fine range of equestrian experiences from dressage, classes, cross country to hacking. This is one of the last great Irish Castle estates still in the hands of its founding family. Since the 1660s the distinguished and somewhat individual Leslie family have lived on the Estate. People involved with Irish tourism know, that Castle Leslie Estate offers undoubtedly the finest horse riding in Ireland, perfectly suited to all skill sets and ages, making Castle Leslie Estate the ideal location for anyone who would want to better their riding skills.
Next up, we had the fantastic Cliff House Hotel with Honor Byrne presenting the Waterford Greenway cycling route. The picturesque Waterford Greenway hugs the coastline as it follows old railway lines from the historical Waterford City, through the foothills of the Comeragh Mountains and onto the pretty harbour town of Dungarvan. You can walk part of the way, cycle in both directions or cycle one way and have a driver collect you. All the equipment can be rented beforehand, and the Waterford Greenway is mostly downhill making it an easy experience for all. There are few better ways of taking advantage of South-East sunshine than taking part in this great family activity!
After the Waterford Greenway, we heard from Siobhan’s good friend Roderick Percival with Temple House, to showcase their wide range of shooting experiences. Temple House is a historic home that has belonged to the Percival Family since 1665. With a huge private estate of over 1000 acres, you can take part in a variety of estate activities including Clay Pigeon Shooting and Archery. Or for the more experienced shooter, Temple House can arrange an exciting rough woodcock or snipe shoot within their private estate. Even for those who may not be interested in Shooting, Temple House is still an exceptional property for an exclusive use take over, located in the beautiful and somewhat less travelled to North West of Ireland. Near to Yeats’ country & lots of distilleries!
Next, we had Lisnavagh House which is famed throughout Ireland for their exceptional Yoga retreats. This historical house offers the ultimate mix of homeliness and grandeur, making it an appealing destination for those seeking somewhere unique and tranquil. We were joined by the owner, Emily Bunbury. Emily explained how all aspects of the House are tailored to ensure maximum relaxation and blissfulness for all guests who are joining the retreat. Lisnavagh has an excellent selection of professional yoga instructors to teach anyone wanting to better their yoga abilities in a warm wholesome holistic environment.
We then changed course to Dr Michael Martin, a naval historian, who runs The Titanic Trail. You can relive the RMS Titanic’s timeline journey through Cobh, which was its last port of call. Dr. Martin will lead a guided walking tour through Cobh and highlight all the final connections that this tranquil harbour town shared with the Titanic. With this walking tour you will be immersed in history and personal stories from the Titanic and its association with Cobh, from where it departed on its last fateful journey nearly 100 years ago.
The second last presenter of the evening was Siobhán O Sullivan from Mount Juliet Estate in Kilkenny. We at Adams & Butler have always loved sharing the Horse & Hounds experience with clients at Mount Juliet. It is a truly remarkable sight to behold as you see the proud formation of the hounds strolling up the avenue behind the horses and their riders. Siobhan also shared the other delights that Mount Juliet has on offer, including their Michelin Star Restaurant, The Lady Helen.
To finish off this wonderful evening of exceptional country pursuits, we spoke to the forever charming and former Adams & Butler driver guide, David Wardell. Dressed in formal hunting attire and fresh from a hunt earlier that day, David discussed how he can take any clients interested out on a Traditional Hunt. All that is required is those who wish to join a hunt be a comfortable rider who will not be fazed, riding through dense forest and over bushes. This experience will be more of a re-enactment of the traditional hunt and no foxes will be hurt in the process.
Ireland Pursuits & Activities Itineraries
For sample itineraries that contain some of the activities and pursuits outlined above, click on the below titles to view.
A Hiking & Biking Tour of Ireland’s Wild West
Wild Atlantic Seaweed Explorer
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