Category: Stories & News

With stunning natural landscapes at every turn and an exhilarating adventure around every corner, it’s no surprise that holidaymakers are choosing to cross the Irish sea for their own action-packed getaway. Nothing should hold you back from experiencing nature in all its glory – so whether you’re male or female, young or more mature, make sure exploring Ireland’s wilderness is on your itinerary this August.

From experienced thrill-seekers to curious sight-seers, Ireland is the perfect place to help you feed your need for adventure. With National Women’s Equality Day on the horizon, adventure holiday experts from excursion companies such as Wilderness Ireland bring you the best white-knuckle activities to experience on the Emerald Isle. Ladies with an unquenchable thirst for adventure will need these top tips for exploration to help you plan your next trip.

Hike the jagged headlands

There’s nothing more rewarding than the superb coastal views of Irish peninsulas. For a hike like no other, challenge yourself to the coast-to-coast across this spectacular island. From the staggering 700 ft high Cliffs of Moher to the panorama of the Atlantic Ocean from the cliff tops of the Aran Islands, Ireland proudly boasts some of the world’s most serene scenes – and you won’t want to miss out.

Sea kayak along the coast

If you’re getting excited about stretching your sea legs, there’s exhilaration aplenty when you explore the wild waters by kayak. Take to the open water for an adrenaline-filled afternoon of tackling the waves, where you can discover sea caves, islands and coastal coves – as well as getting up close and personal with some of the most spectacular sea creatures.

Ride through rugged mountain ranges

If you’re more at home on land, a ride through Ireland’s mountain ranges will show you this breathtaking country at its finest. Traverse beautiful peninsulas or challenge yourself to the ascent of mountain passes, where you can work up a sweat and be rewarded with unparalleled views. Whether you’re cycling through Connemara National Park or exploring the entire 202 miles of the western Irish coast, you won’t forget your ride around Ireland in a hurry.

Delve into the depths of history

Whether your getaway is based in the Republic or Northern Ireland, you’ll find yourself faced with fascinating history and rich heritage. Get up close and personal with Northern Ireland’s ancient volcanic eruption as you clamber across County Antrim’s Giant’s Causeway, or why not climb the steps of the legendary landmark Blarney Stone? From daring to explore the haunted Castle Bernard in Kinnity to immersing yourself in the local culture by learning Gaelic, Ireland is bursting with opportunities to try something new.

Whether you’re an amateur adventurer or an intrepid explorer, Ireland is a haven of adventure. Get up close and personal with nature this National Women’s Equality Day, and visit this isle of outstanding beauty. Sleep under the stars in style or rest your weary legs in a traditional manor house, but whatever you do, make sure this beautiful country is on your agenda this August!

When it comes to experiencing nature and sleeping in the great outdoors, most millennials want more than a basic campsite and a hotdog dinner.

Millennials crave outdoor experiences that are unique, special, and above all else, story-worthy. As a millennial and nature lover, I know this to be true.

We’re a generation who largely believes that sharing our experiences are just as important as having them — especially when it comes to outdoor experiences. That’s why millennials will go the extra mile, and even spend a little more money, to have outdoor experiences that are worthy of their social media feeds.

In fact, a recent study conducted by Kampgrounds of America found that millennial campers are “very focused on quality”, value a “nice atmosphere” and look for “lots of activities” when choosing a campsite. The study also noted that 49% of millennial campers said they would like to stay in a cabin when asked “what they aspired to try” when it comes to camping.

Quality, atmosphere, activities and beyond-tent accommodations. It sounds like what millennials are looking for is a glamping experience.

But the term glamping might scare some millennials away. Glamorous camping (glamping) sounds pricey after all.

While it’s true you can spend over a $1,000 per night on some of the world’s most luxurious glamping experiences, there are plenty of affordable glamping destinations that elevate life in the outdoors to the next level while working within a millennial budget. Here are just a few.

1. Wya Point Resort – British Columbia, Canada -$100

With its bright yurts nestled along the rugged coast of Vancouver Island and just minutes away from Pacific Rim National Park, Wya Point is perfect for a millennial couples looking to splurge a little on a romantic seaside escape.

