Category: Eco-Friendly

A Day on The Royal Canal

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Start your day off with a boat trip along the canal on a Royal Canal Boat Trip hosted by Jenny. Get a return trip from Maynooth to Leixlip and let Jenny take you to Maynooth. Whilst in Maynooth get a bite to eat at Beetroot Healthy Foods (wholesome, vegan & sustainable dinning) or Sásta By The River (wholesome & sustainable dinning). After a good feed, take a walk along the Royal Canal Greenway. Visit Castletown House and take a walk around one of Irelands most beautiful Georgian Houses Ireland has to offer. Check into Celbridge Manor Hotel for a quiet and cosy night after a day of exploring and dine in their School House bar, get a nice drink and stay in one of their Heritage Rooms situated in their original building for an authentic feel but with all the modern comforts. Or if you really want to go all out, why not stay at Carton House, with over 1,100 acres to discover, spa and pool facilities and some of the most beautiful architecture you can imagine.

Royal Canal Boat Trip Hire

Royal Canal Boat Trips is a Irish family business. We run our private charters, daily, all year round from Castleknock, Leixlip, Maynooth and Kilcock. We can accommodate between two and twelve passengers per trip.  Charters are three hours in duration  and include refreshments. We cater for families, visitors from over seas and groups of all ages and walks of life. It is our great pleasure to welcome you all aboard, where the kettle is on, the stove is lit and the scenery waits to find you utterly spellbound.

Beetroot Healthy Foods

At Beetroot Wholesome Food, we care passionately about health and wellness. We believe, that by practicing self-care and by nurturing our bodies with wholesome, plant based vegetarian and vegan fare, by thinking positive thoughts, and by respecting our planet, we can truly transform anyone’s wellbeing. We believe in sustainable ecological farming so much, that we grow our own organic produce on Beech Park Eco Farm. Beetroot Healthy Food, our Café in Maynooth was born just a few short years ago in 2016. In that short space of time, we are so proud to have won the Restaurants Ireland accolade for Best “Free From” Award, 3 years in a row. We care deeply about cooking wholesome, additive and allergen free plant based food. We also care deeply about our planet, and endeavour to promote zero waste packaging. All Beetroot packaging is fully compostable.

Sásta By The River

Serving breakfast, lunch and brunch, whilst Bringing vibrancy to healthy eating. Sasta By The River is a zero waste eatery. Open Wednesday to Sunday 9am – 3.30pm

Royal Canal Greenway

Welcome to the Royal Canal Greenway, a long-distance, off-road walking and cycling trail connecting Maynooth with Longford Town. The 130km trail passes through the lush green landscapes of Ireland’s Ancient East towards the mighty River Shannon in Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands. The Royal Canal, sometimes called the “Shoemaker’s Canal” from a story linking one of its early promoters with such a craft, was built 14 years after the Grand Canal. Following years of decline, it finally ceased to be used as a commercial waterway in 1951, though is still enjoyed by leisure users to this day. Start your adventure at Maynooth’s fine harbour in this renowned university town, close to the walled gardens and demesne of Carton House and trek or cycle 6km to Kilcock or further afield to Enfield and beyond. With an easy access to the stretch between Maynooth and Kilcock by car along the M4 and frequent bus and rail services from Dublin city centre makes this a convenient route for walkers.

Castletown House and Parklands

When it was built in the 1720s, Castletown set a radical precedent and it is an extraordinary part of our cultural inheritance. Now, as the OPW breathes contemporary life into Ireland’s earliest and finest Palladian house, it is trailblazing once more. We hope you enjoy your visit.

Celbridge Manor Hotel

Celbridge Manor Hotel is a magnificent Georgian-fronted hotel situated in the heritage town of Celbridge in County Kildare. Only minutes from Celbridge Village, the hotel sits on beautiful grounds, linked to the Clane Road by an opulent tree-lined avenue. The hotel combines old-world charm with the very best of modern convenience. Built in 1737 by Parliament Speaker, William Connolly of the nearby Castletown House, Ireland’s finest Palladian country house, the hotel served as a school until the mid 1970’s, when it was converted into a hotel. The hotel is decorated to a very high standard, reflecting the elegance of its inception in the Georgian era. The hotel contains 66 luxurious bedrooms, all tastefully decorated and containing all modern conveniences. Each bedroom has an en-suite bathroom, which contains a separate shower and stand-alone roll-top bath. The hotel serves the very best in fresh local produce and our Schoolhouse bar is a great place to catch up with friends, watch the big game, have a bite to eat or simply relax! The hotel is conveniently located 30 minutes from Dublin city centre and 30 minutes from Dublin airport and there is easy access to the M4, M7 and M50 motorways. Celbridge is also serviced by frequent bus and rail services. When you arrive at the gates you will be immediately transported to a world far removed from everyday life. A warm welcome awaits you, warm wood panelled lobby, sweeping staircase and light filled atrium.

