You may remember earlier in the year we posted a blog about a wicklow lady who has put forward the whole County of Wicklow (Under the category of communities under 150,000 People) for the World LivCom awards.

Local wicklow glass craftsman makes unique mirrors and glass furniture

A good friend of ours runs wicklow glass and glazing down at the harbour in wicklow town and most local businesses would use him (Wicklow Glass and Glazing) to replace their glass windows or fit ornate handmade mirrors etc, however there is another side to thsi glass making business.

David Swail is a very talented craftsman and is creative with his glass making abilities.

So I just had to let you all know about some of his unique glass furniture and pieces that he has made which can bring a truly original and spacious look to your home and garden design.

These days, when people are looking for unique items to enhance their current homes rather than buying a new home, Davids glass peices could be just what your looking for.

He can create bespoke Mirrors with detailed design to fit your wall / corner/ wardrobe / ceiling space.(mirror pictured below €90)

He can create unique glass round tables with glass base that can contain ornaments or items of personal interest eg dried flowers, figurines, coloured glass pebbles or whatever your imagination can fire up.

He also creates gorgeous windows and porches with coloured glass in intricate patterns which make a lovely colourful light-reflecting area to sit and read a book or just invite warm rays of coloured light into your home.

So if your thinking of redesigning your house, renovating your home, doing up your bedroom or adding on an interesting reading corner in the garden then why not contact David today and see what he can do.

The best part is that Davids designs are  very affordable with unique mirrors starting from only 90 euro!

Your very own unique and original made to measure mirror design by local craftsman - sounds like a gift to me!

Click the images below to view larger image

Chocolate and Ice Cream factory Tullow Co Carlow

Whilst visiting Margaret at Ashford Self Catering in Wicklow, she was showing us some of the local tourist attractions that she recommends to her visitors and one which caught my eye was the Chocolate and ice cream factory based in Rath, Tullow Co Carlow.

Having a sister who is a chocolate loving chef I immediately knew what we are gonna do this Christmas when she comes home for a visit from abroad! That’s right folks- off to chocolate heaven in the chocolate garden of Ireland!

Margaret mentioned that you can even make your very own choclates and bring them home  ( if you haven’t eaten them immediately of course) .

There is a chocolate cafe and chocolate tours are available (with booking only) on +353 (0) 59 6481999

Products include Handmade chocolates and wedding favours, caramel waffles and butter biscuits, chocolate cakes for weddings and special occasions,traditional boiled sweets and fudge, sumptuous hot chocolate too of course! You can also buy online - see website below.

An ideal day out for all the family you can enjoy a visit to the Chocolate Factory and then pop next door to Rathwood Home and Garden World or enjoy a family forest walk in Rath ( also adjacent) whilst Rathgall Ring Fort, Altamount Gardens and Ducketts grove, all popular atractions are under 12 mins away

www.chocolategarden.ie
Tel: 059 648 1999

Tell them we sent ya!

Roz and Skippythedog
Living Life The Wicklow Way

Ashford Self Catering Co Wicklow

Ashford Self Catering at Rossana Farm just outside Ashford village offer two 3 bedroom, and one 4 bedroomed and wheelchair friendly self catering holiday homes.

We paid them a visit over the weekend and we’re amazed at the peacefulness of the courtyard houses.

We met Margaret and Eugene who have been working extremely hard on these gorgeous holiday homes whilst also running a working farm, doing a part time job and engaging in (Eugenes) love of tractors.!

With lovely little touches like a variety of wellies, hi-vis jackets for late night walkers, bikes to use, herbs growing in the middle of the courtyard for everyone to use etc these 3 holiday homes are the perfect get away for those who like to cater for themselves when holidaying in Wicklow Ireland.

Both Margaret and Eugene were well versed and knowledgeable of local attractions and things to do in the area and we look forward to working with them in the future with our ‘networking wicklow initiative’ which is bringing Wicklow based businesses together to help one another.

Rossana Farm offers Pet friendly accommodation which is music to my ears, and they have a variety of games, books, childrens toys etc in the communal area which guests can take to their houses as they wish.

With an Eco friendly ethos, Ashford Self Catering Holiday Homes have their finger on the pulse of what people want from a modern holiday in Ireland.

Located under an hours drive from Dublin along the M50 just outside the beautiful country village of Ashford, local amenities include Horseriding, Ballyknocken cookery school, Mount Usher gardens, Chester Beattys Countrystyle
Lounge, the breathtaking Glendalough in the Wicklow Mountains National Park and the infamous Wicklow Way Walking Trail of course.

