Latest news with #AshfordCastle
Irish Times
26-05-2025
- Business
- Irish Times
Artisan salt, eggs, butter and leaves producers among winners at Ireland food awards
Ireland's premier artisan food producers have been honoured by leading chefs at the 2025 Euro-Toques food awards . Winners across a range of categories included: Dingle Sea Salt, Coole Farm, Moy Hill Farm, Salt Rock Dairy and Ballylisk. The awards ceremony, held on Monday afternoon at Ashford Castle, recognised products nominated by chefs who use them in their restaurants and voted for by members of the Euro-Toques Ireland Food Council. More than 100 chefs, producers and Euro-Toques members gathered for a celebratory lunch featuring a harvest table of more than 30 Irish producers, including this year's winners and nominees. The annual awards, now in their 39th year were first established in 1996 by the late Myrtle Allen of Ballymaloe House in Co Cork. This year's theme, honouring Ireland's kitchen table, paid tribute to the place where food meets tradition, memory and storytelling and honoured seven champions, all makers of key cookery ingredients. READ MORE The Euro-Toques Ireland Food Council is a European community of chefs and cooks that champion local food integrity, craftsmanship and community-led gastronomy. The 2025 awards celebrated seven winners chosen across the categories of Water, Land, Farm, Dairy, Artisan Produce and Craft/Traditional Skills. The 2025 Awards winners Water Husband and wife Brian Farrell and Marie Holden are owners of West of Dingle sea Salt. Photograph: Bryan O'Brien/The Irish Times Dingle Sea Salt for its innovative and sustainable solar-evaporated, Atlantic-harvested sea salt that uses a fully off-grid, low-carbon process. Land Coole Farm for its cultivation of organic salad leaves using a regenerative approach that restores soil health and supports biodiversity. Farm Moy Hill Farm, Fergal Smith of Moy Hill Farm in Co Clare. Photograph: Paul Sherwood Moy Hill Farm for its ethical, regenerative egg production, its education programmes, community-supported agricultural boxes and on-farm transparency. Dairy (cultured butter) Salt Rock Dairy for handcrafted cultured butter using milk from its own herd and Wexford sea salt, a method that revives traditional butter-making. Dairy (soft cheese) Ballylisk Triple Rose cheese. Photograph: Paul Sherwood Ballylisk for The Triple Rose, a rich triple cream cheese, a luxurious product with depth and distinction, made from a single pedigree herd in Armagh. Artisan produce Wild Irish Foragers for helping to preserve Ireland's edible heritage, keeping forgotten flavours alive with its handcrafted syrups, shrubs and jellies made from foraged botanicals. Traditional craft/skill Seagull Bakery for the championing of bread made from Irish-grown grains and bold fermentation, reimagining traditional baking with creativity and skill. Lunch at the Ashford Castle event was prepared by chefs Liam Finnegan and Jonathan Keane, whose menus served local ingredients. Conor Halpenny of Square Dundalk and chair of Euro-Toques Ireland, said: 'We are honouring those who have kept Irish food grounded – producers and craftspeople who quietly shape our national identity through their work every single day. 'The Irish kitchen table is a symbol of trust, care and resilience,' said Aishling Moore of Goldie in Cork, head of the Euro-Toques Food Council. 'It is where we learn the fundamentals of food – not just how to cook, but how to value what we eat and who we share it with.' Each award category considered a fundamental element of the Irish food story, from ocean-harvested salt and nutrient-rich seaweeds to soil-nurturing salad leaves, pasture-raised eggs, and hand-churned butter.
