cider bike tour

Join us in Three Oaks, Michigan for a  Great Autum n Ride

Registration is Open

The next Apple Cider Century is Sunday, September 29, 2024.

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One of the largest and longest running cycling events in the Midwest!

Join our annual, one-day bicycle tour held on the last Sunday of September, which takes you through the orchards, forests, and wine country in and around Three Oaks, Michigan. Cyclists can choose from routes of 15, 25, 50, 75, or 100 miles, making it accessible for riders of all ages and skill levels.

The Apple Cider Century (ACC) takes place in the Village of Three Oaks , located about 60 miles from both Chicago and Kalamazoo. Started in 1974, our event has grown into one of the Midwest's largest century events, drawing up to 4,000 participants each year. Run and organized by the Three Oaks Spokes Bicycle Club , the funds raised from the ride support various groups, including the ACC Tour itself, Backroads Bikeway Trails , the Bicycle Museum at Dewey Cannon Trading Company , the League of American Bicyclists, Rails to Trails, and several community youth programs.

The weekend of the ride offers a wide range of activities, including vendor stalls, an ice cream social, live music, a tasty spaghetti dinner and the all-you-can-eat breakfast for purchase by the Three Oaks Fire Department. And of course, there's an abundance of cider and apples to enjoy!

If you're looking for more to do in the area, start by visiting the Dewey Cannon Trading Company & Bicycle Museum. Here you will find information on local events, winery tours, antiques, and shopping. The Bicycle Museum is home to unique bicycles like the 1860's Boneshaker, 1890's Tally-Ho Tandem, Side-by-Side Tandem, and various other historic cycling items. Don't forget to explore the gift shop! Entertainment in town includes the Vickers Theater for movies, the Acorn Theater for live performances, places for food & drink and several art galleries.

Friends & Partners

Check Out Our Upcoming Events!

GRAN PORTAGE BIKE TOUR AND EXPO

Sat, oct 5th, 2024.

We are thrilled to announce the return of the Minneapolis Cider Gran Portage and Expo! A thrilling bike ride that will benefit Friends of the Boundary Waters. Following the ride you can explore the gear expo featuring your favorite brands and local music.

Not only will you have a fantastic time, but your participation will also make a meaningful difference. 100% of the net proceeds from this event will be donated directly to Friends of the Boundary Waters, an organization dedicated to safeguarding our cherished wilderness.

Minne Portage Family Ride - 15 Miles (6,000 Rods)

Enjoy a relaxing 6,000 rod (15 miles) ride along the Mississippi River. Perfect for families or casual riders.

Gran Portage - 50 Miles (16,000 Rods)

Ride the Gran Portage, 16,000 rod (50 miles) around the lakes of Minneapolis, across the river into St. Paul and then back along the river to Minneapolis Cider Co

What You Need to Know

The race starts and ends at The Haralson Room, the event space at Minneapolis Cider Co. 701 SE 9th St. Minneapolis, MN  55414

When:  Saturday, October 5th

Sign-in/Registration opens at 9:00am. If you are new to the location, I would recommend arriving an hour before your ride leaves. There is parking in the back lot for riders. 

Online registration will close the day before the event. Day-of registration will be available at sign-in. If you have yet to sign a waiver, you will be required to do that before you're able to ride. 

The "Gran" rolls out at 10:00am and the "Minne" leaves at 11:00am. Give yourself plenty of time to get to the sign-in desk, get your route uploaded to your gps device, fill your tires and water bottles, and greet your fellow riders! We will be doing a formal start from the parking lot but there will be no lead out. Once you leave the parking lot you are on your own. 

We are hosting a gear expo and live music in the Haralson Room after the ride! We will have food and drinks, games, and you will be able to make purchases on site. This is open to the public so make sure to bring family and friends to chill out after and enjoy a cold beverage. Each registrant will receive a free cider or drink for after the ride. 

Navigation and Support:

We will be sending out the final route GPX files next week, a few days before the event. We will also have cue sheets available with Points of Interest we encourage you to get familiar with. 