Carton House

An exciting date for your diary and one that will always be remembered in the vibrant history of Carton House as we reopen to guests and visitors following an extensive restoration and luxury redesign. With more than 75 locations around the globe, Fairmont is known for its grand and awe-inspiring properties, many of which are steeped in history and are a focal point of their local regions. We are sure you will agree that Carton House fits this description perfectly, and our hotel will be the most historic property in the prestigious Fairmont collection. From the moment you arrive at Carton House this summer, you will discover a guest experience which has been completely reimagined. There will be a number of exciting new dining experiences to enjoy including The Morrison Room which has been transformed into a fine dining restaurant and Kathleen’s Kitchen serving a true taste of Ireland with the finest locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. A new bar, The Courtyard Bar will also serve a light menu with premium spirits, fine wines and cocktails providing guests with an indoor and outdoor destination to relax and unwind. 

If you would like to include a visit here during your time in Ireland, visit our website or get in touch and let us help you save time planning your Perfect Irish Trip

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*Please note, we are advising international travel to Ireland from Spring 2022 and within Ireland from Summer 2021 onwards, unless advised otherwise by government officials, but we can help your plan your trip now 😊

For more information on us and what we do click into – www.perfectirishtrip.com

Phoenix Park, Dublin

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About Phoenix Park.

Phoenix Park is one of Europe’s largest suburban park, covering 11km or 1,752 acres (707 hectares) of land. The park is over 350 years old. Walled off in 1662 for king Charles II, as a ‘Royal Deer Park’. The deer have been part of the park ever since and can be spotted in various locations throughout the 11km park. Before the park was walled off to become a park, the Vikings buried their dead here. Around 40 graves – one of which contained a woman buried with a pair of bronze Scandinavian brooches – were discovered together near the Islandbridge/ Kilmainham edge. This is the biggest Viking cemetery outside of Scandinavia. Some of the rules of Phoenix Park include – no lighting fires, no litter, no riding a horse unless in an area specified for horse-riding, no posters, not to drive on the grass and not to go faster than 50km/per hour on roads through the park. Phoenix Park is one of the most photogenic wild areas Dublin has to offer and is well worth a visit.

How to get around.

Rent bikes from Phoenix Park Bikes for €15 for a full day, €10 for 3 hours or €6 for one hour.

What to see.

We have listed what we view as some of the best things to see and do in Phoenix Park below.

  1. Dublin Zoo
    A hit amongst adults and children alike. Dublin zoo is home to over 400 animals and has been in operation since 1831, making it one of the world’s oldest zoos. The zoo covers over 69 acres. Many of the animals are part of international breeding programmes for endangered species, as their species are currently under threat. Pricing for adults is €18. and for children is €13.50. For more information and to get your tickets at a discounted price click here.
  2. Áras an Uachtaráin
    Áras an Uachtaráin, otherwise known as the President of Ireland’s humble abode is located in Phoenix Park and unlike most other presidential house’s you can almost wave into the window at President Michael D. Higgins and his wife Sabina. The public are welcome every Saturday to come and join a guided tour free of charge and takes almost an hour. The tour operates on a first come on first served basis and the tour times are – 10.30am, 11.30am, 12.30pm, 1.30pm, 2.30pm and 3.30pm. Sometimes due to State and/or Official Business the tours cannot operate. For more information and for updates on tours click here.
  3. The Wild Deer
    Phoenix park is home to a herd of 400-450 fallow deer descend from the original herd introduced in the 1660s. They can be found throughout the park in various locations. Friends of the deer are advised not to feed them any food.
  4. Farmleigh
    A historic Edwardian period house holding important collections, an art gallery, a working farm, and the official Irish State guest house, Farmleigh House and Estate is open seven days a week. An estate of seventy-eight acres situated to the north-west of Dublin’s Phoenix Park, Farmleigh provides accommodation for visiting dignitaries and guests of the nation. Entry for guided tours around the house start are €8 for adults For more information click here.
  5. Phoenix Park Visitor Centre
    A lively and entertaining exhibition on the history and the wildlife of the Phoenix Park is on display in the Visitor Centre. Here the visitor can enjoy a historical interpretation of the park from 3500 B.C. to the present day and can also view an audio-visual presentation on the Phoenix Park through the ages. Next to the visitor centre is Ashton Castle.
  6. Ashtown Castle
    Ashtown Castle is a medieval tower-house. Until 1978, this castle was hidden within the walls of a Georgian mansion (called Ashtown Lodge) that was occupied by the Under Secretary for Ireland. When the Georgian house was demolished in the late seventies, the castle was discovered inside. It has since been restored and is now open to the public. It may date from as early as the fifteenth century.
  7. Victorian Walled Gardens
    The Victorian Walled Kitchen Garden is a two and a half-acre garden set in the grounds of Ashtown Castle (next to the Phoenix Park Visitor Centre).

