What is the best time of the year to visit Ireland? When it comes to exploring the beautiful landscapes of Ireland, one topic that's always on everyone's lips is the weather. The Irish weather has quite the reputation for being variable, known for its knack of squeezing all four seasons into a single day. It
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
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
Ripe with sandy stretches, secret coves, isolated inlets, and beautiful beaches, you'll be spoiled for choice when it comes to where to dip your toe in the water on the Emerald Isle. Adventurers, read on: these are just ten of the stunning beaches for wild swimming in Ireland. Surrounded by 4,235 kilometers of coastline with endless open water just waiting to be discovered, Ireland is a paradise island for those who love wild swimming. Whether you're a seasoned diver or are more of a novice, there are heaps of beaches ready to welcome you year-round. After more than a year of being cooped up, it's safe to say we're ready to #ExploreIrelandAgain, and these are ten stunning beaches for wild swimming in Ireland to add to your bucket list. 1. Kinnagoe Bay, County Donegal Located on the secluded peninsula of Inishowen in the northern tip of County Donegal is Kinnagoe Bay, a paradise stretch for wild swimming in Ireland. Locals and historians may know this beach as the site of the Armada shipwreck, La Trinidad Valencera, which sunk near shore in 1588. However, it also makes for a great place to enjoy a splash. 2. Brittas Bay, County Wicklow For those who seek a place to enjoy a soak in the 'garden of Ireland' (aka County Wicklow), look no further than Brittas Bay. This scenic spot is a holidaymaker's dream, with holiday home parks and rentals lining the shore. With towering dunes and crystal blue waters, this is truly a cinematic spot for wild swimming in Ireland. 3. Portsalon Beach, County Donegal Situated between Rathmullan and Fanad Head in County Donegal is Portsalon Beach, a destination known for its pristine sand and sea. Boasting a Blue Flag, this award-winning stretch is favoured for those who like to take the plunge
Ripe with sandy stretches, secret coves, isolated inlets, and beautiful beaches, you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to where to dip your toe in the water on the Emerald Isle. Adventurers, read on: these are just ten of the stunning beaches for wild swimming in Ireland. Surrounded by 4,235 kilometers of coastline with
If you’ve dreamed of an Ireland holiday for a while and want to start piecing together the ultimate trip, then this 3 part mini blog series is going to inspire you into action, starting with 8 of the best gentle hikes in Ireland for softies! Adventure Tours For Softies Back when Irish Experience Tours was
From secret waterfalls and unique buildings to impressive natural attractions and ancient ruins, these are some of the most exquisite hidden gems in Ireland. As we sink into the warm embrace of summer, it seems like anything is possible. Ireland is our oyster, and the opportunity for adventure is almost too much to handle. Luckily, we're on hand to give you the inside scoop on the most unmissable hidden gems in Ireland. Returning from prolonged hibernation, our eyes may be too big for our belly when considering how best to #ExploreIrelandAgain. From stunning sights to extraordinary experiences, Ireland is a treasure trove of things to do. These ten are simply must-sees, so pack your bags and book your trip – you're in for a summer of an unforgettable adventure on the Emerald Isle. 10. Gougane Barra, Co. Cork Gougane Barra is a settlement on a little island in a lake in County Cork. The name is said to have come from Saint Finbarr, who built a monastery on the landmass in the 6th-century. Today, Gougane Barra is a stunning little piece of the past that exists under the radar in west Cork. 9. Swiss Cottage, Co. Tipperary The Swiss Cottage in Tipperary certainly breaks the mould from an architectural perspective and is one of Ireland's more unusual sights to see. It was built by Richard Butler, 1st Earl of Glengall, and designed by Regency architect John Nash. Today, visitors can pay to enter this unique building in Ireland's heartlands. 8. Iveagh Gardens, Co. Dublin Located but a stone's throw from St Stephen's Green Park in Dublin City is another one of the top hidden gems in Ireland, the Iveagh Gardens. Sleeping in plain sight, this park is a sanctuary from the hustle of the city, and is unbeknownst to many,
From secret waterfalls and unique buildings to impressive natural attractions and ancient ruins, these are some of the most exquisite hidden gems in Ireland. As we sink into the warm embrace of summer, it seems like anything is possible. Ireland is our oyster, and the opportunity for adventure is almost too much to handle. Luckily,
