Before you keep reading: GoldenAgeTrips.com is making use of affiliate links, which in some cases will end up in a commission for purchases originated from this website. However, all referred companies/products/accommodations have been tried out or researched by us first.

Woodford Reserve Visitor’s Center Whiskey Display

We arrived at noon on a Friday, after an almost two-hour flight from Tampa International Airport. The plan was to rent a car from Friday to Saturday and stay in Frankfort, Kentucky’s capital, for the night. 

Then, on Saturday afternoon, we were going to return the vehicle and use a ridesharing service to get to Downtown Louisville. From here, we were going to depart on Monday. 

At first, three nights and four days appeared to be sufficient to explore Kentucky’s Bourbon Trail. The truth is, to keep ourselves relatively sober, and to be able to explore something else than distilleries in Louisville, we only visited four of the 18 distilleries on the bourbon trail. 

We also visited two distilleries that aren’t listed on the official Kentucky Bourbon Trail, but that in no way are less in any sense than those that are. 

The following is a recap (avoiding to regurgitate the tour) of those distilleries visited, what makes them unique, what you need to know before you go, and where to stay and eat if exploring Frankfort and Louisville, KY. 

But before, a quick introduction to what can be called bourbon:

• It has to be aged in new and charred white oak containers. 
• The mash bill has to contain more than 51% of corn. 
• It has to be made in the United States.

Buffalo Trace Distillery (Frankfort, KY)

Rickhouse at Buffalo Trace Distillery

The first distillery we visited was Buffalo Trace Distillery, which surprisingly is not part of the official Kentucky Bourbon Trail. Buffalo Trace Distillery also happens to be the oldest distillery of those visited. 

We took part in The Trace Tour, a one-hour complimentary tour offered seven days a week (always check the official distilleries websites for the most accurate information regarding dates and hours). 

Here, Alice (our guide) took our group for a walk and talked about the history and products of Buffalo Trace. She also mentioned how the facility is undergoing an expansion of 1.2 Billion Dollars pledged by Sazerac, its parent company.

Under a bright but chilly day and the smell of cooked mash, Alice also explained to the tough crowd the differences between the warehouses (known as rickhouses because they are aging Whiskey). Additionally, we had the opportunity to visit one of the rickhouses where humidity and the smell of Whiskey teems. 

To end our tour, we tasted four of the Buffalo Trace distillery products: White Dog, Buffalo Trace, Eagle Rare, and Bourbon Cream. 

Woodford Reserve Distillery (Versailles, KY)

Charred white oak barrels at Woodford Reserve Distillery

On a Saturday morning, right after breakfast, we drove to the Woodford Reserve Distillery. A quick but lovely ride through Kentucky’s horse country. 

This was the drive to the @WoodfordReserve Distillery in Versailles, KY. Wasn’t it nice? pic.twitter.com/oAydH5z1zt

— Sheila Berrios (@goldenagetrips) February 20, 2020

We arrived at the Welcome Center to check-in for the tour, which I recommend you reserve in advance. Then, after being called by the guide, we hopped on a shuttle bus to cross the street and go to the actual distillery. 

Here, guests appeared to be in a better mood than in Buffalo Trace, if I have to guess why the difference, probably because of the milder weather. 

An overpowering corn smell hit our nose after getting out of the shuttle bus and entering the first building. In this structure, there were vats with mash at different stages of fermentation that we were allowed to taste. 

Then, came the gasps. We had entered the still room. One of the most impressive still rooms I have seen in the United States, with its three larger than life copper stills flanking one of the room sides. I haven’t been that impressed about a still room since visiting the Jameson Distillery in Midleton Ireland. 

Furthermore, it is interesting to know that according to our guide, it wasn’t until the Bourbon Boom of the 90’s that the facilities of Woodford Reserve Distillery started to get upgraded. In her words, the place was “rundown.” 

There was also a visit to one of the rickhouses, where a strong bourbon smell and the clickity-clack of the pipes envelope the white oak barrels until they are ready. 

Before getting back on the shuttle bus, the tour guide stated (the only distillery that did) how we cannot forget the enslaved people that are also part of the history of American Whiskey. Much information was not provided, except that at some point, there were enslaved people working the property. However, to learn more, the article Slavery in American Whiskey by Fred Minnick is a good start. 

To finish the tour, we tasted samples of Woodford Reserve, Woodford Reserve Double Oaked Bourbon Whiskey (Hector’s, my husband, favorite bourbon of the trip), and Woodford Reserve Rye Whiskey. And then, to Louisville. 

Angel’s Envy Distillery (Louisville, KY)

Angel’s Envy Distillery Tasting Room 

Already in Downtown Louisville, in the street known as Whiskey Row, we checked in for our Inside the Barrel tour. This tour includes the Signature Tour basics but focuses on the secondary barrels and the finishing process of the product. 

First, you’ll learn that Angel’s Envy Distillery is a family enterprise. With the son, and three grandsons of Lincoln Henderson (its founder) working on the distillery. 

