Ireland Vacation Planner 2010 by Bookletia

VAC AT I O N P L A N N E R 2010

Gourmet Ireland

Discover the amazing food experience awaiting you

Northern Delights

The secret sights of Northern Ireland MB10USA01TIL

Discover the Natural Wonders of Ireland From the Giantâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Causeway to the Cliffs of Moher

Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, Co. Antrim

INCOMING TOUR OPERATORS ASSOCIATION - IRELAND

Welcome to the island of Ireland! The island of Ireland is as much about the journey as it is about your final destination. Give your official itinerary the backseat for a while, and go with the flow of the people you meet and the places you visit, for a vacation you’ll remember long after you head home. Always at the ready with a smile and a tale to spin, the people of the island of Ireland will charm you with the warmth of their welcome and their unrivalled wit. Discover the magic of the land that greets you, and rest assured that your vacation will be filled with craic (good fun) and adventure. Take heed of the locals’ recommendations, follow their unique train of thought, and discover exciting cities steeped in history and heritage, before venturing into the countryside for a taste of rural life. Explore quaint country villages, stroll across golden sands and rocky shorelines, or enjoy a game of golf in lush green valleys, surrounded by mountain peaks and glistening lakelands, before nestling down in the local pub for evenings filled with music, dance and the ancient art of conversation. People on the island of Ireland love to celebrate, so meandering your way to any one of our hundreds of events and festivals will make your voyage of discovery even more special. Add to this incredible restaurants, cafés and pubs that serve up great locally-sourced food, or shopping for cutting-edge fashion or traditional crafts while immersing yourself in heritage that is as unique as each castle you’ll discover. Experience it all at your own pace – the island of Ireland offers an enriching, memorable experience. We invite you to go where Ireland takes you, picking up tips and suggestions from the local experts; after all, you will never get lost – you will just be on Irish time!

Niall Gibbons Chief Executive, Tourism Ireland

Contents Features

Facts

Gourmet Ireland

General Information on Ireland

Following in your Familyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Footsteps

Planning Your Trip

Traveling to Ireland

Key Travel Facts

Traveling Around Ireland

The Castles of Ireland

Cities Dublin

Route Mileage Planner

Belfast

Things to See and Do

Activities

Where to Stay

Map of Ireland

Inside Back Cover

Regions Northern Ireland

The West

The East

The Lakelands

CONTACT DETAILS New york Tourism Ireland, Nations House, 345 Park Avenue, New York, NY 10154 Tel: 800 SHAMROCK; discoverireland.com Tourism Ireland is the marketing body for the island of Ireland, covering the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. Every care has been taken to ensure accuracy in the compilation of this brochure. Tourism Ireland and its agents cannot, however, accept responsibility for errors and omissions but where such are brought to our attention, future publications will be amended accordingly. Images used in this publication are sourced from the image banks of Tourism Ireland, FĂĄilte Ireland, Northern Ireland Tourist Board, Getty, Guinness, iStockphoto, Scenic Ireland, Stockbyte, Waterford Spraoi Festival, Tullamore Dew Distillery, Ulster Museum, Sportsfile, Brian Morrison, Chris Close, Chris Hill, Duby Tal, Eoghan Kavanagh, Gardiner Mitchell, Gareth McCormack, Geray Sweeney, Holger Leue, James Fennell, John Redmond, Jonathan Hession, Nutan, Steffan Hill and Tony Pleavin. Copy and design by Ashville Media Group. Paper used in this publication is sourced from managed forests. When you have finished with this magazine please recycle it.

Slieve League, Co. Donegal

COACH TOURS • DRIVING HOLIDAYS • FLIGHTS • HOTELS • CAR RENTALS • COTTAGES & CASTLES!

Royal Irish Tours have been providing quality vacations to Ireland for many years. We have established a reputation as a leading tour operator to the “Emerald Isle”. Unlike most of our competitors, we at Royal Irish Tours specialize in selling Ireland. We have dedicated staff in North America and in Ireland to ensure that you will have a memorable vacation. Take a look at some of our exciting packages below!

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CASTLE ADVENTURE

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Prices are per person, including taxes and are based on double occupancy. Prices advertised are the lowest available and may vary depending on departure date selected. Airfare not included. For full terms please see our 2010 brochure. Ont. Reg. #50010152

Naas Farmers Ma

rket, Co. Kildare

Gourmet Ireland

reland has a distinctive food culture inﬂuenced by geography, climate and the long history of the people that settled on this small, green, fertile island on Europe’s edge. The temperate climate inﬂuenced by the Gulf Stream allows year-round agricultural activity in lush pasture. Ireland has a reputation for the production of quality beef, lamb, dairy products and seafood, as well as iconic drinks brands. Building on this success is the emergence of artisan food producers, organic growers and natural cuisine. Much of the traditional Irish food was hearty and simple but today the cuisine is fresh, creative and tastefully presented. Carton House Hotel, Maynooth, Co. Kildare

Embarking on a journey across Ireland, you will find artisan producers dotted around the countryside; a few stops on your trip at some of the many cheesemakers’ farms, cured meat producers, apple orchards used for brewing cider, blackcurrant farms, or salmon smokehouses will leave you with an insightful look at this rich food producing heritage. For example, while in Cork you can meet cheesemakers and compare the best cheeses, in Armagh there are vibrant orchards to ramble through, or the chance to catch fresh salmon in the rivers of Mayo. When it comes to the alcohol producing tradition, gentle, warming blends and delectable aged malt whiskeys from Bushmills and Jameson are part of Ireland’s heritage. Irish ciders such as Bulmers (Magners), and cream liqueurs, such as Baileys Irish Cream, are as familiar worldwide as they are at home. You’ll also be spoilt for real ales and beers from microbreweries at Hilden, Lisburn and the Porterhouse, Dublin, not forgetting the instantly recognisable Irish stout in the guise of Murphys, Beamish and Guinness. Seafood is very common in Irish cooking; with such a wonderful choice sourced locally from fisherman or artisan producers. Beautifully cooked mussels are a treat, however salmon, trout and haddock are common place. Prawns (shrimp) are a main feature on restaurant menus in Dublin while oysters go down a treat in counties Clare, Galway and Down. Food festivals are wonderful ways in which to experience Ireland’s vibrant food culture and to mingle

with Irish people eager to praise locally grown, farmed and harvested foods. The world famous Oyster Festivals at Clarenbridge, County Galway and Hillsborough, County Down, usually held in September, celebrate the start of the season with competitions, oyster tastings (with the perfect accompaniment of a pint of Guinness) and much more besides. The Kinsale Gourmet Festival held in October of each year is always fun and is a celebration of all the fine foods that Kinsale has to offer. Festivals such as the Taste of Dublin (June), the Taste of Cork (June) and the Belfast food and drink Festival (September) are becoming increasingly popular. Those who are keen to recreate their favourite Irish dishes could sign up to one of many cooking courses during their vacation in Ireland. From baking the perfect apple tart in Belle Isle School of Cookery, County Fermanagh to learning how to make ﬂavoursome jams and chutney in Ballyknocken, County Wicklow you can be guaranteed to instill a ﬂair for Irish cooking. If you are passionate about food you will adore the selection of food available in Ireland and with an increasing number of local farmers’ markets; the quality is there to be enjoyed. The farmers’ markets are also an ideal place to buy some edible souvenirs or to bring home a delicious taste of Ireland and to enjoy the local organic produce. No matter what part of Ireland you are visiting, a memorable food experience awaits you. 7

The Great Estates of Ashford Castle and Dromoland Castle are renowned for the very best that Ireland has to offer. Guests can enjoy championship golf, health centers, ﬁshing, falconry, equestrian pursuits and gourmet dining in the award winning restaurants, dedicated craftsmanship of a bygone era and spacious accommodation, all combining to offer the unique experience that is ‘The Castle Lifestyle’. Ashford Castle is located on the shores of Lough Corrib in Co. Mayo, half an hour drive from Galway City. Dromoland Castle in Co. Clare is located eight miles from Shannon Airport on its own 440 acre estate.

...midwife, rebel, stable hand, blacksmith, landlord, mistress... who have you been? Search for your Irish roots online before your visit using a database of the largest collection of parish records and other sources on the island of Ireland. Or commission one of our county genealogy centres to research your Irish family history.

www.rootsireland.ie

Strokestown Park House, Co. Roscommon

Following in your Family’s Footsteps

esearching your family tree is a golden opportunity to embark on a journey of personal discovery while experiencing a place that was once close to your ancestor’s heart. Millions of people all over the world have Irish connections, many of whom are keen to explore their family history on a visit to the island. Mass emigration from Ireland began in the middle of the 18th century. Over a period of some fifty years a quarter of a million people left Ireland to settle in the New World. The main destination for these emigrants was North America but other destinations included Great Britain, Australia and New Zealand. The major period of mass emigration from Ireland was during the Great Famine, of 1845-1852. Families and whole communities packed their belongings in search of a new life and many visitors tracing their Irish heritage discover that their ancestors were part of this Great Famine exodus. The Famine Museum in Strokestown Park House, County Roscommon takes visitors on a fascinating journey back in time to what was a traumatic period in the history of the island. For another perspective, the life on board an emigrant ship can be experienced at the Dunbrody Famine Ship exhibit in New Ross, County Wexford. The ‘Dunbrody’ is a reconstruction of an emigrant ship that carried the Irish to all corners of the world and a visit below decks vividly portrays the cramped conditions of the desperate sea voyage. Visitors to the ship can also access a database of emigrants compiled from ships’ passenger lists free of charge. The database contains three million records of Irish passengers who disembarked at New York, Boston, Philadelphia, New Orleans and Baltimore. There are numerous Genealogy Centres and services around the country which can help with any research you wish to undertake

during your visit. For instance, the outdoor museum at the Ulster American Folk Park in County Tyrone, tells the story, through its ‘living history’ experience, of the many Ulster-Scots who emigrated from this province to America in the 18th and 19th centuries. The museum also includes an indoor ‘emigrants’ exhibition and a Centre for Migration Studies where you can find out more about what life was like at the time for the emigrants. At the National Archives on Bishop’s Street, Dublin, budding genealogists can check both the census returns from the start of the 20th century, or the surveys undertaken in the 1840s to the 1860s (called Griffith’s Valuation). The genealogy office at the National Library also offers expert advice and guests who stay at The Shelbourne Hotel, Dublin can avail of an on-site genealogist who can assist guests to draw up practical research plans. Your journey into your family history could even take you to picturesque towns and scenic parts of the Irish countryside where your ancestors once lived. Records are available in the local authorities of many Irish towns and cities across the island. Cobh Heritage Centre has a record finder specifically designed for those with little knowledge of genealogy. In Belfast, the Public Record Office of Northern Ireland (PRONI) houses the official archive for Northern Ireland with records of historical, social, and cultural importance. These records will give you guidelines on how to find your family roots and provide an insight into the history of your family’s birthplace. If you follow your ancestral trail to Ireland you can combine the enjoyment of a vacation with a journey of personal discovery. Find your family roots, meet relatives you didn’t know you had and be open to go where Ireland takes you. See page 60 for more information on genealogy. 9

Exhibition and Library Shop open seven days a week

Admission Times Monday to Saturday 09.30 to 17.00 Sunday (October to April) 12.00 to 16.30 Sunday (May to September) 09.30 to 16.30 Tel: 896 2320 | Fax: 896 2690 Email: bookofkells@tcd.ie | www.bookofkells.ie

Trinity College Library Dublin

Trinity College, Dublin

ADVERTORIAL

Ulster-Scots Tour D

iscover the sights and sounds of the Northern region of the island of Ireland where lesser known farms were once ancestral homesteads to 15 U.S. Presidents and visitors with Scots-Irish roots receive a special welcome. You can follow this suggested tour to the letter or start your journey at any point and go where your discoveries and Ireland take you.

