Afleveringen

  • On this week’s episode of Travel Tales with Fergal, I’m joined by Chef Karl Wilder, co-founder of The Chef Tours, for a fascinating conversation about food tourism and the stories behind some of the world’s most iconic dishes.


    The Chef Tours offers small-group food and wine experiences in Seville, Paris, Buenos Aires, Istanbul, Berlin and Mexico City, with local chefs guiding guests to the hidden restaurants, secret bars and authentic flavours you won’t find on typical tourist routes.


    From the origins of the kebab, nachos, burritos and margaritas to the way food opens up the history and culture of a place, Karl brings insight, passion and plenty of great stories to this flavour-filled episode.

    For More Information on The Chef Tours go to https://thecheftours.com


    Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 award winning travel podcast Travel Tales with Fergal listened to in 140 countries worldwide. The podcast aims to share soul-lifting travel memoirs about daydream worthy destinations.

     

    For more information, phtoos and stories you can follow me on

    Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

    Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

    Twitter @FergalTravel

    YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

     

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • My guest this week on the Travel Tales with Fergal Podcast is Les Walsh, Head Concierge at the stunning Cliff House Hotel in Ardmore, County Waterford.


    Ardmore is a beautiful seaside village that is close to my heart, and a place I return to every summer for swims off the pier. Taking its name from the Irish Aird Mhór, meaning “great height”, Ardmore is steeped in history and local tradition, with strong links to Saint Declan, who is said to have founded a Christian community here in the early 5th century.


    The Cliff House Hotel sits dramatically above the sea and is one of Ireland’s most special five-star hotels. Home to the Michelin-starred House Restaurant, and the newest member of Ireland’s Blue Book, it has helped place Ardmore firmly on the map as a luxury destination.


    Les is a member of the prestigious Les Clefs d’Or, the international association of professional hotel concierges, and in this episode he shares his insights into great hospitality, the magic of Ardmore, and the experiences that make this corner of Waterford so memorable including nearby Lismore, Youghal, the Mahons Falls in the Comeragh mountains and foody favourite town Dungarvan on the Greenway.


    We also touch on Ardmore’s rich heritage from St Declan’s Monastery to its 12th-century Round Tower, in a conversation full of sea, stories, history and five-star hospitality


    I love the Blue Book because they are often family-owned and run Irish Country House Hotels, Manor Houses, castles and restaurants. A Blue Book voucher would always be my top travel gift recommendation and their website is https://www.irelands-blue-book.ie.

     

    Check out the Cliff House Hotel here https://cliffhousehotel.ie


    Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 award winning travel podcast Travel Tales with Fergal listened to in 140 countries worldwide. The podcast aims to share soul-lifting travel memoirs about daydream worthy destinations.

     

    Please follow me

    on Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

    Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

    Twitter @FergalTravel

    YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

     

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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  • In this episode of Travel Tales with Fergal, I talk all about the city of Pittsburgh in the USA, ahead of Aer Lingus’ new direct Dublin–Pittsburgh service, launching on 25 May 2026.


    My guest today is Aadam Soorma, Head of Marketing at Trace Brewing, for a local’s guide to a city that has transformed from steel and industry into one of America’s most creative, welcoming and community-driven destinations.


    From Pittsburgh’s craft beer scene and neighbourhood culture to Bloomfield, Lawrenceville, sport, food, art and the city’s famous black-and-gold pride, Adaam shares why Pittsburgh should be firmly on Irish travellers’ radar.


    For more information check out https://www.visitpittsburgh.com


    For more information on the new Aer Lingus Pittsburgh route check https://www.aerlingus.com


    Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 European award winning travel podcast Travel Tales with Fergal listened to in 140 countries worldwide.


    The podcast aims to share soul-lifting travel memoirs about daydream worthy destinations.

     

    Please follow me

    on Instagram

    @traveltaleswithfergal

    Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

    Twitter @FergalTravel

    YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal


    #VisitPittsburgh

     

     

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • In this episode of Travel Tales with Fergal, Fergal chats with Aaron Brennan of JustCover about what travel insurance really covers, why it matters, and how it can help when plans go wrong. 


    From claims tips and medical emergencies abroad to repatriation, the EHIC, and cover for older travellers or those with pre-existing medical conditions, this episode is packed with practical advice. 


    They also discuss changing travel trends, disruption in the Middle East, and JustCover’s new office opening in Carlow, creating 22 jobs. 

    Whether you are planning a summer holiday, a city break, or a longer adventure, this episode is full of useful advice to help you travel with confidence. 


