When to Go
There are four seasons in Ireland and each has its own special charm. Most people prefer to visit Ireland in the peak season which runs from June through September because the daylight is longer. The only downside to traveling to Ireland in the summer is that you will have to deal with summer crowds, thanks to the cruise ship industry. Travel during the shoulder season, which runs from mid-April through May and in October offers fewer crowds at hotels and attractions and pleasant weather. Whatever time of year you choose to travel, a friendly Irish welcome awaits.
Spring - March-May
Ireland's landscape comes alive in the spring with wildflowers that carpet the landscape as newly born lambs frolic in meadows. The days begin to get longer and during this season visitors are treated to some of the most dramatic sunrises and sunsets. A highlight of spring in Ireland is the chance to spot Puffins that come to shore in April to breed. One of the best places to spot them is on Rathlin Island's dramatic cliffs. If you want to celebrate Saint Patrick's Day in style, head to Ireland in March!
Summer - June - September
Ireland in the summer with its myriad shades of emerald green, mild temperatures, and 16-18 hours of daylight never disappoints. There are festivals and concerts everywhere that are sure to entertain. Summer is the most popular time to visit and is perfect for biking, hiking, and swimming. It is also the perfect time of year to go island hopping and spot puffins before they head out to sea. Another bonus is the bounty of the land as summer in Ireland is brimming with fresh fruits and vegetables.
Autumn - Late September - November
Ireland's trees put on a fall foliage show painting the landscape in colors of red, gold, and orange. This is the best time of year for whale-watching off the coast of West Cork. Although the days begin to get shorter, the temperatures are still mild and the crowds are fewer. September is an ideal time for photographers because of the fire colors of the foliage contrasted by the remaining purple heather and summer greens. November ushers in cooler temperatures and clear skies making it an ideal time to see the Northern Lights. It is also a good time of year to spot common dolphins, harbor porpoises, baby grey seals, and fin whales.
Winter - December - February
Winter in Ireland is cold making it pub time with roaring fires, hot whiskeys, and traditional winter festivals. If you prefer to avoid crowds and are on a budget, this is the time of year to visit Ireland. Shorter days and longer nights mean that it is the best time of year to spot the Northern Lights in the northwestern part of the country. Ireland doesn't get much snow because of its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean. The highest amount of snowfall is in the Midlands, Donegal Wicklow, and Monaghan. If you are visiting around the Winter Solstice, head to one of Ireland's many Neolithic structures that often align with these celestial events.
Why Go
Ireland is a country seeped in history, tradition, and culture. Ireland's stunning scenery coupled with interesting cities, bucolic villages, and a wide variety of attractions make it a traveler's paradise. The Irish also take great pride in their music, dance, and pub culture and love to share their traditions with visitors. Below is a snapshot of all there is to do and experience on the Emerald Island!
Dublin
There are just so many things to do in the picturesque city of Dublin. There is history around every corner not to mention a sense of Craic (fun) that comes naturally when visiting this medieval city that is a perfect blend of old-world charm and modern sophistication. Here are some not-to-be-missed attractions that you will only find here.
Guinness Storehouse
Learn about this brand's rich and unique history and its people and founders who have been making this popular brew over the past 300 years. Exploring the archives visitors will get a behind-the-scenes glimpse of the stories and heritage of this company through its wealth of historic records, memorabilia, and interviews that trace the rich and varied history of Guinness from its beginnings to the present day. Best of all you will get to pour a pint for yourself to enjoy!
Kilmainham Gaol
Opened in 1796 and closed in 1924, this is one of Europe's largest unoccupied goals (jails) that gives visitors the feeling of how harsh life was behind bars. A visit here is a journey through Irish history as people discover the stories of men, women, and children held here as common criminals alongside those who fought for Irish independence.
Saint Patrick's Cathedral
This grand cathedral built between 1220 and 1260 is one of the few buildings left from medieval Dublin that was constructed on the site of an ancient well used by Saint Patrick himself. It is the tallest and largest church in Ireland and has played a significant role in Irish life for over 800 years. Beautiful stained glass windows, impressive monuments, beautifully restored chapels, and famous burials such as Jonathan Swift Dean, author of Gulliver's Travels, add to the experience. A highlight of a visit is to listen to the choir that was organized in 1432. Today they perform daily, Monday - Friday, during the school term.