Day One – Belfast City A customized tour of Belfast’s original Poor House, Clifton House, or Ann McCraken’s House on Donegall Street are a worthwhile introduction to Belfast and its Scots-Irish heritage. Visit the historic locations at Rosemary Street Church and the “Entries”. The Titanic was built in Belfast and the Titanic Quarter is a must-see – visit www.titanictoursbelfast.co.uk for more information. Other suggestions include Queen’s University and the newly refurbished Ulster Museum. Day Two – Counties Down and Armagh At Groomsport trace the story of Eagle Wing, the fabled ship with early Scots-Irish emigrants, which had to turn back on its voyage due to storms. At Portaferry, visit the Greek Revival Presbyterian Church, or learn how English linen barons designed their estates at Lurgan Park and Brownlow House. At Ardress visit an 18th century gentleman’s farmhouse maintained today by The National Trust. Day Three – County Fermanagh See the differences between the Scottish and English inﬂuences in Ulster by spending a day exploring County Fermanagh, which boasts a number of the country’s Anglo-Irish family homes. The Duke of Abercorn, a member of the Hamilton Clan, has opened Belle Isle Cookery School where visitors prepare lunch with local produce and can also stay overnight. Discover historic grandeur with an overnight stay with the Brooke Family at Colebrook Park and Country Estate. Day Four – County Tyrone At the Ulster-American Folk Park the installations and re-enactments tell of the formidable contribution that generations of Scots-Irish made to American frontier history. Costumed performers carry out everyday tasks in the traditional manner in Old and New World settings. Day Five – County Londonderry Dating from 1618, Londonderry’s walls were built by the city’s residents as a defense against native Irish chieftains and are still intact today. This city’s highlights include Saint Columb’s Cathedral, the Apprentice Boys Memorial Hall, and the beautiful Guildhall. Enjoy Ness Park and Ulster-Scots architecture at Brackfield Bawn located just outside the city.

Lambeg Drum Highland Games, Glenarm Castle, Co. Antrim

Day Six – County Donegal Located east of County Londonderry, Northeast Donegal was a stronghold of the Scottish Presbyterians who migrated into Ulster. The founder of the first Presbyterian congregation in America, located in Maryland, was Francis Makernie from County Donegal. U.S. President James Knox Pole, frontiersman Davy Crockett, and Edmund McIlhenny of the Tabasco fortune are just some descendants of the many ScotsIrish families who emigrated from these parts. For more information visit the Monreagh Ulster-Scots Heritage Centre at www.eastdonegalulsterscots.com Day Seven – County Antrim Leave Londonderry along the Causeway Coastal Route, taking in the Nine Glens of Antrim. At Bushmills Distillery, learn how whiskey is made and take a taste test of famous Irish brands. Try to schedule a half-day trip via ferry from Ballycastle to Rathlin Island, home of the spider story of Robert the Bruce. Enjoy afternoon tea at 18th century Glenarm Castle and learn about the McDonnells and the migration of earlier Scots into the Glens of Antrim. Ballygally Castle (now a luxury hotel) was built by Shaw of Greenock in the Scottish Baronial style. Enjoy stunning views across to Scotland and learn about the history of the area dating back to the time of the Plantation of Ulster. Complete your journey with a stop at the Andrew Jackson Centre, and Carrickfergus Castle – one of the bestpreserved Norman Castles. Wherever your tour takes you during your vacation in this region of the island of Ireland, you can be sure of a warm welcome as you discover your ancestral heritage.

www.ulsterscotsagency.com 11

The Castles of Ireland A

ll countries possess their treasures; Ireland takes you on a treasure trail of its gems - its castles. These impressive strongholds are living museums of Irish history, stretching back nearly a thousand years, and bear witness to Ireland’s chequered history and rich heritage. Bunratty Castle and Folk Park in County Clare is one of the most visited castles in Ireland. The castle contains an impressive collection of tapestries, paintings and 17th century furniture and at night is host to the world-famous medieval banquets where you can feast on rich foods and enjoy folk music. Kilkenny Castle, home of the Butler Family since 1391, is another castle that rates high on visitors’ lists. Tour through period rooms mapping its history and wander through the beautiful rose garden with 50 acres of charming grounds.

Dunluce Castle, Co. Antrim

In Northern Ireland there are castles in abundance. Dunluce Castle in County Antrim is an enchanting site surrounded by unsurpassed coastal scenery. It is one of the most extensive ruins of a medieval castle and is located spectacularly on the edge of a headland on the Causeway Coastal Route. Legends, ghosts, tall tales and history are all hidden in the time-darkened walls of this castle. Carrickfergus Castle, also in County Antrim, is an unusually intact Norman structure. Built by John de Courcy, conqueror of east Ulster, in 1180 and garrisoned until 1928, it is a striking feature of the landscape.

Blarney Castle, Co

. Cork

The castle has seen lots of sieges and battles in its years and represents over 800 years of military might. Today the castle can be enjoyed by visitors wanting to learn more about its history or just looking for a fun day out, in a unique setting. The world famous Blarney Castle in County Cork was built by one of Ireland’s greatest chieftains, Cormac McCarthy, nearly 600 years ago and is a must see for first time visitors to Ireland who hope to win the gift of eloquence by kissing the Blarney Stone. Blarney Castle presents a fairytale picture; its tall towers are set within splendid gardens containing such romantically named landmarks as the Druid’s Altar, the Witch’s Kitchen and the Wishing Stairs, all of which add to the magic of the setting. Explore Ireland’s largest gardens and Historic Science Centre at Birr Castle Demesne, Demesne County Offaly. Birr Castle’s superb gardens, spread over 100 acres, are a real draw with one of the greatest displays of magnolias in the country. Flowers aside, the remains of a giant telescope, built in the mid 19th century, can be seen in the grounds. Many castles have been renovated and converted into lavish hotels including Dromoland Castle in County Clare, Castle Leslie in County Monaghan, and Lough Eske in County Donegal. Include an overnight stay and sleep in a bed fit for a king!

, Co. Donegal

Lough Eske Castle

Whichever castles you choose to explore during your vacation in Ireland, you are sure to fulfil a journey of adventure, history and striking beauty.

Dublin

Centuries of rich history and a lively culture make Dublin, Irelandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s capital city, a treat for any visitor. 14

Dublin

estled where the River Liffey feeds into the Irish Sea, Dublin has long been the cultural heart of Ireland. With a rich past and a vibrant present, the city’s streets all lead to intriguing historical curiosities; Georgian Squares sit alongside contemporary buildings and must-try restaurants blend with authentic pubs brimming with a distinctive atmosphere. The unique atmosphere and character of Dublin was recently heralded in a 2009 survey by Tripadvisor.com. Travelers overwhelmingly hailed Dubliners as the friendliest citydwellers in Europe, and any conversation with locals will prove that true. A stroll through the beautifully crafted streets of the city is the best way to really appreciate the great atmosphere and the good fun that’s on offer. You are also likely to uncover many of the city’s historical and cultural gems along the way.

Shopping at the Avoca Store

Bus tours are a great way to see a city and Dublin has some great tours to help you get your bearings. As an

● DUBLIN

alternative, experience the real heart of the city by spending a day meandering the streets, shopping for souvenirs, enjoying the street performers or taking a rest by the lake in St Stephen’s Green with some home made treats from Avoca Store on Suffolk Street or Butlers Irish Chocolates Café. Let Dubliners be your guide to discovering the real Dublin; often stopping to ask for directions can lead you to a place undetected by guide books but known to locals as a gem. Ireland’s tradition of being a nation of scholars goes back over a thousand years and Dublin has nurtured many of Ireland’s most famous writers – George Bernard Shaw, Oscar Wilde, and James Joyce to name but a few. A trip around literary Dublin to the birthplaces of these writers and a visit to the Dublin Writers Museum is an exploration of this aspect of Irish history. A visit to Dublin isn’t complete without a trip to the Guinness Storehouse, a stroll through Trinity College, or attending a show at a Dublin theater. But whatever you decide to do on your visit, make Dublin your own.

Read on for a selection of the best activities, events and sights in Dublin. And don’t forget – our website has even more information on Dublin and all it has to offer at discoverireland.com/dublin

DUBLIN WRITERS MUSEUM

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DUBLIN THINGS TO SEE AND DO

BLOOMSDAy FESTIVAL

If you’re visiting Dublin in June, you can enjoy one of the city’s most colorful and distinctive festivals – Bloomsday. This week long festival concluding on Bloomsday (June 16th), celebrates the work of James Joyce and in particular his controversial and ground-breaking novel Ulysses. Enjoy a series of talks, readings, walking tours and exhibitions around Joyce’s Dublin. Georgian costume is optional, but highly recommended!

NATIONAL GALLEry OF IrELAND Situated off Merrion

Square, the National Gallery of Ireland is a treasure trove of collections by Irish and international artists. Works from Carravagio’s ‘The Taking of Christ’ to modern masterpieces by Jack B. Yeats, Paul Henry and Louis le Brocquy are housed in exquisite surroundings, with free guided tours available. A packed calendar of fascinating exhibitions ensures that every visit has something new.

kILMAINHAM GAOL

Built in 1796, it is one of the largest unoccupied gaols in Europe and

gives an amazing glimpse into Ireland’s political history. Take a guided tour and discover the story of the heroic and tragic events in Ireland’s emergence as a modern nation from 1780s to the 1920s. There is a permanent exhibition in the gaol explaining Ireland’s penal history, the prison’s restoration and other exhibitions are run throughout the year.

GUINNESS STOrEHOUSE

It’s little wonder that the ‘black stuff’ has been an important part of Dublin life since Arthur Guinness founded his brewery at St James’s Gate in 1759. You can celebrate over 250 years of Guinness by visiting the Guinness Storehouse, discovering how it’s made, its history, learning how to pull the perfect pint, and even enjoying a pint overlooking the city’s skyline in the unique Gravity Bar.