    Visit their website here https://www.justcover.ie


    Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 award winning travel podcast Travel Tales with Fergal listened to in 140 countries worldwide. The podcast aims to share soul-lifting travel memoirs about daydream worthy destinations.

     

    Please follow me

    on Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

    Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

    Twitter @FergalTravel

    YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

     

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • In this episode of Travel Tales with Fergal, we journey to the spectacular Causeway Coast in Antrim to explore one of Northern Ireland’s most exciting new luxury destinations: Dunluce Lodge.

     

    Overlooking the 4th fairway of Royal Portrush Golf Club and the wild North Atlantic Ocean, Dunluce Lodge has swiftly earned its place among the region’s finest hotels. Opening its doors in April 2025, just in time for The Open Championship, the lodge welcomed hometown hero Rory McIlroy and his family during one of golf’s most celebrated weeks.

     

    I sat down with General Manager Stephen Meldrum to explore the story behind this elegant 35-suite retreat with sweeping views of one of the world’s most iconic golf courses.

     

    Stephen shares insights into the whirlwind first year—from achieving five-star status with Tourism Northern Ireland, to being named among the Irish Independent’s Top 50 Places to Stay and joining the prestigious Ireland's Blue Book. Stephen offers genuine insider insights, sharing the kind of local knowledge that only someone deeply connected to the area can provide.

     

    This episode is about the power of Irish hospitality along a coastline that continues to captivate visitors from around the world. This is a story of vision, of place, and of the unmistakable warmth of Irish hospitality, set against a coastline that continues to captivate visitors from across the globe.

     

    Whether you're a golf enthusiast, a lover of this stunning part of Ireland, or simply curious about Northern Ireland’s newest five-star retreat, this is a conversation not to be missed.

     

    I love the Blue Book because they are often family-owned and run Irish Country House Hotels, Manor Houses, castles and restaurants. A Blue Book voucher would always be my top travel gift recommendation and their website is https://www.irelands-blue-book.ie.

     

    Check out the Dunluce Lodge here https://www.dunlucelodge.com


    Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 award winning travel podcast Travel Tales with Fergal listened to in 140 countries worldwide. The podcast aims to share soul-lifting travel memoirs about daydream worthy destinations.

     

    Please follow me

    on Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

    Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

    Twitter @FergalTravel

    YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

     

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • In this episode of Travel Tales with Fergal, I’m joined by legendary Irish DJ, musician, author, photographer and rock’n’roll insider BP Fallon, known to many simply as “The Beep.”


    With a career spanning decades at the very heart of music history - working with The Beatles, Led Zeppelin, T. Rex, U2 and more - BP Fallon has witnessed some of the most iconic moments in rock’n’roll firsthand.


    In this conversation, he shares his five favourite gigs from a lifetime of extraordinary experiences, offering vivid stories from stages, studios and concerts around the world.


    From unforgettable performances to behind-the-scenes encounters, this episode is a front-row seat to music history as seen by the guru BP Fallon.

    Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is now listened to in 140 countries worldwide. This award winning podcast aims to share soul-lifting travel memoirs about daydream worthy destinations.

     

    Please follow me on

    Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

    Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

    Twitter @FergalTravel

    YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • After staying in a luxury treehouse in France, I began to wonder what Ireland had to offer beyond the traditional hotel experience. The answer? Quite a lot. In this episode of Travel Tales with Fergal, I explore four truly unusual stays around the country — each offering something distinctive, memorable and a little out of the ordinary.


    First, I revisit my summer stay at Trinity College Dublin Rooms. Available from May to August, the student accommodation within the historic college grounds offers a rare chance to wake up in the heart of Dublin, surrounded by tranquillity yet steps from the city’s buzz. There’s the novelty of morning coffee trucks in the square, after-hours calm once the day visitors leave, and of course the chance to explore the iconic Book of Kells and the magnificent Long Room Library. Visit https://www.tcd.ie


    Next, I head to Mount Congreve Gardens in Kilmeaden, Co. Waterford. An 18th-century estate with extraordinary gardens, it offers everything from off-grid bell tents to stylish eco-cabins with hot tubs. I stayed in one of the atmospheric two-bedroom gate lodges — rich, gothic interiors, antique beds and velvet armchairs. With after-hours access to the gardens, direct links to the Waterford Greenway, and easy reach of the Comeragh Mountains and Mahon Falls, it’s an ideal blend of heritage and outdoor adventure. Visit https://mountcongreve.com


