TG4 to broadcast new 'Heartlands' travel programme

Each 30-minute programme will see Sharon and Caoilinn connect with some of Ireland’s top musicians as well as explore the the hidden and not so hidden treasures that the regions has to offer.

Fáilte Ireland and TG4 have joined forces with renowned Irish musician Sharon Shannon on a new travel and music programme ‘Heartlands’.

The four-week series, commencing on Wednesday, August 11, features Sharon Shannon and her niece Caoilinn Ní Dhonnabháin showcasing the Shannon River region and Cavan, across Ireland’s 'Hidden Heartlands' region. Packed with inspirational ideas for short breaks this summer and into autumn, the series will encourage and remind more Irish people to discover the joy of holidaying in Ireland.

The programme featuring Cavan, Roscommon and Leitrim will air first, on August 11; followed by Leitrim, Roscommon, Longford and Westmeath on August 18; Westmeath, Offaly and Galway on August 25; and Clare and Tipperary on September 1.

Each 30-minute programme will see Sharon and Caoilinn connect with some of Ireland’s top musicians, such as Liam O’Maonlaoi (Hothouse Flowers), Steve Wickham (The Waterboys), Eleanor Shanley, Nathan Carter, The Henshaws, Seamus Begley, Mundy, Gerry ‘Banjo’ O’Connor and Susan O’Neill.

Building on the success of Fáilte Ireland’s own current domestic marketing campaign, ‘Heartlands’ will visit a number of locations across Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands, telling stories that explore the hidden and not so hidden treasures that the regions has to offer.