Merrion Square, Dublin

Did you know? The Oscar statuette handed out at the Academy Awards was designed by Cedric Gibbons, who was born in Dublin in 1823.

DINE IN DUBLIN’S rESTAUrANTS Dublin City

has a cosmopolitan and tantalizing range of restaurants to tickle the taste buds. Many restaurants provide ‘early bird’ menus – a special ﬁxed menu from 5.30pm – 7.30pm. Or taste the traditional Dublin fare of Coddle (a unique Dublin dish that is boiled) at ‘Gallagher’s Boxty House’ or traditional pub food at ‘O’Neill’s Bar’ on Suffolk

Croke Park

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Street. For a Michelin-star experience, book a table at Derry Clarke’s ‘L’Ecrivian’ or Ross Lewis’ ‘Chapter One’ Restaurant.

TrINITy COLLEGE & THE BOOk OF kELLS

Founded by Queen Elizabeth I of England in 1592, Trinity College has a rich academic tradition, beautiful buildings and a fascinating history. You can take a guided tour of the college which includes Trinity’s breathtaking Long Room, the main chamber of the Old Library which houses around 200,000 of the college’s oldest books. ‘The Book of Kells’, one of the most beautiful medieval Christian manuscripts ever produced, is on permanent exhibition in the college which also contains the ‘Book of Armagh’ and the ‘Book of Durrow’.

wALkING TOUrS

From a stroll around Dublin’s historical and cultural sites to an enjoyable literary pub crawl, a walking tour around Dublin will highlight the city’s best assets: the charm of Dubliners, their insight into the city, and the veritable goldmine of stories and revelations found on every street. A visit to any of Dublin’s tourist ofﬁces will give you all the information on the various walking tours, including ‘iWalks’.

ST PATrICk’S FESTIVAL This celebration sparks

a party among Irish communities around the world and St Patrick’s Day in Ireland doesn’t disappoint. Dublin hosts a fantastic ﬁve-day St Patrick’s Festival from March 12th to 17th. The 2010 festival will include a funfair at Merrion Square, the spectacular annual parade and lots of fun events.

ENJOy DUBLIN PUBS It’s with good reason that

Irish pubs are popular the world over: their easygoing craic (good fun) and banter can’t be beaten, particularly in the truly authentic establishments of the capital – ‘Keogh’s’ of South Anne Street or the ‘Dawson Lounge’, Ireland’s smallest pub. For an extra treat, steer towards the pubs where traditional Irish music is played. Many pubs in Temple Bar, Dublin’s cultural quarter, offer a great Dublin pub experience, particularly the ‘Foggy Dew’ or the ‘Brazen Head’ – believed to be Dublin’s oldest pub.

“Everyone seemed to know each other and before we knew it, we knew everyone too!”

CrOkE PArk

A visit to the Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA) Museum in Croke Park, Ireland’s national gaelic games stadium, will give you a fascinating insight into the GAA and its enormous contribution to Irish sporting, cultural and social life since its foundation in 1884. Watching a hurling, camogie, or gaelic football match is a great way to be immersed in the real Irish way of life, whether it is at one of the many stadiums or, at one of the many stadiums or at a local GAA Pitch (ﬁeld) – it is a chance to join the locals and experience their adoration for the sport.

Meet Neil Neil, who was born and reared in Dublin, has never strayed far from his roots and loves the atmosphere of his native city. Sometimes the most perfect “ weekend in Dublin can happen by accident. I like to take a walk until I find a nice place to have breakfast. Then I stroll to Phoenix Park, the largest urban park in Europe. It’s a great place to watch people going in and out of the zoo, trailing wild deer, or simply enjoying the park and its scenery. You never know what you will see – on one particular day I came across a battle re-enactment. On another day I saw a junior game of camogie (a traditional stick and ball game for ladies) and what a sight it was; I thought it was great to see an ancient game being played so passionately by children, although I don’t know if I could ever see my daughter playing it! Dublin has so much to offer, you’ve just got to come and see it.

”

For more in-depth information on Dublin and planning your visit go to our website:

discoverireland.com /dublin 17

Belfast

Northern Irelandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s bustling capital offers unique experiences and irrepressible energy. 18

● BELFAST

Belfast

hether you’re seeking a great city-break with a down-to-earth welcome, or to explore and enjoy true Irish culture, then Belfast is waiting for you! The city is easy to navigate around as it has distinctive ‘quarters’. The Cathedral Quarter is the cultural center of the city, where many arts organizations have integrated among some of Belfast’s oldest streets and buildings. The annual arts festival in May is a great way to experience the cultural delights of this ‘quarter’ as it comes to life with street theater, witty comedy shows, stunning visual art, and lots of exciting live music performances.

Belfast City Hall

The Queens Quarter is home to Queen’s University and a lively student population creates a bubbling atmosphere in the galleries and chic coffee shops. For a different perspective, the Gaeltacht Quarter (Irish Language Speaking Area) displays a more traditional culture where the Irish language is spoken and events and festivals are organized throughout the year.

Of course, Belfast is also renowned for its maritime heritage and for being the birthplace of arguably the most famous ship ever built – the Titanic. Take a tour around the shipyard of Harland & Wolff and the historical sites where the spectacular liner was designed and constructed. The city is a haven for shoppers with many traditional shopping streets, arcades and landmark centers where shoppers can pick up the latest fashions, antiques and specialist crafts. Key shopping areas include: Victoria Square, Lisburn Road, Royal Avenue and St George’s Market. You will find a warm welcome in Belfast as its people are known for their indomitable spirit and love of life. There is a great atmosphere around the streets and the city really comes into its own in the evenings with award winning restaurants, bars and traditional pubs to enjoy. The charm and character of Belfast city and its people will have you planning your next visit before you leave.

Read on for a selection of the best activities, events and sights in Belfast. And don’t forget – our website has even more information on Belfast and all it has to offer at discoverireland.com/belfast

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BELFAST CASTLE The historic Belfast Castle, built in 1870, is a magniﬁcent sandstone building on the slopes of Cave Hill. It overlooks the

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ULSTEr MUSEUM

Overlooking Belfast’s beautiful Botanic gardens, the Ulster Museum offers visitors a feast for the senses. It has long been one of Northern Ireland’s top attractions and imparts a rich exploration of history, art and science through its numerous visually stunning galleries and outstanding exhibitions. Favorite exhibits include the famous ‘Takabuti’ Egyptian mummy, the renowned Belleek Collection, one of the ﬁnest porcelain collections in the world, and artifacts from the Spanish Armada galleass, ‘La Girona’, which foundered off the north Antrim coast in 1588.

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Belfast is home to the government of Northern Ireland. The beautiful architecture of the building is reﬂective of a Greek classical tradition and measures exactly 365 feet wide, one foot for each day of the year. Highlights include the Great Hall, the Assembly Chamber and the Senate. Stormont Estate and Public Park boasts one of the most captivating views of Belfast City. The famous Prince of Wales Avenue which leads to parliament buildings is stunning and not to be missed.

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city from a site that is 400 feet above sea level and boasts magniﬁcent views of Belfast City. After you have taken in the stunning views, enjoy a treat at the exquisite Cellar Restaurant.

ST GEOrGE’S MArkET

It is the fascinating mix of market stalls and people that attracts hundreds of people each week to St George’s Market. The Friday Variety Market (6am to 2pm) is a vibrant experience of 248 market stalls selling wares from Atlantic Shark to beautiful ﬂowers, old antiques to fresh fruit. And at the Saturday City Food and Garden Market enjoy the best food brought by local producers, including warm Irish soda breads and award-winning Irish Farmhouse Cheeses. It is about meeting local people, chatting and bartering, or relaxing with a coffee to a backdrop of live jazz music.

Stormont building

Did you know? Princess Takabuti, the first mummy ever to be unravelled outside of Egypt, was revealed to a wide-eyed crowd in 1835, and now occupies pride of place at the center of the Egyptian collection in the Ulster Museum.

TITANIC MADE IN BELFAST FESTIVAL

Possibly the most famous ship of all time since tragically sinking on its maiden voyage in 1912, the Titanic is celebrated in the city of its birth every April. Exhibitions and tours, including a boat tour from the river Lagan, shed light on the disaster, while also celebrating the skills of the Harland & Wolff workers that created the liner and Belfast’s rich industrial heritage.

“Everything was so close by, we just left the car and walked everywhere”

ENJOy A MEAL IN ONE OF BELFAST’S rENOwNED rESTAUrANTS Belfast’s restaurant

scene has never been livelier with menus for all budgets, from exciting eateries with value meals to exquisite dishes in high-end restaurants. ‘Deane’s Restaurant and Bar’ is home to one of Belfast’s ﬁnest chefs, Michael Deane, who emphasizes simple food cooked well. Another famous restaurant that champions Irish cuisine is Paul Rankin’s ‘Cayenne’ restaurant, located on Belfast’s Shaftesbury Square.

has attracted big names in the past including Dizzy Gillespie, Ravi Shankar, Laurence Olivier and Jimi Hendrix and continues to attract the best acts in music, comedy and theater to the city.

BELFAST wHEEL AT CITy HALL For a real sense

of Belfast’s varied beauty, a view from above can’t be beaten. Just as well then that the Belfast Wheel at the historic City Hall lets you see the city from a height of over 200 feet! Once you are safely back down to earth, take a relaxing break at ‘The Bobbin’, City Hall’s new coffee shop.

rOSE wEEk Taking place at Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park in July each year, Rose Week includes the Belfast International Rose Trials and a packed events program. In fact, Rose Week has become so popular that the rose community has taken to naming varieties of rose to distinguish between them. Iconic ﬁgures such as Abraham Lincoln, George Washington and John F Kennedy have all been honored with their monikers bestowed on some of the blossoms on show.

QUEEN’S UNIVErSITy & ULSTEr BANk BELFAST FESTIVAL AT QUEENS Established

in 1845, Queen’s University is one of the oldest universities in Ireland and certainly one of the most beautiful: the striking main building, designed in the Tudor Gothic style, is a distinctive sight on the Belfast skyline. The Ulster Bank Belfast Festival’s unique, fun-ﬁlled atmosphere

Meet Ciara & Ricky Ciara and Ricky have lived in Belfast most of their lives and love recommending their favorite haunts to their friends and visitors to the city. I genuinely feel that Belfast “ has something for everybody and I know that you are going to have a great time when you come here. On Saturdays, St George’s Market is a great place where you can sample some of Belfast’s best food. Some stallholders have been here for years and years and take real pride in displaying their produce. I love it – it is one of my favorite places. All the vegetables and fish are sourced locally and there are also wonderful cake stalls to tempt you. Ciara

”

Belfast is surprisingly “ compact, in that you can get

Queen’s University

Rose Week

everywhere on foot. Right in the core of Belfast you will find traditional pubs, like Bittles and The Kitchen Bar, where you can enjoy a cheeky lunchtime pint and excellent food for quite reasonable prices. Ricky

”

ULSTEr FOLk & TrANSPOrT MUSEUM,

CULTrA Set in 170 acres, the Folk

Museum houses over 50 exhibits, which illustrate the way of life and traditions of the people of the north of Ireland from the early 20th century. The site also houses the Transport Museum, displaying Ireland’s largest and most comprehensive transport collection, including horse drawn carts, motor cars, railway locomotives and aircraft.

