Archive for the ‘Notes From Ireland’ Category

Experience the Real Ireland

Tuesday, October 27th, 2009

Why do people travel? Well, for as many different reasons as there are people, I suppose. Some of us want to take in as many different parts of the world as we can during our lifetime, to experience different cultures and traditions and food first-hand. Some of us are history buffs, and the history of the world comes alive when we travel. Some of us travel elsewhere to learn more about ourselves.

Whatever your motivation, the decision to stay at Ireland Vacation Cottages when you travel means you are looking for an Ireland you don’t find in traditional hotels (no disrespect for hotels intended). This is particularly true when you elect to stay at our B&B Tipperary, nestled in the rural countryside of of County Tipperary.

Rural Ireland at its finest

Rural Ireland at its finest

This is not a tourist destination spot – although travelers are certainly welcomed here by locals. Our cottage is a car ride away from a variety of outdoor recreation, many historical sites, shopping and the coast. Yet the defining experience of your stay at this Country B&B Ireland is not touristic. Instead, you will live like people have lived in rural Ireland for centuries – albeit more comfortably.

Evenings are spent cozied around the fire, reading and talking. Some nights you’ll want to head down to the local pub (Ryan’s) to hear what’s happening in the area and enjoy a pint. Perhaps you’ll stumble across that wonderful Irish tradition of pub singing, when the community squeezes into a pub, and one after another, folks stand and sing or share their talent on an instrument. There is nothing like this in all the world.

A Walk Up Keeper Hill

Friday, August 7th, 2009

Keeper hill is visible from our B&B Tipperary.  Almost 700 meters tall, it gazes down on us, inviting us to climb to its peak. There are innumerable trails on the Hill, worn from centuries of walkers, and the grazing herds of the local farmers.  Because of its beauty and remoteness in County Tipperary, you may find your walk around Keeper Hill, one of utmost solitude.  The walk is pleasant and passes through a wide variety of terrain; woods, waterfalls, and meadows.  It has been said that the hard ground is not easy on the feet, so we always recommend comfortable boots when visiting Glenculloo Valley. T he view from the top will make all your cares evaporate; all of Ireland seems spread out at your feet. Keeper Hill is the highest peak in the Shannon area, and we are lucky that it is so close to our Bed and Breakfast Tipperary.

Keeper Hill rises above our county tipperary b&b

Keeper Hill rises above our county tipperary b&b

A Walk Through the Irish Countryside

Thursday, June 25th, 2009

Clare Glens is a popular walk, and during late May/early June, the river valley is literally choked with blooming rhododendrons.  Guests of Glenculloo Cottage and I, stopped to appreciate the beauty following Mass at Glenstal Abbey.

Clare Glens is breathtaking.

Clare Glens is breathtaking.

A Day of Touring: Glen of Aherlow

Thursday, June 18th, 2009

Took our guests, the Sheehy’s; on a wonderful tour of Glen Aherlow.  This spectacular valley within the Galtee Mountains in County Tipperary.  Glenculloo Cottage guests enjoyed a visit to the secret holy wells in this glen, during the tour.

A view of Glen Aherlow

A view of Glen Aherlow

Glenculloo Cottage welcomes the Sheehy’s!

Guests of Glenculloo Cottage

Guests of Glenculloo Cottage

Ah…Sitting by the Irish fireside at Glenculloo Cottage

Sunday, June 7th, 2009

I love a turf fire, and enjoyed a glass of Irish whiskey while gazing at the flames.  Wish you were all here with me, at Glenculloo Cottage.

Sitting by the turf fire at Glenculloo Cottage

Sitting by the turf fire at Glenculloo Cottage