Justine says it best: “At the Shepherds Hut, you just feel like you’re part of nature. There’s almost a mystical feeling about it to me. And that’s what’s so hard to convey in social media, is that it’s not just the views. It’s not just the hot tub. There’s an actual mystical beauty to it that you have to experience.” Justine is from the U.S., but married a local Irishman, so she has a true perspective on the beauty.
Finding An Doras Bui, the Shepherds Hut, was an accident — or was it? Magic can work that way. Saturated with a deep sense of nature, peace, relaxation, if you are visiting Northern Ireland, you must stay here. It will be unlike any other part of your trip. I stayed three nights: it was barely enough.
The views and passing clouds were like a movie Nature directs then watches. But Nature doesn’t use a perfectly positioned hot tub, or appreciate the comfortable bed and quality sheets in the Shepherd’s Hut. It’s more than the Hut, but the whole property, with its sunset chairs, small fire cannister…and the untrimmed Hawthorn tree left for the fairies.
Why are so many people missing the magnificent Sperrin Mtns? Not sure. Nat’l Geographic calls it one of the most beautiful mountain ranges in the world. Seamus Heaney homestead, Dark Sky region, Gortin Lakes…and the never-ending, cortisol-killing views. Sit in the hot tub or by the fire and it’s like an hour of meditation.
…as for that Hawthorn tree…in case you didn’t know they are the home of the fairies. Touch one at your own risk. Or so the legend says.
Justine: “Yes, there is one that is untrimmed and allowed to grow.”
Outspokentraveler: “That’s where the fairies are hanging out?”
Justine : “Exactly. Exactly. We’re full of fairies. Try and stay on their good side.”
This is Justine’s creation. She has a magical manner about her. Her Instagram’s pieces are joyous and funny.
https://www.instagram.com/reel/C5Ix1mtKgmY/?igsh=a2RlZzJqOW1jbGsy
Let’s look at her creation:
For some reason, most only stay one night…so wrong. You need three minimum. One might be clear enough to showcase the Dark Sky designation the Sperrins have. If you go to the Dark Sky Observatory, visit Davagh and the stone circles nearby.
Outspoken Traveler 
Leave a comment