To watch a video of Ciara and Ricky in Belfast go to discoverireland.com/go For more in-depth information on Belfast and planning your visit go to our website:

discoverireland.com /belfast 21

Northern Ireland

A diverse mix of cultures and traditions with inspiring natural beauty makes Northern Ireland an essential destination. 22

Northern Ireland

orthern Ireland has a charming character with serendipitous opportunities around every corner. The many stunning landscapes merge with inviting towns and cities to welcome visitors to this beautiful region. Whether you’re enticed by its stories and history, lively atmosphere, the abundance of festivals and events or the untouched natural beauty, you’ll find all the ingredients here for a magical vacation. lndeed, the region boasts one of Ireland’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites at the legendary Giant’s Causeway in County Antrim. The rock columns, allegedly ripped from volcanic rock by Finn McCool to make a path to Scotland, are washed by the crashing waves from the sea altogether making captivating views. The Giant’s Causeway is just one of the spectacular sites to encounter along the Causeway Coastal Route. Dare to walk across the famous Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, but be careful not to look down!

derry Mussenden Temple, Co. Londonderry

derry mighty city From Londonderry’s walls – among the best preserved

city walls in Europe - to the grandeur of Enniskillen Castle on Lough Erne and the fascinating Irish Linen Centre and Lisburn Museum, the towns and cities are great places to explore Northern Ireland’s rich heritage. Make the cosmopolitan city of Belfast your starting point for a tour of this part of the island. Northern Ireland is packed with treats for the history buff. Delve into the past to discover living history at the Ulster American Folk Park in County Tyrone or explore the ancient prehistoric sites that dot the landscape such as Ballynoe Stone Circle in County Down. Alternatively you could undertake a pilgrimage into the Christian heritage of Ireland by following in the footsteps of St Patrick from where he established his first church in Downpatrick to the ecclesiastical capital of Ireland at Armagh. Good hospitality and a warm sense of humor is part of the region’s character so whatever you’re looking for, you’ll find it in one of the island’s most beautiful and interesting destinations.

Read on for a selection of the best activities, events and sights in Northern Ireland. And don’t forget – our website has even more information on Northern Ireland and all it has to offer at discoverireland.com/northernireland

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The majestic range of the Mourne Mountains is said to have inspired C.S. Lewis’ magical world of Narnia and it’s easy to see why: these peaks offer spectacular views of lush forests, valleys and the dramatic Down coastline. Around this rugged mountain region, you’ll also ﬁnd a range of activities to appreciate, from golf at Royal County Down to horse riding, and tours of coastal areas and historical gardens. The mix of adventure and untamed beauty amid the Mournes will inspire anyone.

THE wALLED CITy OF DErry MEATHDErry, LONDONDErry

Kilkenny

MOUrNE MOUNTAINS, COUNTy DOwN

The mighty walls of this 1450 year old city have never been breachedDublinand are still intact Airport a well-deserved reputation for fine today. In this medieval city, whiskeys and the world’s oldest licensed you’ll find Europe’s largest working distillery, at Bushmills, is a great Naas Dublin collection of Dun cannons Tullamore Laoghaireand place to find out about that tradition! Harbourarchitectural many impressive Bushmills Y is devoted to producingKILDARE L top-class FAsingle malt whiskey. The distillery landmarks, including F O welcomes visitors all year round, with a St Columb’s Cathedral, little tastePortlaoise on offer after the guided tour. Austin’s (the world’s oldest WICKLOW independent department Wicklow S store) and the beautiful I CrAFTSLOF NOrTHErN AO Victorian Guildhall; while the IrELAND Northern Ireland is Carlow Tower Museum sheds light home to many craft makers such as on the ‘maiden’ city’s history. Belleek Pottery, which is famous for

its high-quality porcelain and ﬁne Parian china. The Visitor Centre is one of Ireland’s most popular attractions. Another example of ﬁne craft is Tyrone Crystal and the factory Tipperaryin Dungannon makes for a very interesting visit.

The Ulster American Folk Park is an open-air museum that tells the story of countless emigrants who left Northern Ireland and traveled to the United States in the 18th and 19th centuries. Expertly reconstructed streets and buildings, costumed re-enactors and special exhibitions create a fantastic atmosphere of living history throughout the park. The Appalachian and Bluegrass Music Festival is held here every September and features some of the biggest names in American folk and home-grown talent.

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“They wanted to know as much about our country as we did about Ireland!”

GIANT’S CAUSEwAy, COUNTy ANTrIM Whether

you believe the myths or the scientists’ claims of its creation, there is no doubt that the Giant’s Causeway is one of the most magniﬁcent and magical sites in Ireland. The scientiﬁc explanation is that the 40,000 interlocking columns of basalt are the result of an ancient volcanic eruption. You can learn about both sides of this fascinating story at the nearby Visitor Centre.

Meet Bobby & Carol Giant’s Causeway, Co. Antrim

9 , Co. Fermanagh

Marble Arch Caves

MArBLE ArCH CAVES & GEOPArk, FErMANAGH

Marble Arch Caves Global Geopark is found among the rugged mountainous uplands and the picturesque lakes of County Fermanagh. The Geopark encompasses some of the ﬁnest natural landscapes of the region and offers a window into the area’s 650 million year past. Marble Arch Caves are among Europe’s ﬁnest allowing visitors to explore a fascinating, natural underworld of rivers, waterfalls, winding passages and lofty chambers.

LADy OF THE LAkE FESTIVAL, COUNTy FErMANAGH One of the

most unique events in Ireland, the Lady of the Lake Festival is based on the story of a mystical woman who would glide over Lower Lough Erne, with her appearance said to be a symbol of good times ahead. She now inspires good times every July through an annual ten-day festival that incorporates entertainment and a keenly-fought ﬁshing competition. Locals will welcome you to be a part of the festivities and join with them in celebrating.

THE CITy OF TwO CATHEDrALS, ArMAGH

Armagh is a city of many legacies – as one of Ireland’s oldest cities an ecclesiastical metropolis, the chosen center of Christianity by Saint Patrick and St Patrick’s Church of Ireland Cathedral stands where Patrick built his original church, and less than a mile away the twin-spired St Patrick’s Roman Catholic Cathedral tops the skyline. Armagh is a city also famous for its beautiful Georgian architecture with many elegant buildings including the Georgian Mall, Archbishop’s Palace and the Observatory at the Planetarium.

Did you know? The 18th century Ballycopeland Windmill in County Down is one of the few working windmills in Ireland. Strangely, Ireland is the only country in the world where windmills turn clockwise.

GOLFING IN NOrTHErN IrELAND

Ireland is world-renowned as a golﬁng destination and Northern Ireland is home to many fantastic courses. Set in some of the most beautiful and scenic parts of the region, these courses are tranquil places to enjoy a round of golf but also the Northern Ireland hospitality. Courses of note include the Lough Erne Golf Resort, where two championship courses meet ﬁve-star luxury in one amazing resort; Royal Portrush Golf Club, home to one of the most challenging links golf courses in the world – the Dunluce Links; Royal County Down and Ardglass Golf Club with its spectacular and jaw-dropping coastline course.

Bobby and Carol love to take advantage of the beautiful surroundings of the Mournes. We live in the kingdom of the “ Mournes in County Down. We have such beauty surrounding us all around the Mourne Mountains. It is a fantastic place for walks and strolls along mountain paths and forests; we have the sea and amazing views, and everything is in close proximity. We are so privileged to live here. It’s so peaceful and tranquil and the scenery is stunning. People come back here year after year. The Silent Valley is one of our favorite places to visit. Silent Valley has its name because there’s not a noise, not a sound in the place. The valley runs for three miles and at its base are two dams which provide clean drinking water for areas as far away as Belfast. There are loads of walks and paths here. You could walk for miles and miles. Carlingford Lough is also a fantastic place to visit; the scenery there is spectacular. We want you to come here and see these places for yourself.

”

To watch a video of Bobby and Carol in the Mournes go to discoverireland.com/go For more in-depth information on Northern Ireland and planning your visit go to our website:

discoverireland.com /northernireland 25

The West

A true sense of Irelandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Celtic heart and rugged natural beauty awaits visitors to the West. 26

The West

ou know you are in the West of Ireland when you are surrounded by rugged landscapes lined with stone walls; it is unmistakable and breathtaking. The West offers a real glimpse of traditional Irish culture – particularly in Cork, Donegal, Galway, and Kerry’s Gaeltacht (Irish speaking) areas where people still proudly speak Gaeilge (Irish). Take the time to visit one of the many islands just off the coast. Ferries depart to Clare Island from Roonagh Quay, County Mayo or to the Aran Islands from Rossaveal, County Galway or Doolin, County Clare and will transport you to communities with proud, distinctive traditions. You can also ﬂy to the Aran Islands with Aer Arann Islands from Connemara Regional Airport, Inverin. If you enjoy the unique isolation on the islands, you can go further south to the UNESCO heritage site of the Skellig islands off County Kerry, feasting your eyes on the ruins of an ancient monastic community.

The unique landscape of the Aran Islands, Co. Galway

With Shannon as your gateway to the region, take a journey through

County Clare. Don’t plan too much as pleasant discoveries along the way such as scenic lookouts and interesting towns and villages will lead you to a very unique Irish vacation. Wildlife lovers will enjoy the Burren, where this craggy limestone landscape is home to many rare species of ﬂora and fauna. But one stop on your journey through County Clare has to be the spectacular Cliffs of Moher. The dramatic views are unparalleled and a must-do in every itinerary. A tour around the ‘Ring of Kerry’, one of the most scenic touring routes on the island, will convince any visitor that few places in the world can match County Kerry for natural beauty. The historic cities of Galway and Cork provide a ready welcome for all visitors and the unique charm will draw you into the fascinating cultures of these two cities. Strolling around the city streets, it is hard not to feel part of the culture and akin with the people around you. Indeed, amid all the sightseeing, it’s worth enjoying the warm hospitality found in all the villages, towns and cities throughout the West.