Then you’ll see that by produced volume, it is almost a craft distillery. Its size is considerably smaller compared with other distilleries such as Buffalo Trace or Woodford Reserve. Nonetheless, it is still larger than expected when you remember you are in Downtown Louisville. 

There are no rickhouses because that would be a fire hazard. But they do the second finishing on-site. It was interesting to see the Port and Rum Barrels, which looked straight out of a Pirate Ship. 

The samples offered at the end of the tour were Angel’s Envy Bourbon Finished in Port Casks, Angel’s Envy Rye Finished in Rum Barrels, and Unfinished Rye straight from the barrel. 

Most tours include a bourbon ball with their whiskey samples, but the best chocolate pairing hands down was the one provided at the Angel’s Envy Distillery. Here, they had two chocolates from Art Eatables, and the chocolate orange Chimeres were not only outstanding by themselves, but also with the Whiskey. 

Michter’s Fort Nelson Distillery (Louisville, KY)

The Boulevardier (A Negroni, but substitute Gin with Bourbon) at The Bar at Fort Nelson

Unfortunately, tours were sold out for Sunday at the Michter’s Fort Nelson Distillery. Yet, we were able to visit ‘The Bar at Fort Nelson,’ and buy a flight of the Michter’s US 1 Whiskeys. The whiskey flight included the US 1 Kentucky Straight Rye, US 1 Kentucky Straight Bourbon, US 1 American Whiskey, and US 1 Sour Mash. 

Evan Williams Experience (Louisville, KY)

Barrel Strenght Evan Williams Bourbon at the Evan Williams Speakeasy Tasting Experience

At the Evan Williams Experience, we chose to do the Speakeasy Tasting Experience. This experience does not include a tour through production or bottling, and as you can guess by the name, a speakeasy is involved.

I don’t want to spoil the experience for you if you decide to go, but I can tell you that it was entertaining, informative, and fun. It also includes a souvenir. 

Here, aside from Evan Williams Bourbon (including barrel strength), we sampled the Evan Williams 12-year Bourbon, which can only be purchased at the Kentucky gift shop or Japan. People in Kentucky say the best bourbon is the one you like the most, and I had to say for me this was it. 

Peerless Distilling (Louisville, KY)

Peerless Distilling Single Barrel Tasting Selection

Our flight was leaving Monday afternoon, so we were able to squeeze one more distillery on Monday morning. This distillery was craft distillery Peerless Distilling. 

Peerless Distillery history starts in Henderson County, Kentucky, and you’ll learn in the tour how history is being made in Downtown Louisville. 

You’ll also discover how the distillery carries and proudly displays the DSP-KY-50 (Distilled Spirits Plant Number) number when the distillery opened in 2015. 

At this place, everyone seems to be enjoying what they do. They’re also more than willing to answer your questions and show you things you don’t typically see in other distilleries tour.

I’ll never forget seeing our tour guide opening and dumping a barrel that’ll be sold as “Single Barrel Bourbon.” It is also not every day that a Master Distiller (Caleb Kilburn) stops to asks us how we like the tour and engaging and answering questions from the group. 

Barrel Dump @kypeerless. First time I’ve seen one! Thanks for letting our tour group be part of it. pic.twitter.com/n4w1t9BUr3

— Sheila Berrios (@goldenagetrips) February 21, 2020

The samples offered at the end of the tour were from Single Barrel Bourbons and Single Barrel Rye (which Hector says is the best rye he has tasted) that are only available at the distillery.

Before you go

• Most distilleries won’t allow you to go on a tour if you’re wearing high heels or open-toed shoes.
• Because most distilleries are also production and packing facilities, make sure to follow instructions and respect rules. 
• Not all distilleries offer tours every day. Plan accordingly and reserve in advance when possible. 
• If going during the Summer, keep in mind some areas might be hot and humid. If going during the Winter, there might be a chance of snow and ice on the roads and walking paths. 

Where to Eat

Butchertown Grocery Bakery Detroit Style Pepperoni Pizza

Frankfort, KY

In Downtown Frankfort, check out Capital Cellars. This store combines a restaurant, bar, and liquor store, and does it effortlessly. Frequented by many locals and the occasional tourist, here you can get lunch or dinner and pair it with an Old Fashioned made with your favorite bourbon.

If undecided on what to eat, the Bourbon Bacon Jam Sandwich and the Bourbon Pimento Cheese are both delicious. Just remember, if you’re planning to drink, do not drive. 

Two other restaurants in Frankfort that were recommended by locals, but we couldn’t try were The Stave and Gibby’s. 

Louisville, KY

In Louisville, for breakfast or lunch, consider going to Butchertown Grocery Bakery, where we enjoyed a crispy, cheesy, and savory Detroit Style Pizza. There are also sandwiches, pastries, salads, and coffee. Another breakfast/lunch option is Biscuit Belly. The “Damn Good Biscuits” tagline is not an exaggeration, and both The Rockwell and Mama’s Boys passed with excellent marks. 

Please note that if you go during a weekend (especially after 9:00 am), prepare yourself to wait in line for 10-15 minutes or more. 

