Mysteries of Rathcroghan: Samhain in Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands

Mysteries of Rathcroghan: Samhain in Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands

Episode 48: Step into one of Ireland’s most atmospheric and historically rich landscapes in this episode of the Pull Over and Let Me Out Podcast. I’m joined by Daniel Curley, Manager of the Rathcroghan Visitor Centre in Tulsk, County Roscommon, as we explore the incredible story behind Rathcroghan — a lesser-traveled but deeply significant archaeological landscape in the heart of Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands. Often overlooked in favor of Ireland’s more famous heritage sites, Rathcroghan is a place where myth and archaeology sit side by side. This ancient royal complex is steeped in legend, linked to Queen Medb and the origins of Samhain, and filled with burial mounds, earthworks, and stories that stretch back thousands of years. It’s the kind of place that rewards slowing down, looking closer, and letting the landscape speak for itself. We talk about what makes this site so important, why it remains relatively unknown to many visitors, and why it absolutely deserves a place on any Hidden Heartlands itinerary for travelers who want to go beyond the usual stops. If you’re drawn to Ireland’s ancient past, hidden gems, and places that still feel powerful and untouched, this conversation is one you won’t want to miss. Hit play and explore one of Ireland’s most mysterious landscapes with us. Rathcroghan Visitor Center Website: https://www.rathcroghan.ie/ [https://www.rathcroghan.ie/] Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/rathcroghan/] Email: info@rathcroghan.ie [http://info@rathcroghan.ie] Tel : +353 (0)71 963 9268 Ready to start planning your trip to Ireland? Here are some helpful affiliate links to get you started. Expedia Ireland Travel [https://expedia.tpo.li/j258XaR4] Top Ireland Day Tours [https://viator.tpo.li/O2EKLi1k] PullOverandLetMeOut First-Timer's Guide to Ireland [https://pulloverandletmeout.com/product/first-timers-guide-to-ireland-ebook/] Stay connected and support the podcast: ☕ If this episode made you smile or sparked a travel idea, consider buying me a coffee to support the podcast and help keep the journeys coming! BuyMeACoffee.com/AnnaMarieWrites [https://buymeacoffee.com/annamariewrites] 🌍 Travel blog & stories: PullOverandLetMeOut.com [https://www.pulloverandletmeout.com] ✉️ Newsletter sign-up: Subscribe here [https://pulloverandletmeout.com/newsletter/] 📚 My books: Anna Marie Jehorek Books [https://pulloverandletmeout.com/favorite-attractions/my-books-passionforireland/] ☘️ Ireland trip planning: Plan your trip [https://pulloverandletmeout.com/ireland-trip-planning-consulting/] 🤝 Traveling to Give Trip Planning Tool: Learn more [https://pulloverandletmeout.com/travelingtogive-book-your-trip-to-any-destination/]