    From there, it’s on to the forest escape that is Cabu by the Lakes in Co. Cavan. Set on the shores of Lough Oughter, these woodland cabins range from cosy one-beds to larger barn houses with hot tubs. Think wood-burning stoves, lakeside views, outdoor saunas and cold plunges tucked among the trees. With boating, kayaking and forest walks on your doorstep - and new cabins launching in 2026 - it’s a grown-up retreat designed for switching off. Visit https://holidays.cabu.co.uk


    Finally, I visited Ballygarry Estate Hotel & Spa in Tralee, Co. Kerry, where I stayed in one of their distinctive Iglucraft woodland cabins. These Nordic-style pods combine craftsmanship and comfort, all set against the backdrop of the Slieve Mish Mountains. Family-run for three generations, the estate is also deeply committed to sustainability, with extensive rewilding, native tree planting and scenic walking trails woven through the grounds. Visit https://www.ballygarry.com


    From college cloisters to woodland hideaways, lakeside cabins to historic estates, this episode highlights four unforgettable Irish stays that prove you don’t have to leave the country to experience something truly different. If you’re looking for inspiration for your next short break, this one is for you.


    Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is now listened to in 140 countries worldwide. The podcast aims to share soul-lifting travel memoirs about daydream worthy destinations.

     

    Please follow me on

    Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

    Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

    Twitter @FergalTravel

    YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • Today, I’m joined by Conor Dillon, the General Manager of the Dylan Hotel to explore what makes this renowned boutique five-star hotel located in the heart of Dublin 4 so special.


    Conor shares his professional journey through the hospitality industry, including time spent working internationally in exotic places like Australia and Bermuda, before returning to Ireland to lead one of the city’s most distinctive hotels.


    He discusses the ethos behind The Dylan and what it means for the hotel to join Ireland’s Blue Book, the esteemed collection celebrating the very best of Irish hospitality.


    Tucked just off Baggot Street, behind that striking red-brick Victorian façade dating back to 1900, the Dylan has quietly built a reputation as one of the capital’s most distinctive places to stay combining rich heritage with a confident, contemporary Irish design identity.


    Located just a short stroll from Grafton Street and close to the Aviva Stadium and RDS, the Dylan offers the best of both worlds - peaceful surroundings with the city’s cultural highlights within easy reach. Guests can even explore the neighbourhood through a curated self-guided walking tour.


    The conversation also explores Conor’s recommendations for visitors to Dublin - from must-see cultural spots to his personal favourite hidden gems in the southside of the city.


    This is an insightful and engaging episode for anyone interested in travel, hospitality, and the stories behind Ireland’s great hotels.


    I love the Blue Book because they are generally family owned and run Irish Country House Hotels, Manor Houses, castles and restaurants. You really get to see Irish hospitality at its best and the properties are generally old country houses, so you get a real sense of the history of the area you are staying in. A Blue Book voucher would always be my top travel gift recommendation and their website is https://www.irelands-blue-book.ie.

     

    Check out the Dylan Hotel here https://www.dylan.ie


    Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is now listened to in 140 countries worldwide. The podcast aims to share soul-lifting travel memoirs about daydream worthy destinations.

     

    Please follow me on

    Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

    Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

    Twitter @FergalTravel

    YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • In this episode, I’m taking you to Switzerland and to the Valais Canton. I recently returned from a trip to three very different ski resorts: Les MarĂ©cottes, Verbier, and Bettmeralp. Each was beautiful in its own way, but it was the Aletsch Arena that truly stayed with me. It has been described as an insider’s secret resort or a hidden gem. But it is well known to the Swiss and it’s where they go to ski.


    In this episode, I’m joined by local expert David Kestens, who helps bring the Aletsch Arena to life. We talk about the car-free mountain villages of Riederalp, Bettmeralp, and Fiescheralp. David gives us an insiders guide to the insiders secret resort.


    I found myself deeply drawn to the Aletsch Arena, not just for its scenery, but for the feeling it creates. We also explore what the region offers throughout the year, from peaceful alpine walks in summer to skiing and snowshoeing in the winter months.


    The Aletsch Arena is home to the Great Aletsch Glacier, the longest glacier in the Alps, and forms part of one of Switzerland’s most remarkable UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Surrounded by more than forty peaks rising over four thousand metres including the Matterhorn, Mont Blanc, and the Eiger. It’s a place that naturally encourages you to slow down and take a breath.


    We also chat about Les MarĂ©cottes, and about what is possibly Switzerland’s most famous ski resort, Verbier. A place that’s very personal to me. I’ve visited Verbier many times over the years and it’s where I first learned to ski.


