Irland is often considered to be a mystical place, full of fairies, leprechauns and four-leaf dovers. People visiting Ireland may quickly become disenchanted, as their first views may be Mc Donald’s or a Starbucks, and they realize that even this little island has not escaped the clutches of capitalism.
While it’s true that Ireland became quite modernized during the Celtic Tiger, there are still many places you can visit that can satisfy your cravings for a more traditional Irish experience and will make you fall in love with the Emerald Isle.
1. Dublin City
Dublin City in County Dublin has everything a tourist could want. Many flights to Ireland will land in Dublin, and it is a great place to start your visit. Dublin pubs often showcase traditional Irish music in the evenings and are great for meeting the friendly locals. You can also tour the Guinness Brewery, St. Patrick’s Cathedral and Dublin Castle. In the summer, Merrion Square Park hosts art festivals which are great for children and adults alike. The park also boats a stunning Oscar Wilde memorial sculpture, great walking paths and large gardens.
2. Cliffs of Moher
The Cliffs of Moher, which are in County Clare are one of the most breathtakingly beautiful sites in Ireland. You can take guided Tours of the cliffs or explore the area on our own. Some People ignore the warnings and barriers and try to get closer to the edge of the cliffs in order to get better pictures, But this is an extremely foolhardy and dangerous idea, as the wind ist quite strong, and one gust can blow you right of the edge. If you want a closer lookout the cliffs, you can buy a pass for the Cliffs of Moher Cruise, which tours around the base of the cliff.
3. Croagh Patrick
Croagh Patrick is a montain near Westport, County Mayo. It is named after St. Patrick, who is said to have climbed the mountain and remained there for forty days and nights. The climb is great, as it is difficult enough to makle reaching the summit a real accomplishment, yet it only takes a few hours. It is a perfect way to spend a morning or afternoon. At the top, you can enjoy the amazing views and can also visit the small Catholic chapel.
4. Blarney Castle
Blamey Castle is located in County Cork and is a must-visit for anyone wanting to see a medieval castle. You can hike to the top an kiss the famous Blarney Stone, which is said to bestow the gift of eloquence to whoever kisses it. To kiss the Blarney Stone, you’ll have to lie on your back and shimmy backwards over the ledge, but there is a stuff member who make sure you don’t fall. A photographer is also there to take your picture, which can be purchased in the gift shop on the ground floor. On your climb to the top, be sure to stop and explore, as each level has something interesting to offer, such as the first floor’s „Murder Hole“, where the castles soldiers pour boiling oil on invaders. You can also explore several caves on the other side of the castle the beautiful Poison Garden and the paths that wind around the extensive grounds.
5. Aran Islands
In County Galway are the Aran Islands, which are near perfect representations of Old Ireland. Though most people in Ireland speak English, the predominate language on the islands is Irish. Inis More is the largest of the three islands and ist the favorite of tourists. After taking a ferry to the island, you can choose from many different activities. Don’t shy away from Gift shops, as you will definitely want to pic up an authentic Aran sweater. These Sweater, which where originally knitted to keep fishermen warm at sea, are renowned for their intricate patterns and high quality Aran wool. Afterward, venture out on foot or rent a bicycle to get around. Thera are sandy beaches for swimming and stone forts to explore.
Exploring Ireland is a wonderful experience, as it has something to offer everyone. Whether you visit mainstream areas or venture off the beaten path, be sure to partake in the Irish lifestyle. To help you get started, here ist your first Irish lesson: Practice saying „slainte“, which means „cheers“. Armed with that word and a sense of adventure, you’re ready to head to Ireland to have the trip of a lifetime.