Archive for the ‘Ireland’ Category

Right so we’re a week into May, the volcanic ash cloud is still causing uncertainty and disruptions to Irish air space, and the weather in Ireland is fine and warm, so.. what’s the obvious conclusion? To holiday in Ireland of course!

There are an endless amount of beautiful sights right here on our doorstep, and with some really interesting and diverse events throughout the summer it’s a crime that many of us forget to explore our own stunning country.  In May alone there are a wide range of events kicking off throughout Ireland, and of course there are the many wonderful things to see and do here which are available all year round.

The Cos Cos Sean-Nós Festival for example will run over 3 days (May 7th – 9th) 2010 in Rathcormac, Sligo. The Festival aims to bring together some of the country’s finest Sean-Nós dancers, musicians, singers, poets and storytellers.

Another well established Irish traditional festival is Fleadh Nua (May 23rd – 31st) in Ennis, Co. Clare. Fleadh Nua will host concerts, céilithe, music, song and dancing workshops, street entertainment, pageants/parades and much more throughout the festival attracting thousands of visitors flocking to the festival every year.

Filmmakers and film lovers alike should head to Schull, Co. Cork (May 27th – 30th) for the Corona Fastnet Short Film Festival. With venues throughout the area and the aim of bringing together established and first-time filmmakers in a forum to celebrate the short film, it is sure to be a packed and entertaining few days.

Tattersalls Ireland International Horse Trials 2010 (May 27th – 30th) takes place in Ratoath in Co Meath. The Tattersalls Festival will include a Festival Village with crafts, shopping mall and tasty local produce from Good Food Ireland as well as a host of activities for children and adults alike, from dog competitions and archery to face painting and kids’ games.

Apart from the many events happening throughout the country there are the wonderfull sights of Ireland to include on your travels.

The Burren… Ok, labeling it the “bleak area” doesn’t exactly scream holiday appeal, but the West of Ireland is full of fascinating scenery and this is no exception. With 40 shades of grey and only a bit of green thrown in, this is exactly what makes the Burren so stunning – and strangely attractive. Several ancient monuments (with the Poulnabrone Dolmen being the most spectacular), other graves and a stone-age fort nearby there is plenty to see in the area. Between Poulnabrone and Black Head lighthouse you’ll find the Aillwee Caves, with tours and farm shop on site. Or make your way to Kilfenora, this tiny town boasts a very small cathedral, high crosses and the interesting “Burren Centre”.

Somewhere I have visited quite often myself is the ever stunning Glendalough Valley. Surrounded by the Wicklow mountains and tranquil lakes it a sight well worth taking in. The Glendalough Monastic Site is one of the most important early Christian sites in Ireland. Access to the site is free,  a charge only applies to the visitor center. Also visit the two round towers, St Kevin’s Kitchen (actually a church) and the cathedral (ruin) in the area. Enjoy the walks along the lakes and bring a picnic to spend the day in the spectacular surroundings. Be aware to stay on the paths as the area has known to be dangerous, and also note that there is a ban on all bbq’s apart from gas ones in the picnic area.

I’ll stretch to one more attraction well worth a visit, and that is Bunratty Castle and Folk Park.  Located between Limerick City and Shannon Airport it’s within easy access of tours of the West or Southwest of Ireland. Bunratty contains a complete Victorian village recreated with original and reconstructed buildings and a medieval castle. The castle is original and restored from the 15th century and in the evenings folk sessions and banquets are on offer here. It’s definitely worth a visit, although it’s a glossy version of what you’d find in Victorian times it’s a fun day out and one all the family can get involved with.

It’s impossible to encapsulate all the possibilities of Ireland into one article. I’m sure over time I’ll pick more specific regions to concentrate on and give details about but for now the point of this is to encourage anyone to take a look at what’s on offer closer to home and get out and explore your country. The beauty is you can take a short break without too much planning, just pack up the car with bikes, pets and kids on days you have available, and head off. I’d suggest to keep costs down searching for good rates on hotel accommodation first and perhaps building your trip around any good deals… there’s plenty to do no matter what region you head to or how far you decide to drive from home so finding things to do should be a breeze.