For dinner, if you like Mexican food, don’t hesitate to make a reservation at The Mayan Cafe. Some of the items on the menu that I can recommend are the Yucatec Sabultes, Cochinita Pibil, and the Mayan Burger. 

Another restaurant we enjoyed during our visit was Butchertown Grocery. Yes, it is ‘related’ to the bakery. Here, the standouts were the Bourbon Barrel Smoked Pork Belly, Gnocchi, Hanger Steak, and Beignets. 

Where to Stay

Frankfort, KY

In Frankfort, the Home2 Suites by Hilton Frankfort is on a strategic location between many distilleries, including the Woodford Reserve Distillery and Buffalo Trace Distillery. Parking and breakfast are complimentary, and the rooms are spacious. Aside from its proximity to distilleries, it is not far (about 12 minutes) from Downtown Frankfort. There are also numerous fast food joints near the hotel. Book it Here. 

Louisville, KY

In Louisville, the Homewood Suites by Hilton Louisville Downtown is not only walking distance to a few attractions such as the Evan Williams Bourbon Experience, but it is also close to the Frazier History Museum and the Louisville Slugger Museum and Factory. Parking is not free, but in our experience, walking and using rideshare services was the way to go. Your hotel stay includes breakfast, and if you stay during weekdays, it also includes an evening reception. Book it Here.

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Golden Age Trips 2018 Roundup

We started 2018 by focusing on local content. From ‘The Most Romantic Things to do in Sarasota‘, to ‘What to Pack to Siesta Key‘ and its handy PDF checklist. Then, at the end of January, we traveled to New York (for the first time!) to participate in the New York Times Travel Show. Traveling to NYC and the NYT Travel Show was an unforgettable experience, and I can’t wait to go back. I didn’t have high hopes for NYC, but thankfully I was wrong. I truly enjoyed it, which helped give birth to this post about the ‘10 Things That Really Surprised Me About New York‘.

After returning from NYC, our articles focused on senior travelers. We shared one of my favorite posts of the year, titled Traveling With Senior Parents: 3 Amazing Stories. There were also tips about protecting your data online on Traveling Seniors: Don’t Forget to Protect Your Data Online, which these days not only seniors need to worry about.

March arrived, and with it our annual international trip. At this point its already a tradition. We also like to travel when the majority of people doesn’t (even if the weather is not the best), to avoid crowds. In 2018 we went to Ireland, and aside from its roads, it was a spectacular trip. I checked two things off my bucket list (Cliffs of Moher and Guinness Brewery), and my husband was able to go to the Jameson Distillery to let them know in person that Jack Daniel’s Whiskey tastes better.

For Memorial Weekend I had the opportunity, thanks to Visit Clarksville TN, to touch ground in Tennessee and explore the city of Clarksville. It was a busy weekend, with exciting and fun things to do. The city also has great food and is investing in its culture and arts, not only for visitors but for its people. For a quick look, check out the 6 of the Most Instagrammable Places in Clarksville, TN.

The rest of the year the blog was focused on local content (including the most popular post of the year – 20 Things to Do in Lakewood Ranch), roundup and holiday posts (such as the monster post about Black Friday deals for Travelers), and even a hotel review.

We did travel during the second part of the year. Places included the Tri-state area of D.C./Maryland/Virginia, including Charlottesville and Shenandoah National Park. We made our annual pilgrimage to Atlanta, and also visited Puerto Rico (where we are from) for our best friend’s wedding and to spend time with our family.

Finally, Golden Age Trips was also featured on various websites and blogs, where we shared travel tips and knowledge. It felt like a busy year, but I’m ready to devote more time to the blog and share more travel tips and stories with all of you.

Where is 2019 taking Golden Age Trips?

The following is a non-comprehensive list of what we have planned for next year, but the calendar is starting to look like this.

January – Tri-state area of D.C./Maryland/Virginia.

March – Belgium (Brussels, Antwerp, Bruges) & Germany (Cologne)

April – Orlando (Star Wars Half Marathon – Rival Run Weekend) – We’re only doing the 10K though. 

We can’t wait to explore new places and share our travels with you! Happy New Year!     

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Before you keep reading: GoldenAgeTrips.com is making use of affiliate links, which in some cases will end up in a commission for purchases originated from this website. However, all referred companies/products/accommodations have been tried out or researched by us first. This hotel stay was not sponsored. 

Location

 

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One of the many cobblestone streets in Old Town Alexandria, VA

The main reason you stumbled upon this post or are interested in reading about it it’s because of the hotel location. The historic center of Alexandria, known as the ‘Old Town,’ is continuously welcoming visitors that arrive for work or leisure.

The Hotel Indigo in Old Town Alexandria enjoys a convenient and stunning location (click here to open Google Maps) between cobblestone streets and the Potomac River. Once you arrive you can walk to any point of interest in Old Town since the neighborhood is not only compact but also walkable.