We will have two resupply stops along the Gran route and one on the Minne, where you will be able to fill up water bottles and grab a snack. 

There will be signage along the routes. These are to help with navigating intersections, turns, etc. These aren't intended to replace navigation for the entire route, so make sure to have a GPS device or pickup cue sheets before you head out. 

We will have a SAG support number to call if you have mechanical or other issues while out on the route. If you get injured or have an emergency of any kind, call 911. 

Much of this route follows bike paths along roadways. The roadways are recommended for faster riders in most cases to avoid pedestrians. While the majority of the Gran route is well designed for bikers, you will be passing through downtown St. Paul before you head back to Minneapolis. Be sure to use caution, slow down and always obey traffic laws when at these intersections. 

There will be one more follow up email with the Route file and other details prior to the ride. 

Looking forward to a great Ride! 

What is the Minneapolis Cider Gran Portage?

The Gran Portage is a non-competitive ride starting at our taproom in Northeast Minneapolis. This year the race is raising funds to support Friends of the Boundary Waters. The tour is named after the Italian "Gran Fondo" or "Big Ride" and the French "Portage", a canoeist's nod to the lands linking the ride's waterways including the Minnesota and Mississippi Rivers, and the famous lakes of Minneapolis.

Who are Friends of the Boundary Waters?

Since 1976, Friends of the Boundary Waters Wilderness has been the leading voice for protecting the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness in northeastern Minnesota. Currently, the organization is fighting proposed copper-sulfide mines that threaten Lake Superior and the Boundary Waters as well as offering programs to bring young people from diverse backgrounds into the wilderness and engaging volunteers to clear trails in the BWCA.

What's included in my registration?

• x1 Free Cider after your race
• On-Course Support
• Donation to Friends of the BWCA
• After party at Minneapolis Cider

Can kids ride free?

Yes, children under 18 accompanied by a paying adult may ride for free.

Is it a race?

Nope - it’s a ride that is open to riders of all abilities. There are no prizes, and you are required to ride in a way that is safe and legal.

How long is it?

We have two routes to choose from. The Minne Portage is 15 miles (6,000 rods) and the Gran Portage is 50 miles (16,000 rods). Both races will have at least one rest stop along the route and are on a combination of roads and paved trails.

How old do I need to be to ride?

This is a family friendly event - there is no minimum age requirement. 

What time does it start?

The Gran will get started at 10:00 am with the Minne kicking off at 11:00 am. 

Are the roads closed?

No, you'll need to be comfortable riding on roads and follow all traffic laws.

Do I need a GPS?

You don’t - we use route signs to mark the turns on the route. However, GPS  route links will be available if you’d like to use them. GPS route links will be emailed to participants closer to the event.

What kind of bike do I need?

All bikes are allowed, including Ebikes, as long as they meet all regulations. The route is 100% paved.

Do I need a helmet?

You do. It's cool to be safe.

How do I sign up?

Right here ( www.bikereg.com/gran-portage ) - sign up before July 19th and save $10 on your entry fee.

Where do the rides start and end?

Both rides start and end at Minneapolis Cider

Will there be support on the courses?

Yes, support will be available for both the Gran and Minnie. 

Is the race refundable if I can’t make it?

No, but you can feel good that 100% of the proceeds from the race go to benefit Friends of the Boundary Waters.

More questions?

Send us an email at [email protected] 

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APPLE CIDER CENTURY

The midwest's most popular century bike tour.

Experience harvest in the southwest Michigan countryside at this annual recreational bike tour. From hard-core, kit-wearing packs to families with little ones fresh off their training wheels, ACC offers fully-supported 15, 25, 37, 62, 75 or 100-mile routes through forests, orchards, and vineyards fragrant and lush from the harvest. The positive community vibe is undeniable, drawing over 5,000 riders year after year. Whether you’re a serious cyclist or just a bit bike-curious, consider giving this 40+ year tradition a spin.