    Join me as we explore why the Aletsch Arena, and the wider Valais region, are among the most special places to visit, from the stunning mountain villages to the wonderful train, and discover why they may just earn a place on your Switzerland bucket list.


    If you haven’t already, I'd ask you to give me a follow on whichever platform you listen to your podcasts and you will be the first to get a new episode.


    Stays

    Marecottes - https://www.zoo-alpin.ch/fr/zoo-boutique-hotel

    Buttmeralps - https://www.sporting-bettmeralp.ch


    Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is now listened to in 140 countries worldwide. The podcast aims to share

    soul-lifting travel memoirs about daydream worthy destinations.

     

    Please follow me on

    Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

    Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

    Twitter @FergalTravel

    YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • I am delighted to have travel journalist Ed Finn back to talk about magical Seville and the surrounding region and towns in Andalusia.

     

    The Andalusia cities of Seville and Cordoba are magnificent but there are small villages and towns between these cities are real gems full of character including AlcalĂĄ de GuadaĂ­ra, Cazalla de la Sierra, Almodovar del Rio, Palma Del Rio and Montilla.

     

    Stays

    Cazalla

    de la Sierra - Casa Rural Las Navezuelas

    AlcalĂĄ

    de GuadaĂ­ra - Hotel Oromana

     

    Activities

    Stargazing activity (Sierra Morena is a certified

    Starlight

    Destination) - https://naturspirit.es/categoria-producto/astroturismo/

    El Viso del Alcor - Olive oil tasting at Basilippo

    Cycling along the Sierra Morena Greenway, which is part of the upgraded Camino Vertical and I would highly recommend Restaurante BatĂĄn de las Monjas for food.

    Palma Del Rio - Palacio Portcarrero

    Almodovar Del Rio – Old Moorish Castle to visit from

    Games of Thrones

    Montilla – Visit to local winery Alvear 1729

    Wine tasting at Bodegas Colonias de GaleĂłn

     

    Active Tourism in the Province of Seville

    https://www.turismosevilla.org/en

     

    How to get there

    Aer

    Lingus flies to Seville three times per week until 17 May 2026. Fares are available from €50.99 each way, including taxes fees and carrier charges. For more see https://www.aerlingus.com

     

    Check out my 2 part Cordoba Special series with Christina Ybarra of Palacio Portocarrero in Palma del Rio, Cordoba, Andalusia who talks about the fascinating

    history of this area from the Romans to the Moors to modern times and Paco Gonzalez as he tells us about the best places to visit in Cordoba and he guides

    us through the beautiful countryside, villages, forts, palaces, olive farms and vineyards around that stunning area between Seville and Cordoba.

     

    If you haven’t already, I'd ask you to give me a follow on whichever platform you listen to your podcasts and you will be the first to get a new episode.

     

    Fergal

    O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is now listened to in 140 countries worldwide. The podcast aims to share

    soul-lifting travel memoirs about daydream worthy destinations.

     

    Please follow me on

    Instagram

    @traveltaleswithfergal

    Facebook

    @traveltaleswithfergal

    Twitter

    @FergalTravel

    YouTube

    @traveltaleswithfergal

     

     

     

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • Welcome to my first episode of Season 9 and I have a ski special where I chat to ski expert journalist Rob "Robsski" Rees all about the stunning Austrian ski resorts of Zee Am See - Kaprun.


    Austria is the number one ski destination for Irish skiers — and once you visit, it’s easy to see why. Great value, reliable snow, great modern infrastructure, the best aprùs-ski in the alps, and resorts for every level of skier.


    I am just back from a family ski trip to one of the real gems of the Austrian Alps: Zell am See–Kaprun and I was bowled over by the beauty of these beautiful traditional towns sandwiched between the mountains and the lake.


    With over 140 kilometres of pistes on the Schmittenhöhe mountain overlooking Lake Zell, and year-round snow on the Kitzsteinhorn glacier, this area really has it all including access to the huge Skicircus Saalbach via the Alpin Card.


    So whether you’re here for the scenery, the snow, or that unbeatable Austrian ski culture, Zell am See–Kaprun is a destination that truly delivers — and that’s exactly what I’ll be chatting with my ski expert guest Robsski today.

     

    ABOUT ZELL AM SEE-KAPRUN

    Glacier, mountains and lake – the all-year round destination of Zell am See-Kaprun in Austria brings together the diversity of the Alps. In the unique natural paradise at the edge of the Hohe Tauern National Park sports enthusiasts, active holidaymakers, families and those seeking relaxation will discover a wide range of experiences in summer and in winter.