Our commitment to safe and sustainable travel in Ireland has been steadfast since our conception. From eco-friendly initiatives to supporting local, we're a small Irish company dedicated to the community and sustainable travel in Ireland. Ireland is known as the 'Emerald Isle'; the land of all that is green. So, it feels only fitting that we're devoted to making the island even greener through sustainable travel in Ireland. Launched in 2014, we're a small-scale, locally owned and operated travel company. We do what we do because we love Ireland; we grew up here and know it like the back of our hand. Many summers we have spent doing the things and seeing the sights we now share with our guests. And, while the major Irish attractions are covered, no doubt, what we offer is true trips of Ireland by the type of locals you'd want to cheers your Guinness with at the pub. We offer this easily because it's who we are: native Irish adventurers with a passion for sharing our love of the land with others. For us, green initiatives have been instilled in our DNA since day dot. Although now, more than ever, these initiatives bear resonance seldom seen. If you're a conscientious traveller seeking a wholesome, adventurous, and authentic holiday in Ireland, we may make a great match. Read on to find out about our green and sustainable travel initiatives at Irish Experience Tours. What does sustainable travel in Ireland mean to us? The words 'sustainable' and 'green' are bashed about today as buzz words and sweeping statements with little to back them up. At Irish Experience Tours, we actively try to avoid such purpose-washing and instead offer true and transparent actions. After all, actions speak louder than words. When we talk about 'sustainable' travel we are
Our commitment to safe and sustainable travel in Ireland has been steadfast since our conception. From eco-friendly initiatives to supporting local, we’re a small Irish company dedicated to the community and sustainable travel in Ireland. Ireland is known as the ‘Emerald Isle’; the land of all that is green. So, it feels only fitting that
Summer in Ireland, there's no finer time to enjoy the abundance of adventures and activities this ancient island beholds. Ready to #ExploreIrelandAgain? Here are the ten must-see Irish attractions this summer. Ireland is a treasure trove of sights to see and things to do. As summer slowly inches closer, it feels like it's almost in reach. Now is the time to start drawing up that summer bucket list. If you're keen to invest in a season of rediscovery and adventure on the Emerald Isle, these are the ten must-see Irish attractions this summer. Titanic Museum, County Antrim Not only is Belfast City the birthplace of the ill-fated ocean liner, RMS Titanic, but it is today home of the world's leading interactive museum dedicated to the memory of the iconic ship. Opened in 2012, the state-of-the-art venue is one of the most memorable experiences to be had on the island of Ireland. Rock of Cashel, County Tipperary Located in the midlands, the Rock of Cashel is as iconic as they come in Ireland's catalogue of ancient sights to see. According to legends, the Rock of Cashel is where St. Patrick converted the King of Munster. Today, it is a hotspot for local and international travellers and makes for a fantastic destination along any road trip route through Ireland. Connemara, County Galway Connemara may just be one of the most magical destinations in Ireland to rediscover. With a wild landscape of rugged, unspoiled beauty and endless adventures to be had – be it an e-bike tour, hiking or water sports – Connemara is, needless to say, one of the ten must-see Irish attractions this summer. Newgrange, County Meath If ancient storied history and dramatic panoramas sound to your liking, Newgrange in County Meath should be on the agenda. Newgrange is a Celtic
Summer in Ireland, there’s no finer time to enjoy the abundance of adventures and activities this ancient island beholds. Ready to #ExploreIrelandAgain? Here are the ten must-see Irish attractions this summer. Ireland is a treasure trove of sights to see and things to do. As summer slowly inches closer, it feels like it’s almost in
As spring thrives in full bloom, and the ease of restrictions bears promise to a summer of adventure on the Emerald Isle, now is the time to consider how you're going to #ExploreIrelandAgain. Our vote? Bubble tours! It's all about staycations in Ireland this summer. Indeed you may feel a bit stiffed after a year of lockdown life to be vacationing on home soil. No, Ireland is not Greece or Spain or wherever you planned to go, but don't let that deter you. Ireland is, in fact, a magical summer destination that offers boundless landscapes, endless activities, and opportunities for adventure. Considering how best to spend this summer staycation in Ireland? Bubble tours are the new travel trend; a knock-on effect from the Covid-19 pandemic that supports travellers exploring at ease in the comfort of their own support bubble. If you're ready to start discovering safe and secure travel options for this season, read on to learn all you need to know about bubble tours and the adventures that await on the Emerald Isle this summer – given that we get the green light from the government to do so, of course! Pandemic trends As we finally see the light at the end of the long and tiring Covid-19 tunnel in Ireland, the thoughts of a summer staycation in Ireland never sounded so sweet. Over the past 18 months, we have collectively changed. New trends developed out of the pandemic as we battled with the virus. Zoom bingo, virtual birthday parties, and socially distanced outdoor socialising, to name but a few. Travel trends were bound to follow suit, and that they have. Bubble tours Another trend that swiftly emerged during the times of deep Covid-19 in Ireland was the concept of a support bubble: a small and select group of
As spring thrives in full bloom, and the ease of restrictions bears promise to a summer of adventure on the Emerald Isle, now is the time to consider how you’re going to #ExploreIrelandAgain. Our vote? Bubble tours! It’s all about staycations in Ireland this summer. Indeed you may feel a bit stiffed after a year
