Connecting with Nature and Ancient Ireland: A Spiritual Journey

We are delighted to welcome back Christina Diane for another captivating installment in her travel series. With an insatiable curiosity for history, architecture, paranormal exploration, and the mystical wonders of the world, Christina brings a fresh and immersive perspective to her journeys. Having explored six continents, over 25 countries, and countless culturally rich destinations, her storytelling transports readers into the heart of each adventure.

In this fourth installment, Christina takes us on a spiritual journey through ancient Ireland, where folklore, sacred landscapes, and mystical creatures intertwine with the country’s deep-rooted traditions. She explores the unseen energies and profound connections between nature and myth, from the legendary fairy forts to the historic Hill of Tara.

Join us as we delve into Christina’s experiences, where Ireland’s past and present merge in mystical and deeply moving ways. Be sure to follow Christina on Instagram (@nerdgirltravel) and visit her website nerdgirltravel.com to explore more of her incredible adventures.

The Power of the Fae: Irish Beliefs and Superstitions

The trip wasn’t solely about paranormal investigations and Halloween—it was also an opportunity to understand how both ancient and modern Ireland connect with nature. This spiritual journey led us to discover deeply rooted beliefs in mystical creatures, traditions, and sacred sites that continue to shape Irish culture today.

While only a small percentage of the Irish openly admit to believing in fairies and the fae, many still follow long-standing traditions to avoid angering these mystical creatures. One of the most famous examples is the Latoon Fairy Bush, which caused a road construction delay for ten years because of fears that disturbing it would bring misfortune. Similarly, farmers often leave fairy trees (lone whitethorn or ash trees) untouched, believing them to be gathering places for the fae.

Visiting Pat Noone’s Fairy Farm

One of the most fascinating stops on our journey was Pat Noone’s Fairy Farm, a 60-acre working farm where Pat and his family live in harmony with the land and its unseen inhabitants. Known for his deep understanding and relationship with the fae, Pat welcomes visitors seeking to connect with these mystical creatures. Many make regular trips to his farm to commune with the fae and seek their favor.

I, unfortunately, wasn’t in the best mental space to fully embrace the experience. Recent heavy rains had turned the farm into a muddy landscape, and finding a pair of wellies that fit my calves proved to be a challenge. I ended up with oversized boots that looked like clown shoes, which only added to my self-consciousness. With my mind spiraling, I struggled to focus on the energy of the land.

Despite this, Pat’s knowledge and passion for nature and Irish folklore were awe-inspiring. He guided us through the farm, showing us sacred rock formations and leading us to a fairy portal—a stand of trees believed to be a gateway between our world and theirs. Each of us placed a hand on the tree and offered a small prayer of gratitude to the fae.

We concluded the tour at a fairy fort, a stunning grove where we tied reeds to branches and left offerings as a sign of respect. While I didn’t personally witness anything supernatural, others in our group did. Some saw movement among the leaves, and one person felt a mysterious touch while sitting on a log. As for me, I left behind a small, unintended blood offering when I pricked my hands on thorns—perhaps a sign that the fae had acknowledged my presence in their own way.

Ever dreamt of celebrating Halloween in its birthplace? You can on our Phantoms & Magical Creatures tour of Ireland! Reserve your spot HERE!

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The Sacred Hills: Hill of Ward and Hill of Tara

Our spiritual journey continued with visits to two of Ireland’s most historically significant sites: the Hill of Ward (Tlachtga) and the Hill of Tara.

The Hill of Ward: The Origins of Samhain

The Hill of Ward is believed to be the birthplace of Samhain, the ancient festival that later evolved into Halloween. It was here that the Great Fire Festival was held to mark the beginning of winter. Flames from this sacred fire were then used to light the hearths of villagers for the coming year.

Despite its history, the land felt incredibly peaceful, covered in lush green fields. Our guide told us that many visitors experience an overwhelming sadness when walking in the barrows—something I would later come to understand firsthand.

The Hill of Tara: A Place of Kings and Legends

The Hill of Tara served as the seat of the High Kings of Ireland and remains one of the country’s most revered ceremonial sites. It was fascinating to see how locals still use the area as a public park, jogging, walking their dogs, and spending time with family.

Grant and Reanna, two members of our group, led us to a small barrow they felt connected to. Legend says that if you walk counterclockwise through a barrow’s valley, you could enter the land of the fairies. While I chose not to participate in the ritual they conducted, I felt drawn to walk through the valley—but I made sure to walk clockwise instead.

A Profound Spiritual Experience

As I made my way around the circle, an overwhelming wave of emotion hit me. At first, it was subtle, but the further I walked, the stronger it became. By the time I reached the halfway point, my breath was catching, and I had to pause. I glanced up to see Reanna watching me from above, though I wasn’t sure if she had noticed my struggle.

Each step brought me closer to tears. By the time I completed the circle, I could barely hold them back. I hurried away from the group, unable to explain what had just happened. The emotions weren’t sadness, nor were they connected to any specific thought—I simply needed to cry. I later remembered our guide at the Hill of Ward mentioning that people often feel inexplicable sorrow in places like this.

After grounding myself with a cup of hot chocolate, I explored more of Tara, visiting the Mound of Hostages and St. Patrick’s Church. When I finally shared my experience with Grant and Reanna, they helped me process what had happened, reaffirming that sometimes the land holds emotions we may not fully understand.

A Spiritual Journey Beyond Expectations

I had gone to Ireland expecting my most profound experience to be a paranormal one in a haunted castle. Instead, it turned into something far more spiritual. Walking that wet, grassy circle in a sacred field touched me in ways I never could have anticipated.

It was a reminder that the universe works in unexpected ways, and sometimes, the most powerful moments come not from ghosts and hauntings, but from the spiritual journey that the land echoes and resonates from those who came before. 

Make sure you stop by tomorrow as we journey deep into castles and ruins in our final installment. 

About Our Guest Writer

Pen Name: Christina Diane
Instagram: nerdgirltravel
Website: https://nerdgirltravel.com/

Bio: Christina Diane is a passionate traveler and explorer who developed a love for adventure as a child, embarking on family vacations that sparked her curiosity about the world. With six of the seven continents and over twenty-five countries under her belt, she has experienced diverse cultures, landscapes, and histories. Christina’s interests are wide-ranging, from all things nerdy to a deep fascination with history, architecture, and the eerie allure of abandoned buildings. She also has a keen interest in the paranormal, often seeking out mysterious and haunted locations during her travels. A storyteller at heart, Christina loves sharing her experiences, insights, and discoveries with others.

Embark on an otherworldly odyssey with Phantoms & Magical Creatures: Halloween In Ireland with Brian J. Cano!

From ancient castles to mysterious ruins, join paranormal researcher Brian J. Cano as we uncover Ireland’s most infamous haunted locations. Immerse yourself in local pubs alive with storytelling and traditional music, and indulge in hearty Irish cuisine. As Halloween night falls, prepare for supernatural exploration at haunted hotspots, conducting paranormal investigations and delving into the mysteries of the spirit world. Join us for an unforgettable 11-day journey into Ireland’s supernatural realm and discover the magic hidden within its ancient landscapes.

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