Taking the Plunge at Kilkee's Famous Pollock Holes
The Pollock Holes in Kilkee.
While fitness gurus act as if they just invented cold plunging, it’s been a part of Irish culture for generations. There are sea swimming tidal pools just off shore, all around the Emerald isle. And the Irish have been taking advantage of them for a very long time.
Just ask those who do it daily. They say it has health benefits, instantly clears away mental stress and resets your body temperature all at once. And many of those who believe in the plunge have lived enough life, themselves, to know what actually works and what is just hype. And they say, no hype here, just a sense of wellness and community.
It’s one of those things some people love and others would never even consider. And while I am one of those who adores a hot bath to relax, this isn’t anything I’d ever considered myself. But, when I had the chance, I couldn’t pass it up. And let me say…it was even colder than I had anticipated!
view from the Kilkee Cliff Walk
In County Clare, there is a magnificent cliff walk along the Kilkee Cliffs. So many vistas and so many birds, yet not many people at all. That area visually protected, so no buildings, no coaches, nothing to obstruct the views or the birds is allowed. It is for nature, people, bicyclers and picnickers.
Guillemot eggs.
The Pollock Holes are said to be more than 300 million years old and they are underwater during high tide and so only detectable at low tide. And those who know where they are, cherish what sea swimming does for them; from clearing your head to keeping your blood pressure down and from sheer exhilaration to sense of community.
The KilKee Cliff Walk.
Check out the sounds of ice cold bathing, in this episode of Erin’s Isle.