TODAY’s four-hour live broadcast from Ireland on Oct. 16 offers a closer look at the people, places and traditions that make the Emerald Isle such a special destination. Follow along as Al Roker explores a generational Irish dairy farm, Carson Daly uncovers his Irish roots and Savannah Guthrie experiences the spectacular Cliffs of Moher.
Inspired to plan your own Irish getaway? Below, we’re sharing the remarkable places and local finds featured during TODAY’s trip, from the future home of the Ryder Cup to the small businesses bringing Irish craftsmanship to life.
Where we stayed
Sheen Falls Lodge paid for TODAY’s accommodations and activities on-site.
Sheen Falls Lodge
Nestled in the Irish countryside, Sheen Falls Lodge is a five-star hotel that sits on a 300-acre estate overlooking Kenmare Bay and the Sheen River in County Kerry. The property began as a fishing lodge and today has 72 rooms and suites, plus cottages and villas throughout the estate.
There’s plenty to explore right on the property, too. Guests can try everything from falconry and salmon fishing to horseback riding and clay pigeon shooting. Or, for something more relaxing, settle in by the fire and soak up the stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Exclusive deal: Save 30% on a three-night stay at Sheen Falls Lodge
Considering booking a stay? We have an exclusive offer for viewers: Save 30% on a three-night stay at Sheen Falls Lodge when you book by Oct. 22. The offer includes a full Irish breakfast each morning, plus complimentary access to the award-winning Easanna Spa, resort bikes, the tennis court and more. See additional details and book here.
Castlemartyr Resort
Located in County Cork, Castlemartyr Resort is a five-star luxury hotel set on a 220-acre estate, with an 18th century manor house at its heart. The resort served as home base for the TODAY while filming Al Roker’s visits to a family-run dairy farm in Skibbereen and the renowned Ballymaloe Cookery School.
On the property, visitors can enjoy scenic woodland walks, a championship golf course, spa treatments, and dining experiences that offer a taste of Irish hospitality. Plus, its location also makes it a great starting point for exploring the charming towns and coastal scenery of East Cork.
What we did
Cliffs of Moher
One of the country’s most iconic natural landmarks, the Cliffs of Moher offer awe-inspiring views over the Atlantic — and they’re worth experiencing from more than one angle.
Start at the top, where coastal walking paths offer panoramic views of the Atlantic, with rugged cliffs stretching along the coastline and the Aran Islands visible in the distance. Then head to the nearby village of Doolin, where a ferry cruise takes you along the base of the cliffs for a view of the towering rock faces rising directly from the ocean. During TODAY’s trip, Savannah Guthrie did just that, boarding a Doolin Ferry cruise to take in the view for herself before continuing on to the Aran Islands.
Weather can change quickly along Ireland’s west coast, so layers and a rain jacker are always a good idea.
Adare Manor
For golf lovers, Adare Manor is one of Ireland’s most exciting stops. The sprawling estate in County Limerick is home to a championship course set to host the Ryder Cup in 2027.
During TODAY’s trip, Carson Daly got an early look at the course, playing several holes and taking in the estate’s sweeping grounds. Set against the historic Manor House, the course winds through rolling parkland, tree-lined fairways and the River Maigue.
There’s plenty to explore beyond the game, from fishing to archery to spa treatments and Michelin-starred dining.
Ballymaloe
This section is sponsored by Kerrygold.
A visit to Ballymaloe Cookery School in Shanagarry, County Cork, feels like stepping into the heart of modern Irish food culture. Set on a 100-acre organic farm, the renowned cookery school has been teaching students since 1983, with a focus on seasonal ingredients, sustainability, and the vital connection between food, farming and the land.
During TODAY’s trip, Al Roker stopped by to learn more about Ballymaloe’s farm-to-table approach and the traditions behind Irish cooking. Much of what’s used in the kitchen comes directly from the surrounding farm, gardens and glasshouses.
While Ballymaloe is known for its signature 12-week program, visitors can also experience the school through shorter half-day or multi-day classes, making it easy to incorporate a hands-on cooking lesson into an Ireland itinerary.
Riverdance
Few performances are as closely tied to Ireland as Riverdance. What began as a seven-minute interval act during the 1994 Eurovision Song Contest in Dublin has now become an international phenomenon, bringing Irish dance and music to audiences worldwide.