Other things to see and do in Phoenix Park.

  1. Wellington Monument
    Built to commemorate the victories of the ‘Iron Duke’ Arthur Wellesley, Duke of Wellington, who was born in Dublin, the memorial in the Phoenix park is the tallest obelisk in Europe. It is 205 feet tall.
  2. Papal Cross
    The Papal Cross is a simple large white cross that was erected near the edge of the Fifteen Acres for the Papal visit of Pope John Paul II on the 29th September 1979. On this day, before travelling to Drogheda, Co. Louth, Pope John Paul II delivered an open-air sermon to more than 1.25 million people.
  3. Magazine Fort
    The Magazine Fort is a bastion fort and magazine. Built in 1735, it was occupied by British Armed Forces until 1922 when it was turned over to the Irish Defence Forces.
  4. Phoenix Park Monument
    The Phoenix Monument was erected by the fourth Earl of Chesterfield in 1747. The column was carved in Portland stone. It is in the shape of a Corinthian column with a Phoenix bird rising from the ashes at its pinnacle.
  5. The People’s Gardens
    The Victorian People’s Flower Gardens comprise of an area of twenty-two acres, which were laid out around 1840 and opened in 1864. They provide an opportunity to display Victorian horticulture at its best.
  6. Prehistoric Burial Chamber
    A prehistoric burial chamber over 5,500 years old. The tumulus, which covered it, was opened in 1838 and skeletons, pottery and other relics, now in the National Museum were discovered.

Additional information.

For more information on all of these sites and attractions and for more details on their locations please visit phoenixpark.ie.

Sustainable & Eco-Friendly Travel

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Eco -Friendly & Sustainable Travel Tips
We all want to see the world, but most of us agree that our current world is in a state of crisis and that if we don’t make some major eco-friendly and sustainable choices our future generations may not be able to experience the world and different cultures as well as we do today. One area in your life where you can make these sustainable choices for the sake of the planet is how we travel. We don’t need to travel less, we just need to travel smarter. 
Last week we attended the ‘Inspiring Sustainable Tourism’ conference in Croke Park, which was organised by EcoTourism Ireland and we picked up some good tips which we have listed below. 


Eco-Friendly & Sustainable Tips
Picture This. Instead of buying souvenirs and gimmicks enjoy every moment of your holiday and take many pictures and videos. Let the memories live on on USB keys, CDs, your phone or through or photo albums, not through plastic souvenirs.

Inside a plane with empty seats / white & blue & grey / Perfect Irish Trip / Sustainable & eco-friendly travel tips

Fly Smart . We have a few points that fall under the flying smart category. After listening to a very inspiring talk given by Kenny Jacobs of Ryanair on how to fly smarter, we have some good tips to share.

  • Fly Smart. When booking your flights, fly economy (eco-nomy ;)). Flying economy allows the most space for more people to travel on one flight and leaves less of a carbon foot-print than business or first class, or even just choose to fly economy more often, but still sneak a bit of luxury in from time to time.
  • Book Smart Routes. Booking smarter routes means to dry to have little to no stopovers, to fly the most direct and straight forward route.
  • Newer Fleets. Newer fleets of planes have all been designed to cut down on CO2 emissions and being more eco friendly as opposed to how older planes were designed. Like most people, when booking a flight you might have no clue what age your plane is or even what plane you will be traveling on, on tip to keep in mind when trying to book on a newer plane is that most established airlines have the ability to invest money into newer fleets of planes as opposed to new companies who might try to save and by older planes and jazz them up and give them a new look (don’t get us wrong, we are all about recycling and finding a new lease of life for what we already have and also all about new businesses starting up, but on this particular post we are putting the main focus on how to travel more sustainably).