I have not written a guide about Old Town Alexandria (yet), but for now, I’ll recommend visiting the following places which are at walking distance from the Hotel Indigo:

Torpedo Factory Art Center

Old Town Waterfront

Alexandria Black History Museum

Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum

Gadsby’s Tavern Museum

Favorite places to eat:

Cafe 44 

La Tasca

Pop’s Old Fashion Ice Cream Co

Parking

Hotel Indigo Old Town Alexandria – Valet Parking

The options for parking at the Hotel Indigo Old Town Alexandria are the following:

Valet Parking – $34.00 USD (price subject to change) per night with in and out privileges.

Metered Street Parking – There is metered street parking near the hotel.  Metered parking after 9:00 PM is free in Old Town Alexandria during weekdays, Sundays, and state holidays. Thanks to this we avoided paying for parking during one night, but spaces are limited.

For more information about How to Park in Old Town Alexandria click here.

Rooms

King Guest Room at the Hotel Indigo in Old Town Alexandria

Rooms at the Hotel Indigo in Old Town Alexandria are exactly what you need after a day of work or after sightseeing. The bed has a mattress that I can only compare to those found in high-end hotels. Bathrooms are spa-inspired with a comfortable shower, and the rooms have hardwood floors which are not something I thought I needed until I stayed in one of the King Guest Rooms.

The two times I have visited I have not stayed in any of the rooms overlooking the Potomac River, but I imagine they are a treat to the eyes. First, we were assigned a room overlooking a construction site and street parking (we arrived late), but the second time we were assigned a room with a lovely city view.

The hotel also has corner guest rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the Potomac River if you’re looking for something even more luxurious.

Facilities

Health and Fitness Center at the Hotel Indigo in Old Town Alexandria

I enjoy staying in boutique hotels, but one of the things I do miss sometimes from big chain hotels when doing just that are the facilities. The Hotel Indigo in Old Town Alexandria is considered a boutique hotel; nonetheless, you still have access to a full range of amenities.

There is a business center, health and fitness center, restaurant, workspace/desk inside the rooms, coffee maker, and decent bathroom toiletries. The only things that are missing (in my humble opinion) is a mini fridge and a microwave.

Restaurant

Hummingbird Bar & Kitchen Waterfront Outdoor Seating with views of the Potomac River

In the previous section, when talking about amenities, I mentioned the hotel has a restaurant. For the sake of accuracy, what I should say is that there is a restaurant sharing space with the hotel, but it is an independent restaurant.

Unfortunately, I did not have dinner here. However, I did got to enjoy breakfast during a beautiful and bright morning. The coffee, bread basked, and farm fresh breakfast all have my seal of approval. If you’re looking for an Irish breakfast (click here to read my posts about Ireland), Hummingbird Bar & Kitchen is also a great option. The restaurant’s chef is Dublin native Chef Cathal Armstrong and Irish Breakfast is on the menu.

Now, what are you waiting for? Book Hotel Indigo in Old Town Alexandria here.

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Lake View from behind Fishhole Miniature Gold in LWR.

Before you keep reading, GoldenAgeTrips.com uses affiliate links, which in some cases will end up in a commission for purchases originated from this website. However, all referred companies/ products/accommodations have been tried out or researched by us first.

Share an Ice Cream with Your Pup

In Main Street Lakewood Ranch, near Starbucks Coffe, you will find Big Olaf Creamery. This ice cream shop has premium homemade ice cream and even a selection of dog-friendly frozen yogurt. Not only is the ice cream good, but the place also has a friendly atmosphere I always enjoy. It is the perfect stop after a stroll through Main Street.

Play a Round (or Two) of Miniature Golf

The Fishhole Miniature Golf in Lakewood Ranch will keep everyone in the family entertained. It has a pond with koi fish that’ll grab you and your kids’ attention, misters through the 18 hole course to keep you fresh on Florida’s hot weather, and a location that’ll make it easy to grab a bite after finishing playing.

Get your Hands Dirty with BBQ Sauce

There are only a few things better in life than sweet, spicy, and savory BBQ. Nancy’s Bar-B-Q’s Lil-Nancy pulled pork in Main Street LWR is precisely that and worth a try. Other offerings include chicken, salmon, and beef. They even hand trim the beef brisket to extra lean for a small additional fee if you were already discarding this option because of health or diet concerns.

Have Brunch

My favorite place to have brunch in Lakewood Ranch is Station 400. The Bacon & Salted Caramel Pancakes with Orange Butter and Vanilla Bean Maple Syrup is a delight to the palate. If you’re more into savory food, the Fried Green Tomato BLT is also delicious.

Drinking a Hefeweizen at Naughty Monk Brewery.

Go Beer and Rum Tasting

The Tampa/St. Pete area is well known for its breweries, and Lakewood Ranch does not want to stay behind. Naughty Monk Brewery has a vast selection of craft beers (mainly Belgian-inspired), board games, and billiards, making it perfect for an outing with friends or a partner.

There is also Craft Growlers To Go & Tasting Room where you can sample beer and cider. After deciding which one is your favorite, fill a growler to enjoy later. You can bring your growler (get one here!) or purchase it at the store.

