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The Farmstay B&B Experience

August 3, 2021

Farmstay B&Bs are the ideal accommodation option for those looking to relax, unwind and get back to nature with peaceful surroundings. It is the perfect opportunity to swap the usual hustle and bustle of daily life for a more tranquil and restful stay in a farmhouse located in the Irish countryside. There really is no better to way to experience the culture of Ireland first-hand than staying in an Irish Farmhouse Bed & Breakfast.

Location

There is an abundance of quality-assured Farmstay B&Bs located in many counties throughout Ireland, such as Kerry, Cork, Westmeath, Clare, Offaly and Sligo to name but a few. Nestled in the beautiful Irish countryside, they are home to stunning views and peaceful surroundings. Farmstay B&Bs are situated in locations, which will enable you to switch off, unwind and reconnect with your inner self. They are the perfect base for exploring the beautiful scenery and views that the Emerald Isle has to offer.

Farm Activities

Farmstay B&Bs are the perfect option for those looking to experience a traditional farm life. You will be able to enjoy a variety of farm activities such as collecting eggs, feeding the animals or simply exploring the stunning surroundings by walking through the fields and enjoying the peace and quiet. You will have the opportunity to take a guided tour around the farm and to talk to the farmer who will be more than happy to answer any questions you may have.

B&B Hosts

Farmstay B&Bs are owned and ran by welcoming and friendly hosts who are looking forward to helping you see all that Ireland has to offer. B&B hosts can help you to plan your itinerary during your stay and will tell you about all the hidden gems to visit in the local area. Along with this, your B&B hosts will prepare freshly cooked, made-to-order breakfasts along with delicious, homemade treats with many using ingredients sourced directly on the farm, meaning you will receive the authentic farm-to-table experience during your trip to a Farmstay Bed and Breakfast.

Tags: farmhouse B&B accommodation, Farmstay B&B Breakfast, farmstay holidays, Irish Farmhouse B&B Experience, Irish farmhouse B&Bs, Irish Farmhouse holidays, Irish Farmstay B&B Experience

Explore Ireland’s Regions

April 20, 2021

Ireland is renowned for its beautiful landscapes, rugged coastlines, historical sites and welcoming towns, making it the perfect holiday or staycation location. As there is so much to see and do throughout the whole country, Ireland is divided up into five main regions to make it easier for you to explore. Each region offers visitors unique and memorable experiences.

Dublin

Located on the east coast of Ireland, Dublin is Ireland’s capital city that is renowned for its warm and friendly atmosphere. While also being an exciting and vibrant city with a bustling social scene, it also offers plenty of opportunities for exploring the natural beauty of the region, with highlights including the Dublin Mountains, Phoenix Park and Howth Cliff Walk. It is also home to some of the most significant buildings in Irish history such as Dublin Castle.

The Wild Atlantic Way

The Wild Atlantic Way is a stunning 2,500km coastal trail that runs along the Atlantic Ocean on the west coast of Ireland. It begins in beautiful County Donegal and also encompasses the counties of Sligo, Leitrim, Mayo, Galway, Clare, Limerick, Kerry and Cork. The Wild Atlantic Way is a fantastic route for exploring so many stunning attractions such as The Cliffs of Moher in County Clare and Mullaghmore in County Sligo. You can also pick up your very own Wild Atlantic Way passport which can be a souvenir of your journey along this scenic route.

Ireland’s Ancient East

Ireland’s Ancient East is the perfect base for exploring the history of Ireland, as it is home to a wealth of fascinating ancient ruins dating back as far as Celtic times. Encompassing counties such as Cavan, Longford, Louth, Meath, Monaghan and Westmeath, there is a vast range of historical sites to explore, such as Newgrange in Country Meath and Glendalough in County Wicklow. Visitors to the region can expect to find many ancient castles, abbeys, monasteries, dolmens and ring forts, all which give a unique insight into Ireland’s interesting past.

