Today we’re diving into the heart of the Island of Ireland, its Legends and Landscapes, where every cliff, hill and glen whispers stories from a time long past. To get there is just a short flight or ferry ride from Great Britain, and yet arriving can feel like stepping into another world of history, mystery and breathtaking beauty. 

As Halloween approaches, there's no better time to delve into Ireland's ancient traditions. Did you know that the Island of Ireland is the birthplace of Halloween? It originates from the Celtic festival of Samhain, which marks the end of the harvest season and the beginning of winter and even today the spirit of Samhain lingers, with festivals and celebrations that pay homage to the old ways.

To help us explore some more of Ireland’s incredible locations and the stories behind them, I’m joined by John O'Ceallaigh, one of our best loved travel journalists and editors, and an Ireland native from Galway on the west coast of Ireland. John’s deep connection to his country, and his experience writing about it, makes him the perfect guide for our journey today. We’re going to hear his Irish travel diaries today, from the wild beauty of Connemara and charming village of Roundstone to the Wild Atlantic Way’s luxurious coastal castles, and windswept islands, like Aran and Achill, taking in the sights, tastes and sounds along the way because of course Ireland is a feast for all senses. 

Brought to you in partnership with Tripadvisor and Tourism Ireland, whether you're planning your next adventure or simply dreaming of distant shores, let this episode be your gateway to Ireland’s legendary landscapes.

Destination Recap: 

• Connemara, Co. Galway
• Roundstoune, Co. Galway
• Aran Islands, Co. Galway
• Puca Festival, Co. Meath - around the time of Samhain each year (October 31) 
• Ballynahinch Castle, Co. Galway 
• Ashford Castle, Co. Mayo 
• Wild Atlantic Way driving route
• County Kerry
• Carrauntoohil, County Kerry
• Kerry to Cork, Wild Atlantic Way driving route 
• Beara Peninsula, Cork 
• English Market, Cork City
• Ballymaloe House Hotel, Co. Cork 
• Adare Manor, Co. Limerick 
• Park Hotel Kinmare, Co. Kerry 
• Kai, Co. Galway 
• Ard Bia at Nimmos, Galway
• Aniar, Galway 
• Lignum, Galway 
• Skellig Michael, Co. Kerry 
• Skellig Beag, Co. Kerry 
• Achill Island, Co. Mayo
• Wexford, Co. Wexford
• Rock of Cashel, Co. Tipperary 
• Newgrange, Co. Meath 

If you'd like to find out more about the Island of Ireland and source some more inspiration for a future trip, then head over to Tripadvisor's Ireland page - it has some brilliant guides on landscape, culture and gastronomy.

Thanks so much for listening today! 

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