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Discover Ireland

Mar 30, 2015 | 8:20 AM

Ireland’s natural beauty is world renown. Whether it is walking on beautiful beaches, exploring the vast National Parks or enjoying what it is to be Irish! Put Ireland on your bucket list of incredible destinations to visit.

Irish people are famous all over the world for their  friendly welcome they offer to visitors. Visiting a local pub could take a while as the locals love to chat and tell stories of Irish Folklore, legends and myths. These tales vary from family to family as each have their own personal tale to tell! Of course, don’t forget the story of the leprechauns hiding their gold at the end of the rainbow. The mysterious appeal of Ireland is like no other and is one vacation you will never forget or regret.

Begin your journey of Ireland, by exploring the capital city of Dublin. Walk around the medieval area of southern Dublin where you will find small alleys and broad streets with fascinating history. This area is also home to the historic Dublin Castle, built in the early 13th century. Enjoy the Georgian architecture and cafes of Drury Street. Of course, do not forget Temple Bar. This section of Dublin is where you will find a cobblestone culture of galleries, restaurants, pubs and the lively Meeting House Square. Visit the School of Medicine called Trinity College which is known as one of the world’s leading research –intensive University. Dublin would not be complete without a visit to the Guinness Storehouse for a cultural insight into the production of this famous drink and exactly how to pull a pint correctly!

Make your way to Blarney Castle to kiss the blarney stone and acquire the gift of the gab. A great place to stay is a colourful seaport town of Cobh, County Cork. This port was where many Irish immigrated to the Americas. It is home to the Titanic Memorial Museum.  The Port of Cobh was where 123 passengers boarded the Titanic vessel before its ill-fated voyage across the Atlantic Ocean.

Experience Ireland’s most scenic drive around the Iveragh Peninsula, better known as the Ring of Kerry. It is undoubtedly one of the most magical and varied places in the whole of Ireland. Your camera will be busy capturing incredible scenery and the dramatic coastline of this famous area.

 Killarney, County Kerry is a town that is part of the Killarney National Park. It is known for its rolling green hills overlooking the famous Lakes of Killarney. A great place to spend a few days, enjoy the pubs, restaurants and do some shopping.

Galway Bay is a large bay on the West Coast of Ireland. Play a game of golf or take a tour of the Galway Bay Brewery which hand-craft their beers in small batches using carefully selected hops. Great restaurants to enjoy an Irish stew with a glass of local ale or a pint of Guinness.

Take a daily ferry service from Galway, across to the Aran Islands. It is the Island of Saints and Scholars. This is a true Irish experience, where locals speak Irish as well as English. View the spectacular DunAnghasa and Cliffs of Aran, a venue for the famous Redbull Cliff Diving. It is also home to the traditional Aran sweater. Aran Islands are a total release away from the mainland. Try some of the excellent accommodation options such as B & B’s, hotels and hostels.

Travel to Bunratty Castle and Folk Park near Limerick, County Clare where you are free to roam the park with its little cottages and many farm houses. The 15th century Bunratty Castle hosts a medieval banquet and live musical show in the dinner hall. Book ahead so you won’t be disappointed.

 Cliffs of Mohr, County Clare, is one of Ireland’s most breathtaking natural wonders. The cliffs raise 390feet above the Atlantic Ocean and rank amongst the top visited tourist sites in Ireland. The Cliffs of Mohr provide a dramatic backdrop in many videos, cinema and television productions.

I hope you put the beautiful Emerald Isle on your bucket list of places you would like to visit. The intriguing and diverse landscape, rich heritage, distinctive culture, lively cities and the fine food is what makes Ireland truly unique.

Lynda Spriggs

Lobstick Travel / Prince Albert