From ancient burial grounds to some of Ireland's most majestic tourist sights, these are the best Irish attractions to discover in 2024. New years call for big dreams and goals; and, in our books, there is no better time than the holiday break to start planning and scheming for all the adventures that await in
As the final leaves fall from the trees and we don our woolly warmers, it is plain to see that winter has descended upon the Emerald Isle. Arguably one of the most joyous times of the year to visit the island, here is everything you need to know about Ireland in Winter. To be completely frank, there is no 'bad time' to visit Ireland. Each season beholds its own unique ambience as the landscapes dance through the months with changing colour palettes and varying temperatures to keep travellers on their toes. Indeed winter in Ireland is the coldest time to visit. Yet, as the cold starts to creep in, and a certain sense of warmth hangs in the air. Pubs are abuzz with the sounds of merriment, and even the great outdoors can be rather inviting. Eager to explore? Here is everything you need to know about Ireland in Winter. Overview Winter in Ireland. Sure, it's the coldest time of the year but boy does it boast its benefits. As the temperatures drop, so too the leaves, but don't be fooled, Ireland at this time of year is pretty exceptional. And, as a visitor, there are many benefits to travelling in the colder months. Prices for accommodation and flights will generally be lower during the winter months – except for over the holidays – and it will be easier to get bookings for restaurants and top attractions. More so, with less footfall to reckon with, you'll often get front row experiences at some of Ireland's most popular sights. And believe us, not having to navigate crowds at the likes of the Giant's Causeway or the Cliffs of Moher will make all the difference! Temperatures If you're considering a winter in Ireland escape, you may be keen to dig a little
As the final leaves fall from the trees and we don our woolly warmers, it is plain to see that winter has descended upon the Emerald Isle. Arguably one of the most joyous times of the year to visit the island, here is everything you need to know about Ireland in Winter. To be completely
From stunning national parks and heritage sites to road trip routes, these are the top easygoing activities during springtime in Ireland. With bookings for our 2024 tours already piling up, we just can't help but look forward to springtime in Ireland. As the weary winter starts to drift away, the days get longer, and the
Ireland is a land of ancient mysticism and great legends. You don't have to wander far to stumble across spiritual forces beyond earthly reasoning. These are the ten most spooky sights in Ireland to discover. Ireland is a hotbed of supernatural sightings and paranormal activity. Only further hammered home by our love of storytelling and native folklore, there's nowhere more spooky to explore than Ireland in the autumn and wintertime. Whether you're seeking to soak up the atmosphere of an abandoned asylum or want to delve deep into the dark history of one of Ireland's great houses, you've come to the right place. These are the most haunted places in Ireland to discover. 1. Belvelly Castle, County Cork Lady Margaret was a vein beauty courted by many men. She, however, wouldn't settle. Margaret eventually lost her looks when starved into submission for an entire year by Clon de Courcy. She finally decided to give in to Courcy, but on seeing her unfavourable appearance after a year of imprisonment, he rejected her, and in a fit of anger she smashed all of her mirrors. Today, she can still be found roaming the halls in search of her lost love and looks. 2. Ballinagarde House, County Limerick Ballinagarde House was once a house of great significance. Built by John Croker in 1774, the home housed a family, who, due to bankruptcy, was not able to retain its impressive upkeep. Today, it is a shell of its former self. According to legend, however, a mysterious man on horseback was once welcomed into the home on a dark wintry night for a warm meal and some Irish hospitality. When he fell into a deep slumber, it is said that a servant kindly removed his boots only to find the Devil's hooves! 3. Charles Fort,
Ireland is a land of ancient mysticism and great legends. You don’t have to wander far to stumble across spiritual forces beyond earthly reasoning. These are the ten most spooky sights in Ireland to discover. Ireland is a hotbed of supernatural sightings and paranormal activity. Only further hammered home by our love of storytelling and
Halloween or All Hallows' Eve is an autumn festival celebrated at large in contemporary culture. Although, what you may not know is that it was borne out of Celtic pagan practices. From ancient rituals to age-old traditions, here is all you need to know about Halloween and the festival of Samhain. Halloween is a celebration recognised at large around the world. While it is often associated with creepy costumes, trick or treating, and excessive sugar consumption, the true origins of All Hallows' Eve are frequently left untold. What you may not know is that Halloween is the modern incarnation of the Celtic festival of Samhain – an ancient celebration that sheds light on the customs and beliefs of our ancestors. Here we deep dive into Samhain and explore a rich and dynamic festival that dominated the pagan calendar for centuries. The festival of Samhain Marking the end of the summer harvest and the beginning of winter, the Irish festival, Samhain (which translates to 'end of summer'), takes place annually. Samhain notably falls halfway in the calendar between the autumn equinox and winter solstice. It is one of four seasonal Celtic festivals which would have been recognised by pagans in pre-Christian Ireland. The other three include Imbolc (the celebration of spring), Beltane (May Day festival), and Lughnasa (which heralds the harvest season). In the Northern Hemisphere, Samhain is recognised on the 1st of November, with its celebrations beginning on the 31st of October. For the Celts, their 'new year' was marked on the first day of November; the arrival of winter symbolised death and darkness, and with that, it was believed that on the eve before the new year, the barrier between the land of the living and the Otherworld was at its thinnest and could be broken. Stretching back to
