10 Reasons Why Your Next Trip Should Be To Ireland
We’ve all heard of friends taking European vacations to Italy, France, Greece, and other popular destinations like Spain. Perhaps you’ve been on a luxurious trip to the Mediterranean yourself? While those popular destinations are always a crowd pleaser, sometimes the countries you wouldn’t think of visiting end up being the most memorable of all.
Take a trip to Ireland! You can’t go wrong with its picturesque coastlines, rolling green pastures, and rich culture. From the food to its history, a vacation to Ireland will certainly leave you feeling lucky. There is so much to see and do in this beautiful country; it’s your ticket to a once in a lifetime experience.
1. Cliffs of Moher
One of the most popular tourist destinations in Ireland, these 390 ft. high cliffs draw over 1.5 million visitors per year. An 18 km cliff walk is a must see and gives you views of the Aran Islands in Galway and the Twelve Pins mountain ranges. There is also a visitor’s center that offers exhibits covering its history, geology, and local vegetation.
2. Aran Islands
These three islands are located in the Galway Bay and are unique in Irish history. A large portion of the population speaks the traditional Irish language and many natives live there year round. There are several Bronze and Iron Age forts to explore, and O’Brien’s Castle, which was built in the 14th Century.
3. Cobh Heritage Centre
If you want to experience the most detailed exhibition in Irish culture, you won’t want to miss the “Queenstown Experience”, located in the heritage centre. Rich in naval history and storied emigration, this beautiful exhibition is housed within an authentically restored Victorian Railway Station.
4. Clonmacnoise Monastic Site
Founded in the 6th Century, this ancient site was a center for religion and education. The preserved ruins and historical manuscripts allow visitors a view into the past like no other. There is even a visitor centre which displays the 9th Century Cross of the Scriptures.
5. Sean’s Bar
Feeling thirsty? Originally known as the oldest pub in Ireland, in 2004, the Guinness Book of World Records actually cited it as the oldest pub in all of Europe dating back to AD 900. It still has many of the original fixtures and a visit truly takes you back in time.
6. Dun Aengus Fort
No one really knows the exact history of this prehistoric fort, but excavations indicate that construction began in 1100 BC. It is situated atop a 330 ft. cliff with spectacular views. Visit the small museum for a look back at the fort’s history and its possible uses.
7. Dunbrody Famine Ship
On this authentic reproduction of an 1840’s emigrant vessel, visitors can enjoy exploring, tours, and costumed performers that demonstrate the bravery and fortitude of the Irish people.
8. Irish National Stud & Gardens
Get up close and personal with the most beautiful thoroughbred horses in Ireland. Watch them in their natural habitat and on the racetrack. Don’t miss the Horse Museum; which holds the full skeleton of Irelands most famous racehorse. Also visit the beautiful Japanese Garden filled with authentic flora and fauna.
9. South Pole Inn
This landmark Inn highlights memorabilia from Irish seaman and explorer, Tom Crean. Some new additions include works from sculptor Jerome Connor who is a village native. It’s authentic Ireland rich in local history.
10. Dunboyne Castle Hotel
Completed in 1764, this luxurious estate has been home to many Irish dignitaries and elite families. In need of much restoration, it was lovingly restored to its full glory and opened as a Hotel & Spa in 2006.
You’ll see all of this and more on a vacation to Ireland. Step back in time to a place steeped in culture and unique authenticity. With beauty and interest around every corner, there’s good reason why the Irish feel so lucky!
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