Read on for a selection of the best activities, events and sights in the West. And don’t forget – our website has even more information on the West and all it has to offer at discoverireland.com/west

THINGS TO SEE AND DO

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THE BUrrEN, COUNTy CLArE The landscape of The Burren is home to an incredible array of rare plants and animals. Arctic, Mediterranean and Alpine plants thrive side-byside in this amazing limestone environment. Here you will also ﬁnd the intriguing Poulnabrone Dolmen and the spectacular Larne Harbour Ballymena Ailwee Cave. The cave was discovered by local herdsman Jack McGann in 1940. For the best in Clare-caught salmon, be sure Belfast Intl. Airport to also visit the Burren Smokehouse in Lisdoonvarna. T AN

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county of breathtaking natural beauty, particularly the

MEATH famous ‘Ring of Kerry’ from Killarney around the Iveragh

Peninsula. Whether you are traveling by foot, bicycle or car, you are guaranteed some jaw-dropping views. The friendly and Dublin Airport welcoming character of Kerry people is legendary and a unique sampleDublin of that character can be seen every August at the Puck Naas Dun Laoghaire Fair in Killorglin.Harbour One of the oldest fairs in Ireland, the Puck Fair KILDARE features a traditional horse fair, a busking competition and believe it or not – the coronation of one lucky goat as ‘King Puck’!

WICKLOW

Wicklow

COUNTy LIMErICk With thatched cottages and picturesque streets, Adare in County Limerick has a strong claim to the title of Ireland’s prettiest village. Dramatic ruins and monasteries create an atmosphere of living history and an excellent Heritage Centre lets visitors delve into

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to protect LO the ﬁsherman against the elements.

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Newry MO Aonghasa Fort on Inis Mór and the Old Lighthouse on Inis Oirr. NA GHThe ultimate token from your trip is an Aran sweater. Made AN from complex textured stitch patterns, they were originally worn

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Ireland West Knock Airport

incredible historical sites on each island, in particular Dún

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ArANLisburn ISLANDS, GALwAy Whatever route you Armagh choose to the Aran Islands of Inis Mór, Inis Meáin and Inis WN Oírr, you’ll ﬁnd themDaOrewarding and relaxing place. There are M AR

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Did you know? The Claddagh ring was Rosslare designed Harbour by Galway man, Richard Joyce. In the 17th century, Joyce was exiled and made the ring especially for his love which he gave to her when he returned home thirty years later. Adare village, Co. Limerick

THE wEST 28

CONNEMArA GAELTACHT, COUNTy GALwAy

The Cliffs of Moher, Co. Clare

that colorful history through exhibitions and an audio-visual show. Round off an informative and colorful day by picking up gifts for everyone back home at the many wonderful craft and gift shops in the village.

THE CLIFFS OF MOHEr, COUNTy CLArE

The reputation of this amazing natural wonder precedes itself the world over. The dramatic cliffs are 214 meters at the highest point and range for almost ﬁve miles over the Atlantic Ocean. Take a walk up to O’Brien’s Tower which stands on a headland and enjoy the views of the Aran Islands, Galway Bay and The Twelve Pins mountain range.

SCENIC DrIVE IN wEST COrk Few spots in Ireland

The Gaeltacht regions, where Irish is the ﬁrst language of most locals, are known for their charming and easy-going atmosphere. You’ll be captivated by Connemara’s beautiful scenery and a rich craft tradition. Another tradition that is uniquely Irish and is found practiced widely in the Gaeltacht is the enjoyment and participation in playing music, singing Irish ballads, and telling or listening to some of the famous Irish myths that made this land famous for storytelling. Take a souvenir of this great tradition home by picking up a hand-made bodhrán (a traditional Irish music instrument) in the village of Roundstone.

provide a fascinating insight into the life of the ﬁrst settlers. The Neolithic landscape is of world importance; the remains of stone ﬁeld walls, houses and megalithic tombs have survived thousands of years, preserved in a blanket of peat. In neighboring County Sligo is Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery, the largest of its kind in Ireland, with monuments up to six and a half thousand years old.

GLENVEAGH NATIONAL PArk, COUNTy DONEGAL Glenveagh National Park is nestled in the

heart of the Derryveagh Mountains in County Donegal. You can take a guided tour of the castle, walk in the gardens or wander your own path through the fantastic scenery. There are also themed walks and treasure hunts. The park consists of 16,000 hectares of wilderness, lakes, and mountains; with breath-taking scenery and various trail walks through hills and forests.

reward the traveler with as many beautiful sights and fun experiences as west Cork. Essential stopovers are the medieval town of Kinsale and the ﬁshing ports of Union Hall and Castletownbere and the quaint villages of Schull and Goleen. Make sure to take a detour to Blarney where you can see the impressive castle and fabled Blarney stone. West Cork is also famous for food. There are an abundance of artisan producers, gourmet cafés, seafood restaurants, and farmers markets offering the highest quality in delicious local produce.

Yeats statue, Sligo

ANCIENT SITES The Céide Fields in County Mayo

The Beara Penin

sula, west Cork

yEATS COUNTry, COUNTy SLIGO

Sligo is often called ‘Yeats country’ – the famous poet and writer William Butler Yeats spent his childhood in the county and adored its scenery. A boat tour around the Isle of Inisfree, on the beautiful Lough Gill, is highly recommended. The picturesque island is steeped in myth and legend and inspired W.B. Yeats to write one of his most widely-known poems – The Lake Isle of Innisfree. Also, the Yeats society in Sligo runs a number of events celebrating his work throughout the year, including an annual festival.

Meet Padraic Padraic is a fisherman at heart and a true character of Connemara. Connemara is a magical “ place with its hills and valleys and beautiful coastlines. I was a lobster fisherman for about two years when I was sixteen. I love the sea; it is the closest thing to my heart. I have wonderful memories of those days. We all have a great connection with the sea here. What we have is the hidden Ireland. People never see these places; they think places like the coral strand in Carraroe in the heart of Connemara don’t exist. This is the jewel of Galway. There are only two coral strands on this island but Carraroe is the biggest and nicest one of all. It’s really beautiful. This beach is special because if you pick up a fist of coral sand and throw it over your right shoulder you will find riches and if you throw it over your left you will find love. But you can’t have the two. I have enough love so I throw it over my right one.

”

To watch a video of Padraic on a tour of the West go to discoverireland.com/go For more in-depth information on the West and planning your visit go to our website:

discoverireland.com /west 29

The East

From rural heartland and majestic mountains to coastal idylls, the Eastâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s varied landscapes will surely take your breath away. 30

The East

t is in these eastern counties, close to Dublin, that you will find some of Ireland’s oldest heritage sites including Tara and Newgrange in County Meath. The Hill of Tara was home to the High Kings of Ireland for over two thousand years. Newgrange, a Stone Age passage tomb, is a UNESCO world heritage site and a testament to the architectural ingenuity of Ireland’s prehistoric people. No picture can fully capture the majesty of this ancient site, so come prepared to be wowed!

Powerscourt Estate, Co. Wicklow

County Kildare’s association with the sport of kings - horse racing has long been an important part of life in the county. The Curragh and Punchestown Racecourses are ideal places to take in racing action at its best and with regular festivals experience the sport and the festive Irish culture all in one. Most of the locals will know a thing or two about the latest form of the horses on show so make sure to get their advice before laying your bets!

For more relaxing pursuits consider a visit to the many spectacular gardens of this region. Altamont Gardens in Tullow, County Carlow and Heywood Gardens in County Laois are inspiring. The ‘garden of Ireland’, County Wicklow, boasts the prize winning Mount Usher Gardens whilst the tranquil beauty of the Powerscourt Estate coupled with the serene monastic settlement at Glendalough will make any visitor feel at ease. Each county in the East has a unique character and charm; a trip down through the welcoming city of Kilkenny and Tipperary Town will lead on to the sunny South East where you’ll feel ready to lose yourself by the sea in the coastal counties of Wexford, Waterford and East Cork. No visit to this part of the country is complete without sampling some local food dishes such as the Waterford Blaa, a white doughy bread bun covered with white ﬂour. It is also recommended to try some of the amazing artisans produce from this bountiful region of Ireland.

Read on for a selection of the best activities, events and sights in the East. And don’t forget – our website has even more information on the East and all it has to offer at discoverireland.com/east

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POwErSCOUrT ESTATE, COUNTy wICkLOw The Powerscourt Estate in Wicklow

“I have so many stories and tales to share with friends back home”

THE EAST

THINGS TO SEE AND DO

ALTAMONT GArDENS, TULLOw, COUNTy CArLOw

rOCk OF CASHEL, COUNTy TIPPErAry

contains some of the most breathtaking gardens in the country. Laid out in an Italianate design, echoing the terraces and formal features of Renaissance villas, the gardens attest to the artistry and vision of successive Viscounts and their architects. Away from the delicately tended beauty of the gardens, you can see the untamed power of Ireland’s largest waterfall. At over 121 meters in height, Powerscourt Waterfall is a dramatic sight and an excellent spot for a picnic.

Rosslare Harbour

Set on a 100-acre estate, the Altamont Gardens make the estate one of the most peaceful and romantic places in Ireland. Beguiling features such as Sunset Field Temple, carefully tended lawns and sculpted yews, a man-made lake and a 300-year old mansion create a magical atmosphere.

This majestic site stands high over the Golden Vale near the historic town of Cashel. Having served as the seat of Munster kings for centuries before being given to the church, the site is infused with a deep sense of history.

Kilkenny

Wicklow

Carlow

ICK

The Rock of Cashel, Co. Tipperary

WICKLOW

LAO

Dun Laoghaire Harbour

KILDARE

LY FFA

Dublin Airport

Naas

Tullamore

GALWAY

MEATH

DUBLIN

N MO

N LO

Kells High Cross, Co. Meath

FOLLOw THE HISTOrICAL TrAIL IN COUNTy MEATH

Meath has long been known as the ‘royal county’, and its links with the rulers of ancient Ireland are strong. Breathing in the atmosphere at the Hill of Tara, where high kings were once inaugurated, is a heady experience that’s only matched by a visit to the intriguing ancient site of Newgrange. A guided tour of Newgrange and the nearby tombs from the Brú na Bóinne Visitor Centre illuminates the skill that went into creating these dramatic ancient monuments. For a taste of medieval power, visit the striking Trim Castle, the largest Anglo-Norman castle in Ireland.

wATErFOrD CrySTAL CENTrE

Take a tour through the fascinating journey of the world famous Waterford Crystal and its heritage, from 1783 to the present day. Visitors to the Centre will be able to see the skilled artisans in action demonstrating cutting and engraving, and even attend the Master Craftsman Workshop.

Did you know? The Gordon Bennett Cup Race came to Ireland in 1903. Some 1,500 visitors brought their cars with them to see the race in counties Kildare and Laois. As the total number of cars in Ireland was around 300, it was the first time many Irish people saw a motor car!

VISIT THE SITE OF THE BATTLE OF THE BOyNE, COUNTy LOUTH The Battle of the

Boyne, fought between the deposed King James II and William of Orange in 1690, changed the course of British and Irish history and the Visitor Centre lets you ﬁnd out just how with a video presentation and interesting exhibitions. Follow the specially-constructed walkways across the site of the decisive battle, reliving the dramatic events.

wATErFOrD SPrAOÍ FESTIVAL, COUNTy wATErFOrD The annual Spraoí

Festival over the August Holiday weekend ﬁlls the charming city of Waterford with color and life. Diverse music, street art and cutting-edge performances make this festival an informal and fun atmosphere, attracting a range of performers from around the world.