The Causeway Coast

The Causeway Coast, located in Northern Ireland, is a region of exceptional natural beauty spanning from Derry to Belfast. It is home to some of the most stunning locations, such as The Giant’s Causeway in County Antrim which is Northern Ireland’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site. This region offers amazing coastal views and stunning landscapes, along with an abundance of adventure opportunities for visitors to enjoy such as hiking, cycling and surfing.

Hidden Heartlands

Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands is an area of breath-taking beauty, nestled in the midlands of Ireland. Visitors to this area can expect to be amazed by the stunning natural beauty of counties such as Leitrim, Roscommon, Longford and Cavan. This area is renowned for being a region of peace, tranquillity, and unspoilt landscapes, with plenty of forests, woodlands and greenways to explore. It is an ideal place to relax and unwind, while taking in the stunning surroundings of the area.

Tags: Causeway Coast, Explore Northern Ireland, FillYourHeartWithIreland, Ireland's Ancient East, Ireland's Hidden Heartlands, Regions of Ireland, The Wild Atlantic Way, Visit Dublin

Moving closer to safer travel

January 18, 2021

Now that vaccine rollouts are taking place, hopefully we are moving closer to safer travel. The start of a new year is a time for looking forward with hope and positivity for a brighter future. We all know that 2020 was a difficult and challenging year for so many people, but hopefully 2021’s horizon will be better for everyone!

Realise your dream

In the past, we most definitely took travel for granted. But since holiday adventures were put on hold, now more than ever, we have a pent up desire to get out and visit places we’ve always promised ourselves we’d explore. Hopefully, with the vaccine rollout, 2021 will be the year to fulfil our travel ambitions.

Keep dreaming of Ireland

Once travel is deemed safe again, if you have ever dreamed of visiting Ireland or making a return visit, you should take the opportunity to fulfil your wish. The island of Ireland is a destination that will never disappoint. From luscious green landscapes and blue flag beaches to fascinating history and heritage, Ireland has it all in abundance.

A warm welcome awaits

We have Bed & Breakfast accommodation located throughout Ireland that are waiting patiently to warmly welcome you. B&B Ireland properties that have obtained Fáilte Ireland’s Covid-19 Safety Charter demonstrate that they are operating in line with current Government public health advice and have safety and cleaning protocols in place to ensure your safety.

…and when the time is right, we’ll be waiting to welcome you.

Tags: dreaming of Ireland, farmhouse accommodation Ireland, fill your heart with Ireland, Holidays to Ireland, Irish Farmhouse holidays, when we travel again

The National Famine Way

October 13, 2020

The National Famine Way is a historic walking and cycling route that stretches 165 km from the National Famine Museum in Strokestown Park, Co. Roscommon, to the Famine Memorial on Custom House Quay, Co. Dublin. The trail is both digitally and physically waymarked, following the ill-fated footsteps of 1,490 emigrants who were forced to walk this route during the 1847 famine.

THE FOOTSTEPS OF THE FAMINE

The National Famine Way is steeped in history, art and culture, giving walkers and cyclists an insight into the life of Irish people during the famine. This route acted as the first leg of their difficult journey in search of a better life in Canada. Along the trail, there are approximately 30 pairs of bronze 19^th Century shoe sculptures marking the way. It is so poignant as almost a third of emigrants did not survive the transatlantic “coffin ships” to see their final destination.

STEEPED IN HISTORY

The 165 km trail takes walkers and cyclers through unspoiled countryside, country lanes, villages and towns, from Roscommon to Dublin City Centre. Along the way, you can learn the fascinating and tragic stories of the Irish Famine. The route begins and ends with two iconic and thought-provoking museums, starting with Roscommon’s National Famine Museum and ending with the EPIC Irish Emigration Museum in Dublin. As well as exploring Ireland’s natural beauty, you will also gain an appreciation of its deep history.

THE NATIONAL FAMINE WAY PASSPORT

Walkers and cyclists can choose to purchase the National Famine Way Passport and Guide, which highlights the local historical landmarks along the trail. 27 stage stamps can be collected along the way, which will serve as a record of your journey’s progress. Upon the collection of all stamps, you can receive a completion certificate as a reminder of your special experience. The National Famine Way route is marked by more than 30 pairs of bronze children’s shoes. A free app follows the experience of 12-year-old Daniel Tighe, with relevant audio and video centred around the bronze shoes.

