Ireland
Ireland is many things to many travelers. It’s a country of sheep-dotted hills, but at the same time, it’s a place of bustling city cafes. It’s medieval castles and runes, and it’s hip restaurants and bars. It’s rural and urban, ancient and modern, moody and exuberant. Luckily, this is all packed into one small country, so you can experience the whole of it on your visit.
Activities and Attractions:
Try to allot a few days to discover Dublin. Explore the city of James Joyce, The Book of Kells, Trinity College, the Guinness Brewery, and Jameson Whiskey. (Yes, tours are offered, and yes, there’s tasting.) Then treat yourself to modern, newly affluent Dublin, full of coffeehouses, gourmet restaurants, and chic shopping districts.
Be sure to get out and explore the countryside. Drive south toward Cork. This charming city has a number of good museums and a creative culinary scene. In addition, it’s the site of Blarney Castle. You can probably give the famous stone a miss, but the castle itself is impressive.
If you liked Blarney Castle, then don’t miss Cahir Castle in County Tipperary. Built in 1142, Cahir is huge and incredibly well preserved.
Drive the Dingle Peninsula (or An Daingean as it’s known in Irish) in County Kerry. Here you’ll find quintessential Irish Countryside, rolling and green. You’ll also find numerous archeological sites, walking trails, golf courses, dramatic and atmospheric beaches, and, if you’re lucky, Fungie, a friendly dolphin who considers Dingle Harbour his home.
Insider Tip:
In parts of Ireland (County Kerry is one), you’ll find that signs are written only in Irish. Because your guidebook will probably list place names in English, it helps to have roadmaps that are printed in both languages. This is easier said than done—check before you buy to make sure your map is bilingual.
-Exclusively for Perfect Escapes by Nicole Clausing |
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