Beyond the Bus Tour: Discovering a More Personal Ireland

Episode 47 If you’re planning a trip to Ireland — or even just starting to dream about one — this episode will give you a fresh way to think about how you experience the country.☘️ I’m joined by Angela Gavigan of TouraLoora, a company specializing in small-group cultural tours across Ireland. We talk about why these more personalized tours are becoming such a popular choice for travelers who want to go beyond the typical bus tour experience while still seeing Ireland’s most iconic highlights. Angela shares insights into what makes small-group travel so different — from the flexibility and local connection to the chance to experience both Ireland’s famous landmarks and lesser-known regions like the Hidden Heartlands. We explore how these tours strike a balance between must-see destinations and deeper cultural experiences, helping travelers connect more meaningfully with Ireland. Whether you’re planning your first itinerary in Ireland or returning to explore more deeply, this conversation highlights how small-group tours can completely change the way you see the country. Tune in for a look at Ireland travel that goes beyond the surface — and into the heart of the experience. TouraLoora Website: https://touraloora.com/ [https://touraloora.com/] TouraLoora Hidden Heartlands and West of Ireland 6-Day Tour [https://touraloora.com/hidden-heartlands-and-west-of-ireland/] email: info@touraloora.com [info@touraloora.com] phone: 00-353-86-0206877 Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/touraloora/] ☘️TouraLoora [https://touraloora.com/] is a trusted Ireland travel partner of Pull Over and Let Me Out. If you’d like to learn more about their small-group Ireland tours and services, you can reach out directly—and if you choose to book, I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. If you do connect with them, I’d really appreciate you mentioning you heard about them through Anna Marie Jehorek and Pull Over and Let Me Out.☘️ If you're ready to start planning your trip to Ireland, be sure to get the Pull Over and Let Me Out First-Timer's Guide to Ireland [https://pulloverandletmeout.com/product/first-timers-guide-to-ireland-ebook/] for all the helpful information you'll want to get you started on your way. Stay connected and support the podcast: ☕ If this episode made you smile or sparked a travel idea, consider buying me a coffee to support the podcast and help keep the journeys coming! BuyMeACoffee.com/AnnaMarieWrites [https://buymeacoffee.com/annamariewrites] 🌍 Travel blog & stories: PullOverandLetMeOut.com [https://www.pulloverandletmeout.com] ✉️ Newsletter sign-up: Subscribe here [https://pulloverandletmeout.com/newsletter/] 📚 My books: Anna Marie Jehorek Books [https://pulloverandletmeout.com/favorite-attractions/my-books-passionforireland/] ☘️ Ireland trip planning: Plan your trip [https://pulloverandletmeout.com/ireland-trip-planning-consulting/]

On the Mountain: Inside North Carolina’s Grandfather Mountain Highland Games

Episode 46 Each summer in North Carolina, the slopes of Grandfather Mountain come alive with the sights and sounds of Scotland. In this episode, I’m joined by Steve Quillin, President of the Grandfather Mountain Highland Games, for a closer look at one of the largest and most unique Highland gatherings in the world. We talk about what makes this four-day annual event so special—from the deep-rooted celebration of Scottish heritage and culture to the excitement of traditional athletics, music, and dance. We also explore the educational side of the Games, where history is preserved and shared through clan connections, storytelling, and hands-on experiences that bring the past to life. Whether you’ve had this event on your list for years or you’re just discovering it for the first time, this conversation offers a meaningful look at why so many people return to the mountain year after year. If you’ve ever been curious about what it’s like to experience it for yourself, this is a great place to start—listen in. Today's Guest: Steve Quillin, President, Grandfather Mountain Highland Games Website: https://gmhg.org/ [https://gmhg.org/] Email: admin@gmhg.org [admin@gmhg.org] Ready to plan your trip to Grandfather Mountain? Here are a couple of helpful affiliate links to get you started. Expedia [https://expedia.tpo.li/bqkhbYGo] Grandfather Mountain & Blue Ridge Tours [https://viator.tpo.li/FTcWuZgz] Stay connected and support the podcast: ☕ If this episode made you smile or sparked a travel idea, consider buying me a coffee to support the podcast and help keep the journeys coming! BuyMeACoffee.com/AnnaMarieWrites [https://buymeacoffee.com/annamariewrites] 🌍 Travel blog & stories: PullOverandLetMeOut.com [https://www.pulloverandletmeout.com] ✉️ Newsletter sign-up: Subscribe here [https://pulloverandletmeout.com/newsletter/] 📚 My books: Anna Marie Jehorek Books [https://pulloverandletmeout.com/favorite-attractions/my-books-passionforireland/] ☘️ Ireland trip planning: Plan your trip [https://pulloverandletmeout.com/ireland-trip-planning-consulting/] 🤝 Traveling to Give Trip Planning Tool: Learn more [https://pulloverandletmeout.com/travelingtogive-book-your-trip-to-any-destination/]