Jamison Distillery
Located just off Smithfield Square is the Jameson Distillery, where whiskey has been distilled since 1780. Today, the original distillery is a fascinating museum that offers guided tours that tell the story of this famous brand from its humble beginnings to modern times. There are also whiskey-tasting bars, cocktail-making classes, a restaurant, and a gift shop. One of the most unique activities offered here is the chance to learn how to blend your own whiskey.
Temple Bar
Located in Dublin's "cultural quarter", this bar offers over 450 kinds of rare whiskey and traditional Irish Music all day, every day! An added benefit is that it is located in an area known for its iconic pubs, cobblestone streets, and bold graffiti. There is even a graffiti walking trail where folks can learn more about who's responsible for the amazingly colorful street art.
Trinity College and the Book of Kells
Established by Queen Elizabeth I in 1592, Trinity is one of the most famous universities in the world. The campus is an architectural masterpiece that consists of many elegant Georgian and Victorian buildings, spread out among cobbled squares and meadows that make it a pleasure to explore. The big attraction here is in the barrel-vaulted Long Room in the Old Libary that houses Ireland's cultural treasure, The Book Of Kells, the beautifully illuminated manuscript that dates back to the 9th century. For more information on The Book of Kells, check out our blog. https://www.toursofdistinction.net/blog/what-is-the-book-of-kells/
National Leprechaun Museum
Only found in Dublin, the National Leprechaun Museum brings a sense of amusement to Irish folklore and traditions because this museum is all about storytelling. Whimsical and fun, this museum is ideal for those who want to delve into Irish myths, legends, and magic!
Belfast
Belfast, meaning "mouth of the river Farset," is the capital of Northern Ireland that was granted city status by Queen Victoria in 1888. It blossomed as a commercial and industrial hub in the 18th and 19th centuries producing linen, rope-making, tobacco, and ship-building. It was here that the mighty Titanic was built. Through the years, Belfast was the scene of sectarian conflicts between the Roman Catholics and the Protestant populations, termed as Republican and Loyalists respectively, or nationalists and unionists. These conflicts took place primarily in the 1970s and ended with the Good Friday Agreement in 1998 is referred to as The Time of Troubles. Fast forward to the 21st century and the city along with Northern Ireland has transformed itself into an amazing destination with interesting attractions, trendy pubs, and colorful street art. Best of all, Belfast is a compact city, making it easy to navigate on foot, by car, or by motorcoach. Belfast's people are warm, welcoming, and friendly proving that Irish hospitality doesn't stop at the border between Northern Ireland and the Republic.
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| The Titanic Museum is a must-see in Northern Ireland |
The Titanic Museum
The top thing to do in Belfast is to visit the Titanic Museum, voted the number one tourist attraction in Europe and the World's leading tourist attraction in 2016 by the World Tourism Awards. Shaped like a ship's bow, this architecturally stunning building is said to be the same height as the RMS Titanic. The museum is an ode to the most infamous ship that was built in Belfast and set sail on her fateful voyage from the city docks. Explore the shipyard, walk the decks, learn about the men and women who built it, and travel to the depths of the ocean. There are nine interactive galleries, immersive movies, and entertaining exhibitions. Beyond the amazing exhibits and the award-winning architecture of the building itself, another highlight is going aboard the SS Nomadic, a tender to the Titanic and the last remaining White Star Line ship in the world.
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| So many colorful murals! |
Mural Tour
Belfast is also a colorful city and one of the most popular things to do is to take a Belfast Mural Tour. Two famous murals include the Peace Wall where you can write your message and the world-famous Bobby Sands mural. Although the Good Friday Agreement put an end to The Troubles, these murals tell the story of Belfast's dark past.
St. George's Market
If you are in Belfast on the weekend, don't miss this amazing market located in a maze-like covered Victorian building that houses over 250 vendors. It has been in operation since 1890, making it one of the UK's oldest markets that offers everything from the finest home-grown produce and meat to arts and crafts and antiques found nowhere else.
