MeghannMix: Wild and wonderful trips

THERE’S still time to book a summer getaway even if the weather has taken a turn. It’s Ireland after all so rain is to be expected. As the saying goes, there's no such thing as bad weather, it’s bad clothes. So pack for all eventualities: wind, rain and a heatwave.

Lough Derg: If you want to stay close to home, the lakelands of Killaloe and Ballina are a lovely place to escape for a few days. You can rent a boat, there’s hotels and B&B’s.

The two villages, one in Clare, the other in Tipperary, have cafe’s, bars and restaurants. There’s plenty of activities from watersports and hiking. Kayaking, a waterpark and sailing are some things to do on Lough Derg. Moylussa, Millennium Cross and Graves of the Leinstermen are some of the peaks surrounding the lake.

Dingle: There’s no such thing as a bad time in Dingle whatever the weather. From socialising to activities, this Kerry seaside village has it all.

Take a trip around the bay on a boat, drive to the famous Dunquin Pier and take in all the Kingdom splendor along the route. Stop into football legend Páidí Ó’Sé’s bar for some food and drinks.

Mount Brandon is a tough climb but you’ll see why Kerry is so popular when you stand on the peak. Back in Dingle village you have Dick Mac’s and Foxy John’s world renowned pubs, local coffee and ice-cream shops, boutiques and trinket stores.
Achill Island: Ireland’s largest island is a place of adventure.

Rent bikes and cycle around, as I have mentioned in previous columns, get an electric one. Stop off in the small villages and beaches for fuel and a dip. Meander along the bothereens, around the sheep and breath in that Wild Atlantic Way air.

This island is a popular place with campers so if you have a tent you can book into the Keel Beach campsite and make sure to purchase some Achill Island Sea Salt to bring home.

Connemara: This place will always have my heart. I adore the rugged landscape, smell of seaweed floating through the air and the Irish language which can be heard in local shops and bars.

I may be biased but Connemara is home to the best beaches in Ireland (people from Donegal may disagree). Dogs Bay, Glassilaun and Coral Strand in Carraroe, which is Ireland’s largest coral beach, are some of the many beaches worth visiting.

Donegal: It’s only right I include this northern county. Much like Connemara, Donegal has incredible beaches and one that has been on my list for some time now it Murder Hole Beach at Sheephaven Bay. Bunt swimming is not allowed here as it has dangerous rip tides and currents.

Cavan: It might not be the county that jumps to mind but it is a hidden gem. It contains 365 lakes, a lake for every day. It’s a lovely place for walks and wilderness. A place to hide away in nature, peace and quiet. It's home to Cabu Cabins, rustic cabins in the woodlands.

Wicklow: When I think of Wicklow, I think of outdoors, camping, hiking and nature. The Wicklow Mountains are an ideal place to camp, stay in a B&B or book a cabin to really embrace that mountainous feel.

Hike the many trails available, dip in the lakes and relax among the trees. Or for the luxurious stay, check in to Powerscourt Hotel.

Laois: This could be Ireland's best kept secret. It's home to Ireland's largest music festival, Electric Picnic, and Europe's biggest farming event, the National Ploughing Championships.

It's also a great place for a weekend away. Hike the Slieve Bloom mountains, walk the grounds of Emo Court House and visit the historical Rock of Dunamase.

The great thing about each place I have mentioned is that they are perfect to visit all year round. It can be nice to stay in a place during the off season when it's quiet, away from the hustle and bustle.

Rogha na Seachtaine

WATCH: Anticipation is building for the Barbie movie. Barbie and Ken live in Barbie Land and have that carefree lifestyle but they end up in the real world and all hell breaks loose. In cinemas from July 21.

EVENT:My favourite racing festival is almost upon us. The Galway Races, a week of horse racing, fashion and fun. It always has a great atmosphere and people travel from all over Ireland and the UK to soak up that Galway festival feel. From the track in Ballybrit to the streets of Galway city, it's all action packed. It kicks off on July 31.

TREATS: Grá Chocolates are a must try treat. We all love Irish chocolate and Gráinne Mullins is fast becoming a household name for her artisan chocolates. Her collections look like pieces of art as they are hand painted and taste incredible using the best of ingredients.

Contact Meghann by email - meghannmix@limerickleader.ie