The latest addition to the neighborhood is Loaded Cannon Distillery, where you can go for a tour and taste various spirits. From gin to rum, to vodka, to hopefully whiskey soon, there’s something for everyone. P.S. The toasted coconut rum is made with real coconut (not extract), and the flavor is unlike any other toasted coconut rum I have ever tried. 

Appreciate and Create Art

Plan a visit to Let’s Create Art, also in Main Street LWR. Let’s Create Art offers an array of creative and specialty classes for kids and adults. They also offer open studio hours, space rental for activities, and the opportunity to order and pick up a paint kit to create art wherever you feel more creative.

See a Movie

If you’re looking for an IMAX Experience, Lakewood Ranch Cinemas is not for you. However, if you’re looking for a quiet cinema (for the most part) with reasonable prices, the Sarasota Film Society, a non-profit member-supported organization, is doing a great job with the previously mentioned movie theater.

Listen to Live Music

Music on Main happens the first Friday of every month in Main Street Lakewood Ranch when the street is transformed into a pedestrian-only zone. Aside from the live music, there are food vendors, and some of the restaurants on the street have dinner and drink specials.

Enjoying Port Wine at Fine Wine & Tastings on Main.

Drink Wine &  Eat Cheese

We might not have too many wineries around, but that doesn’t mean we can’t enjoy excellent wine. Fine Wine & Tastings on Main has a relaxed vibe, but with extremely knowledgeable staff and more than 450 wines from around the world. Every month they choose 25 wines that you can enjoy by the glass on their own, or you can choose to accompany them with cheese and charcuterie.

Pick and Eat Meat from a Crab

Pinchers in Lakewood Ranch is where you can sit down and feel like you are in an old seafood shack along the coast of the Gulf of Mexico. The Hot Crab & Cheese Dip is the favorite of many (and not without reason). But no one will judge if you order the pound of Alaskan Snow Crab or King Crab.

Visit LWR Farmer’s Market (The Market)

The Market at Lakewood Ranch is a community-supported agriculture project where you can find fresh produce, seafood, beef, poultry, cheese, and other goods. It runs from November to April, and at the time of updating this list, it is happening every Sunday from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM.

Adopt a Pet 

This might be the most serious thing to do on this list since it’s a longtime commitment. However, if you have decided to add a new member to the family, consider adopting from The Humane Society at Lakewood Ranch. A no-kill, non-profit shelter with adoptable pets ready for a home.

Celebrate Christmas

In Lakewood Ranch, Christmas is taken seriously. From the house decorations to multiple activities on Main Street, you’ll find out ‘Christmasy’ things to see and do in LWR. Make a note to check out Christmas on Main.

Miles of trails and multiple amenities at the Bob Gardner Community Park.

Complete a 5K (or 10K, or Half-Marathon, it’s your choice)

If there is something that Lakewood Ranch doesn’t lack is running trails. Here you can find a map with some of the ‘official’ Lakewood Ranch trails, but you can plan a run or a walk anywhere there is a public sidewalk.

Play a Sport

In Lakewood Ranch, there is always a sport being played. From golf to soccer to tennis, rugby, and polo. Some of the areas are only accessible for members of the different country clubs, including the Ritz Carlton Members Club. But, Lakewood Ranch also has many parks for residents and visitors alike. Click here to find them, and see which one is perfect for you!

Pretend You’re in Ireland

One of the newest additions to the LWR restaurant scene is the Irish Restaurant McGrath’s Irish Ale House. At the moment, I have only tried it for lunch, but the items I tasted were delicious. The French Onion Shire Dip and especially the Pub BLT were winners for me.

Go Horseback Riding

Epic Equine Experiences provides adventurous trail experiences (with lunch or dinner) in the Manatee and Sarasota counties, including Lakewood Ranch. The riding season is from October to June, and reservations are required.

Buy New Clothes

Lakewood Ranch Wish on Main is a fashion and lifestyle boutique with attentive staff ready to help you upgrade your wardrobe. Here you’ll find unique pieces that you can accessorize with shoes, jewelry, and bags, also available in the store.

Eat Sushi

Hana Sushi Lounge is the perfect spot for sushi and cocktails. The sushi is fresh, the cocktails are creative, and the service is excellent. They have many tasty sushi rolls, but my top three are the Tampa Roll, the Red Diamond Roll, and the Crunchy Munchy Roll.

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Dundag Bay on Muckross Lake as seen from one of the entrances of Killarney National Park. You can still see some snow on the grass to your right. 

Killarney National Park has the biggest area of native woodland in Ireland. Here you can see some of its diversity with a snow covered mountain in the background. 

Because of all the snow that had melted, streams were brimming, and oak wetlands were in full display.

The weather appeared to be much different from Dublin or Cork where the snow was gone but not the rain or cold.

Red Deer are often seen grazing these lands. Sadly, I was not able to spot one. 

The snow did not take away the greenery (and how green!) of the moss. 