Crumlin Road Gaol
Dating to 1845, and known as Europe's Alcatraz, this gaol has imprisoned many notable figures including Bobby Sands, Eamon de Valera, and Martin McGuinness. Its internment without trial led to the highest prison population during its 150 years of operation. The tour provides a fascinating look into prison life during Northern Ireland's Time of Troubles. A highlight of the tour is to walk in the footsteps of former prisoners through the famous underground tunnel, explore Circle and C Wing, see newly renovated cells, and learn how segregation and protests heightened tensions within the prison walls that led to its closing in 1996.
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| Explore the Cathedral Quarter for an authentic taste of Northern Ireland! |
Cathedral Quarter
Once a historic trading center, this area is a maze of cobblestone streets lined with warehouses that are now home to trendy pubs, restaurants, and colorful street art. The fun continues beyond there, cultural gems located in the area include the Metropolitan Arts Center, St Anne's Cathedral, the Discover Ulster-Scots Center, and the Oh Yeah Music Center. It is the perfect spot to get a feel for this exciting city.
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| Belfast's Botanical Gardens is a tropical oasis |
Queens University and Botanic Gardens
Located in the honey-colored Palm House with its birdcage dome these gardens offer a tropical oasis in the heart of the city. Built by Charles Lanyon in 1839, today's visitors walk along a raised walkway that overlooks a colorful jumble of ferns, orchids, lilies, and banana plants growing in a sunken glen called the Tropical Ravine.
Northern Ireland
Northern Ireland was created in 1921 when Ireland was partitioned by the Government of Ireland Act in 1920. It is a compact country that can be traversed in about two hours by car or motorcoach. A perk here is that you can establish a central point as a base so you don't have to move around the country each night, packing and unpacking. The roads are well maintained, the distances between attractions are short and there are picture-perfect landscapes in-between. Northern Ireland offers unforgettable coastal drives and dramatic landscapes that have become popular with the film industry. It is a must-see destination for fans of the blockbuster movie Game of Thrones. Here are a few of our top experiences that are sure to create memories that will last a lifetime.
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| Giant's Causeway is the work of Finn McCool! |
Causeway Coast
Designated as one of the "world's best road trips," a drive along the Causeway Coastal Route from Belfast to North Ireland winds past dramatic landscapes of cliff-edged castles, and sandy beaches punctuated by crashing waves and seals frolicking in the distance. It is a 200-mile ride along the coast of Ireland from Belfast to Derry. The crowning glory of the drive is the Giant's Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Legend has it that this vast expanse of over 400 blocks of stones that interlock in a hexagonal pattern is said to be the work of local giant Finn McCool! In reality, the basalt columns that form the Giant's Causeway are the result of volcanic activity.
Ballintoy Harbor
The village of Ballintoy, meaning "Town of the North," is a quaint coastal dockyard that is still a respected fishing area. Walking along the docks, through the village, and browsing goodies in the shops is like taking a step back in time. This picture-perfect harbor teems with North Atlantic birds protected by the National Trust. It is an unforgettable experience to watch the boats that come in with their daily catch, it is like watching maritime history in real-time. Ballintoy Harbor has also been used as a popular backdrop in the Game of Thrones and the Greylord storyline.
Glens of Antrim
Located along Northern Ireland's Causeway Coast the Glens of Antrim are astounding for their natural beauty. Nine glens or valleys span 80 miles or so and offer a magnificent variation of the natural landscape from glacial valleys and sandy beaches to vertical cliffs, wooded glens, charming villages, and waterfalls. This breathtaking variety of the landscape was carved out during the Ice Age when melting and receding glaciers cut deep into the land and slowly created the beauty we see today. Each glen has its own special charm, and quirks in both the surrounding landscape and the people that live there.
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| Carrickfergus is one of the best-preserved Medieval Castles |
A Duo of Castles -Carrickfergus, Dunluce
Ireland is chock full of castles. The most famous and historic castle in Northern Ireland is Carrickfergus, a Norman castle that was besieged by the Scots, Irish, English, and French. It continued to play an important military role until the early 20th century. It is one of the best-preserved medieval castles in Ireland and the only one open to the public. The castle houses historical displays plus cannons dating from the 17th through the 19th centuries.