     

    These include “TOP OF SALZBURG” on 3,029 metre on the Kitzsteinhorn, the only glacier ski resort in Salzburger Land, the Maiskogel family region, the panorama and family mountain Schmittenhöhe, Lake Zell and the multi-award winning 36-hole leading golf course.

     

    In winter is Zell am See-Kaprun one of Austria’s most attractive winter sports regions. Snow enthusiasts can conquer a total of 408 kilometres of ski slopes including the glacier thanks to the ticket alliance Ski ALPIN CARD for the Skicircus area taking in the Kaprun, Zee Am Zee and Saalbach regions.

     

    ZELL AM SEE-KAPRUN

    https://www.zellamsee-kaprun.com/en

     

    ACCOMMODATION: HOTEL TAUERNHOF**** IN KAPRUN

    https://www.tauernhof-kaprun.at/en

     

    SKI HIRE

    https://www.bruendl.at

     

    SKIING AT KITZSTEINHORN

    Lunch at the new gletschermĂŒhle restaurant


     Visit TOP OF SALZBURG including National park Gallery, panoramic platforms and Cinema 3000

     

    SKIING AT SCHMITTENHÖHE

    At Schmittenhöhe visit the new “Kaiserblick” panoramic-platform (for free with your lift passes) and enjoy the views of 30 threethousand-metre-high peaks of Hohe Tauern mountain range

     

    LUNCH at Restaurant Sonnkogel 


    Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is now listened to in 140 countries worldwide.


    Please follow on

    Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

    Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

    Twitter @FergalTravel

    YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

     

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • Welcome to the final epsiode of 2025 and Season 8 of the podcast where I go through my recommendations for my favourite European Christmas markets.


    I also go through other other options to do over the Christmas period inclusing River cruises on the Dabnube and Rhine, pre Christmas skiing in Austria and exploring warm countries like French Polyneia and Australia.


    I have some great episodes coming on in January for Season 9 so if you haven’t already, I'd ask you to give me a follow on whichever platform you listen to your podcasts and you will be the first to get a new episode.


    Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is now listened to in 130 countries worldwide.


    Please follow on

    Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

    Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

    Twitter @FergalTravel

    YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

     

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • I am delighted to have PĂĄdraig McGillicuddy, the third-generation proprietor of the Ballygarry Estate Hotel and Spa set over 100 aces outside Tralee in Co. Kerry as our guest this week.

     

    Ballygarry has recently been voted in the top 10 of the Irish Independent hotel awards, number 6 in the Tripadvisor awards and included recent Irish Examiner and Sunday Times Top 100 awards.

     

    I recently stayed in the brand new Cabins on the hotel grounds and I chat to PĂĄdraig about these stunning new cabins and the history of this renowned Kerry family run hotel.


    Check out the Ballygarry Estate Hotel here https://www.ballygarry.com


    If you haven’t already, I'd ask you to give me a follow on whichever platform you listen to your podcasts and you will be the first to get a new episode.


    Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is now listened to in 130 countries worldwide.


    Please follow on

    Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

    Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

    Twitter @FergalTravel

    YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

     

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • For an Irish travel podcaster, I have never dedicated a full episode to Ireland, so it is great to have as my guest today travel author Cian Byrne, who has just completed a new Moon Travel Guide to Ireland. This is a real insider’s guide to travelling Ireland.


    As Cian said to me “This book is the culmination of two years of hard work and a lifetime spent in Ireland. I’m lucky enough to travel to many places in the world, but it was a real treat to be able to be a tourist in Ireland. There’s plenty in the new Moon Guide to Ireland; there’s lots about places everyone will know about and lots about places that often get forgotten about”.

    From dramatic cliffs and soaring mountains to lively cities and charming villages, local Irish author CĂ­an Byrne reveals the magic of Ireland with Moon Ireland.

     

    You can get the guide from here

    https://www.moontravelguides.com/titles/cian-byrne/moon-ireland/9798886471427/

     

    Follow Cian’s travels on his Instagram @Cianwrites


    If you haven’t already, I'd ask you to give me a follow on whichever platform you listen to your podcasts and you will be the first to get a new episode.

    Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is now listened to in 130 countries worldwide.


    Please follow me on

    Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

    Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

    Twitter @FergalTravel

    YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

     

     

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • Today, I’m joined by Conor Power — travel writer, historian, and the author of Hurling 1810, a remarkable deep dive into the origins and cultural significance of our national game.


    Conor’s work uncovers stories, characters, and passions that shaped hurling decades before the foundation of the GAA and long before the modern rules we know today.

