Hello friends, Aidan here from Gifts of Ireland 🇮🇪.
This week on my Story of Ireland, I set off for a spot steeped in ancient Irish history—Croghan Hill in County Offaly. Now, it’s not the tallest hill in the country, but I’ll tell you, it packs more stories into its slopes than most places I’ve seen.
We made our way to the holy well at the base of the hill, which is said to have been founded by Saint Patrick himself. It’s a lovely quiet spot with its own sense of calm. From there, we passed by the old graveyard, full of stories etched in stone, and then began the climb.
The walk up isn’t long, but what you get at the top is something else. We stood there taking in views that stretched across multiple counties, with the land below looking fresh and green as ever. There’s a stillness to the summit—a kind of peace that you don’t find just anywhere.
But Croghan Hill isn’t just about the views. It’s also tied to some remarkable stories. This was once an ancient volcano, and the area is believed to be the burial site of prehistoric kings. And then, of course, there’s the Old Croghan Man—a bog body discovered nearby, preserved so well he still had his fingernails. It’s a reminder of just how far back Ireland’s story goes, and how places like this hold layers upon layers of it.
Climbing that hill with Brian and my new Shillelagh in hand was one of those simple Irish moments I won’t forget—just two fellas talking history, walking through the heart of Ireland.
If you’re curious about the Shillelaghs we offer at Gifts of Ireland, they’re made the traditional way, right here in Ireland—just like the one Brian made for me. You can check them out below!
Reader Offer – 15% Off Our Irish Shillelagh Collection
To mark this grand little adventure, we’re offering you 15% off all handcrafted Irish Shillelaghs.
Use the code CROGHAN15 at checkout:
(The code is valid until July 31, 2025.)
Click here to shop:
Thanks for walking with me this week. If you ever find yourself near Offaly, make the climb—it’s well worth it.
Slán go fóill,
Aidan 🇮🇪☘️👍