A Trip to Barry Island, Wales: Inside the Official Gavin & Stacey Tour

Episode 45: In this episode of the Pull Over and Let Me Out podcast, I’m joined by Linda Bailey of the Official Gavin & Stacey Tour to talk about stepping into the world of a beloved BBC series and exploring one of Wales’ most charming seaside towns. We dive into what makes the tour so special, giving fans the chance to visit iconic filming locations and discover the beauty, character, and charm of Barry Island. Whether you’re planning a trip or simply dreaming about one, this tour is a fun and meaningful way to experience Wales beyond the usual stops—and it just might earn a spot on your itinerary. If you’re a fan of Gavin & Stacey, this episode is a must-listen. Hear behind-the-scenes insights, memorable moments from the tour, and why fans continue to fall in love with both the show and the place that brought it to life. Website: https://britmovietours.com/bookings/gavin-and-stacey-tour/ [https://britmovietours.com/bookings/gavin-and-stacey-tour/] email: info@britmovietours.com [info@britmovietours.com] Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/britmovietours/] Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/britmovietours] Linda Bailey on X [https://x.com/fizzicalbody] Ready to visit Wales? Here are a couple of helpful affiliate links to get you started. The Lush House & Other Places to Stay [https://booking.tpo.li/g8yBc7DS] Top Wales Tours [https://viator.tpo.li/W6FXdbwt] Stay connected and support the podcast: ☕ If this episode made you smile or sparked a travel idea, consider buying me a coffee to support the podcast and help keep the journeys coming! BuyMeACoffee.com/AnnaMarieWrites [https://buymeacoffee.com/annamariewrites] 🌍 Travel blog & stories: PullOverandLetMeOut.com [https://www.pulloverandletmeout.com] ✉️ Newsletter sign-up: Subscribe here [https://pulloverandletmeout.com/newsletter/] 📚 My books: Anna Marie Jehorek Books [https://pulloverandletmeout.com/favorite-attractions/my-books-passionforireland/] ☘️ Ireland trip planning: Plan your trip [https://pulloverandletmeout.com/ireland-trip-planning-consulting/] 🤝 Traveling to Give Trip Planning Tool: Learn more [https://pulloverandletmeout.com/travelingtogive-book-your-trip-to-any-destination/]

Why Harrisonburg, Virginia Stayed With Me: A Hidden Gem in the Shenandoah Valley

Episode 44: What makes a place stay with you long after you’ve left? In this episode, I’m joined by Jennifer Bell, Tourism Manager for Harrisonburg—a destination that has quietly stayed with me since my first visit on a travel writers’ FAM trip. Nestled in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley and surrounded by the beauty of the Appalachian Mountains, Harrisonburg offers a blend of rich history, beautiful architecture, a thriving arts scene, and a vibrant downtown shaped by its universities and local community. Jennifer shares a wonderful snapshot of what makes this city so special—from its deep-rooted heritage to the experiences that keep visitors coming back again and again. If you’ve never considered Harrisonburg for your travels, this episode might just change that. 🎧 Be sure to check the show notes for links and resources to help you plan your visit. Website: https://visitharrisonburgva.com/ [https://visitharrisonburgva.com/] Visitor Center: (540) 432-8935 email: tourism@harrisonburgva.gov Social Media: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/visitharrisonburgva/] Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/harrisonburgtourism] Stay connected and support the podcast: ☕ If this episode made you smile or sparked a travel idea, consider buying me a coffee to support the podcast and help keep the journeys coming! BuyMeACoffee.com/AnnaMarieWrites [https://buymeacoffee.com/annamariewrites] 🌍 Travel blog & stories: PullOverandLetMeOut.com [https://www.pulloverandletmeout.com] ✉️ Newsletter sign-up: Subscribe here [https://pulloverandletmeout.com/newsletter/] 📚 My books: Anna Marie Jehorek Books [https://pulloverandletmeout.com/favorite-attractions/my-books-passionforireland/] ☘️ Ireland trip planning: Plan your trip [https://pulloverandletmeout.com/ireland-trip-planning-consulting/] 🤝 Traveling to Give Trip Planning Tool: Learn more [https://pulloverandletmeout.com/travelingtogive-book-your-trip-to-any-destination/]