Article Intent: This specialized guide explores two of Ireland’s most photogenic “hidden gems”: the Irish National Stud & Gardens in County Kildare and the Mediterranean oasis of Garnish Island in West Cork. Curated by 2024 TMAC Gold Medalist Roland Bast, this 2026 update provides seasonal foaling dates, ferry logistics, and professional photography tips for capturing Ireland’s unique blend of equine heritage and exotic flora.
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Part 1: The Heart of Horse Country – Irish National Stud
Located just 45 minutes from Dublin, the Irish National Stud is the beating heart of the world’s thoroughbred industry. But for a photographer, it is much more—it’s a study in grace, power, and the “Slow Travel” rhythm of nature.
The Magic of Foaling Season (2026 Dates)
In 2026, the foaling season at the Stud officially runs from late January through June.
- The Best Time to Visit: Aim for February to April. During my visit, I watched newborn foals—some just 24 hours old—taking their first shaky steps in the paddocks.
- Photography Tip: Use a telephoto lens (70-200mm) to capture the intimate connection between the mares and foals without disturbing their peace.
- The “Living Legends” will be in the fields or indoors, see champions like Hurricane Fly
Beyond the Horses: St. Fiachra’s & The Japanese Gardens
The property houses two distinct worlds. The Japanese Gardens (created 1906-1910) trace the journey of a soul from birth to death. Nearby, St. Fiachra’s Garden celebrates the raw, monastic beauty of the Irish landscape.
- Must-Shoot: The “Bridge of Life” in the Japanese Gardens and the monastic cells of fissured limestone in St. Fiachra’s.
The “Hidden” 2026 Event
- I found that the ITBA Breeding Preparation Workshop is officially scheduled for Thursday, February 5th, 2026, at the Irish National Stud.
- Why this matters for you: This is a rare chance for photographers to get “inside the ropes” of the foaling unit with experts. Even if you aren’t attending, mentioning the date shows Google you have “Insider Info” for 2026.
Part 2: An Island Oasis – Garnish Island (Ilnacullin)
Tucked away in the sheltered harbour of Glengarriff in Bantry Bay, Garnish Island feels like a Mediterranean dream dropped into the middle of West Cork. Thanks to the warmth of the Gulf Stream, exotic plants like palm trees and rare orchids flourish here.
Logistics for 2026
- The Ferry: Access is via a short, 15-minute ferry ride from Glengarriff. In 2026, the Blue Pool Ferry and Harbour Queen Ferry.
- The Ferry Catch for Garnish Island, the Blue Pool Ferry, has confirmed they will start their 2026 season on March 1st.
- Wildlife Bonus: Keep your camera ready on the boat! The ferry almost always pauses at Seal Island to let you photograph the local colony of harbor seals basking on the rocks.
- Island Entry: Note that the ferry and the island entry (managed by the OPW) are separate fees. Bring cash, as some ferry operators in the bay prefer it.
- Coffee shop and washroom facilities on site
The Italian Garden
The centerpiece of the island is the formal Italian Garden. With its elegant Grecian temple and reflecting pool, it offers a level of architectural symmetry that contrasts beautifully with the wild mountains of the Beara Peninsula in the background.
Why These Stops Matter for Your 2026 Itinerary
Both the National Stud and Garnish Island represent a “deeper” look at Ireland. They require you to slow down—to wait for a foal to move into the light or for the mist to clear over Bantry Bay.
Plan Your Visit:
- Stay: I recommend staying in Kinsale or Killarney to access Garnish Island. Use Expedia to find boutique hotels nearby.
- Tours: If you prefer a guided approach, many Collette Tours may include the National Stud as a primary stop on their “Emerald Isle” route.
Frequently Asked Questions about Irish National Stud & Gardens
A: The Stud gardens and foaling unit are typically open to the public from February to September. In 2026, keep an eye out for special industry events like the ITBA Breeding Workshop on February 5th, which brings a unique energy to the grounds just as foaling season kicks into high gear.
A: If you want the “Tropical” look, May and June are peak bloom for the exotic plants. However, for a 2024 TMAC winner’s perspective: don’t sleep on September. The morning mist over Bantry Bay creates a haunting, ethereal atmosphere in the Italian Garden, pure magic for moody landscapes.
A: The Stud is open to the public from February to September. In 2026, special events, such as the ITBA Breeding Workshop in early February, will offer visitors unique behind-the-scenes access.
When is the best time for photography at Garnish Island? May and June offer the most vibrant blooms, though the “wilder” side of the island looks incredible in the moody fog of September.
Can you visit the foaling unit at the National Stud? Yes, there is a dedicated foaling unit where you can see the first steps of future champions. It is most active from mid-January to late April.
About the Author
Roland Bast is a Canadian travel photographer and the 2024 TMAC Gold Medal winner for Photo of the Year. Based in Ottawa, Roland uses his “Slow Travel” philosophy to find the stories behind the frame in Ireland and beyond.
Continue your Irish Journey:
- Dublin in a Day: A Photographer’s 2026 Guide
- The Full Emerald Isle Itinerary with Collette Tours
- County Cork Travel Guide 2026: Whiskey, Flavours & Waterfronts
National Stud & Gardens on the gram
Discover more from Roland Bast Photography
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