Caper across the Emerald Isle
Nicknamed the “Emerald Isle,” this charming and welcoming land is roughly the size of Alabama. It’s home to rolling hills, gorgeous coastline, and medieval cities. There’s always a new shade of green to discover while traveling around this lush country. On the west coast, you’ll find the Connemara and Giant’s Causeway.
Start your Ireland trip in its cozy capital city, which has an elegant Georgian flair. Dublin hugs the east coast where the River Liffey meets the Irish Sea. Of course, you’ll want to see Dublin’s most popular attractions like St. Patrick’s Cathedral, the Book of Kells, and the Jameson Distillery. If you enjoy music, find one of the many local pubs that offers live performances in the evening. Ask your Tourlane Travel Expert for insider recommendations.
If you’re a fan of Game of Thrones and enjoy an outdoor adventure, then follow Shepherd’s Steps up the basalt columns of Giant’s Causeway for spectacular views of the Atlantic horizon. Legend has it that the 40,000 basalt columns of Giant’s Causeway are the remains of a bridge connecting Ireland and Scotland, built by warring giants of yesteryear. This natural wonder is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is well worth a day trip.
During your Ireland vacation, journey along the west coast to County Clare and the legendary Cliffs of Moher - especially if you’re interested in nature and geology. Peer down from the rocky outcrop and you’ll see the swelling waters of the Atlantic Ocean 509 feet below. Over twenty bird species make their home here, so keep an eye out for puffins and peregrine falcons. As part of a UNESCO Global Park. One way to explore the area is on horseback - your Tourlane Travel Expert will organize this for you if you so desire.
The beautifully preserved 15th-century castle is world-famous for a single stone. Local folklore states that the Blarney Stone gives the gift of eloquence to anyone brave enough to kiss it—to reach it, all you have to do is hang upside down from the ramparts. Be sure to include this spectacular medieval castle in your Ireland vacation.
Situated in the west of Ireland in County Galway, the Connemara National Park is the epitome of Irish wilderness and is perfect for nature lovers. Spanning more than 2,000 hectares, visitors will see bogs, heath, and woodlands, not to mention the mighty peaks of Benbaun and Muckanaght. Explore this romantic backcountry by foot or car, keeping an eye out for grazing Connemara Ponies. Consider spending two to three days in this beautiful area of Ireland.
The capital of Northern Ireland, Belfast is well worth a visit while on vacation in Ireland. Visit the evocative docklands by day, and clap along to a traditional session of Irish music and dance by night. Foodies should stop by the Victorian St George’s Market, which contains a range of interesting vendors. Less
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