Local Tip: Host village Three Oaks is among our most charming, so be sure to take time to explore. Journeyman Distillery , Froehlich’s , Goods & Heroes , Alapash , Trilogy , and  Mazet are noteworthy stops, with plenty more to discover in between.

last Sunday in September

throughout the southwest Michigan countryside; start and finish in downtown Three Oaks

Visit Website | View on Map

EXPLORE MORE EVENTS

New Buffalo Harvest & Wine Festival

The party of the season.

A community-wide celebration of ‘All That Is Art.’

Journeyman Artisan Market

Meet the makers.

Apple Cider Century

Join our annual, one-day bicycle tour held on the last Sunday of September, which takes you through the orchards, forests, and wine country in and around Three Oaks, Michigan. Cyclists can choose from routes of 15, 25, 50, 75, or 100 miles, making it accessible for riders of all ages and skill levels.

The Apple Cider Century (ACC) takes place in the Village of Three Oaks, located about 60 miles from both Chicago and Kalamazoo. Started in 1974, our event has grown into one of the Midwest's largest century events, drawing up to 4,000 participants each year. Run and organized by the Three Oaks Spokes Bicycle Club, the funds raised from the ride support various groups, including the ACC Tour itself, Backroads Bikeway Trails, the Bicycle Museum at Dewey Cannon Trading Company, the League of American Bicyclists, Rails to Trails, and several community youth programs.

Pop Sep Rides

• Buffalo Stampede - 5th Annual
• Tour de Komen
• Dam to Dam Century Ride
• Raintree Ride
• Cornerstone 100
• The Great Pumpkin Roll Gran Fondo
• Bourbon Burn
• BKF Fall Bike Celebration

Everything you need to know about cycling in France your independent guide

Cycling the Cider Route in Normandy

Normandy's cider route is a 40km loop ride taking in more than 20 cider farms in the area east of caen..

Distance: 40km Difficulty: Easy

Normandy's Cider Route covers around 40km or 25 miles and – it's a loop ride that can be completed in a day or spread over two days with a stop halfway. It's on shared roads with cars but predominantly quieter rural roads.

It's east of Caen – handy if you're coming from a ferry port in the south of England , or by train from Paris . It's a signposted route across the  Pays d’Auge area in the Calvados  and  Orne departments.

The route connects the villages of Beuvron-en-Auge (officially recognised as one of the most beautiful villages in France), Cambremer, Bonnebosq and Beaufour-Druval. There are more than 20 cider farms on the Normandy Cider Route (or just off it) – look for farms and producers signposted with "Cru de Cambremer", the local cider classification .

Visits and tastings are possible – and welcome – but note that most of the farms are small local operations, so try and call or email ahead to make a rendez-vous so the farmer can fit you into their day (especially off-season or during harvest).

This makes a lovely add-on or fixed base ride if you're cycling  La Velo Francette , which links La Rochelle to Caen, or the Euro Velo 4 Velomaritime route  across the northern coast. The D-Day beaches route and their link route to Mont Saint-Michel are also within reach from here, meaning you can enjoy this loop ride before or after a ride on the Veloscenie to/from Paris as well.

There are maps and brochures to download from the official site .

Download the route as a GPX file for your cycling computer .

Here is a map and a list of producers ( click here or on the image for a better-quality PDF to download ) – make sure you check ahead to make sure the ones you want to visit are still in operation.

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AVAILABLE TO ORDER NOW! The official Tour de France 2024 race program and guide includes all the route maps for each stage, plus stage start and end times, and team and rider profiles.

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Apple Cider Century Tour

100 Oak Street Three Oaks, MI 49128

Three Oaks Elementary School

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• Animal Encounters
• Food/Drink Producer
• Indoor Sports & Leisure
• Outdoor Activities & Recreation
• Workshops & Rural Crafts
• Castles and Stately Homes
• Forests & Woods
• Historic Interest Sites
• Open Spaces
• Art galleries
• Music venues & Nightclubs
• Theatres & Cinemas
• Farm Shops & Local Produce
• Home & Garden Centres
• Outdoor Stores & Hire
• What's On

Cider Circuits

Explore the spiritual home of apples and cider.