Dunluce Castle, the former seat of the MacDonnell Clan, in County Antrim is Nothern Ireland's most dramatic and scenic 17th-century ruins. The castle which had a turbulent history is perched on a rugged cliffside of basalt that is only accessible via a bridge that connects it to the mainland. It has steep drops on each side adding to its dramatic location. Below the castle gatehouse, there is a path that leads to Mermaid's Cave. It has become a tourist hotspot not only for its stunning views but also because it was used as the Seat House of Greyjoy, the great castle of Pyke in the Game of Thrones.
Old Bushmills Distillery
If you love whiskey, then this should be on your bucket list because Old Bushmills Distillery is the oldest licensed distillery in the entire world. In 1608, King James I granted Sir Thomas Phillips, an Irish adventurer a license to distill whiskey and the rest is history. One thing that distinguishes Bushmills from other Irish whiskey is that it is made from 100% malt barley from Kildare, Scottish distillers yeast, and water from St Columb's Rill, a tributary of the River Bush.
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| The desolate beauty of the Mourne Mountains |
The Mourne Mountains & the Ring of Gullion
The highest and most dramatic mountain range in Northern Ireland is crowned by granite rocky peaks that are the heart of the Mourne Gullion Strangford UNESCO Global Geopark. The scenic beauty of this landscape has inspired many from patron saints and writers, to inventors, engineers, and visitors from far and wide. They even inspired famous author C.S. Lewis and the Game of Thrones film production with its landscape. Today, there are so many things to enjoy in the area, distilleries, artisan shops, farms of fresh produce, parks, restaurants, and cafes, that make this experience special.
Carrick - a Rede Rope Bridge
If you are a thrill seeker, this bridge operated by the National Trust links the mainland to a tiny island. The bridge is 30 meters high and spans a dizzying gap of 20 meters above the rocks and crashing waves below.
Derry Walls, County Londonderry
Located at the intersection of the Causeway Coastal Route and the Atlantic Way, Derry has an amazing history of Monasteries, sieges, cannons, and rebellions. It is the only remaining walled city in Ireland and is one of the finest examples of Walled Cities in Europe. The walls were built as defenses for early 17th-century settlers from England and Scotland. Standing on these walls built 400 years ago you can feel history all around you. A walk around the walls provides a unique view of the Renaissance-style street plan still in existence today in this historic city. There are seven city gates, four including the Shipquay, Butcherm Bishop, and Ferryquay Gates are original. Three additional gates were added in 1790, 1805, and 1888.
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| Castle Ward of Game of Thrones Fame |
Castle Ward, Audley's Field, and Castle and Inch Abbey - Country Down
A bit off the beaten path, found on the banks of Strangford Lough in County Down is Castle Ward, which was the location for Winterfeld in the Game of Thrones. As you wander through the Georgian farmyard and the lough shore, you are literally stepping onto the film set of Game of Thrones. This castle is a National Trust attraction built in an eccentric mix of Gothic and classical styles that offers beautiful grounds and gardens to explore. Nearby are the remains of Inch Abbey founded by John de Courcy in 1180. This Cistercian Abbey was used as Robb Stark's camp in season one of Games of Thrones. Just beyond is Audley's field and castle, named after a Norman family that arrived in 1210. This area was also used in Game of Thrones in a battle scene and is the place where Robb meets his future wife, Talisa.
Game of Thrones Filming Locations
Northern Ireland is a must-see for Game of Thrones fans. Its rugged landscapes, forests, cliffs, and farms will transport you to the world created by Geroge RR Martin. Best of all, the locations can be visited in a single day. In addition to those already mentioned locations can be found in Carnlough - County Antrim, Cushendun Caves - County Londonderry, Dark Hedges - Stranocum, County Antrim, and Portstewart Strand and Downhill Beach - County Londonderry to name a few more
East Ireland
Tranquil and beautiful with rolling hills, and a stunning coastline East Ireland has been truly blessed by Mother Nature. Visitors will find glorious gardens, grand estates, castles, and ancient burial grounds, all framed by the River Shannon and the Irish Sea. Neolithic sites, medieval monastic settlements, castles, and some of Ireland's most opulent estates await visitors in East Ireland.