    Conor’s book traces how the game evolved and its surprising early similarities to rugby and why its spirit has endured for generations.


    In this fiction book set in 19th century Ireland, Conor brings to life the communities, traditions, conflicts, and passions that shaped the sport long before it took its modern form. He tells us about a time when the big Anglo Irish landlords ruled with an iron fist and owned professional hurling teams to help flex their power.


    If you haven’t already, I'd ask you to give me a follow on whichever platform you listen to your podcasts and you will be the first to get a new episode.

    Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is now listened to in 130 countries worldwide.


    Hurling 1810 published and available from menmabooks.eu.

     

    Please follow me on

    Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

    Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

    Twitter @FergalTravel

    YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

     

     

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • Welcome to part 2 of my Cordoba Special series with tour guide Paco Gonzalez as he tells us about the best places to visit in Cordoba and he guides us through the beautiful countryside, villages, forts, palaces, olive farms and vineyards around that stunning area between Seville and Cordoba.

     

    The Cordoba Region

    Most tourists go to the cities like Seville, Cordoba, Granada and Malaga but there are small villages and towns between these cities are real gems full of character including Carmona and Ecija, AlcalĂĄ de GuadaĂ­ra, Cazalla de la Sierra, Almodovar del Rio, Palma Del Rio and Montilla.

     

    Cordoba

    The Mesquita - Once one of main cities in the ancient Arab world with one of the most famous mosques to rival Mecca

    Guided tour of the Jewish Quarter, Roman bridge, Alcazar and Historic Centre of CĂłrdoba

    Equestrian show at the Royal Stables

     

    Food Cordoba

    Dinner at Taberna La Viuda

    Lunch at La Cazuela de la Esparteria

     

    Stays

    Cordoba - Hotel Mezquita Center

    Cazalla de la Sierra - Casa Rural Las Navezuelas

    AlcalĂĄ de GuadaĂ­ra - Hotel Oromana

     

    Activities

    Palma Del Rio - Palacio Portcarrero

    Almodovar Del Rio – Old Moorish Castle to visit from Games of

    Thrones

    Montilla – Visit to local winery Alvear 1729

    Wine tasting at Bodegas Colonias de GaleĂłn

    Stargazing activity (Sierra Morena is a certified Starlight

    Destination)

    El Viso del Alcor - Olive oil tasting at Basilippo

    Cycling along the Sierra Morena Greenway, which is part of the upgraded Camino Vertical

     

    Check out my Cordoba Special Pt 1 with Christina Ybarra of Palacio Portocarrero in Palma del Rio, Cordoba, Andalusia, Spain.

     

    How to get there

    Aer Lingus flies to Seville three times per week until 17 May, 2026. Fares are available from €50.99 each way, including taxes fees and carrier charges. For more see  https://www.aerlingus.com

     

    If you haven’t already, I'd ask you to give me a follow on whichever platform you listen to your podcasts and you will be the first to get a new episode.

    Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is now listened to in 130 countries worldwide.

    The podcast aims to share soul-lifting travel memoirs about daydream worthy destinations.

     

    Please follow me on

    Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

    Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

    Twitter @FergalTravel

    YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

     

     

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • This is my 100th episode and I wanted to make it a very special episode, so I am delighted to have Christina Ybarra of Palacio Portocarrero in Palma del Rio, Cordoba, Andalusia, Spain.


    Christina's story is a story of Andalusia taking in Roman, Moorish and Christian heritage, history, archaeology, architecture, culture and art.


    Palma del Rio is a town with the most stunning countryside surrounded by orange groves between Seville and Cordoba once called “the garden of Andalucia” by a visiting Spanish King.


    The Cordoba Region

    Most tourists go to the cities like Seville, Cordoba, Granada and Malaga but there are small villages and towns between these cities are real gems full of character including Carmona and Ecija, AlcalĂĄ de GuadaĂ­ra, Cazalla de la Sierra, Almodovar del Rio, Palma Del Rio and Montilla.


    The region is made for a road trip through fields filled with olive and orange grove and vineyards and many beautiful villages with old Moorish Alcazar forts and palaces in the Sierra Morena mountains.

