Charming accents, incredible scenery, more pubs than you’ll find anywhere else, and friendly locals. These are just some of the reasons why I can’t wait to get to Ireland, and if you’re an avid traveller, you’ll be thinking the same.
Often Ireland gets overlooked in favour of the more typical tourist countries like France and Italy. Huge mistake. Ireland is a country of legends, and its long history has left its mark on the country, which is full of castles, rolling hills, and tales of “little people”.
Here are some reasons why you should travel to Ireland:
Visit Dromoland Castle and Fly some Falcons
Medieval nobility used to be fond of falconry, which is why Dromoland Castle offers a school in the sport. You’ll be paired with a falconer and hawk, and will be able to launch the trained hawk into the sky and call it back to your arm.
The castle itself is also well worth a visit, and is now a luxury hotel with large and comfortable suites-some located in the turrets of the castle.
The estate also offers pony rides, fishing, clay pigeon shooting, horse riding lessons, and a golf course.
Eat in Cork
If you’re going to Cork, you’re in for a treat. The English Market is a huge roofed food emporium and showcases artisanal food offerings along with regional Irish ingredients. It’s also the ideal destination for people watching, shopping, and wandering. Don’t forget to try the traditional black pudding, along with soda bread, goats cheese, and cakes.
Experience Literary Dublin
Dublin is famous for the many literary figures who have called the city home over the years. Each of them had a different pub where they hung out when not writing. Take the Dublin Literary Pub Crawl for a fun way to explore the city and learn more about the famous writers, including Brendan Behan, Michael Collins, James Joyce, and Oscar Wilde.
Gamble at the Galway Races
The Galway Races are part of the largest and most famous racing festival in Ireland, with 250,000 people attending each year. Betting is fun, and millions of Euros are spent during the week, and ladies day continues to grow every year. Running over seven days, you’ll leave with a hangover, new friends, and a few interesting stories. There are 51 races for both fans and punters, and if you can’t make the races be sure to do your Galway Festival betting with William Hill Ireland.
Learn all about the Titanic
When the Titanic sank and dragged over 1,500 people to a watery death in 1912 it sparked a fascination with the ship which continues today. In Northern Ireland you’ll find Titanic Belfast, which is where the ill-fated ship was built. The massive museum is an interactive experience and will show you how the Titanic was built, tells many of the passengers stories, and explores the wreck under a glass floor.
You can also tour the pumphouse and dry dock, along with the first-class tender which was recently restored.
