East Clare is home to some incredibly talented business owners. So, if you are looking to support local this Christmas then have a look through this East Clare Gift Guide for some inspiration.
With the holiday season fast approaching and Christmas on everyone’s mind, there is no better time to support local. East Clare is home to incredible businesses that, unfortunately, for many have been hit by hard times. From artisan producers to craftspeople, adventure providers and more, East Clare is home to a talented bunch of people.
So, whether you are looking for a stocking filler, a voucher, or larger gifts for the special people in your life you can find it all in the wonderful East Clare region. Here is everything you need to know about supporting local for your Christmas shopping this year and where you can go to do it.
Accommodation and Leisure
Sometimes the best gifts are the gifts that allow the receiver to escape from reality and be transported into another world.
The Lakeside Hotel & Leisure Centre
Situated on the banks of the River Shannon, this four-star hotel offers unrivalled views of the river and surrounding area. You will be absolutely spoilt for choice as you meander your way through the range of amenities on offer in this phenomenal hotel.
Indulge in some afternoon tea next to a cost fire, or some tapas with a glass of prosecco. Perhaps you might enjoy going for a swim in the swimming pool, before whizzing down the waterslide. Get those muscles pumping in the gym, or recover from a workout in the jacuzzi, steam room and sauna. The possibilities are endless.
Gift cards are available for a range of experiences, so whatever kind of gift you are looking for the Lakeside Hotel & Leisure centre will have you covered. You can purchase a gift voucher here.
Adventure
For some, giving the gift of an experience is the best present they could receive. With vouchers, the receiver has an unlimited choice as to what experience is best suited to them, and they can then select for a time that suits them best. As East Clare is situated on the beautiful Lough Derg, we are fortunate enough to have incredible outdoor activity providers that are offering vouchers.
Killaloe River Cruises
The Spirit of Killaloe is a longstanding feature of Lough Derg, one which for many locals has been overlooked. Hop on board this magnificent passenger boat and explore the River Shannon and Lough Derg. Discover the region from a different perspective, relax and unwind as you enjoy a drink or two from their bar.
Gin cruises will be back on the cards for the team at Killaloe River Cruises once the Covid-19 restrictions are lifted. On a gin cruise, you can expect to enjoy three premium gins as you cruise the River Shannon and Lough Derg.
You can buy a voucher for Killaloe River Cruises here, and they are available in a range of values. An experience on the Spirit of Killaloe is suitable for all ages, and we guarantee it will be one you won’t ever forget.
My Next Adventure
Wandering through Killaloe on a summer’s day it is hard not to notice the guys at My Next Adventure and their bright green kayaks as they paddle about the waterways. They operate guided kayaking tours of Killaloe, starting on the canal before heading out onto the River Shannon. Their guides are knowledgable on all things local, and you will be sure to learn a thing or two on a trip. Navigate the lower canal, and who knows what kind of wildlife you might encounter on one of the trips.
They also do full moon kayaking tours, which are truly magical. Kayak beneath the rising moon and experience the magic of the lake from a different perspective. This is an adult-only event that happens once a month — this is especially popular with couples.
My Next Adventure is offering vouchers, in multiples of €25, which can be used to pay for or pay part of any experience with them. They can be ordered by emailing them on info@mynextadventure.ie Adventures with My Next Adventure are open to everyone aged 4 and up.
Derg Isle Adventure Centre
A hot favourite with adventure enthusiasts looking to experience a multitude of adventure activities. Situated near to the village of Scariff, Derg Isle is nestled along the shore of the River Graney. Boasting a large range of outdoor activities both on land and on the water, there is something for everyone to enjoy at Derg Isle.
Zipline your way through the air on their thrilling zip wire rides, or perhaps test your nerves on their climbing wall. Test your balance on a stand-up paddleboard as you navigate your way along the Graney River. Paddle about the Graney River on a Canadian canoe or kayak. If you’re looking for something a little more exhilarating, why not go on a rib ride.
Whether you’re looking for a day out, or just looking for one particular adventure then Derg Isle has you covered. Vouchers are available by calling them on 087 1254365.
Artisan Producers
Sometimes we all need a little pick-me-up and what better way to indulge than by enjoying some artisanal, local products. With some delicious products made here in East Clare, there is no better way to show your support for local businesses. The mouthwatering delights on offer in East Clare make for yummy presents and stocking fillers.
Wilde Irish Chocolate
This small artisan chocolate factory produces a range of chocolate delights to suit all tastes. They make over 80 types of chocolate products, with a range of unique flavour combinations. From indulgent chocolate bars to boxes of chocolate assortments, fudge and chocolate spread, this is every chocoholic’s dream present.
They have also put together a collection of hampers which contain some solid favourites from them. These make for exquisite presents, that we know you might find hard to part with. For stocking fillers, we suggest getting a selection of chocolatey goodies. Best of all, these are all made locally in Tuamgraney!
You can view the range of products on offer here. They deliver throughout Ireland, and they can also organise for it to be delivered across the world. We can’t think of a better way to give someone a taste of home than with some indulgent chocolate delights!