    @prodeturprovinciasevilla

     

    Activities

    Palacio Portcarrero

    Almodovar Del Rio – Old Moorish Castle to visit from Games of Thrones

    Montilla – Visit to local winery Alvear 1729

    Wine tasting at Bodegas Colonias de GaleĂłn

    Stargazing activity (Sierra Morena is a certified Starlight Destination)

    El Viso del Alcor - Olive oil tasting at Basilippo

    Cycling along the Sierra Morena Greenway, which is part of the upgraded Camino Vertical

     

    Cordoba

    Once one of main cities in the ancient Arab world with one of the most famous mosques to rival Mecca – The Mesquita


    Food Cordoba

    Dinner at Taberna La Viuda

    Lunch at La Cazuela de la Esparteria

     

    Stays

    Cordoba - Hotel Mezquita Center

    Cazalla de la Sierra - Casa Rural Las Navezuelas

    AlcalĂĄ de GuadaĂ­ra - Hotel Oromana


    How to get there

    Aer Lingus flies to Seville three times per week until 17 May, 2026. Fares are available from €50.99 each way, including taxes fees and carrier charges. For more see  https://www.aerlingus.com


    Check out my Cordoba Special Pt 2 with guide Paco Gonzalez as he guides us through Cordoba and the beautiful countryside, villages, forts, palaces, olive farms and vineyards from Seville to Cordoba.

     

    If you haven’t already, I'd ask you to give me a follow on whichever platform you listen to your podcasts and you will be the first to get a new episode. Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is now listened to in 130 countries worldwide. The podcast aims to share soul-lifting travel memoirs about daydream worthy destinations.

     

    Please follow me on

    Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

    Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

    Twitter @FergalTravel

    YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

     

     

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • Today I am delighted for part 3 of my Belfast special series to have Barney Gribbin - Founder & Tour Guide of the If Buildings Could Talk tour


    If Buildings Could Talk Tour reveals all the best kept secret stories wrapped up in the history of Belfast, so if you want a city tour that is a little off the beaten track and full of hidden stories, this is the tour for you. That’s because when you join Barney on this leisurely walk you are guaranteed to see and hear things about Belfast that most visitors will never be aware of. In fact, even to people born and bred in the city, many of Barney’s stories will come as a revelation.


    I loved the city so much that I have made this into a three part special series so after this episode make sure to also check out episode 1 with great insider tips from travel writer Erin McCafferty and Belfast hotelier Melanie Harrison.


    For more information on Belfast check https://visitbelfast.com and https://discovernorthernireland.com


    Accomodation

    The Harrison, 45 Malone Road, Belfast, BT9 6RX | Tel: +44 745630965 | www.chambersofdistinction.com| Twitter & Instagram: @harrison_belfast The Harrison

    Activities

    Black Taxi Tour with Blue Badge Guide Billy Scott,

    Contact: +44 77 9860 2401 | www.touringaroundbelfast.com | X: @TouringBelfast

    Titanic Museum Belfast

    www.titanicbelfast.com | Instagram @titanicbelfast

    Food

    Deanes at Queens, 1 College Gardens, Belfast, BT9 6BQ |T: +44 28 9038 2111| https://www.michaeldeane.co.uk/deanes-at-queens/| Instagram @deanesatqueenbt9

    Wolff Grill, Titanic Hotel, Queens Road, Belfast, BT3 9DT, T: +44 28 9508 2000 | www.titanichotelbelfast.com | X: @titanicbelfast | Instagram: titanichotelbelfast

    Saga, 43 Malone Road, Belfast, BT9 6RX | Tel: +44 7495467341 | https://sagabelfast.com | Instagram: @sagabelfas

    Coco, 7-11 Linenhall Street, Belfast, BT2 8AA | Tel: +44 2890311150 | www.cocobelfast.com | Instagram @cocobelfast_


    If you haven’t already, I'd ask you to give me a follow on whichever platform you listen to your podcasts and you will be the first to get a new episode. Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is now listened to in 130 countries worldwide. The podcast aims to share soul-lifting travel memoirs about daydream worthy destinations.

     

    Please follow me on

    Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

    Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

    Twitter @FergalTravel

    YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

     

     

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • I am delighted to have renowned hotelier Melanie Harrison for part 2 of my Belfast Special series.


    Melanie's hotel is the Harrison Chambers of Distinction which is located in the heart of the vibrant Queen’s Quarter of Belfast and is a restored, landmark Victorian merchants’ residence dating from 1879 designed to serve the culturally curious traveller.


    This is a boutique hotel is curated by the charismatic and vivacious owner Michelle Harrison whose personality is reflected in the Victorian style where every room is different and often named and styled after artists reflecting the bohemian character and mischievous tongue in cheek humour of Melanie with eccentric curios and surprises and every corner and in every unique room.


    Belfast feels like a young, vibrant city full of life with great food, nightlife, festivals and of course history. It feels like a city on the cusp of something special with lots of new hotels and bars opening and the Irish Fleadh coming there in 2026.


