IRELAND WITH MICHAEL

#601 The Ancient East
Michael explores Ireland’s Ancient East, from the Hill of Tara and Trim Castle to the sacred mounds of Knowth and Dowth, with music, poetry, and whiskey heritage along the way.

#602 Sports & Forts
Legends and living traditions meet in Northern Ireland as Michael discovers the story of Macha, tries hurling and road bowling, and tastes orchard cider.

#603 North by Northwest
In Donegal, Michael marvels at the soaring cliffs of Sliabh Liag, cycles through Glenveagh National Park, explores weaving traditions, and enjoys the hospitality of Harvey’s Point Hotel.

#604 Coastal Connemara
Michael journeys through Connemara’s rugged coast and sails to Inishbofin, where castles, abbeys, and island folklore come alive through music and storytelling.

#605 The West's Awake
Craft and culture shine in West Clare as Michael meets a master bodhrán maker, dines aboard the Pullman Restaurant’s historic train cars, walks the Cliffs of Moher, and shares music with Franjo Reid (bodhrán) and Pat Sweeney (banjo)

#606 In the Loop
At Loop Head, Michael samples seaweed gin, explores Carrigaholt Castle and Lighthouse, and sets sail on a dolphin-watching adventure off Ireland’s Atlantic coast.

#607 Dublin, by the Sea
Back in the capital, Michael visits a silversmith’s workshop, dines on oysters with chef Donal Skehan, and takes to the sea with Ireland Eye Ferries.

#608 Just One More Mad Dash
In a whirlwind finale, Michael bakes soda bread, learns sheepdog skills, sings in Marble Arch Caves, and joins Joanie Madden for a lively music session.

Long Descriptions:

#601 The Ancient East
Join host Michael Londra as you step into Ireland’s Ancient East, where history and legend come alive. Wander the Hill of Tara, once the seat of the High Kings, and uncover the prehistoric mysteries of Dowth and Knowth—sites older than the pyramids. Step back in time at Trim Castle, then savor a dram at Boann Distillery while discovering the melodic story behind Whistler Whiskey. Music, poetry, and local lore bring this captivating region vividly to life.
Highlights:
• Hill of Tara with David Gilroy
• Dowth & Knowth – ancient wonders
• Trim Castle & Meath’s medieval history
• Whistler Whiskey at Boann Distillery
• Music from Peter & James Cooney
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#602 Sports & Forts
From legends to sport, Michael explores Northern Ireland’s spirit. At Navan Fort, Carolyn Cairns brings the legend of Macha to life. Then, Michael takes on thrilling rounds of hurling and road bowling in Armagh. After a refreshing cider at Long Meadow Orchard, embark on a kayaking adventure near Enniskillen Castle with Trevor Foster. Modern folk tunes from Clada complete this energetic journey, capturing the heart and heritage of Ireland’s north.

Highlights:
• Navan Fort & the legend of Macha
• Road bowling in Armagh
• Cider tasting at Long Meadow Orchard
• Kayaking near Enniskillen Castle
• Music from Clada
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#603 North by Northwest
Join host Michael Londra to explore the dramatic cliffs and ancient traditions of Donegal. Marvel at the soaring Sliabh Liag, the highest cliffs in Europe, and uncover fairy lore alongside WWII history. Traverse Glenveagh National Park by e-bike, tour Glenveagh Castle, and witness Donegal’s hand-woven heritage at Magee 1866 weaving factory. End the day with music and hospitality at Harvey’s Point Hotel.

Highlights:
• Sliabh Liag Cliffs
• Fairy folklore & Geology connections to the U.S.
• Glenveagh Castle & National Park
• Magee 1866 weaving traditions
• Music from David James & Draíocht na hÓige
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#604 Coastal Connemara
Michael journeys to Connemara’s coast and the magical island of Inishbofin. Local Irishman, Andrew Murray shares stories of the lake, the abbey, and the island’s maritime history. Then, take in the breathtaking views along the Sky Road before a captivating encounter with the master of Abbeyglen Castle. Fill your heart with music from the talented Leah Barnaville and the fresh energy of rising act Clada.

Highlights:
• Sky Road & the “12 Bens”
• Abbeyglen Castle with Brian Hughes
• Inishbofin Abbey & local legends
• Sea kayaking adventures
• Music from Clada & Leah Barnaville
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#605 The West's Awake
The Wild Atlantic inspires music, craft, and cuisine in West Clare. Join host Michael Londra to watch the craftsmanship of master bodhrán maker Malachy Kearns, then dine in luxury aboard the Pullman Restaurant’s historic train cars. Next, explore artist Richard Hearns’ vibrant studio, while historian Pat Sweeney provides a guided walk of the majestic Cliffs of Moher.

Highlights:
• Bodhrán making with Malachy Kearns
• Pullman Restaurant & historic rail cars
• Artist Richard Hearns
• Spanish Point & Cliff Walk with Pat Sweeney
• Music with Franjo Reid (bodhrán) and Pat Sweeney (banjo)
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#606 In the Loop
Join Michael Londra at Loop Head to explore the natural beauty and maritime heritage of County Clare’s southern tip. Taste local spirits at Loop Head Distillery, wander Carrigaholt Castle and the lighthouse to learn the region’s history. Then join a dolphin tour for an unforgettable encounter with Ireland’s marine life. Bronx-born, Irish whistle and flute sensation Joanie Madden performs with accompaniment by Mary Coogan, bringing the spirit of Clare to life in music.

Highlights:
• Loop Head Distillery tasting
• Carrigaholt Castle
• Loop Head Lighthouse
• Dolphin Watch tour with Mary Kate Bolger
• Music Joanie Madden accompanied by Mary Coogan
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#607 Dublin by the Sea
Join host Michael Londra in discovering artistry, history, and food along Dublin’s coast. Watch silversmith Seamus Gill at work, tour Howth Castle with historian Davy Holden, and sample oysters with TV sensation and culinary author Donal Skehan. Conclude with a scenic boat tour of Ireland’s Eye with adventurer Shane O’Doherty for stunning coastal views.

Highlights:
• Silversmith Seamus Gill
• Howth Castle with Davy Holden
• Oysters with Donal Skehan
• Boat tour with Ireland Eye Ferries
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#608 Just One More Mad Dash

Viewers will delight as host Michael Londra takes on a whirlwind adventure across Ireland. Bake soda bread at Long Meadow Orchard in County Armagh, try sheepdog herding along the coast of County Sligo, climb the Stairway to Heaven in County Fermanagh, and journey deep into the Marble Arch Caves. Legendary musician Joanie Madden and friends close the adventure with laughter, song, and friendship—an uplifting finale to a season filled with heart and discovery.

Highlights:
• Soda bread baking with Catherine McKeever
• Sheepdog herding with Martin Feeney
• Climbs the Stairway to Heaven
• Marble Arch Caves & music performance
• Joanie Madden & friends in session