Ireland is called the Emerald Isle because of the vibrant green colors of the rolling hills and vales. Ireland is a fascinating place with something for everyone. Beautiful scenery, famous landmarks, ancient castles, pubs, Celtic ruins and natural wonders, it is rich in culture and friendly people.
Probably the most famous places is the Cliffs of Moher, one of the most visited natural attractions in Ireland. The cliffs stand around 700 feet above the coast and are five miles long – with an awe inspiring vista.
If national parks are a favorite of yours, Killarney National Park is for you with walking trails, wildlife, ancient forests and the beautiful lakes of Killarney. You can also visit the 19th century Muckross House and Gardens while there.
The Rock of Cashel, also called St. Patrick’s Rock, is the most visited heritage site in Ireland. It was the fortress of the Munster kings in the Early Middle Ages and has 12th, 13th and 15th century additions. It is a spectacular archaeological site. It is noted to be the most remarkable collection of Celtic art and medieval architecture to be found anywhere in Europe.
Of course you have to visit Dublin while in Ireland. There is so much to do and see. From the colossal St Patrick’s Cathedral, to the Dublin Writers Museum, to the Guinness Storehouse, Grafton Street with it’s flower sellers and performance artists, Trinity College built in 1592, St. Stephen’s Green with it’s beautiful gardens, and picturesque bridge and playground, to the General Post Office with the 1916 bullet holes of the Irish Rebellion, there is a wealth of things to do and see.
Blarney Castle is high on the must see list. It was started back in the1200’s and is not far from Cork. The Blarney Stone was set into a tower of the castle in 1446. According to legend, if you kiss the stone it will enable you to have the gift of gab but getting to the stone requires hanging over a sheer drop off. You can also visit the extensive gardens at the Castle.
This is just a small sampling of the wonders in Ireland. Cork is a great place with many attractions, also the Aran Islands, the Ring of Kerry, Wicklow, Bunratty Castle, Sean’s Bar – the oldest pub in the world and lots of other great places to see and things to do!