Showing posts with label gardens. Show all posts
Showing posts with label gardens. Show all posts

Saturday, December 12, 2015

Wells House and Gardens

                                 
Wells House and Gardens located in Co. Wexford, Ireland claims they have something for all generations to enjoy and share. I decided to put this claim to the test. Our group consisted of a 2-year-old, a 30 something, a few 40 somethings, and a pair in their 60's and 70's. The estate which includes the house and land sits on 450 acres so there's a lot of walking and most of the things to see and do are outdoors so you'll want to keep that in mind when planning your visit.
                                 

We picked a beautiful day to explore and set out on a woodland walk. 


                                     

With many hidden treasures to be found such as fairy doors, a wishing well, fairy castle, climbing trees, and sculptures, the forest felt enchanted and the experience was magical. 

We also toured the gorgeous terraced gardens and played a giant game of chess.


Wells is a working farm so you can get up close with the animals. They have chickens, pigs, guinea pigs, birds, rabbits, and raccoons. If you're feeling really adventurous you can book a Hawk Walk with Wells House's Falconer. You'll have the opportunity to handle and fly birds of prey in their natural habitat!


When you get hungry you can stop for refreshments at Mrs. Stone's Restaurant where they serve delicious lunches, snacks, tea, coffee, and desserts. Their produce and beef come right from the Wells estate. If you prefer to bring your own treats to eat, there's plenty of areas for a picnic as well as picnic tables. There's a really fun playground for little kids as well as a zip line, a 3D archery course and clay pigeon shooting for big kids and adults. 

There are indoor activities to do as well. We took a stroll through the Craft Courtyard and visited an art exhibit. There's also lots of quaint shops and galleries selling art, crafts, treats and fairy doors of course!

You can also take a tour of the 350 year old house. Guests are allowed and even encouraged to touch and examine objects in the house. We didn't have time to take a tour of the house on this visit but I definitely plan on going back to Wells House and Gardens again. I think everyone in our group had a fantastic day and we all agree that they truly do have activities for everyone.

Contact info:
Wells House & Gardens,
Ballyedmond, Gorey,
Co. Wexford.
info@wellshouse.ie
+353 (0)53 9186737







Friday, April 12, 2013

Ali'l Kula Lavender Farm


Last week I visited the Ali'i Kula Lavender Farm located in Upcountry Maui 
at 1100 Waipoli Road, Kula, Hawaii


Kula is much colder and wetter than much of Maui due to its 4000-foot elevation on the slopes of Haleakala crater. You can see by the pictures here that it was misty and overcast. 

Relax and soak up the fresh air and serenity

The kids can go on a treasure hunt

While you find inspiration

Bring your easel or your sketchbook!


 General admission is only $3. Children under 12 are free. 
Kama'aina, Military, and Senior discounts are also offered.

You can walk on your own or go on a guided walking or cart tour

And don't forget to stop in the gift shop/cafe to warm up with some lavender coffee or tea.
I highly recommend the delicious lavender scones!