Living Landscapes-Turas Fómhair
August 3oth to Sept 9th 2027
Join Tara De Róiste and Chris Gambatesa of Wild Routes Ireland for an inspirational 11-day journey to the natural, sacred, and mystical sites of Ireland. Together, we will dive deep into connection with the living landscapes of Ireland. From Western shorelines to ancient Oak woodlands, the liminal limestone landscapes of The Burren to the Cailleach’s craggy peaks of the Beara Peninsula, we will discover & explore the many wild & wonderful landscapes of isle of Éire.
We will visit places of ecological, botanical, archaeological, and historical significance in the wild west of Ireland. Seeking out stone circles on isolated hillsides, walking and learning alongside local herbalists, and exploring ancient forests and bioregions that only exist on this magical isle. Living Landscapes will deepen your connection with plants and planet, history and self. We will explore the art of herbal medicine making and lose ourselves in tales of ancient fairy folk and wise women. We'll also immerse ourselves in contemporary Irish culture–much of it still rooted in ancient folklore and traditions.
As the light softens and the Hawthorn berries redden, we will gather once more for a Turas Fomhair, our Autumn Living Landscapes journey from August 30th to September 9th 2027.
Come walk with us through the Burren's Limestone landscapes and under the old yews of Reenadinna, where roots snake over stone and shadows hold their own kind of wisdom.
We'll sit among standing stones as the hills surround us, gather herbs and make medicine to be carried to those who need it most.
In the evenings we'll gather close by the light of the fire for stories, the kind that have been handed down by firelight for a thousand years.
By the end, you'll feel as though the land has slipped into your bones and a few new friends into your heart.
Want to know more about the places we’ll visit and the people we’ll meet?
Enter your email to download the free Living Landscapes brochure.
unique & magical landscapes
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medicine making
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storytelling
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botany & foraging walks
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cozy & luxurious accommodation
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crafting
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unique & magical landscapes 〰️ medicine making 〰️ storytelling 〰️ botany & foraging walks 〰️ cozy & luxurious accommodation 〰️ crafting 〰️
FAQs
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Yes, the trip includes accommodations and meals. We aim to provide locally-sourced, nutritious food that caters to different dietary preferences and needs. You will be prompted to inform us of any dietary restrictions or allergies in advance so we can accommodate your needs. The food is very high-quality and has often been one of the highlights of past trip participants!
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East Clare/Southeast Galway (Four Nights): We will stay at an Eco House and Organic Kitchen Center, a boutique eco-hotel near Loughrea. This charming accommodation includes an equestrian center and one of Ireland's only certified organic restaurants, with much of the produce coming from their gardens.
West Cork (Six Nights): In West Cork, we will stay in two luxurious manor houses on a 100-acre private woodland with sea views from the gardens. These houses feature spacious communal areas and multiple kitchens, providing a high standard of comfort in a beautiful, serene setting.
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The trip will involve moderate walking and hiking through various landscapes, including forests, hills, and ancient sites. Participants should be comfortable walking on uneven terrain for some periods of time. If you have any specific concerns about physical requirements, please reach out to us.
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Yes, there will be some designated free time throughout the trip for participants to rest, reflect, or explore nearby areas on their own. We encourage participants to use this time to connect with the landscape in their own way, whether through journaling, photography, or quiet contemplation. Of course, everything we offer is optional and you can always choose to stay in our stunning accommodation whenever you crave some quiet downtime by yourself.
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Ireland is known for its unpredictable weather, with the possibility of experiencing all four seasons in one day. It’s best to be prepared for a mix of sunny, rainy, and cool weather. We recommend dressing in layers and bringing waterproof gear, such as a rain jacket and waterproof shoes. Keeping a positive attitude, enjoying the mystic atmosphere of Ireland in any weather and being prepared for varying conditions will enhance your experience.
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Our guides are experts in their fields, including Herbalism, Botany, Wild Food Foraging, Mythology, and Native Tree Lore. They have extensive knowledge of Ireland's flora, fauna, and cultural history and will provide enriching information and stories during the trip.
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To ensure a personalized and immersive experience, the group size is kept small, typically ranging from 15 to 24 participants. This allows for a more intimate connection with the guides, the land, and the cultural experiences.
The Details
Living Landscapes Aug/Sept 2027 Tour Duration:
11 days, 10 nights
Living Landscapes Tour Cost: We have 3 price tiers (prices listed in euros)
Tier #1: First eight places €4050
Tier #2: Second eight places €4150
Tier #3: Final eight places €4250
Price includes:
Double occupancy lodging with either twin beds or double beds for couples - Solo travelers will be paired with a roommate
A limited-number of private rooms are available with additional supplement
Three meals a day (except one lunch and one dinner off on your own)
All transportation within Ireland
All entrance fees
Classes and instruction.
Ready to reserve your space?
TARA DE RÓISTE
Tara is an Irish herbalist, a steward of wild lands, cob horses, goats and gardens. She is an ordained Priestess of the Sacred Land through the Coire Sois School of Irish Spirituality and is passionate about the preservation and restoration of culture and heritage on these islands. She is originally from the shores of the Irish Sea in Co. Wexford but now tends land and native woodland in East Clare on them shores of Lough Bridget. She is passionate about facilitating connection between people and the natural world. She has a lifetime interest in the native spirituality of her homeland and in stoking the flames of her indigenous traditions. She believes fervently in connecting others with this deep well of knowledge. After spending many years journeying through the land of Ireland, connecting with the sacred sites, ancient stones, trees and the magical wild places, Tara feels a deep calling to bring others to experience these unique places & the healing they offer us.
CHRIS GAMBATESA
Chris is originally from Ohio but has now made his home on a rural homestead in the Mhúscraí Gaeltacht (Irish speaking region) deep in the wilds of West Cork along the shores of the River Lee. He left the states 33 years ago and has made his home in Ireland for the last 30 years by way of Spain, Finland, Greece, and Hungary. He began his obsession with plants while living in a treehouse for 6 months in an ancient oak woodland in Co. Wicklow 29 years past. He loves growing every kind of medicinal plant he can find seeds for. He’s been touring the island of Ireland relentlessly for last 2 1/2 decades in search of nature, beauty, and the mysteries of this unique land.
What happens after you book?
Step #1: Submit your booking request & you will get an email with a request to fill out a short waiver and participant questionnaire
Step #2: After you have filled those out we will get back to you within 24h with a payment link to easily pay your deposit of €1000
Step #3: You will have secured your space and we will keep you in the loop with helpful resources like a packing list, upcoming payment dates, and more so you can get excited about your upcoming trip of a lifetime :)