Some areas of Killarney National Park appear to have a high contrast filter engrained on them. Clearer than clear water, and greener than green moss abound. 

Torc Waterfall – One of the most well-known features of the park. You can hear it from afar. 

The steps in Cardiac Hill at Killarney National Park are (as the name suggests) not the easiest steps to climb. Nonetheless, as you can see, the view from the top is completely worth it.  

Grey skies started to loom and it was time to go. Muckross House, a Tudor style mansion with sixty-five rooms was our first and last sight of Killarney National Park.

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Where is the Athlone Castle Visitor in Ireland?

Before I start talking about the castle and its history, let me show you where the city of Athlone (County Westmeath) and its castle and visitor center are.

The location of the Athlone Castle Visitor Center. The reason there is a zoomed in picture of the site is that you should be aware of its strategic position (on the banks of the River Shannon). This locality was an influence on the number of events that occurred in the castle and its perimeters.

Touring the Athlone Castle Visitor Center in Ireland

We arrived at the Athlone Castle Visitor Center in Ireland before noon. The first thing we noticed is that because “high season” in the area doesn’t start until Easter we had the castle almost for ourselves.

The Athlone Castle, or at least the structure that survives today dates from 1210. That makes it more than 800 years old! Just from looking at the stone you can’t really guess, because of how sturdy it seems.

Athlone’s Castle central keep or ‘donjon.’ Keeps are known for having been used as a refuge of last resort should the rest of the castle fell to an adversary.

It is difficult not to get distracted by the view of the Athlone Bridge and the Shannon River once you go up the ramp on the entrance, but go ahead and enter the reception to buy your tickets for the Athlone Castle Experience.

Flag of Ireland in the Athlone Castle. In this picture, you can also see the River Shannon and what’s left of what used to be the original Athlone Bridge, built in the 16th Century. The bridge was decommissioned in the early 20th century, and a new one opened in 1844 .

After buying the tickets, one of the things that surprised me the most was how ultra-modern the interior was. The Athlone Castle Experience did not open until 2012, which is probably one of the reasons everything still is in pristine condition.

The Athlone Castle Experience

The exhibition is divided into eight galleries. It is arranged chronologically and is extremely interactive. From a 360 degree theater that shows a recreation of the Siege of Athlone in 1690 to games, and even full ‘medievalesque‘ outfits (for you to wear!) you can easily spend one to two hours in here.

In Gallery Five: ‘People of the Siege’. Here you can learn more about generals that were involved in some way in the attack and defense of the Athlone Castle.

Families, couples, and solo-travelers alike will enjoy this exhibition. There is something for everyone. It is self-guided, and you can take it all in at your own pace. After all, you’ll be learning not only about the castle and its history but about early settlements that go back up to 5000 years.

Spoiler Alert: The castle was attacked numerous times, and the surrounding area saw many battles and bloodshed. 

Cannon overlooking the Shannon River at the Athlone Castle

How to get to the Athlone Castle Visitor Center in Ireland?

After visiting the Cliffs of Moher (Click Here to Read 10 Reasons Why You Shouldn’t Visit the Cliffs of Moher) and spending the night in Doolin, we drove to Athlone. It took almost 2 hours via the M6. You can drive through more rural roads if you desire, but at that point, our nerves couldn’t take it anymore.

If you’re driving from Dublin, it should take you less than 1 hour and a half to arrive in Athlone via the M6 and M4.

Where to park if visiting the Athlone Castle Visitor Center in Ireland?

There is display and on-street parking behind and beside the castle. There’s also a relatively good amount of parking in Downtown Athlone.

How much it costs to visit the Athlone Castle Visitor Center in Ireland? What are its hours?

Click here to visit the Athlone Castle Visitor Center website for the latest information.

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You might have to take an unexpected Ferry

Views from the Shannon Ferry

Have you ever been following a GPS or Google Maps when you realize you need to get your car on a ferry? I have never been in that situation until I tried to get to the Cliffs of Moher driving from Tralee.

The Shannon Ferry connects County Kerry with County Clare, and it lets you take a 20-min break while you navigate through the Shannon Estuary. I don’t understand how you would need a break from driving on the left, and narrow roads.

Note: If you buy the tickets in advance, it is cheaper than if you do on the day thereof.  That was something I didn’t know before we went. Well, I didn’t even know we had to take a ferry. If you go during the Summer, it is said you can spot dolphins. 

The roads to get to the Cliffs of Moher are…different

Just a typical stop on your way to the Cliffs of Moher

This was the view for part of the route we took to the Cliffs of Moher. Panoramic views of the Atlantic for miles, with cute holiday houses and farms on the other side. It is also known as the Cliff Coast, and you’ll smell the sea salt water and feel the sea breeze (or high force winds) on your skin.

Thankfully, there were some areas in which you could park and take pictures without disrupting anyone’s life. Don’t stop in the middle of the road to take pictures, is not nice.