• Celebrating our favourite thirst-quencher
• Three circular routes in the north, south and west
• Great by bike as well as car (all that boot space for bottles!)
• Complete each loop in one go or relax the pace and stay en route
• With recommended places to break for a coffee or bite to eat, as well as a wander.  Please call ahead to check opening times.

Herefordshire is the home of the apple and cider, with orchards dotted all around and artisan producers inviting you to try their tipples.  If your acquaintance with cider is the odd glass in a pub prepare to have your taste perceptions challenged!  Take a tour of the Museum of Cider, housed in the original 1888 factory where Bulmers began, to uncover the story of the county's preferred drink.

The North Circuit: The Newton Wonder

North of Hereford stretches an undulating swathe of farmland, orchards and forested hills, studded with the ‘Black-and-White Villages’, which feature the traditional timber-framed houses typical of our region.  

This 49-mile loop visits alluring hamlets, historic sites and passionate artisan producers creating excellent ciders, perries and juices. The circuit runs from Hereford to Tillington and Weobley, then on to Pembridge, Eardisland and Monkland, skirting Leominster, before arriving back in Hereford.

Producers featured:

• Newton Court Cider  
• Butford Organics  
• Dunkertons Cider at The Cider Barn
• Monkland Cheese Dairy  

Highlights include:

• Speeding down the descent to Weobley
• Stepping inside a leaning timber-framed dovecote from 1673
• Refuelling in the cafes and pubs in pretty Pembridge  

Download PDF

View on Strava

The South Circuit: The Redstreak

The ancient apple and pear orchards of southern Herefordshire, some of them well over two centuries old, are lovingly harvested by local producers to ferment spectacular ciders and perries in traditional and innovative styles.  Producers featured:

Little Pomona Cider & Perry

• Gregg's Pit Cider & Perry
• Oliver's Cider & Perry
• Ross on Wye Cider & Perry  
• Making your way over Foy Suspension Footbridge
• Pausing for a picnic in a shady spot on the Wye
• Admiring Hoarwithy's Italianate-style church   

A well planned route using mainly back lanes and cut throughs that allows you to experience some of the best scenery. A challenge but worth every pedal stroke.

Mark McNeilly, keen cyclist

The West Circuit: Porter's Perfection

The west of the county is patchworked with apple orchards and studded with artisan cider producers. This is the glorious Golden Valley, laced with rolling hills and a network of peaceful backroads - perfect for cycling.

Tackle the rewarding 48.5-mile double loop from Dorstone to meet craft cider makers and slake your thirst at historic pubs. The circuit runs through north, taking in Bredwardine and Whitney, before snaking south to Rowlestone and returning via Ewyas Harold, Abbey Dore and Peterchurch. For a shorter ride, just cycle the north or south section.

Fair Oak Cider

The orgasmic cider company.

• Artistraw Cidery & Orchard
• Ty Gwyn Cider
• Rowlestone Farmhouse Ice Cream     
• Pedalling the steep 100m climb to Bredwardine
• Calling in at the county’s oldest pub, The Pandy Inn
• Drinking in the dramatic views at the pre-historic Arthur’s Stone

Wheely Wonderful Cycle Hire

They are open every day 9am - 5pm from April to the end of September. It's best to book your bikes a day in advance. Or you can call and check availability on the morning of.

Location: Petchfield Farm, Elton, Ludlow

It Takes 2 to Tandem

Retro tandem cycle hire for all occasions, enjoy a day out with your pedal pal and a picnic. Delivery to your accommodation available. 

Drovers Cycles

Drover Cycles offer a wide range of rental bikes for all ages and riding styles. They offer bike rental from their base in Hay on Wye, but can also deliver hire bikes further afield by special arrangement.

Our Cider Producers

Enjoy cider & perry overlooking the orchard, meet the makers with a Tour & Tasting, or simply pop in to stock up.