The National Famine Way can be completed in sections or all in one go, and B&B Accommodation can act as the ideal base for this adventure.

Roscommon B&Bs | Westmeath B&Bs | Meath B&Bs | Kildare B&Bs | Dublin B&Bs

Header image and National Famine Way Map image: National Famine Way

Tags: Cycling holidays in Ireland, National Famine Way walking and cycling route, walking holidays in Ireland

Castleview Farm Scone Recipe

March 25, 2020

Now that we have a bit of time on our hands at home, why not put your baking skills to good use and try this delicious scone recipe from Castleview Farm in County Kildare.

Quick and easy scones with 15 minute baking time.

Ingredients

340g (12oz) self-raising flour
85g (3oz) butter
55g (2oz) caster sugar
125ml (1/4 pt) milk
60ml (4tbsps) natural yoghurt
1/4 tsp salt

Method

Pre-heat the oven to 200^oC and lightly grease a baking sheet or line with a non-stick liner.
Mix the flour, salt and sugar in a bowl and rub in the butter until it looks like breadcrumbs.
Mix milk and yoghurt and stir into mixture, work it together until a soft dough is formed.
Turn onto a floured board and knead lightly to get a smooth surface. Flatten out to an even thickness of about 2cm.
Using a 5cm cutter, cut out 12 – 14 scones and place on baking tray.
Bake for 12 – 15 minutes until golden brown. Remove from the oven and cool before you spread butter and jam on them. Yummy!

You may not be able to travel at the moment, but on your next trip to Ireland keep in mind an Irish farmstay getaway, the perfect way to get back to nature and enjoy the Irish countryside.

Tags: Farmhouse holidays, Farmhouse recipes, Farmhouse Scone Recipe, farmstay breaks in Ireland, Irish Farmhouse holidays

Irish Farmhouse Holiday guest reviews

January 24, 2020

If you want to experience life in the Irish countryside, then an Irish farmhouse holiday is the ideal choice for you. Farmhouse hosts are renowned for their warm hospitality, delicious home-cooking and commitment to ensuring that each and every guest enjoys a unique farmstay experience. Below is a small selection of reviews from guests who have loved their time on an Irish farm…

Lynch’s Farmhouse – Eyrecourt, Galway

Josephine and her husband showed me true Irish hospitality. I was feeling a little isolated after a long journey. I was given tea with cream and jam filled pastries, sat by a warm fire, enjoyed the conversation. My room was lovely. Breakfast was delicious. I could see their family dairy farm from my window. If you are looking for a welcome, it’s here. Marilyn Cawthon

Doonagore Farmhouse – Cliffs of Moher, Clare

We have stayed here on each of our trips to Ireland. It’s in a perfect location to Cliffs of Moher and the town of Doolin. The hosts go above and beyond to help during your stay. The views from the backyard are beautiful! Will be back on our next trip! Aimee Houston

Garvey’s Farmhouse – Dingle, Kerry

Joan is a charming and dynamic host. We loved our stay at this working farm where a very nice dog greeted us. The view from our room on the sea in the distance (and on the Gaelic History Museum) was magnificent. The bedroom was comfortable, pleasant and charming. In addition, Joan offered us delicious breakfasts and gave us great tips to visit the area. Gite recommandé, propriétaires charmants et situation idéale. Philippe Vuillerme

Hill View Farm – Cong Connemara, Mayo

Bridie was a wonderful host! Facilities were comfortable and nice. Her Irish breakfast was great, we could look out our window and see an open pasture of cows as the farm is a working one. Village of Cong which is just “a good stretch of the legs” is in fact within walking distance and this is that magical area of Ireland where the Quiet Man was filmed. Ryan’s Hotel has a good restaurant and you are within walking distance of the Museum commemorating the same film. Thanks Bridie
Jim Lynn