Irish Examiner
10-05-2025
- Irish Examiner
Deirdre McGlone: After selling Harvey's Point we drove across the US for six weeks
After 30 years of happy hotel-keeping at the beloved Harvey's Point in Donegal, Deirdre McGlone has embarked on a new chapter in the south-west of France, where she and husband Marc Gysling, right, are creating a boutique holiday rental business. But her heart remains full of adventure. From RV-ing across the US to dreaming of New Zealand, Deirdre's travels reflect her love of people and places. Favourite childhood holiday memory Our family always took summer holidays in Donegal. It was mostly in a caravan, though sometimes in a hotel. I loved it when we stayed by the beach. We'd walk, ride horses, eat dinner in local restaurants, and play cards or on the beach with other kids. No digital devices then — just sunshine and long evenings. I remember one hotel in particular, the Glen Bay Hotel, and a lady called Theresa who looked after us. We still talk about her. There were six kids and two parents packed into one caravan and one car but we had so much fun. Most memorable trip In 2017, after selling Harvey's Point, my family and I took our first summer off. We rented an RV in the US and drove from San Francisco to Phoenix over six weeks. We stopped at places like the Grand Canyon and went horse riding in the mountains with cowboys. We didn't plan a strict route — each of us had a job to keep the RV running. The kids were teenagers then and it was the first time we had that long together. It was a team effort and full of memories. I'd go back again in a heartbeat. Maybe to Montana or Canada next time. Most surprising destination I was really surprised by Dubai and Tokyo—two very different trips. I went to Dubai on a benchmarking trip with the tourist board. It was over the top but the attention to detail and service levels were astonishing. It was all so slick. Then I went to Tokyo to promote Donegal and was amazed by the culture — everything was light and fine and punctual to the second. It was so different to what I knew. Marc didn't take to Dubai but I found both trips incredible for different reasons. Favourite hotel It has to be Ashford Castle. I know people often say it but it really is flawless. We used to go for birthdays and for special occasions. The team there treats you like royalty, whether new or returning. The standard is exceptional and it's still full of personality. I also love their sister property, The Lodge, where you can stay and get the full castle experience. Of course, Harvey's Point will always be in my heart but Ashford Castle (right) is a treat. Favourite city to visit I'd say Zurich and Vienna. Zurich is special because that's where my husband Marc is from. We love walking by the lake there. It's clean, calm, and balanced between tourists and locals. We go to a place for Swiss specialities that Tina Turner used to visit. For me, Vienna is elegance itself. I've been twice, and it's all about music, culture, and the Sachertorte in the famous Sacher Hotel. You hardly notice traffic, and the food is both traditional and international. Very stylish and very smooth. Most beautiful country South Africa. The light there is like nowhere else. The food, the landscapes, the atmosphere — it's just extraordinary. It's a place that stays with you. I remember it so vividly. It felt different to anywhere else I'd been. Favourite thing to do while travelling Food and walking, always. We choose destinations for both. We once did a mini camino through Tuscany — Pienza and Chiusi — hiking through vineyards and finishing with beautiful meals. We're not serious hikers but love a good trail followed by great food and wine. It's how we get to know a place: talking to the people who live and work there, tasting their dishes, walking their roads. The outdoors and local culture are what make travel for us. My bucket-list trip New Zealand. We went once, over 20 years ago, before kids and before Harvey's Point was open year-round. We want to go back and see it all again, now that we can travel more freely. It's like Ireland but on a bigger scale. The wine, the landscapes, the memories — we'd love to return. We're hoping to go next year after we get our new French properties up and running.
Irish Examiner
03-05-2025
- Irish Examiner
I was sniffy about visiting Dubai — this is how a recent trip proved me wrong
I have long been sniffy about visiting Dubai. I'd associated it with over-consumerism and gaudy displays of wealth, a scene I can't relate to. A bit like the viral Dubai chocolate that is springing up in every discount supermarket around Ireland, my perception of the city was that it was overrated. Call me stubborn (and many have) but I have a tendency to avoid things other people insist you should like. It's why I've never watched an episode of Game of Thrones or have yet to purchase an air fryer. The other thing you should know about me is that I'm not afraid to be proven wrong. So when I had the opportunity to explore the city through the guise of a 'luxury for less' lens, I packed my bags quicker than you can say 'Knafeh'. Aura SkyPool has the world's highest 360- degree infinity pool After a seven-hour direct flight from Dublin on Emirates, I landed in Dubai in the early hours of the morning and travelled straight to my hotel, Mama Shelter — a relatively new addition to the already impressive roster of hotels the city boasts. Unlike the palatial accommodation serving the popular Palm Jumeirah and Dubai Marina areas, Mama Shelter is a fraction of the price with nightly stays at just under €60. Nestled between the skyscrapers of Dubai's modern Business Bay district, Mama Shelter offers an eclectic flourish around every corner. Colourful neon lighting at the entrance lets you know you've arrived. Consider it both a literal and figurative sign telling you this hotel is anything but average. Despite the reasonable rates, it doesn't scrimp on style or extras. The beds were truly comfortable, and the hotel robe was one of only two I've ever considered buying — the other being from Ashford Castle. The hotel robe at Mama Shelter, Dubai was one of only two I've ever considered buying From its origins as a modest fishing and pearl-diving village, Dubai has transformed into one of the world's most iconic modern cities — a hub of innovation, luxury, and ambition. Fuelled by oil wealth in the 20th century and later