Ireland– The Enchanting Emerald Isle

Posted - March 27, 2017

From its ancient beginnings, the history of the country has flowed through Stone Age hamlets to the Celtic migration; from the Vikings’ occupation to the medieval Anglo-Norman knights’ domination.

The land is littered with Neolithic tombs, remnants of once-great abbeys and magnificent castles. Some medieval castles, such as 13th century St. John’s Castle in Limerick City, have seen renewal. Many later castles are authentically restored. In fact, visitors to the 16^th century Bunratty Castle can join in a sumptuous feast in the castle's grand banquet hall while enjoying the Renaissance chorale melodies of the Bunratty Castle Singers. Some castles, such Ashford and Dromoland, even invite guests to stay the night in luxurious bedrooms and dine in elegant splendor in the manner of the great Irish royal families of yore.

A journey of Ireland often begins in Dublin, its cosmopolitan capital. Here you will want to visit St. Patrick’s Cathedral, which dates back to the 13^th century. A guided tour of the city often includes Guinness Storehouse, where you can learn about the brewing process that creates this beloved beverage. Also of interest is Trinity College, one of the oldest universities in Europe, and the General Post Office on O’Connell Street, which is indelibly associated with the 1916 Rising and the events that led to the creation of an independent Irish state.

Venturing on to Kilkenny, take a walking tour through the heart of the medieval city to view merchants’ houses, historic pubs and other places of interest along Kilkenny’s Medieval Mile. Continuing south, take the opportunity to visit the House of Waterford Crystal and do some shopping at the Blarney Woolen Mills. And, of course, a tour of the Emerald Isle would not be complete without paying a visit to Blarney Castle, near Cork, to kiss the famous Blarney Stone of Eloquence.

Along Ireland’s western coast, explore the lively city of Killarney and picture-postcard villages of Kerry. Take in the magnificent landscapes of Dingle Peninsula and admire the striking Cliffs of Moher that climb 700 feet above the Atlantic Ocean. Farther north lies Europe’s tallest sea cliffs, Slieve League.

Yet, for all its scenic beauty, it's the warmth and charm of Ireland that is its real draw. One of the country’s most widely acclaimed magnets is its friendly pubs, where Guinness ale and the patrons’ playful banter flow freely. And it's here that you'll find Ireland's very special appeal – its people.