Why not visit them on their website at www.ashfordselfcatering.com or read more about  here >>

Photos below- If you cannot view them login to facebook and view our album there ( click here  >>

Reiki Workshop in Wicklow Aug 28 and 29

A few words about the Reiki Workshop:

I am currently running Reiki Level 1 Workshops in Wicklow Town.

Anyone can learn and become attuned to Reiki. It is a gentle yet powerful energy which can be used to help heal ourselves and others.

Reiki is a fantastic gift to give to yourself. Feel the benefits from deep relaxation physically, emotionally and spiritually.

This 2 day course is packed full of information you will use for the rest of your life.

Workshops are kept small and usually run over Saturday and Sundays, however if the group is only 2 people one day is sufficient.

You will receive a certificate and manual and on going advice and support. A light lunch is provided.

Late drinks at the Grand Hotel Wicklow

Fancy a late drink in Wicklow but not into the disco side of things? Check out Room 404 at the Grand hotel. Now that’s my kinda place!

Wicklow Town’s newest event, Room 404, is now going to stay open til 2 in the Grand Main Bar!

So if you feel like a late drink and taking advantage of Silvers drinks promos then why not pop in here and check out the alternative vibes!

Music on the night is provided by a range of Wicklow’s most skilled DJs and is usually of the more chilled funk and disco style!

A real aural treat

www.grandhotel.ie

“Using Homeopathy at Home” workshop

Understanding the key principles in Homeopathy for confident use at home, case taking for day to day complaints that visit your family, when to prescribe, when to wait, when to get other help, how to recognise improvement.

This is the only workshop we are doing in 2010 due to time constraints!

Fri 13th Aug eve and Sun 22nd afternoon; €100 in total.

Feel free to send in your topics for inclusion during the workshop.

Wicklow Town Hostel aka Captain Halpins’ Bunkhouse Official Opening

Fun for al the family - Come on down to Wicklow Town and have a laugh courtesy of Captain Halpins’ Bunkhouse launch today at 3pm till late!

Come along from 3 o’clock to see our local historical hero, Captain Halpin in the flesh return to his one time home- Leitrim Lodge (beside the Garda Station). His old home now houses Captain Halpin’s Bunkhouse, Wicklow Town’s great new tourist hostel.

He will present live music f…or your delectation.

So come and party with:
Tommy Benn
Daithí Ó’Drónaí
Mister Spectator
MC will be Captain Halpin (aka Ciaran Olahan)

During all of this our very own Mayor Seán Smullen will officially launch Captain Halpin’s Bunkhouse. Refreshments will be provided. We look forward to seeing you and your friends this Sunday 18th July 2010 at 3p.m.

Book your party at the grand hotel and get free finger food and room hire.

Yes folks, you can avail of this fantastic offer if you book before 20 july 2010 so get to it!!

Or perhaps you fancy partying the night away in your own nightclub? Why not contact us to find out about hiring Silvers nightclub for your Party?

‘Tis the silly season and we have some great summer sizzlers going on including the following entertainment:

• Friday 30th July: “Room 404″ 6 different DJs 6 Different styles of alternative music.
• Lots of Drink Promos every week in Hotel bar @ 10pm.
• “New Blood Band Night” with “Mister Spectator” and “Grim Vandango” in Silvers Nightclub @ 10pm with DJ Sparky later.
  €5 entry before 11.30pm
• Saturday 31st July “Feedback” @ 10pm in Silvers Nightclub with DJ Glen Boyce later.
  €5 entry before 11.30pm
• Sunday 1st August “Rio Carnival Night” with Mario Gnoma on Bongos and Live Percussion with Live DJs Stitch, Mr. Noodles & Sparky playing Samba Sounds in Silvers Nightclub @ 10pm.
  Full Carnival show on Night with Rio Performers. Fancy Dress.
• “Tom & Shea” Craic agus Ceoil in the Hotel bar @ 6pm till 8pm

The events happening at The Grand Hotel for the Wicklow Regatta:

