where can I immerse myself in traditional culture?
I’m a student from dublin and would like to take two or three days off to explore and enjoy some truely unique irish spots, not the typical, The Burren, Cliff of Moher spots, the more local gems that you never really hear about.
Mainly looking for a hostel/b&b where music and characters are plentiful. Don’t have a car and will probably be going it alone, but well able to use these two legs!=D If anyone has any suggestions/ recommendations from where they’ve stayed or had a lethal session t’wud be greatly appreciated!
Mmm. Being reliant on public transport means you can’t really go TOO far off the the beaten track, but here are a couple of suggestions.
1. Westport, Co Mayo
Mayo is a bit overlooked by tourist compared to say Kerry or Clare, and Westport is a great town in a great location. The Old Mill is a good hostel, and you will not get better traditional music than in Matt Molloy’s pub. Very good, and good value, food at The Pantry and Corkscrew.
2. Baltimore, West Cork
Gorgeous town, wonderful harbour. The Top of the Hill hostel is basic but clean and good value. There is music every night in the Sibín Pub and a world of other restaurants and bars. If you can’t afford to stay in Rolf’s – which is good value but a lot more than a hostel – at least try to eat there.
3. Trá na Rossan, Donegal
This is really off the beaten track, requires effort to get there, and you’ll use those legs alright! But it’s just a fantastic place. The hostel is basic and in the middle of nowhere, but that part of the middle of nowhere is majestic (the hostel is on the side of the hill just behind the furthest away beach in that photo). The Thatch pub is a two mile walk away, but has great sessions. The hostel itself tends to attract characters, not everyone makes it that far or wants to stay somewhere so remote. I think this is the best place in Ireland, bar none. Only open from the start of May to the end of August though.