Grove Farm House – Inistioge, Kilkenny

We cannot thank Neelie and Pat enough for making our stay so enjoyable. Our accommodations were clean and comfortable. Our breakfast was fresh and amazing. We especially enjoyed sitting in the sunroom upon our return at the end of the day sharing a nightcap and pleasant conversation with them. I would also like to thank Pat for taking us out to see the cows and telling us about life on the farm. These are special memories we will never forget.
Joan & Steve Harrington

Ard Na Greine – Clonakilty, Cork

Norma is a fantastic hostess. We arrived late due to flight delays. She welcomed us in at 2100, and immediately offered us tea and biscuits! She was always willing and able to help us plan our day trips from the farm with an experience that can only come from living here. The breakfasts are phenomenal, and yes, very day we set out with those precious scones in a baggie. If you leave her table hungry, it’s your fault! Her recommendations about the area were always on point for us. Our 4 nights at And Na Greine were the best of our week in Ireland. If you want traditional Irish hospitality, you’ll find it alive and well with Norma Walsh! Phil Holt

Tags: accommodation reviews, B&B Guest Reviews, bed and breakfast guest reviews, farm bed & breakfast reviews, farmhouse accommodation reviews, farmhouse B&B reviews, Farmstay Guest Reviews, Irish farmhouse holiday guest reviews

Farmstay getaways

July 19, 2019

Relaxation is one of the main priorities for anybody going on a holiday or vacation, as we all want to escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, and to simply unwind in a new location. Farmstay getaways are the definition of relaxation, as Farmstay B&Bs are located all throughout the charming Irish countryside, where you can get back to nature and experience life on a working farm.

Immerse yourself in nature

Staying on an Irish farm is completely unique and authentic. The focus is on the farm’s stunning landscapes and tranquil surroundings, the delicious fresh food produced and of course, the farm animals. The farm setting is such a fantastic place to explore, and is the perfect opportunity to fully immerse yourself in nature and the Irish Farmhouse Holidays B&B experience.

Working farms

Farmstay B&B hosts make the experience even more special, as they invite you to learn about their everyday lives on a working farm, and are on hand to make sure that their guests enjoy every moment in their beautiful homes. From eating freshly-laid breakfast eggs in the morning, to taking a peaceful stroll through the countryside, you are guaranteed to make unforgettable memories in such a unique setting.

Farmstay getways, learn about everyday life on a working farm

An Irish farmstay getaway is such a wonderful and relaxing experience, so make sure you don’t miss out and book your Farmstay B&B accommodation!

Tags: b&b farm holidays, farmhouse accommodation Ireland, Farmhouse holidays, farmhouse vacations in Ireland, farmstay breaks in Ireland, farmstay getaways

Farmhouse B&B offer the best of traditional cuisine

Farmhouse B&Bs offer the best of traditional cuisine

March 14, 2019

Booking a stay in a farmhouse B&B is the perfect choice if you want to experience delicious meals and tasty home-baked treats. Farmhouse Bed and Breakfasts offer the best of traditional cuisine with menus using the finest of local and seasonal produce.

Working farms

Many of our farmhouse B&Bs are working farms that produce a lot of what they use in their menus from the farm. Your palate will delight in the succulent flavours from the farm’s very own harvest. Start your day with eggs freshly-laid by the garden hens that will compliment your B&B hosts delicious homemade soda bread.

Full Irish Breakfast

There’s nothing quite like waking up to the smell of a traditional home-cooked breakfast. The full Irish is always on the menu when you choose a farmstay holiday. Bacon, eggs, sausage, tomatoes with black and white pudding accompanied with freshly made soda-bread, is the perfect start to any day. If you prefer something else, then there is always plenty to choose from on the varied breakfast menu. Many farms make their own jams that taste divine on homemade breads.

Home-baked treats

Farmhouse hosts are renowned for their baking skills and the aroma of home baking is certain to get your taste buds awakened. Freshly baked brown bread, soda bread and scones are customary treats and are most welcome after a busy day sightseeing. There’s nothing nicer than a warm buttered scone accompanied by a cup of tea or coffee. Your B&B host may even give you an impromptu cookery class and let you in on their secret recipes.