    I loved the city so much that I have made this into a three part special series so after this episode make sure to also check out episode 1 with great insider tips from travel writer Erin McCafferty and the brilliant tour guide Barney Gribbin of the famous If Buildings Could Talk Tour. 


    For more information on Belfast check https://visitbelfast.com and https://discovernorthernireland.com


    Accomodation

    The Harrison, 45 Malone Road, Belfast, BT9 6RX | Tel: +44 745630965 | www.chambersofdistinction.com| Twitter & Instagram: @harrison_belfast The Harrison


    Activities

    Black Taxi Tour with Blue Badge Guide Billy Scott,

    Contact: +44 77 9860 2401 | www.touringaroundbelfast.com | X: @TouringBelfast

    Titanic Museum Belfast

    www.titanicbelfast.com | Instagram @titanicbelfast


    Food

    Deanes at Queens, 1 College Gardens, Belfast, BT9 6BQ |T: +44 28 9038 2111| https://www.michaeldeane.co.uk/deanes-at-queens/| Instagram @deanesatqueenbt9

    Wolff Grill, Titanic Hotel, Queens Road, Belfast, BT3 9DT, T: +44 28 9508 2000 | www.titanichotelbelfast.com | X: @titanicbelfast | Instagram: titanichotelbelfast

    Saga, 43 Malone Road, Belfast, BT9 6RX | Tel: +44 7495467341 | https://sagabelfast.com | Instagram: @sagabelfas

    Coco, 7-11 Linenhall Street, Belfast, BT2 8AA | Tel: +44 2890311150 | www.cocobelfast.com | Instagram @cocobelfast_


    If you haven’t already, I'd ask you to give me a follow on whichever platform you listen to your podcasts and you will be the first to get a new episode. Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is now listened to in 130 countries worldwide. The podcast aims to share soul-lifting travel memoirs about daydream worthy destinations.

     

    Please follow me on

    Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

    Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

    Twitter @FergalTravel

    YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

     


    --

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • I am delighted to have Irish travel writer Erin McCafferty to tell us all about the highlights of her recent trip to Belfast including the Titanic Music and a Black Cab tour with Billy Scott.


    Belfast feels like a young, vibrant city full of life with great food, nightlife, festivals and of course history. It feels like a city on the cusp of something special with lots of new hotels and bars opening and the Irish Fleadh coming there in 2026.


    I loved the city so much that I have made this into a three part special series so after this episode make sure to also check out episode 2 with great insider tips from the Harrison hotel owner Melanie Harrison and the brilliant tour guide Barney Gribbin of the famous If Buildings Could Talk Tour. 


    For more information on Belfast check https://visitbelfast.com and https://discovernorthernireland.com


    Accomodation

    The Harrison, 45 Malone Road, Belfast, BT9 6RX | Tel: +44 745630965 | www.chambersofdistinction.com| Twitter & Instagram: @harrison_belfast The Harrison


    Activities

    Black Taxi Tour with Blue Badge Guide Billy Scott,

    Contact: +44 77 9860 2401 | www.touringaroundbelfast.com | X: @TouringBelfast

    Titanic Museum Belfast

    www.titanicbelfast.com | Instagram @titanicbelfast


    Food

    Deanes at Queens, 1 College Gardens, Belfast, BT9 6BQ |T: +44 28 9038 2111| https://www.michaeldeane.co.uk/deanes-at-queens/| Instagram @deanesatqueenbt9

    Wolff Grill, Titanic Hotel, Queens Road, Belfast, BT3 9DT, T: +44 28 9508 2000 | www.titanichotelbelfast.com | X: @titanicbelfast | Instagram: titanichotelbelfast

    Saga, 43 Malone Road, Belfast, BT9 6RX | Tel: +44 7495467341 | https://sagabelfast.com | Instagram: @sagabelfas

    Coco, 7-11 Linenhall Street, Belfast, BT2 8AA | Tel: +44 2890311150 | www.cocobelfast.com | Instagram @cocobelfast_


    If you haven’t already, I'd ask you to give me a follow on whichever platform you listen to your podcasts and you will be the first to get a new episode. Fergal O’Keeffe is the host of Ireland’s No.1 Travel Podcast Travel Tales with Fergal which is now listened to in 130 countries worldwide. The podcast aims to share soul-lifting travel memoirs about daydream worthy destinations.

     

    Please follow me on

    Instagram @traveltaleswithfergal

    Facebook @traveltaleswithfergal

    Twitter @FergalTravel

    YouTube @traveltaleswithfergal

     


    --

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.