by a bold diversification into tourism, finance, technology and real estate, the city has redefined what's possible in the desert. While Dubai's rapid rise is awe-inspiring, it has also sparked global conversations about the balance between progress and the lived realities of those who help build it — a dynamic that remains part of its complex, evolving story. Over a long weekend, we explore a mix of Dubai's iconic landmarks and lesser-known gems, all while marvelling at the city's pick-and-mix skyline — an architectural patchwork that pictures simply can't do justice to. Alongside iconic skyscrapers like the Burj Khalifa are intricate Islamic designs and cultural elements, like wind towers and geometric patterns. A sunset cruise setting off from Dubai Marina is a brilliant way to get my bearings. Sure, the super-rich might have their own yachts — but where's the fun in that? We join a shared cruise with Xclusive Yacht Rental, complete with an onboard barbecue, photo ops, and a relaxed mix of couples, families, and friends. Xclusive Yachts do sunset cruises in Dubai As we sail past the Marina and towards The Palm, the scale of the city comes into focus. Then the sun dipped, the skyline lit up, and Dubai revealed yet more of the reasons visitors can't stay away. Although our hotel hosts not one, but four pools (plus a semi-submerged bar, but I don't like to brag), everyone knows beach clubs make for better people watching. We take a trip to Kaimana Beach, the newest addition to Dubai's popular J1 Beach. Unfortunately, the sea is an off-putting brown hue (blamed on algae) the day we visit, but the inviting pool and exceptional service more than make up for it. We also have the pleasure of sampling the fare chef Michael Collantes and his team had created over lunch in the shade. Think Hawaiian traditional dishes reimagined with a modern twist. It's safe to say I would return for the truffle corn ribs alone. Dubai's culinary scene, in general, is a vibrant mix of diverse international cuisine and traditional Emirati dishes, meaning even picky eaters will find something wonderful to enjoy. With almost 1,200 new restaurant licences issued last year, it has long earned it stripes as a culinary hotspot, appealing to food enthusiasts, gourmet travellers and industry innovators. The Michelin Guide is no stranger here either, and in 2024, there were 19 restaurants with a star rating. We are lucky to visit Michelin Green Star restaurant Lowe, a trendy spot with a pared-back style and a sustainable ethos, including a commitment to nose-to-tail dining. The open kitchen features a wood oven, a grill and a rotisserie, which play a key role in many of the global dishes. I enjoy local oysters with onion and shiso granita to start, followed by the Lowe Wagyu triple cheeseburger with chipotle, onion rings, mustard, and pickles. Let me just say that if there's a better burger in the world, I've yet to try it. Perfume making at Oo La Lab On Saturday morning, we waft towards a fragrance workshop at Oo La Lab. We aren't quite sure how this will go down with the two men in our group, but it turns out to be a nice little icebreaker. With oud scenting so many of the spaces we visit on our trip, getting to craft our own blend feels like a fitting — and fragrant — souvenir. Another morning, we wake early for breakfast at Aura Skypool. Featuring the world's highest 360- degree infinity pool, perched 200 metres above the city, it delivers the kind of panoramic views that stop you mid-sentence. The time-slotted visits and Instagram-snapping crowd isn't really my thing, but I can certainly appreciate the appeal. DTCM at Alserkal Avenue For a change of pace, we seek out more culture. Tucked away in a former industrial district, Alserkal Avenue is where Dubai swaps its gloss for a little grit, offering a free-to-enter open-air arts hub that feels refreshingly off the beaten path. It's the kind of place where galleries spill into courtyards, coffee shops double as creative studios, and every corner invites you to linger a little longer. Initially, I am unenthused about a trip to the Dubai Frame, the UAE's latest cultural landmark because of its 'touristy' nature, but dutifully queue with everyone else to gain entry to the iconic structure. I'm glad I do, as I am rewarded with incredible views of old and new Dubai, and a perspective of the connections between the emirate's rich past and dazzling present. Taking those contrasts in from the bridge at the top is an unexpected highlight. An evening heritage safari to Al Marmoom Oasis The real icing on this unexpected feast, however, is an evening heritage safari to Al Marmoom Oasis. From hotel pickup to a dusty starlit drop-off, this desert adventure packs a little bit of everything into one unforgettable evening. We ride through golden dunes in an open top jeep and dine under the stars on a six-course Bedouin feast. With falcons soaring, horses galloping, camels parading, and fire dancers lighting up the night, the entertainment is as rich as the setting. Add in stargazing, henna painting, and genuine hospitality, it feels like a perfectly curated taster of everything the desert has to offer. Stargazing and skyscrapers aside, the real surprise for me is the sheer positivity of everyone I meet. From waiters and guides to bathroom attendants and restaurant owners, there is a shared sense of optimism about the city's future — and a genuine warmth toward visitors. In a world that feels particularly unstable right now, that kind of energy is unexpectedly uplifting. Escape notes Rosaleen stayed in Mama Shelter Dubai, where a medium Mama room costs AED 239 (€58) per night. The 20ml EDP fragrance design and mixology group workshop at Oo La Lab is AED 407 (€98) per person. The luxury yacht shared tour with a barbecue costs AED 210 (€50) per adult and AED 160 (€38) per child. A pool lounger at Kaimana Beach costs AED 250 (€60) per day, while sunbeds by the beach are AED 300 (€72) per day. Dubai Frame's adult tickets cost AED 50 (€12) and children's cost AED 20 (€5). Breakfast at Aura is AED 95 (€23) per person. Entry to Alserkal Avenue is free and most art exhibitions are also free. The evening Heritage Safari at Al Marmoom Oasis is AED 694 (€167) per person, and includes a hotel pickup and drop-off. See the official Visit Dubai website to plan your stay and access more information on the city. Rosaleen was a guest of Visit Dubai