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| English Market, Cork, Foodie Heaven |
Cork
As the birthplace of one of the most famous rebellious Irishmen, Michael Collins, Cork is also known as "Rebel City" for the role it played in the Irish War of Independence. Today Cork is Ireland's second-largest city and is thought by some to be Ireland's true capital. If you are a foodie you will love Cork, which has earned the reputation of being Ireland's foodie capital because of the combination of its abundant local produce and creatively talented chefs. A not-to-be-missed foodie haven is the English Market which has been in the same spot since the 18th century. There are so many things to purchase here from lunch to handmade arts and crafts with the added bonus of mingling with the locals. As Ireland's most southernmost county, and the official starting point of the Wild Atlantic Way, Cork has a picture-perfect coastline.
Blarney Castle and Gardens
Built nearly 600 years ago by one of Ireland's most important noblemen, Cormac MacCarthy, this iconic castle is known for its famous Blarney Stone and is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Ireland. Also known as the Stone of Eloquence upon kissing the stone, the kisser receives the gift of the gab, or so the legend says. In addition to the Blarney Stone, its fortifications remain impressive to this day. Exploring the cold damp corridors and empty rooms of the castle gives visitors a glimpse of what life was like centuries ago. One of the best things about Blarney Castle is its beautiful gardens. A favorite is the "Poison Garden" which features mandrakes, wolfsbane, hemlock, and nightshade. Within the park, visitors can also tour the Blarney Castle House which was built in 1874 and is a Scots baronial-style manor that is still lived in by the Colthurst family.
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| Newgrange Older than the Pyramids of Giza |
Newgrange, Knowth, Dowth - Boyne Valley, County Meath
These three ancient tomb structures are older than the pyramids of Giza and are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The enormous mounds are thought to be tomb structures of astrological, spiritual, religious, and ceremonial importance built by Stone Age farmers. Newgrange can be toured, the other two sites cannot be entered for safety reasons. An astounding aspect of Newgrange and Dowth is that they have chambers that align with the rising sun on the morning of the Winter Solstice. These structures are a feast for the eyes with hundreds of Celtic symbols carved into enormous stones called kerbstones placed all around the tombs. All three ancient structures are part of a complex of monuments built along a bend of the River Boyne.
Cobh and Spike Island
Cobh is a charming seaside village with a fascinating maritime history. The first Yacht Club was established here in 1720 and the first steamship to cross the Atlantic set sail from here. Cobh was also the last port of call for the Titanic on her tragic maiden voyage and was where the survivors of the Lusitania were brought after being torpedoed by a German U Boat. Located just off the coast is Spike Island which has been a host to a 7th-century Monastery, a 27-acre Fortress, and the largest prison in Victorian times. It has been nicknamed the Irish Alcatraz. Visitors can enjoy two scenic walking trails, a fortress that dates to 1804, abandoned villages, pretty houses, and convict cemeteries. The fortress prison has prison cells, deep tunnels, and multiple museums to explore.
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| The Essence of a Stately Home |
Powerscourt Estate
This estate features beautiful a 18th-century house that is surrounded by magnificent gardens, recognized by National Geographic as the third best garden in the world, and walking the grounds, it is not hard to see why it has attained this accolade. It is easy to lose yourself in its 47 acres of carefully curated and themed gardens including Japanese, Walled, and Italian gardens. Ornate fountains, countless blossoming trellis', a pepperpot tower, and a cascading waterfall, the highest in Ireland, make this experience pure bliss.
Kilkenny Castle
Originally built as a wooden structure by Norman invaders in the 13th century, Kilkenny has seen many adaptations over the centuries. Today it is a Victorian remodeling of a medieval defensive castle with a luxurious interior filled with treasures collected by the Butler family over the centuries. Highlights of touring the castle include the drawing room, Chinese bedroom, Victorian nursery, and Long Gallery with its painted ceilings, marble fireplace, and extensive art collection. Outside the castle's thick stone walls are acres of formal gardens to explore.
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| The Gateway to the Monastic Settlement of Glendalough |
Glendalough
Meaning Glen of Two Lakes, this valley formed by ancient glaciers is renowned for its 6th-century monastic settlement established by Saint Kevin. Walking through this site, ancient history seems to breathe from every stone, and in the quiet of the morning, you can almost hear chanting on the breeze. Today the ruins of this ancient monastic city are almost otherworldly as visitors explore its round tower and the remains of numerous churches, cemeteries, and the once grand cathedral.