• July 25th The Regatta Queen Ball in The Grand Hotel
• July 26th The Singing Pubs in Wynnes Bar Entertainment from all the locals and Bar Staff
• July 27th Young at Heart in Abbey Room afternoon Tea with Cakes from Super Value
• July 28th Junior Stars in there eyes from 7pm
  Contestants welcome please contact Jenny on 0870640337
• July 29th Beauty Night with Catwalk and Beauty Show from 11am
• July 30th PJ Gallagher Playing in Silvers Nightclub 9.00pm
• July 31st Hoedown in the Abbey Room starting at 8.30pm

For more details or to book tickets etc contact us on +353 (0)404 67337
or Email: reservations@grandhotel.ie

Why not join Silvers Nightclub on Facebook and avail of special offers etc?

www.facebook.com/silversnightclubwicklow

New Local Avoca Website for Tourists

A group of FAS workers at the Avoca IT Centre have developed a website for those planning to visit Avoca as part of a CE scheme. This community website features information on plcces to stay, eat, things to do and kids entertainment.

It’s an old fashioned html site but certainly covers the neccessary information and a great introduction to basic web skills.

The new website can be found at www.visitavoca.ie

Wicklow Summer Festivals 2010

Well folks, it’s that time of the year again when it’s time to enjoy your local community festivals in wicklow county and July sure has its’ fair share.

Upcoming Festivals include:

The Bray Summerfest:

This festival runs over July and August with loads of family fun events such as air displays, music, competitions and fun fairs. for details visit their website at:

www.braysummerfest.com

Wicklow Regatta ,

One of  Wicklows’ most popular festivals 2 week festivals with the annual regatta ball a night to be remembered, family frienldy events include crab catching, raft racing, on street entertainment and facepainting etc.

visit them online at www.wicklowregatta.com

Arklow Seabreeze Festival

This festival takes place from 16-18 July this year and features a Pipe band competition and music on the streets… this festival is a good party festival for all the adults out there.

Greystones Town Festival

Greystones know how to throw a party and no nicer venue than the streets of greystones itself and the Modern and fun Greystones Theatre.! Very Family friendly, this event includes childrens activites, cinema shows, comedy acts and workshops, farmers market , carnival.. need we say more?

For information visit www.greystonestheatre.com

Now, no reason to be a blue girl or boy then- get out there, have fun and start living life the wicklow way!

Our Favourite Local Artist Helen Pullen shares her thoughts

HEDGEROWS AND THINGS

As a member of Greystones Art Group I take part in their annual exhibition held in St. Patrick’s Recreation Centre, Church Road in Greystones, which is being held this year from 7th to the 11th July.

Every time I visit Greystones I am sad to see the changes being made to the buildings and especially the harbour.

The one area that has not changed too much is the coast road from Greystones to Wicklow meandering through Kilcoole and Newcastle.  At this time of the year the road narrows because of all the new growth in the hedges, which is lovely to see.  In a lot of places it is like driving along the side of a wild meadow and every so often a bird will flit across from one side of the road to the other.

On my journey back home after  delivering  my pictures to Greystones last night I was driving along slowly enjoying the sights and smells of the hedgerows, when I rounded a bend and came across a tractor with one of those long armed hedge cutting things.

I felt sad that he was cutting into all the nests and burrows in the hedge.  Having been brought up in the heart of the country and from a farming background I know it is not really a high priority to keep high hedges and I know that everyone is entitled to cut down their own cultivated hedging but I wish less people did this.

Our bird and bee population is on the decline and destroying their homes is one reason for this.

“Practise what your preach” I hear you say – well I do – I have a huge hedge outside my house and it is never cut until the end of August!

Helen

PS I am also taking part in the Signal Arts Centre Members Exhibition from the 6th to the 18th July!

Helen I totallya gree and the same is going on in Wexford as witnessed by myself and my young nieces last week! In fact I thought it was illegal not to cut it from march to august but have seen it done so often in wicklow and wexford… Anyone got an opinion on this?

Health & Well Being Day in Wicklow Town Sat Week 17 July

Our good friend and Wicklow Reiki Therapist Orla Keogh of Sole to Soul Therapie has been in touch with us here at The Wicklow Way with information on a planned Family Information day on Health and Wellbeing in Wicklow Town Saturday week.

Orla of Sole to Soul Therapies Wicklow says:

The event is being organised by myself and 2 other therapists in the town and the whole objective of it is to highlight local complementary therapists and therapies.

We are aiming to introduce people to new therapies and will be conducting mini treatments on the day.

There will be raffles for gifts and therapies and a kiddies corner. We envisage a fun pack day with plenty to see and buy.