Take a farm tour

If you would like to learn a bit about farming life, your host will be delighted to take you on a tour of the farm where you will see animals such as sheep, cattle, horses and donkeys in their natural environment. B&B hosts know their area well, so if you are interested in visiting a farmer’s market or the hidden gems of their area, they will be able to advise you. So, if you would like a farmstay holiday that offers the best of traditional cuisine, look no further than a Farmhouse B&B.

Tags: Best of Irish cooking, Farmhouse B&B home made treats, Farmhouse recipes, Farmhouse traditional cooking, food lovers paradise, Traditional Irish cooking

The Wild Atlantic Way’s Hidden Gems

January 17, 2019

It is a well-known fact that Ireland is a wonderful place to visit, at all times of the year, with something for everyone to fall in love with on this magical little island. The Wild Atlantic Way is the perfect place to start exploring, as the stunning coastal route takes in 9 gorgeous counties along the West of Ireland. Farmhouse B&Bs are dotted all along this route and make for the perfect accommodation as you travel along and discover the Wild Atlantic Way’s hidden gems.

Ireland is jam-packed with fantastic tourist attractions, from historical sites to stunning scenic locations. However, often the main focus is put on the most popular and recognisable attractions, when the Emerald Isle has so much more than just these to explore. Staying in a Farmhouse B&B can unlock these hidden gems for you, as your hosts will have all the inside knowledge on the places to visit that might not appear in a guide book or travel blog.

Along all 2500km of the Wild Atlantic Way’s coastal road, there are so many hidden gems to discover. Fascinating ruins of ancient historical sites, secluded blue-flag sandy beaches and breath-taking viewing points, are all amongst the attractions that you can add to your must-see list. Your B&B hosts will also let you in on the best places to eat, the cosiest pubs to grab a drink in and where to find the best entertainment to embrace Ireland’s “craic agus ceol”.

Visiting the Wild Atlantic Way’s hidden gems is a must-do this year, so make sure you put it on your wish-list and book your Farmhouse B&B now for the perfect stay!

Tags: discover Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way., farmhouse B&B along the Wild Atlantic Way, farmstay holidays along the Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way hidden gems

Christmas Strawberry Trifle Recipe

December 7, 2018

It seems that no matter what array of fancy deserts are prepared at Christmastime, the good old fashioned Christmas Strawberry Trifle is the one that everyone chooses to eat first. Farmhouse B&B hosts are renowned for their fabulous baking skills and know what their guests love to eat at this time of year. This Christmas recipe is so easy to make and everyone just loves it. Try it yourself this Christmas!

Ingredients

60z / 170g of Shop bought triple sponge
135g Packet of Strawberry Jelly
2 tbsp of Custard Powder
2 tbsp of White Sugar
1 Pint / 500mL of Milk
8 Fresh Strawberries
250mL of Fresh Cream
1 Chocolate Flake

Needed: 9 inch wide x 4.4 inch deep trifle dish.

Method

Dissolve one packet of jelly cubes in a heatproof measuring jug using a little boiling water. Now add enough cold water to make the liquid up to 1 pint / 500mL.
Slice the trifle sponge into thick pieces and place in the bottom of you trifle dish.
Wash and half the strawberries and scatter them around the sponge in the trifle dish.
Now pour your jelly into the trifle dish to cover the sponge and strawberries and let it set in the fridge.
Put 2 tbsp of custard powder and 1-2 tbsp of sugar into a bowl.
Mix into a smooth paste with a little milk taken from one pint of milk.
Heat the remaining milk to nearly boiling and pour onto the custard mix, stirring well.
Return to the saucepan and bring to the boil over a low heat, stirring continuously until it thickens.
Remove from heat and leave to cool.
Once the custard has cooled ladle it onto the set jelly in the trifle dish. Put back into the fridge.
Whip your carton of fresh cream with an electric mixer until firm.
Ladle the cream on top of your custard and use a fork to create peaks.
Crumble your chocolate flake on the top of the cream and your trifle is complete.