Research C02 Emission Rates. Some companies like Ryanair will make their C02 emission rates available to the public online via their website (which you can view here – Ryanair C02 Emissions). This is a great inactive to help consumers decide for themselves A) Which airline causes the least amount of damage after a flight B) Companies that are happy to be transparent with the public and C) More knowledge on aviation and the carbon footprint it leaves behind.

Long windy empty road with dry field landscape rural Ireland / perfect irish trip / sustainable & eco-friendly travel
  • Visit The Next Best Thing. With the internet we all now have bucket lists, we all now have to get THE PHOTO next to / in front of / on top of what ever the attraction is and we all want to be able to say yep “we came we saw we conquered”. But because we all think like this, we all tend to go to the same places and visit the same attractions. But with a bit of extra research we could see and discover things that no one even knows of. For example in Ireland swap The Cliffs of Moher for Slieve League Cliffs. If you would like more tours like this please feel free to get in touch with us and we will design your own personalised tour – Perfect Irish Trip Personalised Tours. 
  • Travel Off Season and During Off Peak Times. Traveling during off season is better in so many ways. Less damage. Due to the fact that there will be less tourists visiting top attractions there will be less damage done to the environment. When areas of nature (or anywhere) are over populated, even if only for a few hours, a lot of damage can be done, due to waste not being disposed properly or to have nature areas walked on too much or too many cars or buses parked in inappropriate places. More cost efficient. Travel prices, accommodation prices and sometime tourist attraction prices all go down in prices when visited out of season. Less queues and not as populated. During off season periods you will have less queues to stand in, less people in your photo backgrounds and more tour availability for popular tours.
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  • Pack Smart. Pack things you know you will need and you know you will use. One thing that you may not think to pack is your re-usable water bottle. Especially if you a re visiting a hot country it is good to have your water on hand that you can top u as your day goes. Also if you are someone who plans to hit the markets or shops, be sure to pack your reusable bag to carry along with you until you can then fit everything into your suitcase. 
  • Eat Smart. We all know that eating less meat is better for the environment, so we recommend that if you are not already vegetarian or vegan that you make a conscious effort while abroad to sample as many of the local fruit and veg as possible and try to opt for the vegetarian or vegan meal options regularly too. If this is something you are interested in let us know and we can recommend some vegetarian and vegan eateries free of charge. Contact us here – info@perfectirishtrip.com

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The conference was very good and very informative and even if you don’t work in the tourism sector it was still a great event to attend to increase your knowledge and awareness on sustainability and more ways to be eco friendly. 
We have more tips to help you be a more eco-friendly traveler, which you can find in our Sustainability section – Perfect Irish Trip Sustainability & Eco Tourism
We have designed an Eco-Friendly tour of iIreland which you can purchase here – Eco-Friendly & Sustainable Tour
If you would like your own personalised bespoke sustainable & eco friendly tour of Ireland designed, to suit all budgets from cost efficient – luxury you can choose one of our personalised tour packages here – Perfect Irish Trip – Personalised Tour

If you have any more sustainable tips you think we should have added, please let us know in the comment section below.

Best Wildlife Experiences In Ireland

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Here at Perfect Irish Trip we have a huge appreciation for nature, animals and wildlife. We also believe in admiring said wild life from affair in their natural habitats. We are lucky in Ireland to have many amazing animals to admire in the wild. Some animals even have regular interaction with humans in the wild, like Fungie The Friendly Dolphin in Dingle or Dusty the Dolphin who can be spotted around County Clare. Below we have listed some of the best wildlife spots around Ireland.

