Explore Ireland

It feels like everyone in New York is suddenly on a Guinness kick and “splitting the G” has become inescapable. So we figured, why not pop over to Ireland for the real thing? For this Explore piece, we found ourselves on the west coast of Ireland for a road trip along the Wild Atlantic Way, chasing sweeping cliffside views and the perfect pint of Guinness. Picture small fishing towns with big surf culture, and a pub scene that’s both lively and cozy. This pocket of Ireland feels truly untouched— from the otherworldly landscapes (there’s a reason Star Wars filmed here) to the deep sense of culture and tradition, where many towns still speak Irish every day.

Here’s how we spent a long weekend on the west coast of Ireland, where the hospitality, tradition and craic is unmatched.

Stay at Adare Manor

Adare Manor is consistently ranked among the top hotels in the world, for good reason with immaculate grounds, a world-class golf course and an unmatched level of hospitality. The estate is hosting the 2027 Ryder Cup and preparations are already underway.

Beyond the golf course, the spa is a standout, and the nearby village of Adare has plenty of charm, featuring local boutiques with thatched roofs. Keep an eye out for a few familiar touches as Kassatex pieces are featured throughout the estate.

Shop the Alabaster Bath Collection, as seen at Adare Manor.

Drive the Slea Head Loop

The Slea Head Loop on the Dingle Peninsula is one of those drives that stays with you. It’s coastal, cinematic, and dotted with stops that feel uniquely Irish. Give yourself a few hours so you can pull over and take in the views. A few highlights along the way:

Dunquin Pier, with its zigzag path straight down to the water.
Hold a baby lamb. You’ll see this sign on the side of the road and you must pull over.
Coumeenoole Beach: turquoise water, rugged cliffs, and a filming location for Star Wars.

Explore Dingle Town

Dingle town is small, colorful and incredibly charming. A coastal town with an abundance of coffee shops, seafood restaurants, local pubs and boutiques. Some notable places: Bean in Dingle for coffee and cinnamon buns, The Fish Box for fresh seafood, and Dick Mack’s for a classic pub experience. This has to be the most photogenic town ever so have your camera at the ready.

Enjoy a Guinness at the Galway Pubs

For a proper pint of Guinness and a night on the town, you have to head to Galway. Shop Street is lined with traditional Irish pubs, with live music spilling out of nearly all of them. Stop in for a trad session and a pint, then wander to the next spot. A few favorites for your pub crawl: Tig Coili, Taaffes, The Quays.