• Read more about Little Pomona Cider & Perry

Newton Court

Newton Court is the home of Newton Court Cider and a new restaurant, cafe, cider tour hub, events space and farm shop.

• Read more about Newton Court

Westons Cider

Westons Cider Mill Visitor's Centre offers guided tours, has a fully stocked Cider shop and an on site restaurant.

• Read more about Westons Cider

Oliver's Cider and Perry

The Ciderhouse is open for visits booked in advance and has a shop & tasting room, open Saturdays.

• Read more about Oliver's Cider and Perry

Gwatkin Cider Co Ltd

We are an award-winning cider and perry maker with a farm shop open every day.

• Read more about Gwatkin Cider Co Ltd

Gregg's Pit Cider & Perry

Established in 1994, we make craft cider and perry using vintage fruit from traditional standard Herefordshire orchards.

• Read more about Gregg's Pit Cider & Perry

Ross on Wye Cider & Perry Co. Ltd.

Ross on Wye Cider & Perry is a family run orchard & cidery producing award-winning ciders and perries.

• Read more about Ross on Wye Cider & Perry Co. Ltd.

Innocent Pilgrim

Experience life on a small cider producing farm through the seasons.

• Read more about Innocent Pilgrim

An on site shop that stocks our award winning craft cider & perry, along with local products & crafts.

• Read more about The Orgasmic Cider Company

Artistraw Cidery and Orchard

Award winning natural cider and perry made with 100% fermented apples, handpicked from local traditional orchards.

• Read more about Artistraw Cidery and Orchard

Ty Gwyn Cider Ltd

Ty Gwyn Cider is a multi-award winning cider company and rustic farm cider shop, located in the Black Mountains.

• Read more about Ty Gwyn Cider Ltd

Butford Organics

Producers of organic cider, perry & apple juice with fruit from our own orchards. Weekend Farm Shop. Tours & Tastings.

• Read more about Butford Organics

Fair Oak Cider is made on our farm in a 17th century mill - the only horse-drawn cider mill now in use in the UK.

• Read more about Fair Oak Cider

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10 of the Best Cider Tours in the UK

There's nothing better than going on a real cider tour. The holy grail of cider enthusiasts! It’s not only a chance to see the best cideries and orchards, but it’s also an opportunity to meet the experts themselves who can show you the ins and outs of how they create their wonderful cider. 

We’ve travelled the length and breadth of the UK on our mission to discover real cider. Here is our review of some of the best tours in the UK, all of them a fun experience for any cider lover: 

1. Westons Cider Tours:  

Weston Cider Tours not only show you how they produce their world-class ciders, but they also walk you through the history of cider making at Westons. This cider tour also includes a tutored cider tasting with one of their experts, and it is perfect for a summer outing. Tickets for Westons Cider Tours are available on their website and are great value for money. You can find them in Ledbury, Herefordshire.

2. Burrow Hill Cider Tours:  

3. Ciderologist London Cider Tours:  

4. The Newt in Somerset:  

The Newt in Somerset is a great option. They offer much more than just cider tours, including hotel rooms and a spa. Their cider tours are free of cost and typically last half an hour, including a small tasting session. You can see the press and cellars on this cider tour, and since there's no age restriction, you can come here with your entire family. Additionally, you can also opt for garden tours and they have a great display of cheeses here too!

5. Dunkertons Cider Tours:  

6. The Ciderologist Bristol Cider Tour:  

7. Dorset Nectar:  

8. Kentish Pip Cider Tour:  

9. Sheppy’s Cider Tour: 

Sheppy’s offer weekend tours, giving you a peek behind the scenes at one of the oldest cider makers in the world. There’s plenty to see and each guided tour includes access to the orchards, the press house, the vat house and the Sheppy’s rural life museum and it culminates with a guided tasting of some of their best loved ciders. With a bar and restaurant on site as well you really can make a day of it. You can book on their website and they can also run private tours for larger groups. 

