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| Ireland Tourist Attractions | ||
The Cliffs of Moher The Cliffs of Moher are Ireland's
highest cliffs and one of the countries most stunning sights. Towering
majestically over the Atlantic, the cliffs reach 230 meters at their highest
point and stretch for over 7 km. On a clear day, the view is sensational.
The Aran Islands stretch out into the clear waters of Galway Bay, Connemara
and the twelve pins fade into the horizon. Wrap up well and take a walk to
the O’Brien’s tower perched on the cliff's highest edge. Listen to the
crashing waves, the noisy gulls and the puffins. On a fine day, even in
winter, the sunsets are just magical.
Aran Islands
Bru Na Boinne Known as Bru na Boinne, the tombs of Newgrange, Knowth and Dowth, are the best examples of stone age passage graves in Ireland. Older than the pyramids, the tombs and the surrounding area have been the backdrop for folklore, rituals and superstitions for thousands of years. Newgrange, the biggest and most famous of the passage tombs is engulfed with light each winter solstice when the rising sun slowly fills the passage and hits the back wall of the tomb. Although the viewing of the Winter Solstice is booked up for the next 25 years, there is a fascinating reproduction in the visitor centre, which mirrors the eerie real life experience. All three sites are accessible through the Bru na Boinne visitor centre, and there are in-depth guided tours on offer.
The Burren The
Burren derives its name from the Gaelic "bhoireann" which means "a stony
place". It is a magnificent karst limestone area, with a combination of many
unusual features, which make it one of the most unique and delicate
landscapes in Europe. The Burren is a unique botanical environment in which
Mediterranean and Alpine plants rare to Ireland grow side by side.
Glaciation, along with wind and rain erosion has formed limestone pavements
with deep crevices known as 'grykes'. The porous rock is easily penetrated
by rainwater, which has gouged out an extensive cave system beneath the
rocky plateau. Its geology, flora, fauna, caves, archaeology, and history
set it apart as a place of great mystery, spirituality and beauty. When you
take a trip to the Burren, much of what the area offers is not evident at
first glance and so the area needs to be carefully explored and interpreted.
There is plenty of literature, guides and resources available to help you
discover this truly magical place, which is not to be missed.
The Ring of Kerry The
Ring of Kerry is located on the Iveragh Peninsula, and is Ireland's most
spectacular and renowned mountain road. Over the centuries it has been the
inspiration of poets and writers because of its magnificent coastal scenery,
overwhelming mountains and rugged countryside. Usually driven (cycled or
walked) in an anti-clockwise direction, the route takes in the villages and
towns of Killorglin, Glenbeigh, Caherciveen, Waterville, Sneem, Kenmare and
Killarney. This 112-mile (180 km approx.) route around the Iveragh
Peninsula, just to the south of the Dingle Peninsula, is certainly well
worth a tour. With such spectacular scenery it is no wonder it is a
long-established route.
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Blarney The
Blarney stone is located in a 15th century castle in the town of Blarney,
just five miles north of Cork city. It is world famous due to the legend,
which surrounds it: Kissing the stone is believed to provide the kisser with
the gift of persuasive eloquence, ie: Blarney. Located on the top storey of
the castle, just below the battlements, the ability to kiss the stone is
actually quite a physical feat. Originally, kissing the stone involved being
hung by the heels over the edge of the parapet, but since the untimely death
of one pilgrim, things have been made a lot safer…just! Exactly how long
this custom has been practiced or how it originated is not known, nor are
the origins of the stones magical properties. It is known however that the
word blarney entered the dictionary as far back at the 16th century, due to
the castles owner constantly talking his way out of its imminent
confiscation by the troops of Elizabeth I
Connemara
Rock of Cashel
Waterford - Crystal Clear ConnectionWaterford is one of Ireland’s oldest cities, a cosmopolitan place with a vibrant arts scene-yet a place which has managed to retain its historic heart. An unspoiled upland West of the County offers a magnificent mountain setting which is a magnet for walkers. Small scale attractive fishing villages rest like necklaces, along the tranquil and scenic coastline, while the region’s capital city, Waterford, is deep set in a harbour that owes much to the 9th century Vikings, who named this port Vadre-Fjord. There are also quaint and friendly villages including Ireland’s Tidiest Town Lismore, home to the stunning Lismore Castle, while Ring village is the centre of a thriving, Irish speaking community. The coast is noted for shore fishing and sunny beaches while suitable conditions for surfing are found at the county’s premiere beach in glorious Tramore. Waterford is home to world-famous, hand cut crystal Waterford Crystal. The Waterford Cyrstal Gallery is home to the world’s largest display of Waterford crystal, beautifully displayed. |
The
Connemara region is one of the best-preserved wilderness regions in Europe
today. The landscape is cloaked by blanket bog and wet heath vegetation and
it is alive with a diverse species of animal and plant life. If you want to
hear or learn Irish, the area is one of the most important Gaeltacht areas
in the country, so there should be plenty of opportunities. A Mecca for
walkers, a days hiking is essential to any visit to the area and there are
plenty of maps and guides available to see you through. Connemara has so
much to offer the visitor from the scenic Twelve Bens Mountains, to the
clear lakes dotting the landscape and shimmering white Atlantic beaches, and
wild-connemara ponies. 
The
Rock of Cashel is one of the most spectacular archaeological sites in
Ireland. This 4th century stone fort was the seat of kings and medieval
bishops for 900 years and flourished until the early 17th century. The site
comprises a spectacular group of medieval buildings set on an outcrop of
limestone in the Golden Vale that includes a 12th century round tower, a
High Cross and Romanesque Chapel, a 13th century Gothic cathedral, a 15th
century Castle and the restored Hall of the Vicars Choral. Attractions
include an audio-visual show and various exhibitions. There is access for
visitors with disabilities by prior arrangement.