Gato Cakes
No doubt you will have seen the incredibly intricate treats baked by this Mountshannon based baker. With a variety of traditional French desserts on offer these mouthwatering cakes, tarts and macarons make for a beautiful gift or Christmas centrepiece. Whether you are looking for something small, or something out-of-this-world Gato Cakes have you covered when it comes to freshly baked and delicious treats.
From goodie bags filled with chocolate, macarons and biscuits to Christmas yule logs and chocolate Christmas trees this truly is a unique gift idea! Who wouldn’t love an intricate yet edible centrepiece on their Christmas dinner table?
You can view all that is on offer here. They also have gift cards for those who are a little more difficult to buy for! Some of the products on offer can be posted throughout Ireland and Europe; however, for more local orders, the precious goods will be hand-delivered!
Baked Goods
Everyone deserves some sweetness in their life, and what better way to enjoy that than by leaving it up to the professionals. Not only will these delicious treats be mouthwatering and delightful, but they are also guaranteed to be an absolute headturner.
Josie Anne's Patisserie
Ogonnelloe based baked good heaven, Josie Anne's Patisserie is one to consider if you're looking to jazz up your Christmas. Elaine has worked with world-renowned pastry chefs in some of the most prestigious establishments, meaning these treats are absolutely divine! Treat family and friends to a range of beautifully handmade goods, from cookies to individual cakes and of course some showstopper cakes.
Whether you've been put in charge of the all-important desserts for Christmas, or if you are looking to impress that special someone, then a cake (or cakes) is the perfect gift for you. Decide between afternoon tea, tarts, cakes and more. All treats are handmade to order and are available to collect or can be delivered locally.
In the coming weeks, there will be a range of Christmas hampers on offer, which is perfect for those who want to try more than one thing. Treat boxes make for the perfect gifts, so keep your eyes peeled for them. For the whole range of products available visit Josieanne's Patisserie website here. To keep up to date will all the latest treats and treasure visit their Instagram and Facebook.
Beauty
Supporting local can be easily done even for those beauty-lovers in your life. Treat the special someone in your life to a relaxing and beautifying experience, or perhaps treat them to some gorgeous beauty products. Whether you opt for a voucher, or the products themselves, we guarantee that these gifts will be well received!
Ború Health and Beauty
This award-winning salon is located in the historical town of Killaloe, yet it feels like a world away. Become immersed in the relaxation and comfort as you begin to slowly disconnect from the hectic outside world. Their staff is comprised of highly trained and experienced therapists, making your experience even more enjoyable. They have a range of treatments and services on offer, which will make you or that special someone feels like a brand new person!
From body treatments such as wraps and body scrubs to facials, waxing, and massages, we guarantee that you will leave feeling rejuvenated and refreshed. Perhaps bring the magic home or fill a stocking with some gorgeous Voya Beauty gift sets. The possibilities of gifts are endless with Ború Health and Beauty.
Gift vouchers are available here and are available in any amount. We can think of no better way to treat your loved ones than by giving them the gift of a rejuvenating experience with the team at Ború Health and Beauty. To get your hands on the gorgeous gift sets, head over to their Instagram to place an order.
Leona’s Nails
Nails and brow treatments are often high on any girl’s beauty agenda, so why not treat them to a range of treatments with Leona. Creating intricate designs on nails is no challenge for Leona as she specialises in not only gel and acrylic nails but also shellac manicures and pedicures — basically every girl’s dream!
She is also a brow wizard, transforming those post-lockdown eyebrows into something off a Paris runway. Using brow waxing, threading, lamination and henna, those brows will be utterly transformed. Give those lashes a new lease of life with a lash lift. There is also a range of beauty products on offer which would be perfect stocking fillers!
Gift vouchers are available to order on her Instagram as are any products on offer. Believe us when we say that any girl who is into her beauty will become obsessed with Leona’s treatments if she isn’t already! Vouchers are one of the best gift ideas, especially if you don’t know what exactly what beauty products or experience that important girl in your life will enjoy.
Catering
Are you looking to contribute to the Christmas dinner, but aren’t the best chef in the world? Fear not, for you can give your friends and family the ultimate gift — staying out of the kitchen and leaving it to the professionals.
Ray Hogan’s Catering
Ray will have your Christmas sorted with a range of delicious products on offer. Offering everything from juicy glazed baked ham to fresh thyme stuffing, delicious garlic gratin potatoes and mouthwatering spiced beef that has been marinated in spices for 7 days. This is definitely the gift that keeps on giving.
For all orders and enquiries as to what the wonderful Ray can do to help give your friends and family the best gift, keeping you out of the kitchen, by giving him a ring on 087 969 0143 or emailing him on rayhogan44@gmail.com
Charity
Often the best gifts ideas are the gifts that keep on giving. Give back to society by bestowing a donation on behalf of someone, or perhaps give them a membership to an organisation that will benefit greatly from your support. Charities rely on the generosity of others to help them survive and thrive.
Irish Seed Savers
Based in Scariff, the Irish Seed Savers carry out vital work in preserving and conserving Ireland’s very special and threatened plant genetic resources. They maintain Ireland’s public seed bank which houses over 600 non-commercially available varieties of seed. They facilitate workshops where they impart their knowledge and love for the land with the community.