Waterford
In addition to the famous glass company, Waterford is a perfect blend of ancient and modern. To experience 1000 years of history, head to Waterford's Viking Triangle known as the "old town." It is the perfect way to explore the nooks and crannies of this city. In addition to craft studios and cafes, this is where you will find some of this city's key attractions such as the House of Waterford Crystal, (see our blog on Waterford Crystal) the award-winning Medieval Museum, the Bishop's Palace, and Reginald's Tower. Walking in this historic area you can almost hear the voices of Viking raiders, or imagine French Hugenot bakers hard at work, and tall ships on the quay loaded with their precious cargo of wine from Spain and France.
Rock of Cashel
Set on a dramatic outgroup in the Golden Vale, the Rock of Cashel is the most impressive cluster of medieval buildings in Ireland. Here you can explore a Romanesque chapel, a Gothic cathedral, an abbey, the Hall of Vicars Choral, and the 15th-century Tower House.
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| Dramatic and extensive ruins of the Rock of Cashel |
Ireland's Heartlands
A quiet river cuts through cobblestone village streets, canals run through charming small towns mellowed by time, and majestic forests, green fields, and sparkling waterways are what beckons visitors to Ireland's laid-back Heartlands. The pace of life here is slower than in the rest of Ireland, so if you want to unwind, there is simply no better way than to discover the rivers, canals, and lakes of the Heartlands.
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| So many charming riverside towns in the Heartlands |
Athlone, County Westmeath
The culture of this town is shaped by its waterways and one of the best ways to experience this city is to take a lazy afternoon cruise on the River Shannon or hop on the replica of a Viking Knarr, to hear tales about Viking hoards, high kings, and big battles while enjoying the natural beautiful of the river. If you like castles, take time to explore the 13th-century Athlone Castle's 8 exhibition spaces, and then take a walk amongst the peaceful stone ruins of Clonmacnoise, one of Ireland's most famous 6th-century monastic sites.
Carrick On Shannon, County Leitrim
This is the cruising capital of Ireland where visitors can sail the Shannon River, Ireland's longest along calm waterways to Lough Key. Forty-one lakes within a ten-mile radius of the river offer a diverse range of sport fishing, canoeing, swimming, and kayaking. The town is a dream to explore on foot and has many colorful shops including The Dock which specializes in Irish handcrafts and the Costello Chapel, the smallest in Europe. If you have worked up a thirst, don't miss Lena's Tea Room which is like stepping back to the 1920s. In nearby Drumshanbo, you can pick up a bottle of locally distilled Drumshanbo Gunpowder Irish Gin.
Killaloe, County Claire
This town's biggest claim to fame is that it is the birthplace of Brian Moru, the High King of Ireland in the 11th century. Today many visitors enjoy a walk along the Historic Town Trail that includes St Lua's Oratory dating to the 10th century. The town sits on the western bank of the historic Lough Derg and is linked by a beautiful bridge with 13 arches.
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| Saint Patrick's statue at Lough Derg |
Lough Derg
This site also known as St. Patrick's Purgatory has been a Christian pilgrimage site since the 5th century. The pilgrimage takes place on Station Island and it has St. Patrick as its patron. The original monastery was founded by St. Davog, one of St. Patrick's disciples. Most people make a three-day pilgrimage, barefoot that consists of fasting, prayer, and 24-hour vigils.
Cavan, County Ulster
Although not part of Northern Ireland, this area is often referred to as Lake Country. Fly fishing and angling are popular pastimes here with fishermen visiting from all over the world. Cavan also has a neolithic monument, Aughrim Tomb that dates back to 2000 BC. The Cavan County Museum is a hidden gem that displays artifacts from the Stone Age through the 20th century including the Killycluggin Stone and the Corleck Head, two of the most important examples of Celtic spirituality in the country.
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| A riverside castle in Portumna |
Portumna, County Galway
This small town on the River Shannon has an interesting heritage trail that gives visitors a snapshot of life in this quiet Irish community. The 17th-century Portumna Castle and Gardens combines elements of medieval and Renaissance styles and offers a splendid view of the River Shannon that flows past it.
