Ireland
A Journey of the Senses
When one thinks of Ireland, rolling green hillsides, striking coastal panoramas, affable people, and Guinness are perhaps the first things that come to mind. But behind all of Ireland’s beauty and bounty is also an impressive foodie scene just waiting to be discovered. Join Ker & Downey as we reveal The Foodie’s Ireland – from hidden gin distilleries and celebrity cooking classes to wild food forages and VIP brewery tours, it promises to be a journey of the senses.
Begin your journey in Cork where a unique program will be tailored for you to sample the finest culinary spots of the region. Just 15 minutes out of the city is the Old Jameson Distillery. Set on a 15-acre estate dating back to the 18th century, it offers an interesting insight into Irish whiskey-making, with several tastings of this iconic spirit. For lunch, we suggest visiting the tiny fishing village of Cobh, boasting panoramic views of one of the finest natural harbors in the world.
While here, stay at Ballyvolane, an elegantly furnished, family-owned period home surrounded by an idyllic landscape of gardens and greenery. One of the highlights here is the property’s gin distillery which is producing the award-winning ‘Bertha’s Revenge’. The rest of your time at Ballyvolane is spent at your leisure, with the exception of a planned dinner from the four-course set menu – an integral part of the Ballyvolane experience.
Following Ireland’s beautiful south coast, arrive in Wexford for your next culinary discovery. Located on the dramatic Hook Penninsula, Dunbrody Country House combines Irish heritage with a unique culinary atmosphere. Owned by celebrity chef Kevin Dundon, this is the perfect setting to enhance your senses. During your stay make the most of a one-day cookery course hosted by Kevin in Dunbrody’s impressive kitchens.
Your culinary journey continues north to Kilkenny at BrookLodge, set in the Macreddin Village. En route to Kilkenny, you will be treated to lunch at the Manor House on the Mount Juliet Estate, as well as a VIP tour at Smithwick’s. This true brewery promises to sweep you away on a journey of more than 300 years of history behind Ireland’s most popular ale. Upon arrival at BrookLodge, guests can discover the secret behind wild food foraging and the resulting dishes as served at the hotel’s award-winning restaurant, The Strawberry Tree, renowned for being Ireland's first certified organic restaurant.
Complete your Irish food foray in Dublin, where you will be treated to a Guinness connoisseur’s private experience at the Guinness Storehouse. Discover the history and origins of the world-famous stout prior to dining at the Michelin-starred Chapter One restaurant as your final farewell.
Book an Ireland Food Tour with Ker & Downey
Contact a Ker & Downey destination specialist to customize your own journey, and read more about the seasonality and pricing in Northern Europe. For even more travel inspiration, follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.