DUNBrODy HErITAGE SHIP, COUNTy wEXFOrD

The legacy and experience of millions of people who left Ireland is commemorated by the Dunbrody, a painstaking replica of the 19th Century emigrant ships that transported many across the Atlantic to the United States of America. Learn about the events that drove so many to leave before reliving the experience of these emigrants, boarding and exploring the Dunbrody, before meeting interpretive actors with meager possessions and harrowing stories.

IrISH NATIONAL STUD, JAPANESE & ST FIACHrA’S GArDENS, COUNTy kILDArE The home of

Ireland’s thoroughbred racehorses, the National Stud is a must-see destination for any lovers of horses. Set within the grounds of the National Stud the beautiful Japanese Gardens celebrate their centenary this year whilst St Fiachra’s Gardens, also on the site, are an oasis of woodland and lakes. Japanese Gardens, Co. Kildare

Horse racing in the

East region

A DAy AT THE rACES

One of the most popular sports in Ireland, horse racing is strongly represented in the east of Ireland with race courses and meetings across the region, including Leopardstown in Dublin, Fairyhouse in County Meath (home of the Irish Grand National), Tramore in County Waterford, and Tipperary race course. For a more unique horse racing experience take in the races on the beach at Laytown, County Meath in September – the only horse racing event under Jockey Club rules which runs on a beach.

Meet Mick Mick loves the Irish culture and history, and enjoys spending a day with his family in County Kilkenny. Kilkenny is the craft, cultural “ and heritage capital of Ireland. It’s a beautiful medieval city and the county has plenty of hidden gems. You just have to come and see them. The Great Hall in Kilkenny Castle is very impressive. There’s so much history in the room and it gives a real sense of what the city of Kilkenny is all about. Thomastown is a quaint medieval town in East Kilkenny surrounded by the Nore Valley. It is known for its streetscapes and is home to many musicians and painters. I’d say the population is two and a half thousand max yet it has its own arts college. There’s a huge artistic community and this gives it a bohemian feel and adds to the social scene. We had a festival here recently called the ‘Lights Out Festival’. All the pubs in the town turned off their lights and used candles for the night and then the music sessions kicked off.

”

To watch a video of Mick showing you around Kilkenny go to discoverireland.com/go

For more in-depth information on the East and planning your visit go to our website:

discoverireland.com /east 33

The Lakelands

The Lakelands are an idyllic haven for ancient sites, tranquil settings with some of the most scenic backdrops on the Island. 34

The Lakelands

n many ways, a visit to this part of Ireland reveals the ideal blend of tradition with ancient sites. The Lakeland counties offer a mix of contemporary amenities, comforts and water born activities, all contrasting with timeless aspects of Irish culture. One of the most enjoyable ways to experience the Lakelands is by following the Shannon waterway. Beginning at Lough Erne in County Fermanagh, through the Shannon-Erne Waterway and running all the way down to Limerick City and the Atlantic Ocean, the Shannon and its waterways are excellent for fishing and watersports. Equally, a drive through the region is a great way to see the tranquil lakes and countryside and by visiting the wonderful towns and delightful villages you can experience the real Ireland.

Lough Oughter, Co. Cavan

The people of Cavan are fond of saying that there is a lake in the county for every day of the year and if you don’t believe that, a drive through the magnificent countryside with lakes and waterways all around you will prove it.

Its lively towns are steeped in history and culture and a night’s stay will allow you to experience the local atmosphere and warm welcome. The Lakelands are also packed with opportunities to explore Irish history, from Christian heritage sites such as the monastery of Clonmacnoise on the banks of the Shannon, to the harrowing but compelling Famine museum in the original stable yards of the Strokestown Park House in County Roscommon. To learn about the history of Irish whiskey and enjoy a sample of uisce beatha (water of life) take a detour up the Grand Canal to visit the original Tullamore Dew whiskey distillery at Tullamore in County Offaly. For an even more colorful view of local culture and history, few can match the people of the Lakelands for storytelling, insight and a willingness to chat, which you will encounter on your travels throughout the region when you come by a local pub holding a storytelling or writers’ evening or stopping to ask someone for directions. Become involved in Ireland and enjoy the journey it takes you on.

Read on for a selection of the best activities, events and sights in the Lakelands. And don’t forget – our website has even more information on the Lakelands and all it has to offer at discoverireland.com/lakelands

Harbour

Y RR

Donegal

Belfast Intl. Airport

Omagh

George Best Belfast City Airport

Belfast

TYRONE

FER

IT LE

SLIGO

RI M

Ireland West Knock Airport

n-Er

nno

Sha

Monaghan

NA GH

CA VA y rwa N ate

Cavan

Carrick-on-Shannon

OM SC

Longford

O GF

Roscommon

Athlone

Mullingar

MEATH

EATH WESTM

Dublin Airport

Naas

Tullamore

GALWAY

KILDARE

LY FA F O

Portlaoise

Ennis

Tipperary

EN Waterford

THE LAkELANDS WATERFORD

Waterford Airport

CORK

THINGS TO SEE CorkDO AND

Cork Airport

rOSCrEA – HErITAGE TOwN, COUNTy TIPPErAry

Roscrea is a town that is ﬁlled with wonderful heritage sites; Roscrea Castle and Damer House lie in the center of the town, the stone castle was allegedly built by King John in 1213 and Damer House is an example of pre-Palladian architecture. On another street, the west facade remains of the 12th century St Cronan’s monastery and the round tower still dominates the skyline. Other historical sites include the 8th century

Monaincha monastery and Mount St Joseph’s Abbey, home to an order of Cistercian monks and has beautiful scenic grounds.

TULLAMOrE DEw wHISkEy DISTILLEry, COUNTy OFFALy Tullamore Dew’s old

distillery has been transformed into a fascinating Heritage Centre, and a tour around the building, which once buzzed with activity, is a fantastic way to learn about the making and history of Irish whiskey.

rOSCOMMON Strokestown Park House, a restored 18th Century mansion, allows visitors to peer into the lives of Ireland’s landed gentry – and an altogether different history. In the stables of the stately home, you’ll ﬁnd the Famine Museum casting an eye on the Great Famine of 1845 to 1850. With original documents and images from the estate, the Museum hauntingly captures the lives of peasants during this landmark event in Irish history.

WEXFORD

RI ME

ER AR Y

Limerick

Kilkenny

Carlow

Shannon Airport

. Offaly

WICKLOW STrOkESTOwN PArk HOUSE, COUNTy

RL OW

IS LAO

CLARE

iskey Distillery, Co

DUBLIN

N LO

Tullamore Dew Wh

Navan

Galway Galway Airport

WN DO

GH MA

Enniskillen

Sligo Airport

AYO

NA GH

Sligo

Armagh

THE kINGFISHEr TrAIL CyCLE rOUTE

The Kingﬁsher Trail, looping around lakes, islands and scenic parks, is a particularly enjoyable long-distance cycle route for exploring the scenic delights of the Lakelands. Cycling is the perfect way to see a country like Ireland and the Kingﬁsher Trail has routes through Fermanagh, Leitrim and surrounding counties.

“I have so much to remember from Ireland! I can’t wait to return for new experiences” Strokestown Park House, Co. Roscommon

PHOENIX FESTIVAL, COUNTy OFFALy The

week-long Phoenix Festival in Tullamore in June is one of the liveliest events on the region’s festival calendar. It has an amazing line up featuring everything from a juggling festival and street entertainment to art workshops and music, and you can even ride in a hot air balloon above the scenic countryside – just be careful to hold on to your hat! Lower Lough Erne, Co. Fermanagh

CLONMACNOISE, COUNTy OFFALy Take the time to visit

the monastery of Clonmacnoise, one of Ireland’s most prized ecclesiastical sites. Found on a bend on the river Shannon south of Athlone, discover some of the most enchanting remains from Ireland’s ‘sacred’ past.

, Limerick City

King John’s Castle

BELVEDErE HOUSE & GArDENS, COUNTy wESTMEATH Located near Mullingar

town, Belvedere House Gardens and Park is a magniﬁcent 160 acre Lakeside estate with a fully restored Georgian Villa, Victorian Walled Garden and naturalistic designed 18th century parkland punctuated with romantic follies including the largest in Ireland – the Jealous Wall. Belvedere was once the home of the Wicked Earl Robert Rochfort who infamously locked up his second wife Mary Molesworth for 31 years on a spurious charge of inﬁdelity! It is the perfect stop for those looking to experience the magical culture of Ireland.

EMO COUrT HOUSE, COUNTy LAOIS Emo Court

House is a neoclassical country villa set within landscaped gardens and parkland ﬁrst laid out in the 18th century. Containing formal lawns, a lake and woodland walks, the gardens are renowned for their collection of specimen trees and shrubs.

kING JOHN’S CASTLE, LIMErICk CITy

In the heart of the medieval city of Limerick, King John’s 13th century Castle sits majestically on ‘Kings Island’ overlooking the River Shannon. The castle was almost destroyed in sieges including the Great Siege in 1642. The medieval garrison, soldiers’ quarters and over 1,000 objects have been excavated from the site in the past and a number of houses believed to be Viking in origin were unearthed during earlier restoration.

Did you know? Leap Castle in County Offaly is one of Ireland’s most haunted castles. Many visitors have reportedly seen the ghost of a young girl thought to be the spirit of a daughter of a one-time owner of the castle.

PATrICk kAVANAGH CENTrE, COUNTy MONAGHAN

Patrick Kavanagh was one of Ireland’s most gifted poets. The Patrick Kavanagh Centre at his birthplace in Iniskeen, County Monaghan, celebrates his work through exhibitions on local history and on Kavanagh, plus paintings and models illustrating his most famous work. The Centre also offers a unique performance tour of ‘Kavanagh Country’, featuring many local sites that appeared in his work and an abundance of stories and poems.

Meet Irvine & Jonathon Father and son, Irvine and Jonathon, love to spend time on the lakes of Fermanagh. The countryside around here “ is completely unspoilt. It’s got history, tranquility and some of the most beautiful loughs in Ireland. I used to think that this place was Heaven, and I still do to this day. It’s a great place to visit. But the real way to discover the beauty of Fermanagh is by boat. I would say Lough Erne is the most beautiful place and I’ve been fishing around here for 40 years. Devenish Island (an ancient monastic settlement contained in Lough Erne) is where education was kept alive by the monks in the dark ages. It’s a different world altogether with its ruins and old graveyards. I think it’s the most amazing place I’ve ever been – the history, the solitude; everything is here. There is one thing that you must bring when you come here – your fishing rod. The fishing is powerful here so make sure you come and do a bit of fishing and a bit of sightseeing because it really is a beautiful place.

