Inside Ireland
Inside Ireland:
Close your eyes. Imagine a sprawling, lush field as far as the eye can see, dusted with black and white sheep grazing on a soft, green blanket of grass. Charcoal gray storm clouds gently roll by, high in the sky, and a soft drizzle dampens your face. Off in the distance rests an 18th-century castle, left in ruin. Burgundy, fall-kissed Boston Ivy clings to the rough, stacked stone walls that line the streets. The scent of fresh rain, dewy grass and wood-burning fires fill your soul with what can only be described as a little slice of heaven. There are few places left in the world that truly take your breath away, but Ireland is one of them. If you’re seeking a vacation unlike any other, these helpful tips and tricks will have you completely enchanted by the Emerald Isle.
If you fly into the westside, consider staying a few nights in Dromoland Castle. Just about a fifteen-minute drive from the Shannon airport, this magnificent 15th-century castle has been converted into a five-star hotel and golf course. Adorned with Boston Ivy and surrounded by acres of lush trees, gardens, and lakes, this castle will leave you speechless. Play an early morning 18 then head into one of the many cozy sitting areas, just in time for afternoon tea. Relax fireside and enjoy some light hors d'oeuvres before you explore the grounds. Be sure to seek out the walled garden located near the rear of the castle.
Traveler Tip: Be sure to book early! This castle has limited availability and it’s a must-see, so plan it out in advance!
Next, head north to Galway and take a day-trip drive up through Connemara. Unlike any other region in Ireland, this one remains largely unspoiled. Its remote, rural location remains to be developed, which means you will really feel (and be) off the beaten path! Don't expect to see rolling green hills out there, instead take in the rugged mountain terrain and lakeside views this beautiful county has to offer. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for the hundreds of sheep that roam freely along the winding, country roads as well!
Nestled deep within Connemara is Kylemore Abbey and the Victorian Walled Gardens. Built in the 1800’s, this compound is nothing short of astounding. Wander along tree-lined, lakeside paths and enjoy this absolute beauty of the past. After a long day of sightseeing (and no doubt, 100 photo ops), head back to Galway to make camp. Find a local pub, grab a pint and enjoy some traditional Irish music for the night.
Foodie Tip: If you’re looking for the absolute best meal in Galway, head over to The Piemaker. This hole-in-the-wall gem has the most incredible savory and sweet homemade pies you will ever eat. The restaurant is tight, so seating is limited, but if you’re going to wait for anything in Ireland, wait for THESE pies!
Head south now and swing through the sweetest little city of Adare. You will instantly fall in love with the colorful, shop-lined streets, thatched roof cottages and a beautiful cathedral that resides right in the heart of the town. Wander the vibrant streets and shop for some authentic Irish wool, crystal, or handmade celtic art. Be sure to stop for lunch at The Blue Door Restaurant for some homemade pea soup, brown bread and, of course, a pint!
Continue on to Killarney, where you will find the exquisite Muckross House. This expansive estate has its own victorian botanical gardens, traditional farms, and even a craft shop. Take a horse and buggy or hike to a natural waterfall just outside the property. At the Muckross House, you truly feel transported to a distant time. The breathtaking views will leave an incredible impression on your heart. A short 25 minutes away, you can also take a guided tour of Ross Castle. This 15th-century tower house is located in Killarney National Park and has been restored to its former glory, which allows visitors to get an inside look at rural castle life back in the 1400’s.
Traveler Tip: There is only one way up and one way down at the Ross Castle, so if you have an aversion to tight spaces and spiral staircases, you might want to enjoy this beauty from the outside. But it is worth the trip up (and down)!
Next, travel east through the city of Cork. Filled with hustle and bustle, this harbor-side haven has everything to offer, from seaside splendor to University College Cork to the English Market. A bit tricky to find, the English Market is a permanent indoor farmers market filled with family-owned vendors selling farm-fresh eggs, seasonal vegetables, homemade cheeses, salami, fresh bread and more. Wander among the locals shopping for their weekly groceries and sample cheeses of the week, Irish potatoes and even some freshly-brewed coffee. If you do anything in Cork, make it to this market!
Time to start heading north to Kilkenny for some old world charm. Complete with cobblestone streets, cathedrals, abbeys, and even its own castle on the river, this city is sure to be one of your favorite stops. Not only is Kilkenny filled with mountains of history, but there are pedestrian-only streets to wander along, shop and explore.
After a morning cup of tea, take a self-guided tour of Kilkenny Castle. Over eight centuries old, this impressive hilltop castle rests above the River Nore, providing some of the most incredible views of the city. The rooms have been restored to their gorgeous glory days, each unique from the rest and complete with hand-painted chinese wallpaper and historical tapestries. Down the road, you will find the Rothe House and Gardens, Smithwick’s Brewery and St. Canice's Cathedral. After a long day of historical enlightenment, stop into one of the many traditional Irish pubs where the Guinness flows freely and the music plays merrily.
Finally, make your way to Ireland's capital, Dublin. Look left, look right, cross quickly! This city is full of hustle and bustle and you’ll love every minute of it.
It may seem overwhelming and impossible to see all the sights, but fear not, the Hop-On Hop-Off bus makes it possible. For a flat daily (or two-day) rate you can grab a map, jump on the bus and pick and choose your desired historical stops all around the city. Some top choices include Trinity College, St. Patrick's Cathedral, the ever-popular Guinness factory, and if you’re a whiskey fanatic, the Teeling Whiskey Distillery. This distillery is rich with deep Irish history and gives factory tours every hour. Wander through the barley sifters and learn about the whiskey-making process. The best part is sampling some of the finest Irish whiskey in the tasting room, post-tour. After a fun-filled day of successful sightseeing, locate Murphy's Pub or even The Gingerman for some authentic Irish dinner and your last pint of Guinness!
Final Travelers Tip: If you’re flying out of Dublin, plan ahead and be prompt. Make sure you get to the airport very, very early. Clearing customs could take over an hour alone, not to mention multiple security checks. Even though you will never want to leave behind the beauty of the Emerald Isle, you will carry the memories with your forever!