With so many holistic therapist coming together the atmosphere should be inviting, calm and stress free.

Some local Artists will also be displaying work and we will have plenty of home baked produce for sale.

So if you can answer YES to any of the following questions then maybe you best get on down to wicklow town!

Q:
Would you like to get rid of your stress?
Do you need more energy?
Would you like to sleep better?
Are you in need of more relaxation?
Does your immune system need boosting?
Could you do with more self confidence?

These are many of the questions we ask ourselves from time to time at different stages of our lives.

If you would like direction and guidance towards living a healthy stress free life style, why not come a visit The Health & Well Being Day in Wicklow Town.

We are all local therapists from Wicklow Town area who have come together to create a family fun information day. Whatever your need is we can help guide you towards the right therapy or life style for you and your family.

The day will be packed full of sample therapies such as Deep Tissue Massage, Aromatherapy, Emotional Freedom Technique,Facial Analysis, NLP, Reiki, Reflexology, Bach Flower Remedies,Life Coaching for Women, Fitness advice,……and many, many more.

http://skinassure.com/

There will be MyChell Dermaceuticals skin care products, Healthy Eating Information, Home Baking, Hand Made Jewellery, Angel Card Readings and much more on the day.

We are striving to create a fun filled family friendly environment with lots of raffles for gift vouchers & complimentary treatments.

“To keep the body in good health is a duty… otherwise we shall not be able to keep our mind strong and clear.”
Buddha

See you there….

Guided Walk and Evening Meal for Singles July 10th

Don’t forget folks- a great way to enjoy a walk with some matesd and maybe even find love… terry and hilltop treks singles walks in wicklow:

Walk in Enniskerry for Singles.
The walks are organised for like minded single people who enjoy the great outdoors and some fresh air. They also provide the ideal event for them to meet someone new, as walking can be an excellent, fun and informal way to meet new people.

Walking Event:

The walk will be an easy type of 2 -3 hrs in length with a break for lunch that’s provided as we stop along the way.

There will be plenty of stops and chances to take in the incredible scenery along the walk.

Afterwards you will have some time to freshen up.
We will then meet up for an evening meal in Nancy Murphy’s,
Where you can also enjoy a drink and they have some live music.
No previous walking experience is required.
Tickets cost: €65
Price Includes:

* Guided walk near Enniskerry with qualified guide.
* Packed Lunch for walk.
* Evening Meal in Nancy Murphy’s with some live music afterwards

Places are limited so book now to secure your place.

You can ring Terry on 087-7849599, e-mail: info@hilltoptreks.ie or visit http://www.hilltoptreks.ie/walk_dinner.htm for more information and booking.

If you wish to book and don’t have access to the internet, you can book your place by postal order or cheque made payable to Hilltoptreks Ltd.

And post it to Hilltoptreks, 17 Dodder Lawn, Dodder valley Park, Firhouse D24.

Captain Halpins Bunkhouse aka Wicklow Town Hostel has some really great ideas going on!

Trish and the gang have organised daily pick up trips to one of County Wicklows’ main tourist attractions : Glendalough.

Pick-up at daily 10.30am  from their front door! Perfect for the backpacker or visitor to wicklow who is travelling light, the best part is that it is very inexpensive coming in at around 15 euro pp and you can be 1 person or a group - they cater for all.

Wicklow town has been in need of a cheaper alternative for accommodation for those who like adventure and don’t feel the need to book a hotel.

Hostels are particuarly great fun for younger people as they can meet other like minded individuals and cook up a storm in the shared kitchen!

Having said that there is of course, no age limit to hostelling in Ireland and wicklow town hostel aka Halpins Hostel aka Captain Halpins Bunjkhouse ( to be exact) welcomes people of all ages.

With local knowledge and perhaps most importantly , real passion, Wicklow Town Hostels’ staff will help you make the most of your visit to Wicklow with suggestions for day trips, activities, places to eat and drink and perfect picnic spots!

Captain Halpins Bunkhouse is located beside the sea with the hiking trails of the Wicklow Mountains a short car ride away.

Your most difficult task each day will be deciding what you want to do.

So pop in –they are connected by direct hourly bus routes to Dublin Airport and Rosslare Harbour, they are also on mainline rail .