It has very old castles

O’Brien’s Tower at the Highest Point of the Cliffs of Moher

Don’t people get tired of seeing castles in Ireland? They are everywhere. Even on the Cliffs of Moher! I wonder who thought that was a good investment. “Wonder no more,” the internet said, Sir Cornellius O’Brien decided on its construction as an observation tower for Victorian tourists in the 1800’s.

Other versions say Sir O’Brien built it to impress women he was courting. Would that really have worked?

It has an entrance fee

Yes, there is an entrance fee (6 euros per person at the time of this article). You can pay for it on site or save time and get your tickets in advance. Click here to get your tickets if you are still not convinced of not going.

The fee not only covers parking, but the visitor’s center, and it helps with the maintenance and conservation of the cliffs.

As crazy as it sounds there might even be snow

That is not Photoshop. It is real snow.

If you would have told me a few months ago I was going to see the Cliffs of Moher with snow I would have never believed you. Nonetheless, we were there less than a week after Winter Storm Emma in March, which covered Ireland in the white stuff in the same way it did in 1982.

This event caused for areas of the Cliffs to have not only snow but a mix of melted snow and mud. It did make for a fun walk over the cliffs. Additionally, not many people wanted to venture too far from the visitor’s center (because they were scared of ruining their shoes/clothes or falling), which made us have vast sections of the cliffs for ourselves.

The sun might be blinding

Have you seen those pictures of the Cliffs of Moher with fog, or with grey skies over it? I have seen them too. However, that is not what we saw when we went. After days of rain, this was a perfectly sunny day.

It was cold when we got there, but later in the day, it got warmer. There was no excuse to stop walking when Ireland was showing us the Sun after almost a week. It was so sunny I had to edit some of the pictures because the glare was so intense.

Original Picture

Picture after being edited to remove the Sun glare

There are birds everywhere

Pair of European Herring Gulls

And no, I do not mean Puffins. I didn’t see one. There was a significant colony of European herring gulls, and I felt like a paparazzi taking their pictures.

Blue…so much blue

I don’t think I have seen so much blue since I left Puerto Rico. In a sunny day, the contrast of the blue sky with the Atlantic waters and the cliffs are a photographer’s dream. You thought Ireland = Green, not here.

It might ruin all your other plans

If you have all your day planned, with a visit to the Cliffs of Moher as only a short part of the day you might want to rethink it. You can easily spend from four to six hours here. You’ll also want to take pictures and appreciate the views. Remember always to be grateful for the opportunity to visit a place. Not everyone gets your same opportunities.

Nothing will compare

The truth is, there is not a lot in the world that can compare with 14km of cliffs at the edge of the Atlantic ocean. I know that after seeing the pictures, you were probably asking how I could tell people not to visit the Cliffs of Moher. But, as you would have probably figured out by now, if there’s a place you need to visit during your trip to Ireland is the Cliffs of Moher.

Yes, they are ‘touristy’, but it is for a reason. Aside from the pints of Guinness, I can say this was my favorite part of our Ireland trip and I’ll bet it will probably be yours too.

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Location in Ireland of the Jameson Experience, Midleton.

How to get to the Jameson Experience, Midleton?

Comeragh Mountains (County Waterford) covered in snow after the March 2018 Winter Storm Emma.

After driving from Kilkenny through Waterford and its beautiful mountains, we arrived in Midleton. I would like to say it was a smooth and tranquil drive, but we were at the edge of our seats because of the narrow roads and driving on the left.

To avoid this, you can take the M50-M7-M8 route, or arrive at the Cork Airport. Because we were staying the night closer to the city of Cork (Book Insiara B&B Here), it made more sense to us to take the M9 and then move to a rural road where we would encounter the distillery on our way.

Follow us on Instagram for more pictures of our Ireland trip.

Morning view from Insiara B&B in Cork County, Ireland. Loving the Ireland countryside. #ireland #discoverireland #corkireland #cork #frosty #coldmorning #exploreireland #theirishway #acolorstory #super_europe #igireland

A post shared by Sheila Berríos (@goldenagetrips) on Mar 7, 2018 at 12:38pm PST

Where to park for the Jameson Experience, Midleton?

After following the signs for the distillery, you will encounter multilevel parking (Carpark) at the left of the entrance.

Ok, can we start with the pictures of the tour? Yes, we can.

Copper Pot Still at the Entrance of the Jameson Experience, Midleton.

Contrary to what we typically do when we travel, we did not buy tickets for the tour in advance. There was a tour scheduled for noon when we arrived and bought tickets for it.

Long story short, on the tour there was a group of German tourists and their guides started translating what the guide from the distillery was saying.

Not too long after starting the tour, we were told to move to the next one to avoid making the tour longer/awkward for us. Thanks to this we got complimentary coffee, cookies, and pannacotta so I can’t complain. 

Note: If your schedule is kind of flexible I wouldn’t worry too much about booking a tour in advance (you can still browse the store, eat on the on-site restaurant or drink in the bar).  However, if you have other plans for the day, visit the tour website and select a time slot. Additionally, if you are interested in other of their premium experiences, it’s better to book in advance since spaces are more limited than for the regular tour. 

Chandelier made from Jameson Whiskey bottles at the entrance/waiting room.