Riverdance performers joined TODAY throughout the broadcast in Ireland, bringing its signature high-energy footwork and lively music to the show. Travelers hoping to experience the spectacle for themselves can check out the show’s touring schedule, including upcoming 2027 performances at Gleneagle Arena in Killarney.
Sheep Herding
Sheep are a familiar sight across the Irish countryside, but watching a skilled sheepdog at work offers a whole new appreciation for the country’s farming traditions.
Craig Melvin, Al Roker and Dylan Dreyer visited Kissane Sheep Farm in County Kerry to try their hand at sheep herding and got a close-up look at this longtime Irish tradition. From March until mid-October, visitors can experience the farm firsthand through seasonal activities, including Border Collie herding demonstrations, sheep shearing displays, and scenic trail walks overlooking MacGillycuddy’s Reeks and the Black Valley.
Seaweed Baths
For a relaxing break from sightseeing, Ireland’s seaweed baths offer a uniquely Irish way to unwind.
After trying their hand at falconry and Irish soda bread, Jenna Bush Hager and Sheinelle Jones took some time to relax with a seaweed bath at Sneem Seaweed Baths in South Kerry.
The centuries-old wellness practice involves soaking in warm water infused with seaweed harvested from the Atlantic. As the seaweed soaks, it releases natural oils and minerals believed to hydrate the skin and promote relaxation. It’s a soothing way to slow down after a busy day of exploring and a distinctly Irish experience worth adding to your itinerary.
Blarney Stone
Few Irish traditions are as famous as kissing the Blarney Stone, which, according to legend, gives visitors “the gift of the gab” — the ability to speak with eloquence and charm.
Located at the top of the Blarney Castle in County Cork, the stone has drawn travelers for generations who hope to gain the gift of persuasion. Visitors can climb the castle’s winding staircases before leaning backward, with assistance, to kiss the famous stone.
There’s more to Blarney Castle that its famous stone. Visitors can wander through lush gardens and along winding woodland paths for a leisurely stroll.
What we shopped
This section is sponsored by Primark.
Beauty: Sculpted by Aimee and Brow Aid
Ireland is home to a growing number of beauty brands, including Sculpted by Aimee and Brow Aid, two Irish businesses making a name for themselves in the beauty industry.
Founded by makeup artist Aimee Connolly, Sculpted by Aimee focuses on everyday makeup essentials, from complexion staples and blush to versatile, multipurpose palettes. Brow Aid, created by brow stylist Kim O’Sullivan, specializes in pencils, gels and precision tools designed to make shaping and defining brows easier, with cruelty-free formulas and sustainable, refillable packaging.
Both make it easy to bring a little Irish beauty inspiration into your everyday routine.
Sweet Treat: Teach Milseáin
For something a little sweeter, Teach Milseáin is an old-fashioned sweet shop filled with classic treats and nostalgic finds. Think: tins of sweets, apple drops, macaroons and plenty of chocolate from beloved Irish chocolatier, Butlers.
While you’re stocking up on sweets, here’s a fun bit of Irish history: Halloween traces its roots to the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain, celebrated in Ireland more than 2,000 years ago.
Handcrafted Ceramics: Fiachra Crowley
For a unique piece of Irish artistry to bring home, look to ceramic artist Fiachra Crowley and his collection of handcrafted pottery.
Crowley’s ceramics blend traditional craftsmanship with a contemporary touch. His distinctive pottery, featuring minimalist designs and clean finishes, makes for a thoughtful gift or a special addition to your own home.
Locally Made Gifts: Twigín Kenmare
If you’re looking for a uniquely Irish souvenir, look no further than Twigín Kenmare, an independent gift brand founded by local artist Ciara O’Connor. Her colorful collection of mugs, greeting cards, tote bags and heritage prints draw inspiration from Irish culture and the picturesque landscapes of County Kerry.
Fashion: Kenmare Cashmere
Few souvenirs feel quite as fitting for an Ireland trip as a cozy cashmere sweater. Kenmare Cashmere offers a collection of 100% pure cashmere clothing for men and women, from classic V-neck sweaters and cardigans to elegant shawls and wraps.
Each piece combines luxuriously soft textures with timeless style, making it a wardrobe staple you’ll reach for long after your Irish getaway ends.