The main aim of the Irish Seed Savers is to raise public awareness about the vulnerability of Irish agricultural biodiversity. The work they are carrying out is vital for the preservation of plant species that are at risk of going extinct.
One of the greatest gifts a person can receive, which will greatly help this organisation is by becoming a supporter. There is a range of supporter levels available which include benefits such as newsletters, free packets of heritage seeds, free access to their heritage gardens and orchards, and a discount on training courses. You can also give the gift of a gift voucher which can be purchased here. Gift vouchers can be used towards paying for workshops, books or garden accessories.
Fashion
Whether you’re after a larger gift or just some stocking fillers, East Clare has no shortage when it comes to fashion. Supporting local has become even easier thanks to the move to online shopping, so there is no excuse not to support local!
McKernan Woolen Mills
This family-run business creates handwoven textile products in Tuamgraney that are sold across Ireland and the world. Having been in business for 35 years, McKernan’s know a thing or two about making scarves. As one of the most established scarf designers and manufacturers in Ireland, their scarves are certainly a head-turner and a must for anyone’s wardrobe.
Not only do they make scarves in a range of colours and designs, but they also make baby blankets, shawls, hats and wrist warmers. Products can be woolly or silky, fine or chunky, smooth or textured. There is definitely something for all styles, tastes and occasions which will definitely be used time and time again.
To check out the incredible collection of products head to their website. They ship right across Ireland and the world. Gift cards are available in multiples of €50 if you can’t quite decide on which product is the best gift to get for that special someone.
Passion Flamingo
Fashionable yet functional Passion Flamingo sells a range of quirky jewellery designs and accessories. With everything from necklaces to earrings and rings, the products on offer are absolutely eyecatching. These make for stunning stocking fillers, or perhaps you could even combine a few designs to create the ultimate accessory gift hamper.
All jewellery chains are 18-carat gold plated and nickel free, which is perfect for those who are sensitive to some jewellery materials. They are busy getting ready to launch their Christmas collection, so keep your eyes peeled as they are absolutely stunning and will make for great gifts!
Orders can be placed by sending them a DM on Facebook or Instagram. All orders are dispatched within 5-10 hours so you won’t have to worry about gifts not arriving on time!
History
East Clare is a region full of rich and exciting history, so why not embrace the past this Christmas? Whether you are looking for something for a history buff, wannabe historian or are just looking for a lovely addition to your coffee table then East Clare has you covered.
Killaloe Ballina Local History Society
Having been released just in time for Christmas, Killaloe Ballina Local History Society have brought out their second issue of The Journal. A incredibly detailed look at the history of the twin towns of Ballina and Killaloe.
Full of the history of the towns along with some stories and poems from times gone by. There are also lots of photos, painting, sketches and old newspaper adverts to transport you into the past. We think this would make a lovely gift to those who love learning. You are bound to find out lots of information that you will not have heard of before.
The Journal is on sale in Heaney's, The Forge, TJ's and Larkin's. You can also purchase it online here and it will be shipped to you.
Restaurants and Cafes
Supporting local is especially important for the many restaurants and cafes that have had to adapt to the restrictions. As such many restaurants and cafes have not been able to operate to the same extent as they would have in other years leading up to the holiday season. Getting vouchers for these establishments make for one of the best gift ideas, as not only do you get to indulge in local delights, but you also are supporting the local economy!
The Holly Tree Cafe
The Tulla based Holly Tree Cafe is an important institution in the East Clare area. Operating throughout lockdown through a hatch system, the Holly Tree Cafe has kept the people of East Clare caffeinated and fed. Using only the finest ingredients, they create simple yet delicious food.
From tarts to cakes, scones, muffins, sausage rolls, and sandwiches, there is something delicious there for the whole family to enjoy. Everything is made on-site, and you can taste the love that goes into making the food in every bite. They also make scrumptious cakes for all your special occasions, so don’t miss out!
Give the gift of a heartwarming lunch with a delicious coffee this Christmas with a voucher from the Holly Tree Cafe. Vouchers can be got by heading over to the infamous hatch. A gift voucher from the Holly Tree is a must for any caffeine lover in the Tulla region!
Nuala’s Bar & Restaurant
Famous for the quality of food and drink on offer, this long-standing Tuamgraney institution is a firm favourite among locals. Serving hearty and delicious meals this restaurant has continued to operate during lockdown by offering a takeaway service. This service has gone down an absolute treat with locals! Before lockdown restrictions, Nuala’s was a thriving establishment that holds a special place in the hearts of many locals.
They offer delicious, warm meals that will suit all tastes, from vol-au-vents to curries, steak burgers, pasta and rotating daily specials what is not to love? Desserts have remained an important staple of Nuala’s during lockdown with yummy crumbles and cakes on offer.
Gift cards are available, which make for the perfect gift idea for any Nuala’s fan. They can be ordered here.
When you are doing your Christmas shopping this year, we at Visit East Clare urge you to consider supporting local. We hope that this gift guide will give you some ideas for all the incredible things on offer in our magnificent part of the world!
