Rolling green hills framed by sandy bays and a rugged coastline, dotted with sleepy villages and fantastic cities, the Republic of Ireland has beauty by the bucket load.
For outdoor enthusiasts, Ireland has plenty to offer – there’s break-neck surf at Lahnich Beach, toilsome treks through Kilarney National Park, while history lovers can enthuse themselves with jaunts in the countryside, passing by prehistoric monuments like the Boyne Valley burial tombs and ancient stone cottages.
There are few places with such a clichéd tourist image as Ireland possesses. From its shamrocks and leprechauns to its four clove leaves and its loveable rogues, there’s a mask of deception to sneak behind before you discover the real Ireland.
A Green Place to Remember
But, for those who manage it, the Emerald Isle is a terrifically rewarding place. Truly one of the gems of Europe, Ireland possesses an extravaganza of gorgeous scenery in the shape of mountains, lakes and valleys that’s enough to see your jaw hit the floor.
From the picture-perfect villages and harbors of County Cork to the lonely wilds of County Donegal, there’s no end of avenues to explore. The choice is overwhelming – there’s cycling on the County Antrim coast, hiking in the Connemara and Kerry hills, and seaside resorts galore in Bundoran.
The land of U2 and the Undertones also has its more modern pleasures too. The cities of Belfast, Cork and Dublin bubbling fountains of life and enthusiasm, with their party pubs, top-notch restaurants and a live music scene that’s more than a match for any in Europe.
Where but Ireland for Irish Pubs?
Traditional Irish music can be had in the streets and pubs of Killarney, Doolin and Galway, while those seeking culture and historical bounty will have their hands full with the number of medieval castles, museums and Christian monasteries sprinkled through Ireland’s towns.
Enjoy the pints of Guinness but don’t forget to look past those leprechauns and catch a glimpse of what Ireland really has to offer. The so called “luck of the Irish” is something that can actually rub off, you know?
Budget for one week: More than 500 Euro
Taxes and gratuities: Gratuity is recommended
Local currency: GBP and Euro
Spoken language and/or official language: English
Area: 84,431 km2 (32,599 sq mi)
Population: 6,197,100
Sanitary requirements: You can drink tap water everywhere in Ireland
Major cities: Dublin, Belfast, Cork, Derry, Limerick, and Galway.
Main images courtesy: © EcoView - Fotolia.com; and Steve-h.
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Holiday destinations in regions of Ireland
If your destination is not listed, you will find a complete list of regions in Ireland in alphabetical order below.