10. Perry’s Cider Tour: 

Perry’s farm is open to the public every day of the year (except Christmas day). It’s well worth a visit, with lots to do and see, including a cafe and farm shop. You can have a look around the working cider mills, taste the cider and also visit the small 16th century thatched cider barn museum on site (where the company first started from). 

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Inspired? Discover the world of craft cider today 👇

Enchanting Escapes in Northern Ireland’s Beauty!

A fter Travel Classics Ireland, we wandered on the Wild Atlantic Way and then went to explore Northern Ireland’s enchanting escapes-from Royal Residences to Enchanted Forests, Unveiling the Gems of Lough Erne Resort, Armagh Cider Company, Ballinteggart Farm, and More!

Welcome to the enchanting beauty of Northern Ireland, a land that beckons with its rich history, lush landscapes, and captivating experiences. In this mesmerizing realm, where past and present seamlessly intertwine, you will discover a tapestry of delights that span from majestic royal residences like Hillsborough Castle & Gardens to the charming allure of Armagh Cider Company and the serene charm of Ballinteggart Farm. Get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey as we explore the wonders of Lough Erne Resort, the majestic Slieve Donard Hotel, and the mystical Bike Mourne trails of Tollymore Forest Park. From the legendary realms of Game of Thrones to the iconic Guinness Storehouse Tour in Dublin and the stylish charm of The Grafton and The Davenport, Northern Ireland awaits with an abundance of enchanting escapes. Join us as we venture into this magical world where history, nature, and culture intertwine to create an experience like no other.

Where to STAY? Lough Erne Resort, Ireland

Lough Erne Resort is an awe-inspiring property nestled amidst the breathtaking landscapes of County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland. With its luxurious accommodations, world-class golf courses, and tranquil spa, it offers an unforgettable escape. Boasting stunning lake views, exceptional dining options, and impeccable service, it’s the perfect haven for discerning travelers. Additionally, younger guests can embark on a magical adventure through the resort’s captivating enchanted forest walk. This immersive experience combines the beauty of nature with whimsical sculptures and interactive elements, creating a truly enchanting experience for kids. From exploring the wooded areas to discovering hidden surprises, Lough Erne Resort ensures that guests of all ages create lifelong memories in this extraordinary setting.

I enjoyed my stay Lough Erne Resort with stunning lake views and the enchanted forest walk. Amy and I stayed in a 2 bedroom tower which we LOVED! AND!! we saw baby sheep near the golf course.

Dining at Lough Erne Resort is a culinary journey that delights the senses. The resort offers a range of exceptional dining options, each providing a unique and unforgettable experience. From fine dining at the award-winning Catalina Restaurant, where guests can savor innovative and exquisite dishes crafted with locally sourced ingredients, to the cozy and relaxed atmosphere of The Blaney Bar, serving up delicious pub-style fare, there is something to satisfy every palate. With impeccable service, breathtaking views, and a commitment to culinary excellence, dinner at Lough Erne Resort is a true gastronomic delight.

My morning stroll at Lough Erne

These photos are from my morning walk across Reeds Bridge before breakfast. I also loved our walk around the water! Thank you to the entire team and my group for a wonderful time!! I felt like a story book princess like Rapunzel in my second story bedroom in the turret tower!! Thank you!!

We experienced the serene beauty of Erne’s waterways on our all-electric slow boat tour , Island Discovery. Glide through the picturesque landscapes, enjoying the peaceful ambiance while minimizing your carbon footprint. Discover hidden gems and unwind as our eco-friendly water taxi offers a unique, sustainable way to explore Erne’s enchanting surroundings. We loved seeing the sights, the swans and tasting the specialty cocktails!

