IRELAND 2025
EXPERIENCE MYSTICAL, MAGICAL, MYTHICAL, BREATHTAKING IRELAND
We'll be headquarted at Springfield Castle in County Limerick
Be inspired beyond your wildest imagination and find your tribe of women artists.
"Oh where to begin.... book Springfield Castle for a week and let the Sykes family do the rest ! The manor house is just as I imagined only better with great antique funky furnishings...lovely bedrooms....a wonderful kitchen and dining room...and a living room with the fireplace always burning...all the wood provided. Meals prepared for us were amazing. We did take some day side trips which gave us a chance to really enjoy the nearby Dingle peninsula. Many in our party enjoyed walking the extensive grounds with all the historical significance attached to the property. I have had the good fortune to travel to Ireland ...10 times in my life... and I have stayed in many different hotels castles and B&B's....nothing has ever compared to my stay with the Sykes family in their wonderful countryside retreat. My one hope is to go back and experience it all over again!! " Jim and family
So much ambiance and history, yet the bedrooms are so comfortable. The castle is nestled in 200 acres of woodlands where deer roam and foxes and other animals live. There are lovely pathways with plenty of room to paint, create, think, write, explore and rest.
Immerse Yourself
In the Fantastic Food...
Whatever we don’t grow or produce is sourced locally, from a range of excellent local suppliers. Meat is sourced from the local butcher in Dromcollogher town, ‘O Connor’s Butchers’. While the food is local the inspiration for our cooking comes from around the world with family diaspora bringing home dishes from across the world. We have a wide range of options, from Argentinian Asados, Peruvian style ceviche, Italian fire cooked pizza, Indian curries, Spanish tapas to traditional Irish meals.
Our food philosophy at Springfield is simple, we only use fresh, local seasonal produce. We use the seasons as our guide for the dishes we create.
"The meals themselves made the trip worthwhile; the staff prepared outstanding fare and were as pleasant as could be; always cheerful and accommodated a couple vegetarians with us. The food and service were exquisite. Having all us seated at the same table for our dinners was a highlight. " Springfield Guest
Our art retreat is a rare chance to immerse yourself in the art and culture of Ireland.
There are so many ways to be inspired:
An evening of traditional Irish music, and an evening of storytelling, the soul of Irish culture.
A private studio visit and micro mosaic worksop with internationally known artist, Olive Stack.
On-Site Falconry Experience: Marvel at the grace of Ireland’s ancient art of falconry on Springfield Castle’s grounds.
Shopping and fun day in Listowel, Co Kerry
Explore the Wild Atlantic Way and many historical sites with Ger Greaney
Creative & Reflective Sessions: Engage in art discussions, reflective circles, and free creative time to deepen your practice and self-expression.
Time to paint, write, create on your own on the estate grounds.
Collaborate on a group land art project
AND SO MUCH MORE!
Irish artist, Olive Stack at work on a mosaic
An afternoon of Falconry is on the books!
In The Culture...
What’s Included
Lodging: Stay at Springfield Castle, a historic Irish castle with luxurious accommodations. Rooms vary in size, privacy, and bathroom type to suit your preferences.
Meals: All meals are included, prepared with locally-sourced ingredients and rave-worthy flavors. Vegetarian options are available. (Alcohol and 2 lunches are not included.)
Workshops and Activities:
Studio visit and micro mosaic workshop with renowned Irish artist Olive Stack
Group collaboration on a land art piece
Afternoon falconry experience on the castle grounds
Evenings of traditional Irish music and storytelling
Excursions: Day trips with Irish historian Ger Greaney to explore:
Ancient Celtic sites, including a stone circle, holy well, faery ring, and historic ruins
A full day in Listowel for shopping, exploring, and fun
A day in Dingle to see artisan studios, galleries, ancient buildings, the Blasket Center, and shop.
Creative Discussions
What's Not Included: *Your flights to Ireland and home. *Alcoholic beverages *2 lunches *Any extra excursions you may want to take.
We'll have an evening of traditional Irish music
As we immerse ourselves in the history of Ireland, staying in a 700 year old castle, we realize Springfield is just a part of this experience...
We will learn the fascinating history of Springfield Castle and the family that has lived there for hundreds of years.
We will be guided on our outings by Ger Greaney, historian extraordinaire. His vast knowledge of Irish history and genealogy and flair for story telling will keep us entertained for hours.
Ger will regale us with not only the actual history of Ireland, but her myths and legends...and his expert knowledge of the Irish language and its translation will further our appreciation of both recent and ancient history.
We will visit ancient sites filled with the mysticism and spirituality that Ireland has held sacred for thousands of years.
Let your surroundings spark new ideas as you create amidst Ireland’s magical and mythical history
The surrounding areas are a wealth of ancient sites including stone circles and ruins,
In The History...
We will explore how our own history and genealogy informs our art and our lives.
And find fresh inspiration from the sites, sounds, tastes, and discussions we experience.
Springfield Castle holds over 700 years of family history...
In the Comfort...
Each room in the castle has its own unique charm. As you'd expect in such a historic setting, some rooms are more spacious and private than others. To ensure everyone finds their perfect fit, we let participants select their room on a first-come, first-served basis as soon as we receive their deposit.
We have rooms with ensuite bathrooms and those that share a hall bathroom. Prices reflect the amount of privacy the room provides.
We also have rooms that are perfect for roomates, should you want to share a room.
In The Tribe...
What makes Wild Hair Art Retreats different?
It’s the women who gather with us—the creative souls who come together, each bringing something unique to the table. It’s the way we share our knowledge freely, offering help when someone feels stuck or needs a boost of confidence. It’s the unconditional love we have for each other, just as we are.
One woman said it best: “When we’re together, I feel I can be my whole self.”
We build each other up, celebrate each other’s victories, and welcome newcomers with open hearts and genuine enthusiasm. If you’ve been searching for a community of kindred spirits—a tribe of creative women who will embrace and uplift you—you’ve found your home with us.
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