Halloween or All Hallows’ Eve is an autumn festival celebrated at large in contemporary culture. Although, what you may not know is that it was borne out of Celtic pagan practices. From ancient rituals to age-old traditions, here is all you need to know about Halloween and the festival of Samhain. Halloween is a celebration
There is no denying that Ireland is a stunning sight year-round, but it is in autumn that the landscape truly comes alive with natural displays painted in fall colours that will truly blow your mind. These are the ten most photo-worthy destinations in Ireland this autumn. Autumn is our favourite time to visit Ireland. As the days get that bit shorter and the evenings that bit colder, it may seem less idyllic than the previous sunny season. Still, autumn is without a doubt the most picturesque time to visit the Emerald Isle. As nature sheds its summer garb, the landscape transforms into a blanket of golden hues, reds and ambers, while the leaves start to fall. Wildlife flourishes during this time, too, making autumn a great place to discover both flora and fauna. For those curious to see what true Irish autumn looks like, read on. These are the most photo-worthy destinations in Ireland this autumn. 10. Murlough Bay Murlough Bay is a remote bay located along the coast of Northern Ireland. Surrounded by the wild countryside, during autumn, the scene here is a sight for sore eyes: rustic tones of copper and autumn flanked by the wild Atlantic Ocean. 9. Benbulben This is perhaps the most iconic natural attraction on Sligo's landscape, and in autumn, the surrounding foliage lights up with the shades of fall. If you've been considering a visit to this impressive formation, now is the time! 8. Ballycroy National Park Located in County Mayo is Ballycroy National Park, another one of the most photo-worthy destinations in Ireland this autumn. As one of Ireland's largest expanses of bogland, it is quite significant as a place of diverse flora and fauna. Visit during autumn for the most impressive display. 7. Mount Steward Mount Steward may not be a
There is no denying that Ireland is a stunning sight year-round, but it is in autumn that the landscape truly comes alive with natural displays painted in fall colours that will truly blow your mind. These are the ten most photo-worthy destinations in Ireland this autumn. Autumn is our favourite time to visit Ireland. As
Strewn across the landscape are endless sights to see on the Emerald Isle. While they may be known for their beauty or photo-worthy backdrops, stories of the past are often left untold. This is secret Ireland: ten things you probably didn't know about Ireland's most popular attractions. Ireland is known around the world as a place of natural beauty and wild mysticism. Its natural and heritage attractions are some of the most awe-inspiring, and each year, crowds of tourists come from far and wide to taste a slice of Irish life. While there are a heap of well-known and truly memorable attractions to see, many of these boast merits that often go unmentioned – their dramatic pasts and spellbinding myths – to name but a couple. In this article, we round up ten of Ireland's majestic must-sees and uncover some of the untold stories surrounding these famous sites. These are ten things you probably didn't know about Ireland's most popular attractions. 1. Giant's Causeway, County Antrim Many are drawn to the Giant's Causeway due to its unique natural beauty. The 40,000 or so interlocking basalt columns which jut from the land and slowly fade into the sea are a sight, no doubt. But one of the facts about this Irish attraction you probably didn't know is that as per Celtic folklore, Finn McCool tore up chunks of the land and flung them into the sea to bridge the gap between Ireland and Scotland – where his nemesis Benandonner resided. 2. Ross Castle, County Meath For many, Ross Castle is yet another scenic stop along the tourist trail through County Meath. But did you know that this site boasts a dark and disturbing past? It is known to be one of the most haunted places in all of Ireland. Those keen
Strewn across the landscape are endless sights to see on the Emerald Isle. While they may be known for their beauty or photo-worthy backdrops, stories of the past are often left untold. This is secret Ireland: ten things you probably didn’t know about Ireland’s most popular attractions. Ireland is known around the world as a