Armagh Cider Company and Ballinteggart Farm Ireland

Welcome to Ballinteggart Farm , a haven of apple enchantment. Stroll through the picturesque orchards, where vibrant apple trees bear the fruits of nature’s labor. I loved being at Armagh Cider Company!! I love APPLES! Taste the juicy apples straight from the branches, savoring their crispness and sweetness. We also ate delightful apple tarts lovingly crafted from the freshest harvest made with Armagh Bramley Apples PGI. Ballinteggart Stud is well-known for breeding Irish horses and ponies! They also have sparkling waters in many flavors and make Honeyhill Rosettes! You can stroll through the Heritage Trees which are registered with the Woodland Trust. WE LOVED OUR VISIT and cannot wait until Philip and Helen have a B&B so we can stay overnight! The Troughtons have been growing apples in Co Armagh for 5 generations since 1898. They produce an amazing 34 apple varieties from the 80-acre ancient plantation. My favorite dessert of the entire trip was the apple pie made from their apples!

Northern Ireland’s royal residence: Hillsborough Castle & Gardens

Explore Northern Ireland’s royal residence , Hillsborough Castle, where worlds and minds meet. Relax in 100 acres of picturesque gardens, explore the State Rooms still used today. Embark on a captivating tour of Royal Hillsborough Castle and its exquisite gardens. Marvel at the vibrant floral displays, tranquil lakes, and enchanting woodlands. Knowledgeable guides will reveal the castle’s fascinating history and incredible artwork. Explore hidden corners and meandering pathways, immersing yourself in the castle’s rich tapestry of stories. Discover the harmonious blend of nature and heritage that makes Royal Hillsborough Castle’s gardens truly extraordinary.

Where to STAY? Slieve Donard Hotel, Ireland

Discover the rich history and unforgettable experience of Slieve Donard Hotel . Since 1898, this iconic destination has welcomed discerning travelers seeking timeless elegance. Set against the majestic Mourne Mountains, it offers luxurious accommodations, breathtaking views, and a tranquil ambiance. Immerse yourself in its grandeur, relax in the spa, and explore the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape. Slieve Donard Hotel is a place where history and comfort intertwine, creating a truly remarkable retreat. AND! Step behind the scenes of The Seven Kingdoms at the official Game of Thrones Studio Tour. The Game of Thrones Studio Tour Package includes overnight accommodation at Slieve Donard!

Enchanted Exploring with Bike Mourne: Tollymore Forest Park, Game of Thrones and Bloody Bridge

Thank you to Bike Mourne ! I had the most beautiful day in County Down, Northern Ireland. Some of my group went by e-bike while I had a walking and photo tour. I loved the rock sculpture, walking trails and coastal beauty near Bloody Bridge which gets its name from the Irish Rebellion of 1641. I took photos at Barbican Gate in the enchanting Tollymore Forest Park, at the foot of the majestic Mourne Mountains. It has been featured in movies and TV shows like “Game of Thrones.” The picturesque landscapes and biking and walking trails take you by the park’s ancient trees, bridges, and cascading waterfalls.

I loved taking photos at Barbican Gate in the enchanting Tollymore Forest Park, at the foot of the majestic Mourne Mountains. It has been featured in movies and TV shows like “Game of Thrones.” The picturesque landscapes and biking and walking trails take you by the park’s ancient trees, bridges, and cascading waterfalls. Thank you to Team Bike Mourne!

While hula hooping my way through the enchanting landscapes of Ireland, I added a playful twist to my adventures from Slieve Donard in Northern Ireland to Dublin. From twirling amidst the stunning mountains of Slieve Donard to dancing along the vibrant streets of Dublin, hula hooping infused my journey with joy and rhythm, creating unforgettable memories in both natural and urban settings.

On May 1, 2023, we celebrated Percy French’s 169th birthday at Slieve Donard’s Percy French restaurant which was one of my most favorite lunches! Amy and I hula hooped as a tribute to the renowned Irish songwriter and painter. and there is a Game of Thrones DOOR!

The Guinness Storehouse Tour in Dublin, Ireland

The Guinness Storehouse tour is a captivating journey through the rich history of Ireland’s most famous #beer. From the brewing process to iconic advertising campaigns, visitors immerse themselves in the brand’s legacy. The panoramic Gravity Bar offers breathtaking views of Dublin while enjoying a perfectly poured pint.

