Irish Summer Adventures: Things To Do During Heatwave Without Alcohol
Even though Ireland has become known for its frequent showers and never ending blanket of clouds covering the country, recently, we have been blessed with an unexpected guest: sunshine and heatwaves! There is nothing more tempting to battle the heat by flocking to the nearest pub. However, the Irish summer sun can offer so much more than a chilled pint! Whether you are an adventure seeker, or prefer more relaxed activities we got you covered!
When we feel the temperatures start to rise, we all start to think: where are the best sports for a swim? From Donegal’s wild shores to Wexford’s gentle waves, Ireland offers amazing coastlines and lakes for a nice, refreshing swim. Places such as Lough Cummeenoughter, Co Kerry, Tomies Woods Waterfall, Killarney, The Forty Foot, Dublin, and Kerin Hole, Clare offer safe swimming spots, long walks, and picnics with amazing views of nature. The recent surge in wild swimming means more people than ever are rediscovering the therapeutic joy of cold water and warm sun. So go ahead! Pack some fruit and sambos, head to the beach, and if you are a musician, bring your guitar. Swimming in the evening is perfect. After the water activities, we recommend gathering with your friends and family for a Luau!
(A Luau is a term used in South America when friends bring candles and instruments to the beach to play music and enjoy the evening together under the moonlight. Moon in Portuguese is Lua, which is where the word Luau comes from)
If the water is not your thing, that is no problem! Phoenix Park often stands out as a must-visit destination for a reason! Sit under a tree and unwind, take some time to meditate, or cycle with a friend while listening to music together. If you are up for a 35-minute walk inside the forest, we recommend stopping by the Boat Café in Phoenix Park - it is a lovely little spot to take a break and grab something refreshing. Moreover, if you’re lucky you may encounter a herd of over 400 Fallow Deer that have been ruling the park since the 1660s!
The Irish hills and mountains have never been more alive and inviting for an adventure in the sun! From the Wicklow Way and Stairway To Heaven, summer hiking in Ireland is a revelation. To avoid peak heat, and safer hike, we recommend taking a break from the city and connecting with nature early in the mornings or late afternoons. Do not forget more hidden gems such as Seven Wonders of Fore. Ireland is full of mystical “wonders”, however, the village Fore in County Westmeath offers Seven wonders to find! The Seven Wonders of Fore include the monastery in the bog, the water that flows uphill, the tree that won’t burn, the water that won’t boil, the anchorite in a stone, the mill without a race and the lintel raised by St Feichin’s prayers.
After full days of activities, you would get hungry and in need of a pick-me-up: we have you covered for that as well! For the best and refreshing ice latte with dulce de leche we recommend to visit Alma, 2 South Circular Road Dublin, D08 XTN5. Have you ever tried tapioca? If not, now is the time. Tapioca House has a great selection and a full range of smoothies to go with it. If you are feeling peckish, cool down with Oakberry Açaí, 10 Anne Street. Brazilian trends are everywhere in Ireland these days, and this spot is a must.
Why not host a brunch in your garden and invite some friends?
You can make a sweet menu - a nice coffee, some bruschetta with feta and eggs, an iced matcha latte or an Americano. Add some bossa nova playing in the background and bring out some paint supplies for a creative afternoon together. How adorable is that? And in case you are in love, you could always take some blankets, pillows and some fairy lights or candles, and sit together while stargazing and watching the moonlight!
The Irish heatwave is a rare treat we all look forward to. Along with that, it can offer us the opportunity to explore the country in a new, more refreshing way. Whether you're seeking mindfulness within nature, experiencing the culture and new food, or just a moment of joy in the sun, there’s never been a better time to celebrate what Ireland offers: beyond the beer glass. So, let's raise a toast with a scoop of sea-salted caramel to have an amazing summer together!
Writer: Ieva Dambrauskaite
