Off season in Ireland – travel at its best! Unexpected surprises and tips for everyone

Unexpected surprises and tips for everyone, including solo travelers, vegans, and those looking for a little magic any time of the year.

If you have your sights set on Ireland, or any exotic travel location, don’t be put off by the views and mass appeal. Ireland, especially its magical west coast, is a must see whether you are traveling in a group or solo. And all vegetarians and vegans will find Ireland surprisingly accommodating with interesting and quite elaborate options available. You just need to ask. This Emerald Isle offers a nice mix of down-to-earth goodness, exotic ancient mystique and a lively pub nightlife. In fact, there is something for everyone.

Most sources will tell you that mid-spring to mid-autumn, particularly April through October, is the optimal time to travel to Ireland. And sure, spring is beautiful with all that’s in bloom, especially May, fall colors are plentiful in October, and July and August are peak season, but not everyone enjoys the hustle and bustle of tourism at its peak. What they fail to share with you is the fact that winter is pretty awesome, especially if you see the end just before spring arrives. Not only do you get the place practically to yourself, but you also get to capture some of the true magic and mysticism of this ancient land.

Now, of course, it all depends on personal interests and preferences, but don’t be intimidated by the colder winter months. In reality, winter can be quite mild with little to no rain, beautiful cloudy and hazy skies, mist that stretches over the mountain tops and barely skims the edges of the Killarney lakes, lovely bursts of sunny days that illuminate the world full of fairies. forests and fabulous ancient winds that transport you to a world of Celtic and druidic splendor. What magic to behold and everything for you, on top of that!

The west coast of Ireland is home to a multitude of things to see and experience, including the beautiful Gap of Dunloe, Inisfallen Island in the Killarney Lakes, many castle ruins, the well-known and offbeat Stone Circles and Standing Stones, the famous Ring of Kerry, the beautiful Beare Peninsula, the sacred Skellig Michael Islands and Killarney National Forest with its famous Muckross House, to name just a fraction of the possible destinations. The beauty of traveling in the off-season is that you will find yourself having the sites and the experiences of them all to yourself. Cruise the mystical waters of Killarney Lake with your own good-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 oaks as you hop along the fairy trails. Better yet, imagine standing, as the druids once did, amongst the ancient energy of the Uragh or Grange Stone Circle, the wind blowing across the hilltop as you bask in the serenity and sacredness without a sound or presence around you that bothers you. Whether you’re 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 that any other “peak” travel time would not.

For those of you with special dietary needs, such as vegetarians and vegans, don’t worry. You’ll find more than enough options and surprises for your culinary tastes to suit any occasion. If you’re looking for an ideal place to stay, while filling up on great dining options, Friars’ Glen Guesthouse is number 1 on the list. Located just a couple of miles outside Killarney town center in the beautiful Killarney Forest, this exquisitely picturesque home-away-from-home bed and breakfast not only offers unrivaled quality service and exceptional serenity, but The owner, Mary, is a top notch. chef, whipping up hardy vegetarian and vegan surprises for breakfast and, if she’s asked, packed lunches, too! And the nearby beautiful Killarney Park Hotel has a wonderful restaurant bar where the chef is very accommodating, creating fabulous vegan soups and options like 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 sensual delights to satisfy your every whim, including a top chef who will prepare some very elegant vegan meals from start to finish. Some vegetarian options can also be found in small delis/bakeries and cafeterias, as well as the occasional small health food store. The simple and secret key is always to simply ask and your wish will be granted. Ireland is home to some of the warmest and friendliest people in the world.

That being said, those who also prefer to travel solo will find Ireland more welcoming and a perfect destination for the adventurer as well as the peace seeker. Of course, this island is a wonderful host for groups, families, and romantics, but those who venture out in search of their own experience and enjoy the exciting possibilities that are available to those who march to the beat of their own drum, will discover just how truly satisfying is a trip to Ireland can be. Whether you decide to follow your heart’s desire in the moment or desire a customized itinerary, you’ll find an overwhelming number of experiences awaiting you. For a truly unique and sacred experience, Celtic Spirit Journeys with international teacher and writer on Celtic spirituality, Mara Freeman, is not to be missed. Or simply contact her and she will be more than happy to customize a special trip to suit her personal needs, even outfitted with a fabulous personal driver, Michael Burniston, as her historical encyclopedia of folklore knowledge and entertainment.

No matter what you are looking for, Ireland ANY time of the year is truly a place not to be missed; Winter, vegan, solo traveler and all.