Where to stay in DUBLIN? The Grafton

The Grafton Dublin is a unique and memorable hotel in the heart of Dublin’s city center. Housed in a historic building on Grafton Street, it offers stylish accommodation with modern amenities. Centrally located near Trinity College and Dublin Castle. I recommend it for comfort, convenience, and charm.

Dublin’s Dazzling Delights: Unveiling the City’s Charms and Cultural Gems!

Where to STAY in Dublin? The Davenport

Davenport Hotel Dublin : Timeless Elegance in the Heart of the City. Immerse yourself in the rich history and impeccable service of this luxurious gem. Stylish accommodations, delectable dining, and easy access to Dublin’s iconic attractions await, making the Davenport Hotel the epitome of hospitality.

Exploring Dublin’s Enchanting Bookstores. At Hodges Figgis , Ireland’s oldest bookshop serving Dublin and the wider world since 1768, I found two of my favorite authors— Lisa Barr and Elizabeth Gilbert! Books help us understand ourselves. Immerse yourself in a timeless tale and discover a treasure.

Saba Dublin : Embark on a Flavorful Journey to Thailand, Right in the Heart of Dublin. Indulge in Authentic Thai Cuisine, Where Vibrant Flavors, Fresh Ingredients, and Exquisite Culinary Craftsmanship Await. The FOOD is EXCELLENT and the signs made me LAUGH! I loved it all so much I forgot to take PHOTOS of the dishes. I have to go back!

What an absolutely remarkable and awe-inspiring journey in Ireland! From the heart-pounding adventures of skeet shooting and falconry to exploring the captivating landscapes of the North, this trip had so many highlights especially my travel partners! As I board my AerLingus flight home, I am filled with immense gratitude for the opportunity to attend the Travel Classics Magazine conference and learn so much. I LOVED seeing more of Ireland and my return to Ashford Castle.

See all my posts about Ireland and my videos:

Thank you to Ashford Castle, Travel Classics Ireland and Tourism Ireland for my amazing adventures!

Enjoy more of my travels in Ireland

• Travel Classics Ireland 2023 Conference at Ashford Castle
• Unforgettable Ashford Castle for the Travel Classics Ireland Conference 2023
• Wild Atlantic Way Adventures
• Northern Ireland
• Interview with Nina Ruggiero , Travel and Leisure Digital Editoral Director
• Interview with Ambassador Bryne Nason
• Travel Classics Ireland 2017
• Dublin Adventures 2015
• VIDEOS : from 2023 Conference and tour, from 2017 Travel Classics Conference and and my St. Patrick’s Day adventures in Dublin 2015

Read more of my Adventures in Ireland in my book, Brave-ish, One Breakup, Six Continents and Feeling Fearless After Fifty !

The post Enchanting Escapes in Northern Ireland’s Beauty! appeared first on We Said Go Travel .

Portland hosts the CiderFeast East Coast Tour, showcasing top local cider makers

by WGME Staff

PORTLAND (WGME) - Some of the best cider apples in the world are right here in Maine, according to some local food and drink experts.

That's why the CiderFeast East Coast Tour took center stage in Portland on Sunday.

Event organizer Jimmy Carbone says there's a whole new generation of what he calls “indie hard cider makers” on the rise here in Maine.

Sunday’s event he says was for folks to try out a tall glass of hard cider from 15 different local venders.

Organizers say the craft beer scene in Portland is huge but hard cider is on the rise.

• ALSO READ: Auburn celebrates its 2nd annual Lobster Festival

One of the cider makers, John Stein, is from Fogtown Brewing Company.

They make their own beer but for the last 3 years they've dabbled with cider and even handpick their own apples.

"We go out and forage fruit every fall. And started barrel aging cider. Putting it up for a year, fermenting it, putting it in bottles and then offering it to folks on tap,” said Stein.

Organizers say crafting hard cider in Maine is growing each year.

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