We live on a beautiful little island packed full of hidden gems. Summer is the best time of the year to start exploring, and lucky for us we’ve got some many magical places right on our doorstep.
MINI are looking for ten lucky drivers to participate in the first ever MINI Round Ireland Relay, and drive ten pre-decided routes across the country. They’re also asking you to take a detour somewhere cool along the way.
To celebrate, we have decided to look at some of our favourite Irish hidden gems worth exploring this summer.
1. Coole Park, Gort, Co. Galway
The former home of Lady Gregory, and a source of endless inspiration for WB Yeats, this sprawling 1,000 acre park in south Galway is a must-visit.
Pack a picnic and enjoy the peace and beauty in the gorgeous walled garden (where you’ll also find the famous Autograph Tree), or visit the on-site tea-rooms for some tasty home-made treats. The extensive walking trail has recently been expanded a further 5km to include Garryland Woods.
2. The Flaggy Shore, New Quay, Co. Clare
If you’re lucky enough to find yourself at the beautiful and rugid Flaggy Shore in the deep dark months of winter, you’ll more than likely have this entire stretch of Clare coastline to yourself. On a sunnier day you’ll bump into a few of the locals out stretching their legs, loyal dogs in tow. The deep blue of the Atlantic on one side, contrasted with the greenest green you’ll ever see on the other makes The Flaggy Shore a very special place.
If you’re looking for a walk nearer the water, head ten minutes down the road to Bishop’s Quarter beach, where you’ll have a beautiful lengthy beach all to yourself.
Image via TheBurrenPerfumery.com
3. Silent Valley Reservoir, Co. Down
Sitting pretty in the heart of the Mourne mountains is the picturesque Silent Valley Reservoir, where the River Kilkeel was dammed in 1933. Take a scenic walk around the grounds to breathe in breathtaking views, stop in the coffee shop for a hit of caffeine and explore the exhibition on the building on the dam.
If you’re looking to see more of the area, a shuttle bus will take you another 4km up the valley to the Crom Dam.
4. Donadea Forest Park, Co. Kildare
Comprising of approximately 243 hectares of mixed woodland, Donadea Forest Park is packed full of historical features inclduing the remains of the castle, walled gardens, ice house, boat house and the gorgeous Lime Tree Avenue.
It’s the perfect spot to go for a peaceful walk, including the 5km Aylmer loop. Stop off at the huge lake where you can feed the ducks and enjoy the water-lilies.
5. Teapot Lane Glamping, Tawley, Co. Leitrim
We recommend that everyone undertake one weekend of glamping this summer. And you’ll find no better spot than Teapot Lane Glamping in north Leitrim. With beautiful Benbulben in the distance, the glampsite comprises a vintage caravan, four luxury yurts, a country cottage and our favourite, a cabin-style treehouse. There’s also an on-site spa and gourmet picnic baskets available for guests. Perfect for a weekend away with the girls.
6. Iveagh Gardens, Dublin
As soon as the sun makes its presence felt in Dublin city centre, tourists and locals alike flock to Stephen’s Green. Our advice? Avoid the crowds and enjoy a wander through the gorgeous Iveagh Gardens. The best news? They’re just a short stroll down the street from Stephen’s Green – you’ll find them perched off Harcourt Street. A total gem. Hiding in the heart of the capital.
Have you got the road tripping bug yet? MINI are looking for 10 lucky people to drive around the country in a MINI.
As everyone knows, driving a MINI is a reward in itself but if you seriously impress on your leg, they’ll reward you with the ultimate USA road trip along Pacific Coast Highway, California. You can enter here.
To celebrate this fantastic competition, Her.ie and MINI are giving away a mini luggage set.
To be in with a chance of winning, just answer the question below. *HINT (Take a look at the Details section at Minirelay.ie)