Wild Ireland

Wild Ireland is an animal sanctuary set up by Killian McLoughlin, that rehabilitates animals and also houses animals once native to Ireland. Amongst the animals are 3 brown bears, European wolves, a lynx (the original Celtic Tiger), an otter and red deer, red deer, red foxes, an owl, an otter and many more. All animals have been rescued from cruel circumstances such as circuses, illegal trade and neglect. Killian worked closely with three international charities to bring the animals to his 23 acre site that they now call home. To visit Wild Ireland or to learn more click into – Wild Ireland

Fungie The Dolphin

Fungie the friendly bottle-nosed dolphin has built a home and a fanbase for himself on the Dingle shores. Fungie first said hello over 30 years ago to fishermen who gave him his name. He comes and goes as he pleases in and out of the Dingle harbour to say hello to passing boats. He is quite a rare dolphin who chooses to spend more time playing alongside boats with a frequent jump out to say hello to humans, rather than spending time with other dolphins. No boat tour guarantees that you will see Fungie and if he is not on the shores of the harbour where he knows the boats will be, he is then left alone to do as he please wherever he may be. For more information click into – Fungie The Dolphin

The Saltee Islands

The Saltee Islands are a haven for sea birds, nurturing an impressive array of birds, from Gannets and Gulls to Puffins and Manx Shearwaters. The Islands consist of the Great and Little Saltee and are situated approximately 5km off the coast of Kilmore Quay in County Wexford. The Great Saltee also has a breeding population of Grey Seals, one of the very few in eastern Ireland. Up to 120 animals are present in autumn and up to 20 pups are produced annually. Since December 1943 the Saltees have been privately owned by the Neale family. The Neale family have always respected this bird sanctuary and treated visiting Ornithologists and bird watchers alike with hospitality. Day visitors are allowed on Great Saltee between 11am and 4:30 pm only. Arranged trips from Kilmore Quay are approved within these hours. Any visitors landing a boat outside of these hours will be asked to leave. The Saltee Islands are both rare and beautiful. All are welcome to see and enjoy. For more information click into – The Saltee Islands

Phoenix Park Deer

Phoenix park is home to a herd of 400-450 fallow deer descend from the original herd introduced in the 1660s. They can be found throughout the park in various locations. Friends of the deer are advised not to feed them any food and only to admire them from afar. For more information click into – Phoenix Park Deer

Dusty The Dolphin

Dusty The Dolphin is another rare bottle nose Dolphin who has taken a particular interest in human companionship over the years. First spotted in Doolin in county Clare, Dusty can be found in various locations across county Clare and as far as the Aran Islands, although she received bad press over the years, most people who swim with regularly said the bad press was actually mostly due to human negligence and people acting in appropriately, since then, Dusty has taken on more solitude. If you are lucky to come across Dusty, we advise you admire her from afar or the shallow waters and allow her to come to you if she pleases. As someone who has been lucky to swim with dusty in the early years, I can attest she is an amazing being who should be respected and loved. 

As we said at the beginning of our post, wild life is to be respected and admired from a far, we are also huge believers in ‘Leave No Trace’  and ask that any time you are in nature that you leave everything as was and enjoy everything for what it is.If you would like to download our Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Tour of Ireland for €15.99 click here – Eco Friendly & Sustainable Tour of Ireland  

Fun Eco-Friendly Attractions in Ireland

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Fun Eco-Friendly Attractions in Ireland

Traveling across Ireland can be done in a very eco-friendly manor. We are very lucky here that many people and business owners are aiming to make the world a better place. Every day more and more companies are doing their part to make great changes, some companies however have set out with eco-friendly ethos in mind from the beginning. Here is a list of 5 of the most eco-friendly places you can explore in while touring Ireland or even if you live in Ireland and you want some adventure, we have made this list by covering somewhere in almost each of the four corners of Ireland. 

Cool Planet Experience

Cool Planet Experience is located in the Wicklow mountains, the garden of Ireland and we highly recommend that you go here. It is more so aimed at children and young teenagers, but is a fun experience for all ages. It is 45 minutes of interactive fun to learn about global warming, climate change and how to offset your carbon footprint by learning how to be more sustainable and eco-friendly. It is located at Powerscourt House and Gardens in Enniskerry, which is a beautiful estate to walk around and bask in nature.