”

To watch a video of Irvine and Jonathon on Lough Erne and Devenish Island go to discoverireland.com/go For more in-depth information on the Lakelands and planning your visit go to our website:

discoverireland.com /lakelands 37

Fairways to Heaven Ireland boasts some of the world’s finest golf courses. Its signature lush greens and spectacular coastal views make a trip to one of these courses a pleasure. Whether you are an amateur or a pro, take advantage of the great facilities on offer around the country and come to Ireland to join in the fever and practise your swing...

Lough Erne Golf Resort The Faldo Championship Course, with superb all year round playing conditions, is an exciting challenge for all golfers. Set on a 600-acre peninsula between Castle Hume Lough and Lower Lough Erne, the routing of the course has been planned carefully to take full advantage of the natural beauty and tranquility of the environment; this makes for fourteen holes where the waters of the Loughs come into play. Golf Carts and Clubs are available to hire. 120 Luxury rooms including 25, two and three bedroom Loughside Lodges; The Authentic Thai Spa; a variety of innovative Dining experiences; The Blaney Bar with an Exclusive Collection of 101 Irish Whiskies, combined with The Great Outdoors, makes Lough Erne Golf Resort one of the world’s most magical destinations. ‘Lough Erne Golf Resort, A Great Place to Stay, A Great Place to Play’ – Rory McIlroy. Lough Erne Golf Resort is proud to have Rory McIlory as its Touring Professional. Lough Erne Golf Resort, Belleek Road, Enniskillen, Co. Fermanagh, N. Ireland, BT93 7ED Tel: +44 (0)28 6632 3230 Email: info@loughernegolfresort.com Web: www.loughernegolfresort.com

The Island A classic championship links course, set in naturally rugged terrain, demands respect for the testing quality of its holes. Every shot is a challenge with 25 feet-high dunes & vaguely lunar crevasses running through the terrain & exceptional greens. The Island Golf Club is less than 15 minutes from Dublin Airport, yet the members have kept it a great secret since 1890. The Island has been described by visitors as ‘Once seen, never Forgotten’ Qualifying Course of the Open Championship 2005. The Island was ranked no 26 “must play” Golf Courses in Golf World’s November 2005 issue. The Island Golf Club, Corballis, Donabate, Co. Dublin Tel: +353 (0)1 843 6205 Fax: +353 (0)1 843 6860 Email: cathy@theislandgolfclub.com Web: www.theislandgolfclub.com

Golf International After more than 20 years, focused solely on designing and operating quality golf trips for discriminating clients to Ireland and Scotland, Golf International has the experience and expertise to customize the perfect golf trip to the Emerald Isle for you. Crafted by our knowledgeable staff in New York and overseen by our local offices in Ireland and Scotland, we will be with you from the very first planning steps, to being there, on-the-spot and at your service, during your trip of a lifetime. It’s this level of highly personalized service that makes the difference between a good trip and a truly extraordinary, golf travel experience. For a perfect trip to Ireland, leave all of the details to Golf International, the most trusted name in golf travel. Contact us soon. Golf International, Inc., 14 East 38th Street (15th Floor) New York, NY 10016 Phone Toll Free: (800) 833-1389 www.golfinternational.com

Tralee Golf Club Built by Arnold Palmer, this stunning setting represents a true paradise for those willing to challenge what is widely acclaimed as one of the finest links courses in Ireland. It comes as no surprise to learn that it is due to the majestic beauty of this setting that Palmer chose it to be his first (and arguably finest) golf course in Europe. In addition to boasting a clear view of the Atlantic Ocean from every hole, Tralee Golf Club has a fully qualified resident professional, fully stocked pro-shop and a spacious and comfortable restaurant and bar. It has earned it’s reputation for having a friendly and relaxed atmosphere among members and guests alike. As all the caddies are also members it is not uncommon to find a caddie and guest sharing a pint and a couple of laughs in the comfort of the upstairs lounge after a round. A trip to South West Ireland for the accomplished golfer could not be complete without playing at this most precious and unpretentious wonderland. Tralee Golf Club, West Barrow, Ardfert, Co. Kerry Tel: +353 (0)66 713 6379 Email: info@traleegolfclub.com Web: www.traleegolfclub.com

GOLFING ADVERTORIAL

Druids Glen

Golfpac International

Druids Glen Golf Resort features two championship courses; Druids Glen and Druids Heath, as well as the 5 star Druids Glen Marriott Hotel. Druids Glen, known as ‘the Augusta of Europe’, held the Irish Open on four occasions 1996-1999 and also played host to the inaugural Seve Trophy. The classic parkland course features many signature holes and provides golfers with a thrilling golf experience amidst a beautifully manicured landscape. Druids Heath with its unique links influences overlooks the Irish Sea, with the Wicklow Mountains providing its backdrop. This spectacular Heathland layout hosted the Irish PGA Championship in 2006. Druids Glen Golf Resort was given the honour of being voted European Golf Resort of the Year in 2005. With two world class championship courses, luxury accommodation, plus the authentic period style clubhouse, Druids Glen Golf Resort offers it all to the discerning golfer.

For over 20 years, golfers have been depending on the knowledge and expertise of Golfpac International to help select the most memorable Irish courses, to choose convenient and comfortable accommodations, and to recommend the best dining and scenic travel touring. Clients keep coming back because they find Golfpac dedicated to the details that can make an Irish golf vacation truly memorable. The pros at Golfpac International have always said there is something mystical about teeing it up in Ireland. It might be the lyrical accent of the starter, the ever-changing weather, the incredible links land laid out in front of you, or perhaps the combination of these things. Whatever it is, they’re sure you’ll agree that a golf trip to Ireland with your friends and family is truly magical. For information on turning your dream Ireland golf trip into reality please contact:

Druids Glen Golf Resort, Newtownmountkennedy, Co. Wicklow, Ireland. Tel: +353 (0)1 287 3600 Fax: +353 (0)1 287 3699 Email: info@druidsglen.ie Web: www.druidsglen.ie

Golfpac International, 483 Montgomery Place, Altamonte Springs, FL 32714, USA. Tel: (800) 523 0007 Web: www.golfpacinternational.com

Farnham Estate Situated amongst beautiful woodlands, lakes and meadows on the 1,300 acre Farnham Estate, the resort’s stunning Radisson SAS Hotel and amazing 40,000 sq ft Health Spa are but a few of its luxuries. New to the resort is a Jeff Howes designed golf course. The gentle but challenging journey on the front nine explores the undulating meadows of this magnificent estate while the back nine is a more vigorous test of golf, traveling through denser more rugged woodland. This is a wonderful test of golf and a beautiful journey with nature. Radisson SAS Farnham Estate Hotel, Cavan, Co. Cavan. Tel: +353 (0) 49 437 7700 Email: info@farnhamestate.com Web: www.farnhamestate.com

Killeen Castle Killeen Castle is a unique development set in the historic grounds of one of Ireland’s oldest and finest 12th century Norman castles. The spectacular 600 acre estate is home to a Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course, Europe’s only Dave Pelz Scoring Game School and is soon to be complemented by a luxury hotel and spa. It is a testament to the quality of Jack’s creation that the course has been awarded the honour of host venue for The 2011 Solheim Cup. Located 15 miles from Dublin near the picturesque village of Dunsany, just north of Dunshauhglin and overlooked by the ancient Hill of Tara, Killeen Castle offers all the joys of true country living with easy access to the city, being only forty minutes from both Dublin City Centre and International Airport. Killeen Castle, Dunsany, Co. Meath. Tel: +353 (0) 1 689 3000 Fax: +353 (0) 1 825 0706 Email: info@killeencastle.com Web: www.killeencastle.com

Giant’s Causeway Walled City of Londonderry Stroll around Slieve League Fermanagh Lakes

Indulge in homemade scones Royal Portrush Golf Club Armagh Planetarium

St Patrick’s Centre Walk in the Mountains of Mourne

Christ Church Cathedral, Dublin Lough Rynn Castle Enjoy the music in Galway Be inspired at Glendalough The Burren

Marvel at the views from the Cliffs of Moher

Relive a medieval banquet at Bunratty

Explore Rock of Cashel

Waterford Crystal

Relax on Tramore beach

Explore the Lakes of Killarney

Browse Cork’s English Market

For travel information and great vacation offers, Call 800 SHAMROCK or visit discoverireland.com

USEFUL INFORMATION General Information on Ireland ................41 Planning Your Trip......................................... 42 Traveling to Ireland ....................................... 44 Key Travel Facts.............................................. 49 Traveling Around Ireland ............................ 52 Route Mileage Planner.................................57 Things to See and Do .................................. 59 Activities........................................................... 60 Where to Stay................................................. 63

General Information GEOGRAPHY, POPULATION AND DEMOGRAPHICS 304 miles (486 kilometers) long and 172 miles wide (275 kilometers), the island of Ireland is divided into 4 historic provinces – Ulster, Munster, Leinster and Connacht – and 32 counties, of which 26 are in the Republic of Ireland and 6 in Northern Ireland. The Republic of Ireland is a parliamentary democracy headed by the President of Ireland, Northern Ireland has its own regional/local government and is part of the United Kingdom. The population of the island is approximately 5.7 million with over 4 million living in the Republic of Ireland and 1.7 million in Northern Ireland. Over half the people on the island

are under 30 years old and there is a rich diversity of ethnic groups and cultures. LANGUAGE Irish (Gaelic) and English are the official languages of the Republic of Ireland, street and road signs are all bilingual. In Gaeltacht (Irish speaking) areas, road signs may only be displayed in Irish and Irish is spoken daily though everyone speaks English. In Northern Ireland, English is the official language. The Irish language is also taught in many schools and summer schools. Ulster Scots, spoken in Northern Ireland, is on the increase and is being taught to those who are keen to explore another facet of their national identity.