Facilities Include:

• great town centre location
• free WiFi
• free use of Skype headphones
• cosy, mellow and Relaxed atmosphere
• bright, airy, well-equipped kitchen
• log fire in common room on cold days
• loads of local information from our friendly staff
• clean, spacious dorms, twin or family rooms
• 6 out of 7 rooms ensuite
• bike friendly, secure lock and bike wash
• no lockout or curfew
• free breakfast included
• laundry facilities

Captain Halpins Bunkhouse, Bridge Street, Wicklow Town, Wicklow Ireland

Further details or enquiries can be made by emailing them at info@wicklowtownhostel.ie or alternatively Telephone them on +353 (0) 404 69126 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting              +353 (0) 404 69126      end_of_the_skype_highlighting or visit them online at www.wicklowtownhostel.ie

We look forward to their very bright future here in Wicklow.

Roz and Skippythedog
Living Life The Wicklow Way

View Wicklow Town Hostel in a larger map

LGBTQ Pride Dublin

The Wicklow Way just want wish everyone attending the Pride Parade today In Dublin an Absolute Ball!!  The Pride Parade takes place in Dublin Today www.dublinpride.ie

Hope everyone has a great night and keeps safe. xxxx

Wicklow Town Hostel: Captain Halpin’s Bunkhouse

Captain Halpin’s Bunkhouse is a beautiful Victorian House with original
features from the 1870’s when it was lived in by Captain Robert Halpin -
our very own Wicklow Town hero. He was a pioneer of his time and he laid
telegraphic cable around the globe.

Wicklow Town hostel has a full range of facilities to cater to your every holiday need and true local knowledge to give you the inside information for all local wicklow events and activities.

It is located smack bang in the centre of Wicklow Town on the East Coast of the Green Isle beside the Irish Sea.
The pubs, restaurants and nightclubs are at most three minutes away if you walk really slowly!

• History buffs, come follow Wicklow’s Historical Walk and learn about our rich historical background from the arrival of the St Patrick to the laying of the first transatlantic cable.

• Outdoor enthusiasts can follow the beautiful trails of the Garden County of Ireland on foot, bicycle, kayak or horseback.
• Fun lovers can get dizzy with some Irish music and wind up in one of Wicklow’s Nightclubs.

Whatever your passion, come and visit – Captain Halpin’s Bunkhouse will
give you a warm welcome and a warm bed.

Bunks start at €16- check out the website for more information.

Info:
Captain Halpin’s Bunkhouse
Bachelor’s Walk
Wicklow Town

Email: info@wicklowtownhostel.ie
www.wicklowtownhostel.ie

ph:+-353-(0)404-69126

Some nice images of the Round Ireland Yacht Race

On Sunday we went to see the round ireland yacht race start off and my friend Mary took some lovely pics from our view on the Wicklow head.

Good luck to all of you out there on the High seas!! See you when you get back.

Guided Walk and Evening Meal for Singles July 10th

Walk in Enniskerry for Singles.

The walks are organised for like minded single people who enjoy the great outdoors and some fresh air.  They also provide the ideal event for them to meet someone new, as walking can be an excellent, fun and informal way to meet new people.

Walking Event:

The walk will be an easy type of 2 -3 hrs in length with a break for lunch that’s provided as we stop along the way.

There will be plenty of stops and chances to take in the incredible scenery along the walk.

Afterwards you will have some time to freshen up.

We will then meet up for an evening meal in Nancy Murphy’s,

Where you can also enjoy a drink and they have some live music.

No previous walking experience is required.

Tickets cost: €65

Price Includes:

• Guided walk near Enniskerry with qualified guide.
• Packed Lunch for walk.
• Evening  Meal in Nancy Murphy’s with some live music afterwards

Places are limited so book now to secure your place.

You can ring Terry on 087-7849599, e-mail:  info@hilltoptreks.ie or visit http://www.hilltoptreks.ie/walk_dinner.htm for more information and booking.

If you wish to book and don’t have access to the internet, you can book your place by postal order or cheque made payable to Hilltoptreks Ltd.

And post it to Hilltoptreks, 17 Dodder Lawn, Dodder valley Park, Firhouse D24.

Wicklow Regatta Festival 2010

The annual wicklow regatta takes place this july / Aug with an abundance of fun family friendly events. The team are looking for volunteers and sponsors who may have a bit of time on to spare so if your looking to get involved with your local wicklow community then this is the ideal opportunity.

If you have some time to spare and would like to help contact them here

This year is the 132nd Regatta Festival.  Starting Saturday 24rd July 2009

www.wicklowregatta.com