Ireland Off-Season – Travel at It’s Best! Unexpected Surprises and Tips for Everyone
If you have your sights set on Ireland, or any exotic travel locale for that matter, then don’t be put off by mass opinions and appeal. Ireland, especially its magical west coast, is a must-see whether traveling en groupe or going it alone. And all you vegetarians and vegans out there will find Ireland to be surprisingly accommodating with interesting and fairly elaborate options available. You simply need to ask. This Emerald Isle offers a nice blend of down-to-earth goodness, ancient and exotic mystique, and lively pub night life. There’s something for everyone indeed.
Most sources will tell you that mid-Spring to mid-Fall, particularly April to October, is optimal travel time to Ireland. And sure, Spring is gorgeous with everything a-bloom, especially May, Autumn colors are bountiful in October, and July and August are peak, but not everyone enjoys the hustle and bustle of tourism at its height. What they fail to share with you is the fact that Winter is actually pretty amazing, especially if you catch the end of it right before Spring rolls in. Not only do you pretty much get the place to yourself, but you also get to capture some of the true magic and mysticism of this ancient land.
Now of course, all depends on personal interest and preferences, yet don’t be put off by the colder Winter months. Winter can actually be pretty mild, with little to no rain, gorgeous nebulous, cloud-filled skies, fog rolling across mountain tops and just skimming the edges of the Lakes of Killarney, beautiful bursts of sun-lit days lighting up the fairy-filled forests, and fabulous, ancient winds that sweep you into a world of Celtic and Druidic splendor. What magic to behold and all to yourself, on top of that!
Ireland’s west coast hosts a multitude of things to see and experience, including the beautiful Gap of Dunloe, Inisfallen Island on the Killarney Lakes, many castle ruins, well-known and off-beat Stone Circles and Standing Stones, the famous Ring of Kerry, gorgeous Beare Peninsula, sacred Skellig Michael Islands, and Killarney National Forest with its famous Muckross House to name just a fraction of possible destinations. The beauty of traveling off-season is that you will find yourself having the sites, and experiences of them, all to yourself. Skim across the mystical Killarney Lake waters with your very own warm-hearted Irish boatman to tell you tales and share folklore or take a walk through Killarney National Park and feel the grandeur of its old, knotted oak trees while skipping along the fairy trails. Better yet, imagine standing, as the Druids once did, amongst the ancient energy of Uragh or Grange Stone Circle, wind sweeping across the hilltop as you take in the serenity and sacredness without a sound or presence around to disturb you. Whether a history buff, photographer, artist, avid traveler, or spiritualist, you’ll find exactly what you’re looking for and be grateful for the serene opportunity any other “peak” traveling time would not oblige you.
For those of you with special dietary needs, such as vegetarians and vegans, not to worry. You’ll find more than enough options and surprises in store for your culinary tastes, to suit any occasion. If you’re looking for an ideal place to stay, while loading up on great meal options, Friars’ Glen Guesthouse is #1 on the list. Located just a couple of miles outside of Killarney town center, in the beautiful Killarney Forest, this exquisitely quaint home-away-from home, bed and breakfast not only offers unmatched quality service and exceptional serenity, but the owner Mary is one top-notch chef, whipping up hardy vegetarian and vegan surprises for breakfast and if asked, packed lunches as well! And the nearby, beautiful Killarney Park Hotel has a wonderful bar restaurant where the chef is most accommodating, creating fabulous vegan soups and such options as vegan risotto made with coconut milk! And for the luxury seeker and spa enthusiast, Aghadoe Heights Hotel and Spa in Killarney offers a multitude of sensuous pleasures to cater to your every whim, including a top notch chef who will prepare some pretty fancy vegan meals from start to finish! Some vegetarian options can also be found in small deli/bakeries and cafes, as well as the occasional small health food stores. The simple key and secret always, is simply to ask and your wish will be granted. Ireland does host home to some of the warmest and friendliest people in the world.
That being said, those who also prefer traveling alone will find Ireland to be most welcoming and a perfect destination for the adventurer, as well as the peace seeker. Of course this island is a wonderful host to groups, families, and romantics, but those who venture for their own experience and enjoy the exciting possibilities that are available for ones who march to the beat of their own drum, will discover how truly fulfilling a journey to Ireland can be. Whether you decide to follow your heart’s desire in the moment, or desire a personalized itinerary, you’ll find an overwhelming amount of experiences awaiting you. For a truly unique and sacred experience, Celtic Spirit Journeys with international teacher and writer on Celtic spirituality, Mara Freeman, are not to be missed. Or, simply contact her and she’ll be more than happy to tailor-make a special custom journey that suits your personal needs, even equipped with fabulous personal driver, Michael Burniston, as your historical encyclopedia of knowledge and folkloric entertainment.
No matter what you are looking for, Ireland, ANY time of year is truly a place not to be missed; Winter, vegan, solo traveler, and all.
By: Tania Marie
About the Author:
I would love to visit Ireland. Yea it’s always a good idea to go on vacation in the off season if you can. Less people and less money.
Ireland is a lovely place for a holiday for couples, singles or families. Cottages renatls are very reasonably priced. Personally I like the west coast best of all as its so wild and rugged.Don’t forget your umbrella as you will certainly need it.
Really great stuff as usual. Awesome tips thank you!
Ireland is appealing, though I must say for me the weather is not what I would call enticing. I must be cold blooded, as the tropics is my ideal location. However, the beauty of the rugged hills and cliffs coupled with the quaint villages and its funny, funny people is worth braving that chill. Ireland indigenous, and those who have adopted Ireland as there own, have steep in culture that is uniquely Irish. The Irish were among the first people in Europe to use surnames as we know them today. There has been ongoing political division between nationalism and unionism. According to Wikipedia, a survey in 1999 showed that 72% of Northern Ireland Protestants considered themselves “British” and 2% “Irish”, with 68% of Northern Ireland Catholics considering themselves “Irish” and 9% “British”.
This political differences actually add to the wonder of the indigenous people and one must as some level respect the struggle that continues to cause conflict and interest from the world population.
My cousins visited Ireland about 10 years ago and all I heard about upon their return was about the pubs. Since then, I have seen shows on the travel channel and food network and now I really want to visit. The food looks great and the scenery is just breathtaking. Why wouldn’t you want to enjoy that without all the other tourists around?
Never been in Ireland before, heck not even in the UK. Which is sad really considering how many British Cypriots exist on our island right now and most of them are my friends as well. Btw, we have tons of Irish pubs around here, particularly on Ayia Napa
John
Its a good informativ blog but its showed also have picture gallery for places. so that it attract the people to visit places
Irish history is rich with legends and myths.
The Irish culture has developed thousands of years, so enjoy every moment of your cultural discovery. As for me I like the Irish music. It sounds great!
Comfortabl y, the post is actually the freshest on that precious topic. I concur with your conclusions and definitely will eagerly look forward to your future updates. Saying thanks will certainly not simply be enough, for the excellent lucidity in your writing. I will certainly promptly grab your rss feed to stay abreast of any kind of updates. Fabulous work and also much success in your business endeavors!
Thanks for such a wonderful post. It certainly made my day. It is such a pleasure to read through your blog. Excellent ideas and valuable inputs is what I always look forward to from your end. I am sure all thevisitors will find this extremely helpful and come back thirsting for more from you.
Ireland is truly a spectacular tourist destinations and you have provided a few handy tips. Ireland is one place which travelers will enjoy even if they are traveling alone.