On our ‘second’ tour is when I became aware that we were touring ‘Old Midleton.’ The Old Midleton distillery closed in 1975 and was turned into a visitor center.

The New Midleton distillery, also known as the Midleton distilleries complex,  is next door and one of the most modern distilleries in the world. It is also the biggest distillery in Ireland. Not only it produces Jameson Whiskey but a variety of whiskeys.

Nonetheless, of all the whiskey and liquor it produces, Jameson is the most well-known brand.

A building at the Old Midleton Distillery where the malting process of the barley occurred.

During the tour, you will start by learning about the triumphs and failures the John Jameson and Son Irish Whiskey company has gone through the years. Then, you are moved to a ‘courtyard’ where you’ll learn about how the raw material was received and stored.

The talk about the harsh working conditions, and what a typical day was for an employee occurs inside one of the storehouses. At least, after such a difficult day, it is said employees were given whiskey.

The Old Midleton Distillery has been turned into a visitor center known as the Jameson Experience, Midleton.

The tour flows in the same way the whiskey-making process does. You will be shown all the steps and hard work it takes to make this prized liquid.

You’ll also have the opportunity to see the facility water wheel still in function, with other technological advances of its time.

Check out the video below to see the water wheel in motion. 

At the end of the tour, you might have the opportunity to taste and compare Jameson Whiskey with other whiskeys of the world. If you are not given this opportunity, you will still get a glass of whiskey. On the rocks, or as a mixed drink, it is your choice.

Taste Panel at the Jameson Experience in Midleton. We compared Irish whiskey with Scottish and American whiskey. 

As you can see, the place is beautiful and set over 15 acres in the Irish countryside. The guides are knowledgeable, samples are tasty, and you’ll be able to find whiskey you cannot find anywhere else.

I did not go to Bow St. to be able to compare both experiences. I do, however, recommend visiting ‘Old Midleton’ if visiting County Cork in Ireland. After your visit to the distillery, eat a pizza with a Rebel Red from the Franciscan Brewery in Cork City for me.

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Golden Age Trips 2017 Roundup

Pirate Special at Villa Cofresi

On February 2017, the blog took us to the Villa Cofresi Hotel in Rincon, Puerto Rico. Going back to my island as a tourist, felt different than any other time I had gone back to visit after I moved to the United States.  Click here to read more about it. Sadly, as some of you might know, Puerto Rico has been going through some difficult times after Hurricane Maria struck the island on September. If everything goes well, we are certain we’ll be going back in December of next year, but the truth is you’ll never know if we go before.

Lucerne (or Luzern) in Switzerland

Then, in March, we visited Switzerland and Germany. As it happened with Iceland in March 2016, we fell in love with Germany too. We can’t wait to go back and explore the northern part of the country, where we didn’t have the time to visit.

Read related posts on this trip:

Zurich and Lucerne in a Weekend

Munich: Beer, Football & Castles

One Afternoon in Basel 

Things to see in Nuremberg During late Winter

Miami Beach

Summer came, and we ended up visiting Miami for the first time, after five years of living here in Florida. If you’re not a partier, we have a weekend guide for you. Check it out here!

Charleston Battery

To finish Summer with a Bang, we drove to Charleston, South Carolina where I have been dreaming of going for years. The good thing? It did not disappoint. Then, we visited Savannah, Georgia with friends and kept it local for the rest of the year.

Read related posts on this trip:

10 Pictures that will Inspire you to Visit Savannah During Summer

Weekdays in Charleston South Carolina

As you can see, we kept moving this year, and we are hoping we can do the same in 2018 while helping you also do the same.

Where is 2018 taking Golden Age Trips?

Unsplash – Aaron Burson

The following is obviously a non-comprehensive list of what we have planned for next year, but the calendar is starting to look like this.

January – New York Times Travel Show

February – Maybe a St. Valentine’s Weekend Getaway? 

March – Ireland

April – Orlando (Star Wars Half Marathon – The Dark Side) – We’re only doing the 10K though. 

December – Puerto Rico

We can’t wait to see new places and we hope we can help you do it too! Happy New Year!

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Neuschwanstein Castle

Neuschwanstein Castle

It takes about four hours to drive from Zurich to Munich, but we took a detour to pay a visit to the Neuschwanstein Castle in Schwangau (Germany), which added about two more hours to the trip. The route we took to the castle included roads that crossed through the Bavarian countryside. Sometimes narrow, at times full of curves, but always rewarding us with beautiful views.

View of the Bavarian Countryside from the Neuschwanstein Castle

     I remember seeing a sneak peek of the Neuschwanstein Castle as we started to get closer. I did not expect it to be on the top of such a high mountain. How did they manage to build it there? How am I going to reach the top? I had read they had horse carriages that would take you to the top, but causing horses to get tired it’s not my thing. Before we parked, we made the decision to hike.

Munich

Beer Tour

Allianz Arena Tour

Allianz Arena – Home of the Football Club Bayern Munich

Marienplatz & Surroundings

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