Just your typical day of flying hawks in the forest of a castle! How crazy is that? One of the most memorable things we did in Ireland was a Hawk Walk at Dromoland Castle. It was an experience we will never forget and I’m so glad everyone got up the courage to do it, so we could experience it together as a family.
Our Guide & Our Hawk
Our guide, Damien, was so knowledgeable about birds of prey and the history of falconry and he welcomed questions about the birds. The girls were impressed that he had an answer for every question. First, we were introduced to Anthony, an impressive Harris hawk.
We walked through the woods behind the castle while Anthony would fly from branch to branch following us.
When we put some meat on our glove, he would fly right to us and land on our arm. Just look at how cool it was!
We had so much fun on our walk!
After our walk Damien brought us back to the mews to meet some of the other birds that live at the castle. We were introduced to some peregrine falcons, the fastest animals on the planet.
We also met and fell in love with a little owl named Pickles. We had so much fun with him.
Cost of a walk:
€70 per person.
€60 per person for 3 or 4 people
€50 per person for five or more.
Spectator’s rate €25
Tips for a great day:
Newmarket-On-Fergus, Co. Clare, Ireland
Tel: +353 61 368144 | USA: 1800 346 7007
A camera with a slow-motion feature is great to bring.
Wear sturdy shoes since you’ll be walking in the woods. Flip flops and heels are not a good idea.
If you don’t mind spending a pretty penny, Dromoland Castle Hotel looks amazing. I wish we would have stayed there.
Encourage your kids to ask questions.
Expect to spend about 2 hours there.
It would be fun to do an afternoon tea following your walk.
Give them a follow:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dromolandcastle/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dromolandcastlehotel/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/dromolandcastle