Skellig Islands

An area of Ireland that is becoming highly recognised are the Skellig Islands, particularly Skellig Michael. As of recent times you will see them in the Star Wars franchise.  Due to the wildness that is the Atlantic ocean, these islands can only be accessed over the summer months and on calm days. There are walking island tours available, but to preserve the beauty, the buildings and the nature, there is a restriction on how many people can go onto these islands every year. The walking tours are from morning to mid-afternoon and cost €100 p/p. The eco boat tours are highly recommended, they pass both islands and give all the history, facts and information on the islands. They know the best places to stop and show you all the attractions on the islands so you don’t miss a thing. These eco boat tours cost €40p/p and last for 2 hours. (Prices may vary)

Burren Perfumery

The Burren Perfumery is one of the Burren’s many amazing secrets. Hidden away in Carran (an area in the Burren), there is a beautiful and enchanting perfumery, with a shop selling all natural and organically made perfumes, toiletries and candles and a delicious café. Using herbs and plants grown on-site for their ingredients in both the perfume and café. The Burren Perfumery is one of the true gems of Irish business to visit, you can walk around the small factory, be taken on a guided tour (free of charge) and explore the gardens were some of the ingredients are grown. Entry for the tours is currently free.

Hazel Chocolate Mountain

Not too far from the Burren Perfumery is Hazel Chocolate Mountain, a chocolate factory. It might be one of the last things you expect to find in the limestone mountains, but it is a very interesting little corner of the Burren. There is a guided tour on offer for a set fee, but sometimes if you arrive during a non-busy time, you might be able to avail of a quick mini tour for free. Hazel Chocolate Mountain adhere to strict environmental policies; they operate from a green roof building which helps minimize energy consumption, while also increases biodiversity and offers a unique habitat for wildlife. They have no plastic in their shop, all products are wrapped and covered using either recyclable or reusable paper and the staff use cloth gloves rather than plastic while handling the chocolate. They use only sustainable and ethical suppliers for their ingredients. It is a great experience for both adults and children, especially any foodies.

Wild Ireland

Wild Ireland is an animal sanctuary set up by Killian McLoughlin, that rehabilitates animals and also houses animals once native to Ireland. Amongst the animals are 3 brown bears, European wolves, a lynx (the original Celtic Tiger), an otter and red deer, red deer, red foxes, an owl, an otter and many more. All animals have been rescued from cruel circumstances such as circuses, illegal trade and neglect. Killian worked closely with three international charities to bring the animals to his 23 acre site that they now call home.

These are only a few examples of some lovely eco-friendly places to visit in Ireland. If you would like more examples or you would like help preparing a plan/ itinerary of where you would like to stay and dine in Ireland you can look at our Eco-Friendly Tour of Ireland or have a look at our Perfect Irish Trip Packages. Happy Traveling.

☘️

Saoirse

5 Of The Best Eco-Friendly Eateries Across Ireland

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5 of The Best Eco-Friendly Eateries Across Ireland

Traveling across Ireland can be done in a very eco-friendly manor. We are very lucky here that many people and business owners are aiming to make the world a better place. Every day more and more companies are doing their part to make great changes, some companies however have set out with eco-friendly ethos in mind from the beginning. Here is a list of 5 of the most eco-friendly places for you to dine in while touring Ireland or even if you live in Ireland and you want some healthy sustainable food choices, we have made this list by covering somewhere in almost each of the four corners of Ireland. 

Located in Rathfarnham, County Dublin, The Carrot’s Tail is not only a place to eat delicious food, but also acts as a ‘Zero Waste Shop’ too. Customers opting for some zero-waste shopping can bring their containers in and fill up on nuts, seeds, flours, grains, beans, herbs and spices as well as purchasing some zero waste essentials and reusable tools. Working from a full vegan menu, the Carrot’s Tail deliver filling, tasty and delightful food keeping all their customers happy.

In the heart of Dingle Town you will find The Fishbox, who serve the freshest of fish from their very own family trawler, very much a sustainable farm to table, or sea to plate method. All seafood, fruit and veg are locally sourced, even the desserts are handmade at home by the mother of the family, Deirdre, each morning, breads are sourced from local bakers and even the beer served is produced in a macro brewery 100m down the road. The Fishbox is not only delicious, but is sustainable and organic and puts huge pride in their ingredients.

Ard Bia at Nimmos is tucked away past the historic Spanish Arch and overlooking the waters of the River Corrib. Ard Bia offers a full days menu, consisting of: Breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner. Serving seasonal and locally sourced food Ard Bia deliver high quality, sustainable and healthy meals to their customers. Taking menu inspiration locally, but also with Mediterranean and Middle East influence, the food leaves customers feeling satisfied and full.

