Claddaghgarriff

Explorer Tom Knockowen gets picked on by the wind because it has a bit of an attitude problem with its height. It’s standing at six hundred fifty-eight meters, just judging everyone else down below. Look up, the best bit is always higher than you think.

Explorer Tom Knockastumpa in County Kerry is home to one stubborn bird that absolutely refuses to leave, despite several offers of accommodation elsewhere in the county. It just sits there judging your hiking boots and questioning your life choices with its beady little eyes. Linger, it's not going anywhere and neither should you.

Explorer Tom Adrigole House claims it’s older than the concept of a house itself, which is a wild claim considering its spoked fanlight looks perfectly standard for its time. It has a curious door that makes you wonder what else is hidden behind it, plus timber sliding sash windows that probably don’t slide well anymore. Try to find the original outbuildings without getting lost in the field.

Explorer Tom Hotel in Adrigole is a tall, vertical building in an area that prefers things flat and horizontal. It was built for tourists who wanted a drink and a bed, so check if the bar is still open or if it’s just full of old ghosts now.

Explorer Tom Mare's Tail Waterfall in County Cork has a bird that refuses to leave no matter how wet it gets. It sits right at the top, looking like it’s judging your swimming ability. The water is very loud and slightly dramatic about its own height. Bring a coin for luck and keep it in your pocket.

Explorer Tom New Zealand broadleaf in County Kerry handles nosey neighbours by simply growing faster than they can blink. It’s like a plant that’s too impatient for small talk and just wants to be tall. Count the crows, then count again.

Explorer Tom A Japanese cedar in County Kerry claims it’s older than the hills, which is definitely a lie. But who wants to argue with a tree that looks like a castle? Tell the kids it's a castle. Close enough.

Explorer Tom Burial Ground in Kilmakilloge sits on a ridge that looks down its nose at tourists from Dublin who can't find their left foot. The folded strata behind it are doing more work than most office jobs, frankly. Pack a picnic and an excuse.

Explorer Tom Gleninchaquin Waterfall is one hundred and forty metres of pure, unfiltered attitude, absolutely refusing to be impressed by anything but its own thunderous volume. The local sheep stare at it with a mix of respect and deep existential confusion every single day. Perfect spot to practise your best tour-guide voice.