As the leaves turn to hues of gold and red, and the summer sun starts to set, that means only one thing: Ireland in autumn. In this go-to guide, we outline everything from temperatures to top attractions. While the summer months bear their natural allure, something about Ireland in autumn is just magical. Celebrated for its majestic lands blanketed by rolling hills, national parks, dramatic coastlines and wild pastoral settings, Ireland's scenery becomes electric in the fall. For those toying with the idea of an autumn vacation on the Emerald Isle, you're sure to have tonnes of questions. In this go-to guide, we cover all of your most frequently asked questions and add some insider knowledge of Ireland in autumn for good measure. Overview Ireland in autumn is a sight for sore eyes. While the season may not boast the same balmy temperatures as summer, a certain warmth hangs in the air as the great outdoors come alive. As peak tourist season fades away, Ireland in Autumn is an ideal time to explore. The leaves turn from green to golden hues and striking reds as the days slowly begin to get shorter. Parks and tourist attractions will be quieter, and costs will generally be lower for flight tickets, hotels and attractions. It will also be easier to get reservations in restaurants, and the city streets will remain buzzy but not be overwhelmed by throngs of visitors. In fact, many would argue that autumn is the best time to visit Ireland. Temperatures For those keen to get a deeper understanding of weather in Ireland in autumn, here we break it down, month-by-month. It's important to remember that the weather in Ireland can vary on location. During the months of autumn, temperatures can range greatly. In addition, your location bears a significant
As the leaves turn to hues of gold and red, and the summer sun starts to set, that means only one thing: Ireland in autumn. In this go-to guide, we outline everything from temperatures to top attractions. While the summer months bear their natural allure, something about Ireland in autumn is just magical. Celebrated for
Whether you're looking for a hearty dose of culture or want to be wowed by a natural wonder, Ireland is blanketed with sights to see and things to do – particularly for those who prefer laid-back adventure. If this sounds up your street, read on: these are must-see Irish attractions for the easygoing explorer. Ireland attracts throngs of tourists each year who come in search of Celtic mysticism, ancient heritage, dramatic scenery and our world-renowned hospitality. From awe-inspiring waterfalls and impressive castles to craftsmanship at its best, these are ten must-see Irish attractions for the easygoing explorer. 1. Guinness Storehouse, County Dublin Guinness is perhaps one of Ireland's biggest claims to fame, and with that in mind, it would be rude not to visit the Guinness Storehouse when in Dublin. This is one of our must-see Irish attractions for the easygoing explorer as it is self-guided with tonnes of interactive exhibits and dining experiences along the route. 2. Glendalough, County Wicklow Hidden in Wicklow Mountains National Park is Glendalough – the site of a 6th-century monastery and the ruins of an ancient Medieval city. Surrounded by valleys and lakes, woodlands and trails, a day spent in Glendalough won't soon be forgotten. 3. House of Waterford Crystal, County Waterford Whether you're a fan of glassblowing or are simply keen to marvel at the wonder of its craftsmanship, House of Waterford Crystal in County Waterford is a must for the easygoing explorer in Ireland. This attraction boasts both a self-guided tour and a retail space, so you can first fall in love with Irish crystal and then find some unique pieces to purchase before leaving. 4. Old Bushmills Distillery, County Antrim If you're intending on exploring Northern Ireland on your adventures around the Emerald Isle, don't forget to check out the Old
Whether you’re looking for a hearty dose of culture or want to be wowed by a natural wonder, Ireland is blanketed with sights to see and things to do – particularly for those who prefer laid-back adventure. If this sounds up your street, read on: these are must-see Irish attractions for the easygoing explorer. Ireland
Whether you're booking a last-minute break or planning a 'while the weather is still good' road trip, make sure to make the most of August. Our end of summer Irish bucket list is on hand to help direct you to the most magnificent sights and experiences in all of Ireland. As the summer nears its end, it's a great time to reflect on all we've done and all that we still want to do on the Emerald Isle. It's safe to say that no amount of time will ever be enough to explore Ireland, as so much of its wonder lies in the hidden gems and secret spots. Saying that, these top ten attractions should be ticked off your to-do post-haste. From world-known natural wonders to majestic mountains and national parks, this is our ultimate end of summer Irish bucket list. 1. Killarney National Park, County Kerry Situated near the charming town of Killarney, this was in fact Ireland's first national park. Killarney National Park is an outdoor enthusiast's dream, boasting breathtaking landscapes blanketed by forest, mountains, and lakes. Make sure to stop by Ladies View, Muckross House and Torc Waterfall. 2. Bushmills, County Antrim No trip around Ireland would be complete without a distillery tour. While there are many to choose from, one of our absolute favourites has got to be Bushmills in County Antrim. Not only is this the oldest operating distillery in the world but the tours are some of the best on offer. 3. Murder Hole Beach, County Donegal There are few beaches that rival the faultless beauty of Murder Hole Beach in Donegal. Hidden from sight, and accessed via a cliff path, it may seem to be a bit of a challenge to get there. Once you've arrived, however, you'll see what all the fuss
Whether you’re booking a last-minute break or planning a ‘while the weather is still good’ road trip, make sure to make the most of August. Our end of summer Irish bucket list is on hand to help direct you to the most magnificent sights and experiences in all of Ireland. As the summer nears its