The Gallery in Westport, County Mayo has been paving the way for a more eco-friendly and fairer trade within the food industry in Ireland (and worldwide) since 2014. Being Ireland’s first natural wine bar (each wine is at the very minimum, organically farmed and most are biodynamic), members of the world’s ‘Kiss The Ground Movement’ (a global movement of regenerative farming), was the first coffee shop to ban single use plastics and instead opted to use recycled jam jars for takeaway coffee, works from a ‘palm free menu’ and was the first to ban avocados from their menu (due to the negativities behind the scenes that many do not see involved in the farming process). They are only some of the reasons why The Gallery has made our list. All food and drink is organically and ethically sourced and is always local where possible. The Gallery should be on any eco-friendly food lovers list.

Drumanilra Farm Kitchen is located just outside of Boyle in County Roscommon and offers very much a ‘farm to table’ menu in every aspect of the word. All produce is organic and local (where possible). All fresh meats cooked in the Farm Kitchen are certified organic, Irish and fully traceable back to their organic farm of origin. Most are produced on Drumanilra Organic Farm. With a mission to ‘reconnect people with local, organic, wholesome, sustainable food, rooted in place and assured provenance, grown by Drumanilra Farm and other like-minded producers’ and two new premises being opened over the coming year Drumanilra Farm Kitchen is not be missed.

These are only a few examples of some lovely eco-friendly places to visit in Ireland. If you would like more examples or you would like help preparing a plan/ itinerary of where you would like to stay and dine in Ireland you can look at our Eco-Friendly Tour of Ireland or have a look at our Perfect Irish Trip Packages. Happy Traveling.

☘️

Saoirse

The Best Eco Friendly Ways To Travel

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The Best Eco Friendly Ways To Travel

Traveling can be done in a very eco-friendly manor and every small change makes a huge difference to the environment, especially as more and more people choose to change their habits. Here are 5 eco-friendly travel tips to help you travel in a more eco-friendly manor.

  1. Try to take non-stop flights, if you are trying to cut back on your carbon foot print in the air, the best way you can do this is to avoid any unnecessary other take-offs and landings along the way.
  2. While on a plane try to avoid opening any complimentary plastics, like headphones or cutlery. Always try to think what you will need and bring your own. 
  3. Take a bus, train or tram whenever possible, which is highly recommended to get around Europe. Walk and cycle around cities, it gives you easier options to explore places you might not otherwise see, but make sure you take comfortable shoes.`
  4. Take a reusable water bottle with you, that you can fill up whenever needed. This one is an obvious one, but something people forget while away. Ask you hotel to top it up, using a clean drinkable tap in the morning at breakfast, so you have it with you for the rest of the day. 
  5. Reuse your towels, don’t have your hotel towels washed after every single use.
  6. Leave the ‘Do Not Disturb’ sign on your door, for the duration of your stay so that your room isn’t cleaned on a constant daily basis, using chemical sprays, changing towels & sheets and hovering.
  7. Don’t waste cosmetics. If you use hotel soaps and shampoos, make sure you use it all or take what you don’t use home with you, so that they aren’t disposed of half full.
  8. Always return brochures, maps and leaflets after you used them and do not take any unwanted tourist trap leaflets. 
  9. Don’t buy unnecessary tourist souvenirs, in Ireland especially you will see many side street shops with lucky leprechauns, woolly jumpers or posters of Guinness sprawled around, us Irish don’t use any of these on a daily basis and you shouldn’t buy them, unless you think you will get actual use out of them, they will eventually just pile up as unnecessary clutter in your home.
  10. Always look for organisations and business that are trying to make a positive difference to the world, for people, for animals and for the planet. Avoid animal mistreatment. Don’t enter a premises where you think an animal is being mistreated for profit. If you see any business advertising the likes of ‘pet a lion’ or Seaworld, avoid it at all costs and do not cast your consumer vote into a business like this. Most likely the animal was caught illegally and cruelly and now lives a life of misery. 

P.s. Last but not least – Being eco-friendly starts from how you cast your consumer vote. Buy some eco-friendly sunglasses for your holiday and for day – day wear, CRANN would be the best place to look, with many different styles and colours to choose from. Made from recycled and eco friendly materials, CRANN provide their customer with very high quality eco-friendly sunglasses.

These are only a few examples of some lovely eco-friendly places to visit in Ireland. If you would like more examples or you would like help preparing a plan/ itinerary of where you would like to stay and dine in Ireland you can look at our Eco-Friendly Tour of Ireland or have a look at our Perfect Irish Trip Packages. Happy Traveling.

☘️

Saoirse