2. Moab Under Canvas – Utah, United States – $89

While higher end canvas “suites” can go for over $300 a night, Moab Under Canvas’ tipis are an affordable way to stay in style and have access to the same amenities and services as higher paying guests.

3. El Jardin Eco Retreat – Jalisco, Mexico – $25

Just a short boat ride from Puerto Vallarta, El Jardin Eco Resort offers a variety of rooms accommodations, including open-air palapas starting at $25 per night.

4. Nature Resort Natterer See – Natters, Austria – $80

Nature Resort Natterer See’s Safari Lodge Tents can accommodate over 6 people have their own kitchens and bathrooms. Plus, there’s the beautiful views of the Alps from the front terrace.

5. Horses and Huskys de los Pehuenes – Neuquen, Argentina

Comprised of two rustic cabins located high in the Andes mountain range, Horses and Huskys offers guest a choice between two rustic cabins. In the summer, you’ll spend your time horseback riding, and in the winter, it’s all about the dog sledding.

When it comes to experiencing the world’s most amazing natural wonders, most travelers come and go, spending only a short amount of time taking them in. But that’s not because they don’t want to spend more time, it’s because by the end of the day, they have to get back to a distant hotel or camp.

But what if you could stay nearby, perhaps even in eye shot of some of the world’s most amazing natural wonders? What if you could cut out the travel time and actually spent some quality time in the presence of nature’s most beautiful sights? It’s possible at these five glamping destinations.

1. Ayers Rock – Australia

Where to Glamp: Longitude 131

Australia is full of luxurious places to glamp, but few boast as privileged a location as Longitude 131. Nestled in the country’s wild outback, Longitude 131 sits in shadow of Uluru (also known as Ayers Rock), a scared site for the region’s indigenous people.

The camp, with its 15 luxury tented rooms, brings an unparalleled level of comfort to the unforgiving setting and serves as a perfect jumping off point to explore the area’s many wonders.

2. Grand Canyon – United States

Where to Glamp: Grand Canyon Under Canvas

Just 40 minutes away from the south rim of the Grand Canyon, Under Canvas’ new Grand Canyon location offers the region’s most luxurious wilderness accommodations.

In addition to day trips to the Grand Canyon, activities like whitewater rafting, horseback riding and zip-lining can all be arranged and found nearby. Back at camp, the canvas tents located within a 56-acre Ponderosa Pine forest and feature king beds and wood-burning stoves.

3. Mt. Fitz Roy (Patagonia) – Argentina

Where to Glamp: Patagonia Eco Domes

Every nature lover and seeker of natural wonders has a trip to Patagonia high on their bucket list.

To sleep in eyesight of the region’s most famous mountain, Mt. Fitz Roy, booked an eco dom at Patagonia Eco Doms. This intimate, wild retreat features just 11 doms, each of which has its own bathroom and unique mountain view.

Nearby, famous treks and even more stunning vistas await.

4. Victoria Falls – Zambia

Where to Glamp: Tongabezi Lodge

The awe-inspiring and impressive Victoria Falls is one of Africa’s most famous natural wonders.
To stay as close as possible without skimping on comfort, rest your head at Tongabezi Lodge. Hidden away on the banks of the Zambezi River, just upstream from the mighty falls, Tongabezi is comprised of six private houses and six river cottages that transport guests to a wild yet refined world.

In addition to trips to Victoria Falls, once-on-a-lifetime dining experiences, whitewater rafting, sunset boat rides and safari day trips can all be arranged.

5. Northern Lights – Norway

Where to Glamp: Holmen Husky Lodge

The northern lights can only be viewed in a select few places around the world. Northern Norway is one of those places.

For a winter trip to remember, and a chance to see the majestic northern lights, head to Holman Husky Lodge. During the day, you’ll get to know and dogsled with the lodge’s team of Alaskan Huskies across beautiful arctic terrain. At night, you’ll retire to a custom, insulated teepee, each which feature a small wood-burning stove and unique floor to ceiling windows.

Main Image Photo Credit: Tongabezi Lodge – Victoria Falls