Roscommon, County Roscommon
Situated in the middle of Ireland, Roscommon Castle is its most famous attraction. Built in 1269 this imposing Norman Castle can be explored today while enjoying the adjacent park that boasts a wildlife conservation area of unique flora and fauna. For a change of pace, visit the Claypipe Museum to learn about the history of clay pipes, watch, and even participate in demonstrations of clay pipes being made.
The Wild Atlantic Way
This is a scenic 1,500-mile-long coastal road known for its windswept beaches, sheer cliffs, rugged landscapes, small villages with thatched roofs, brooding mountains, and sandy beaches. From Inishowen Peninsula in County Donegal to Kinsale in County Cork, the Wild Atlantic Way is the longest-defined coastal touring route in the world. Along the way, you will pass lots of little towns and villages, meet the locals, tour astonishing points of interest, and dine at superb restaurants that offer an abundance of fresh produce and seafood. Behind every bend and curve in this road, new delights and adventures await.
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| Irish Stew - the National Dish |
Traditional Irish Food
Many delightful traditional Irish dishes accompany Ireland's thirst-quenching ales. Traditional Irish classics can be characterized as hearty fare using locally grown fresh produce, including potatoes that have been a mainstay of Irish cuisine since the 18th century, and fresh fish and meats. Here are some of our favorites that you should try the next time you visit the Emerald Island!
One-pot dishes are popular in traditional Irish cooking. A must-try is Irish Stew which is where the best of Ireland comes together with meat and potatoes. Traditionally made with mutton, onions, and potatoes and seasoned with thyme, parsley, and bay leaves, this hardy stew is sure to warm you up on a cold rainy day. Although it originated in Scotland, another of Ireland's best-known one-pot dishes is Shepard's Pie, typically made with a layer of ground beef or lamb, vegetables, and whipped mashed potatoes then baked until it is golden brown. Another one-pot wonder is Coddle which originated as a Dublin working-class dish made from simmering leftover ingredients with slices of pork sausage, bacon, and potatoes for hours.
A mainstay of the Irish table is Irish Soda bread which is made in endless variations. Traditionally made with no yeast it contains golden raisins and dried cranberries that are mixed with a dash of honey, sugar, bran, and even Guinness.
Potatoes are big in Ireland and two traditional dishes are still popular today. Boxty is like a potato dumpling that is made from mashed potatoes and grated raw potatoes which is added to a pancake-like batter before being baked in a loaf pan. It is the perfect accompaniment to bacon and eggs. A classic comfort food is colcannon and champ which consists of creamy mashed potatoes that are served along with cabbage and spring onions, if you add bacon, this staple becomes irresistible. Tayto crisps is the Irish version of our potato chips with onion and cheese being the most popular flavors.
Boiled bacon and cabbage may not sound appetizing but it is among one of the most popular traditional dishes. Salted pork shoulder, not bacon is the centerpiece of this dish and is cooked with onions, carrots, herbs, and cabbage, and served with a scrumptious creamy parsley sauce.
Shellfish abounds in Ireland and Oysters, mussels steamed with cider and bacon or in white wine, parsley, and butter, fish chowder, cockles eaten raw or with vinegar, and smoked salmon are just some of Ireland's best-loved seafood.
As for an Irish Breakfast, it consists of the usual, eggs, bacon, sausage, mushrooms, baked beans, and a baked tomato as well as black pudding which is an iron-rich blood sausage, and white pudding that is the same sausage minus the blood.
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| Hot and delicious Irish Coffee has been wowing folks since 1942. |
Drinks
Ireland is the world's biggest tea-drinking nation in consumption per capita after Turkey. Three of the most popular tea companies are Barry's Tea, Lyon's Tea, and Punjana Tea. The Irish enjoy a strong brew with sweet biscuits and shortbread cookies. Irish coffee with frothy creme, a dash of whiskey, and sugar was invented at Shannon Airport in 1942 and has wowed people from around the world ever since! As for liquor Ireland is known for its many stouts and whiskeys. Guinness is world famous as is Bailey's Irish Creme. and Jamison whiskey and Bushmills, the oldest licensed whiskey are also popular around the world. Currently, there are more than 40 whiskey distilleries located throughout Ireland.
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