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The Best of British Adventures: From Culinary Delights to Wellness Escapes

A list of things and activities to do in Ireland

Posted at: 27 November, 2024

The Best of British Adventures

Gastronomic Odyssey in Ireland

The Irish culinary scene has transcended traditional norms, with Dublin at the forefront. Restaurants like The Saddle Room and the Michelin-starred Greenhouse showcase Dublin as a premier foodie destination. Embark on a tasting tour with Abercrombie & Kent’s tailor-made itinerary, exploring local gems like The Burren Smokehouse and Ballymaloe Cookery School. From £3,929 per person, this nine-day self-drive adventure unveils Ireland’s culinary richness.

Leisurely Exploration of UK Waterways

Embrace the tranquility of slow travel with a narrowboat journey along the UK’s picturesque waterways. Boutique Narrowboats offers canal boats with luxury amenities, starting from Union Wharf marina. Navigate through the Grand Union Canal and savor the beauty of Warwick, Foxton, Oxford, and Coventry. Rentals available for three, four, or seven days, starting from £504 for three days off-peak.

Pembrokeshire coast

Pembrokeshire coast

Pembrokeshire Coastal Adventure

Pembrokeshire’s volcanic hills and captivating coastline offer a playground for adventure seekers. Pelorus presents the “Peaceful Pembrokeshire” itinerary, a seven-night escapade featuring abseiling, cliff jumping, surfing, and more. Immerse yourself in secluded woodlands with suggested accommodations like Roch Castle Hotel and Penrhiw Priory. From £6,000 per person, unleash your adventurous spirit.

Sailing Serenity to the Isle of Wight

Explore the Isle of Wight, a haven for nature lovers and culinary enthusiasts. Borrow A Boat’s Allegro, a 45ft motor cruiser, offers a luxurious sailing adventure from Southampton. Indulge in trendy restaurants like Thompsons and enjoy off-shore exploration. Charter prices start from £1,150 per day.

Hebridean Hiking Extravaganza 

Black Tomato crafts an exclusive Hebridean Hiking Adventure, spanning multiple islands with unique routes. Traverse the Isle of Skye to the Inner Hebridean Islands on a private rigid inflatable boat. With a suggested length of 10 nights, indulge in luxury Highland lodgings starting from £8,750 per person.

Cruising the UK’s Diverse Coastline

Discover the diverse beauty of the UK’s 7,723-mile coastline with Hurtigruten Expeditions. Join the British Isles — Remote Islands, Natural Wonders, and a Diverse Coastline route. Departing from Dover, the 13-day cruise explores Pembrokeshire Coast, Inner Hebrides, Scilly Islands, and more. From £3,040 per person, embark on a unique maritime adventure.

Wellness Retreat in the Lake District

Experience serenity in the heart of the Lake District at the Gilpin Hotel and Lakehouse. Health Travel offers a three-night wellness stay, including a private spa consultation, personalized treatments, and access to the boathouse, spa, and swimming pool. Reconnect with nature amid Lake Windermere’s beauty, starting from £1,850 per person.

Embark on these extraordinary journeys, each offering a unique blend of adventure, culinary excellence, and wellness, right in the heart of the UK.

Benbaun trek

Benbaun trek

Connemara's Benbaun: A Challenging Trek for Avid Hikers

Nestled in the breathtaking landscapes of Galway, Connemara’s Benbaun stands as the highest peak in the region, inviting serious hikers to embark on a challenging adventure. This demanding trek traverses mixed terrains, presenting both the thrill of boggy grasslands at the outset and the formidable ascent over loose, sharp rocks as you ascend higher. Lace up your boots and come prepared for an exhilarating journey that promises not only physical exertion but also stunning views of quartzite rock glistening like diamonds on a bright day.

The Terrain

The hike to Benbaun is not for the faint-hearted; it demands a certain level of fitness and determination. The initial stretch takes you through boggy grasslands, requiring careful navigation to maintain balance and safety. As you ascend, the landscape evolves into a more challenging terrain with loose and sharp rocks, adding an element of difficulty to the hike. However, the effort is rewarded with an unforgettable visual spectacle as the quartzite rock of the mountain sparkles brilliantly in the sunlight, creating a mesmerizing contrast against the sky.

Duration and Experience

A round trip to Benbaun typically takes around four hours on a good day. Hikers should be prepared for a physically demanding journey that tests both endurance and agility. The reward for completing this challenging trek is not only the sense of accomplishment but also the opportunity to witness the beauty of Galway from an elevated perspective. The panoramic views from the summit are a testament to the natural wonders of Connemara.

Two Peaks in One

For those who find themselves with extra energy and enthusiasm after conquering Benbaun, an additional adventure awaits on the west side. Descend into the saddle between Benbaun and Ben Free, and you’ll find yourself at the base of Ben Free. This second ascent offers a quick climb to the top of Ben Free, effectively providing hikers with two peaks for the price of one. The dual summit experience adds an extra layer of satisfaction to an already rewarding trek.

Embarking on the journey to Connemara’s Benbaun is not merely a hike; it’s a test of one’s physical and mental resilience. The challenging terrain, coupled with the captivating beauty of the quartzite rock, creates an experience that is both demanding and visually stunning. For avid hikers seeking a formidable adventure in the heart of Galway, Benbaun promises an unforgettable expedition, leaving trekkers with a deep appreciation for the rugged beauty of Connemara. So, lace up your boots, embrace the challenge, and ascend to new heights in this captivating corner of Ireland.

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