Map of Ireland ..................Inside Back Cover

Grounds of St Patrick’s Cathedral, Dublin

Planning Your Trip PASSPORT/VISA REQUIREMENTS A valid US passport is required to visit the island of Ireland. Visitors of all other nationalities should contact their local Irish Embassy/Consulate prior to traveling to the Republic of Ireland and visitors to Northern Ireland should contact their local British Embassy, High Commission or Consular Office. Embassy of Ireland, 2234 Massachusetts Ave. N.W. Washington D.C. 20008. Tel: (202) 462 3939 British Embassy, 3100 Massachusetts Ave. Washington D.C. 20008. Tel: (202) 588 7800 Consulate of Ireland, 345 Park Ave., 17th Floor, New York NY 10154. Tel: (212) 319 2555 Consulate of Great Britain, 845 Third Ave., New York , NY 10022. Tel: (212) 745 0200 Consulate General of Ireland, 535 Boylston Street, Boston, MA 02116. Tel: (617) 267 9330 Consulate General of Ireland, 400 North Michigan Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611. Tel: (312) 337 1868 Consulate General of Ireland, 100 Pine St., 33rd Floor, San Francisco, CA 94111. Tel: (415) 392 4214 The Embassy of the United States of America, Dublin, 42 Elgin Road, Ballsbridge, Dublin 4. Tel: +353 (0) 1 668 8777 (business hours) The US Consulate General Danesfort House, 223 Stranmillis Road, Belfast BT9 5GR. Tel: +44 (0) 28 9038 6100

MEDICAL For visitors from the United States, private medical insurance is highly recommended. Please check with your carrier before departure regarding your coverage. VISITORS WITH A DISABILITY Ireland extends a warm welcome to disabled visitors. Many public places and visitor attractions are accessible to wheelchair users, and an increasing number of hotels and restaurants are well equipped to accommodate guests who have any kind of disability. Useful contacts include: REPUBLIC OF IRELAND National Disability Authority Tel: + 353 (0) 1 608 0400 www.nda.ie NORTHERN IRELAND Adapt NI Tel: +44 (0) 28 9023 1211 www.adaptni.org Disability Action Tel: +44 (0) 28 9029 7880 www.disabilityaction.org SENIOR CITIZENS Men and women over the age of 65 are recognized as being Senior Citizens and enjoy a variety of discounts and privileges. STUDENTS Ireland is student friendly, with many attractions offering a reduced student rate/admission charge on presentation of a valid student ID card. PETS Under the new European Union Pet Passport System animals can be brought into Ireland. Animals have to be identified by means of a mico-chip and entry is only allowed by airline and into Dublin Airport only. There are special regulations applying to certain breeds of dog. Pets entering Ireland from the US are

Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland • Affordable accommodation late May – September inclusive • Beside Temple Bar, College Green & Grafton Street • Surrounded by Theatres, Shops & Tourist Attractions • 800 rooms: single, twin, double, apartments • Standard and en-suite facilities • See the priceless Treasures in Trinity College

subject to 6 months quarantine. Quarantine can be avoided by following a similar program to the EU Pet Passport program. It includes having a vet carry out various tests and other procedures over a 6 month period in the US prior to travel. For more information contact: REPUBLIC OF IRELAND Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Tel: + 353 (0) 1 607 2000 www.agriculture.gov.ie NORTHERN IRELAND Department of Agriculture and Rural Development Tel: + 44 (0) 28 9052 4999 www.dardni.gov.uk For more information on planning your vacation visit www.discoverireland.com/facts CLIMATE Ireland has a mild, temperate climate with summer temperatures generally ranging from 60°F to 70°F. Temperatures in spring and autumn are generally 50°F and in winter between 40°F and 46°F. Snow is rare but rain showers can occur at any time of the year. For up to the minute weather reports visit www.discoverireland.com/weather

‘Sine Metu’

www.jamesonwhiskey.com

VISIT

JAMESON DISTILLERY TOURS

IRELAND

DUBLIN

CORK

Open 7 days all year, offering Guided tours , Whiskey Tasting, Gift Shop, Restaurant and Bars. Irish Shindig Nights, April October. full show package available, in the heart of Dublin City! Tour, 4 Course Dinner and Show The Old Jameson Distillery, Bow Street, Smithﬁeld, Dublin 7. e: reservations@ojd.ie, t: 00353 (0)1 807 2355, f: 00353 0(1) 807 2369. The Jameson Experience , The Old Distillery, Midleton, Co.Cork. e:bookings@omd.ie, t: 00353 (0)21 461 3594, f: 00353 (0)21 461 3704.

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20 mins, £1.50* single and £2.60* return. Taxi fare to city is about £7*. Trains run from adjacent Sydenham to Belfast and beyond. For information on regional airports and ferryports throughout the island, log on to www.discoverireland.com *Prices are subject to change.

Traveling to Ireland TRAVELING TO IRELAND’S AIRPORTS There are direct flights from many US airports to Ireland details of which are listed below. It’s very easy to get to Ireland if traveling from Great Britain, visit www.discoverireland.com for further information. TRAVELING FROM DUBLIN AND BELFAST AIRPORTS INTO CITY CENTERS DUBLIN Arriving in Dublin Airport, the options to get into the city center are by bus or taxi. Buses and taxis are located just outside the arrivals hall. A taxi can cost between €15-25* depending on where you are traveling within the city. Dublin Airport is located on the north side

of the city so fares to this part of Dublin will normally be cheaper than if you were taking a taxi to the south side. The direct buses to the city center and bus and train stations are available from Dublin Bus Airlink, €6* single and €10* return. Children travel at half price. BELFAST Belfast International Airport - Bus 300 now operates a 24 hour service between the airport and Belfast city center with buses departing regularly throughout the day, £7* single and £10* return. The bus leaves from the bus stop located opposite the terminal exit. Taxi fare to city center is approx. £22*. George Best Belfast City Airport – Bus 600 into city center, runs on the hour and then every

TRAVELING TO IRELAND FROM GREAT BRITAIN Travel to Ireland is convenient with an increasing number of air and ferry routes to the island now available from Great Britain. The island of Ireland is easily accessible by air, with over 30 airlines flying routes from more than 70 destinations to Ireland’s international and regional airports. To find your most convenient route visit: www.discoverireland.com The island of Ireland has 6 main ferryports – Belfast, Cork, Dublin, Dun Laoghaire, Larne and Rosslare. If traveling from Great Britain to Ireland, you can bring your car or go as a foot passenger.

AIR ROUTES DEPART

ARRIVE

AIRLINE

Atlanta Boston

Dublin Dublin Shannon Dublin Dublin Dublin Dublin Shannon Shannon (seasonal) Belfast International Dublin Shannon Dublin Shannon (May-Oct) Dublin Belfast (March-Aug)

Delta Aer Lingus Aer Lingus Aer Lingus American Airlines Aer Lingus Delta Aer Lingus Delta Continental Airlines Continental Airlines Continental Airlines US Airways US Airways Aer Lingus Flyglobespan

Chicago New York (JFK)

Newark

Philadelphia Orlando

Inverness Aberdeen

Dundee Edinburgh Glasgow City of Derry Prestwick Donegal Newcastle Belfast Sligo International George Best Belfast City Ireland West Knock Isle of Man Galway Blackpool Aran Islands Dublin Leeds/Bradford Liverpool Manchester Shannon Doncaster Kerry

Waterford Cork

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Traveling to Ireland

All information and air routes correct at time of going to press.

US TOUR OPERATORS

AIRLINE CONTACT DETAILS

A packaged vacation offers a variety of choices including a range of fully escorted coach tours, self-drive vacations, golf, cycling, walking, horse riding and fishing. A package, including pre-paid vouchers, can be booked before departure from a US tour operator. For details of packages please log onto www.discoverireland.com/offers

AIRLINE

TELEPHONE

WEBSITE

Aer Lingus

1-800-IRISHAIR

www.aerlingus.com

American Airlines

1-800-433-7300

www.aa.com

Continental Airlines

1-800-231-0856

www.continental.com

Delta

1-800-221-1212

www.delta.com

Fly Globespan

1-800-663-8614

www.flyglobespan.com

US Airways

1-800-622-1015

www.usairways.com

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EMAIL Internet cafés can be found in large towns and cities throughout the island of Ireland. Many libraries also have internet facilities.

Key Travel Facts BANKS Banking hours are generally 9:30/10.00am – 4.30pm Monday – Friday. Some banks are open on Saturday in Northern Ireland. ATM (cash) machines are located at most banks and accept most credit and debit cards. CREDIT CARDS Any credit card that bears the Visa, Mastercard, or American Express ‘badge’ will be widely accepted in Ireland. Visitors with other cards should ask in advance or see if the card is on display where they wish to use it. CURRENCY The euro is the currency of the Republic of Ireland. One euro (€) consists of 100 cent. Notes are €5, €10, €20, €50, €200 and €500. Coins are 1c, 2c, 5c, 10c, 20c, 50c, €1 and €2. In Northern Ireland, the currency is sterling. There are 100 pence to each pound sterling (£). Notes are £5, £10, £20, £50, and £100. Coins are 1p, 2p, 5p, 10p, 20p, 50p, £1 and £2. TIPPING In restaurants, when a service charge is not included, 10-15% of the bill is appropriate. Taxi drivers are usually tipped 10% of the fare and hotel porters about €1.50 or £1.00 per bag. In pubs, tipping bar staff is at the customer’s discretion. ELECTRIC CURRENT The standard electricity supply is 220 volts AC in the Republic of Ireland and 240 volts AC in Northern Ireland (50 cycles). Visitors may require a transformer and plug adaptor (to convert 2-pin plugs to the standard 3-pin plugs) which can be bought at airports or electrical suppliers. TIME Ireland is on Greenwich Mean Time (GMT). Clocks are put forward 1 hour mid-March and back 1 hour at the end of October.

During summer it stays light until as late as 11pm but by mid-December it can be dark by 4pm. TELEPHONE Mobile/Cell Phones Only digital phones with GSM subscriptions and a roaming agreement will work on the island of Ireland. Visitors should consult with their supplier before leaving. Pay Phones Easy-to-use country calling cards are widely available at many outlets. REPUBLIC OF IRELAND If calling the Republic of Ireland from abroad, all telephone numbers must be prefixed with +353 (drop the first 0 of the number). www.goldenpages.ie NORTHERN IRELAND If calling Northern Ireland from abroad, all telephone numbers must be prefixed with + 44 (drop the first 0 of the number). www.yell.com MAIL Post offices are generally open from 9.00am-5.00pm, Monday to Friday. Main post offices also open on Saturdays between 9.00am-12.30pm in Northern Ireland and 9.00am-5.00pm in the Republic of Ireland. Please note that exact opening hours vary depending on the size and location of the branch. MAIL CHARGES The cost of posting a standard letter or postcard is: Destination ROI € Within Ireland 0.55c To Britain 0.82c To other countries within the EU 0.82c To countries outside the EU 0.82c

NI £ 0.39p 0.39p 0.56p 0.62p

Prices are correct at time of going to print.

PERSONAL SAFETY Though the general level of personal safety is high, should you be unfortunate enough to be a victim of crime, contact: REPUBLIC OF IRELAND Irish Tourist Assistance Service (Mon-Fri), 1a Lower Grand Canal Street (Grattan Street Entrance), Dublin 2 Tel: +353 (0) 1 661 0562 Email info@itas.ie or visit www.itas.ie Store Street Garda (Police) Station (Weekend & Public Holidays) Dublin 2 Tel: +353 (0) 1 666 8109 NORTHERN IRELAND Contact the local police station where support will be available. Tel: +44 (0)845 600 8000 Email: info@psni.pnn.police.uk or visit www.psni.police.uk EMERGENCY TELELEPHONE NUMBERS REPUBLIC OF IRELAND Emergency Services; Garda (police), fire, ambulance Tel: 112 or 999 NORTHERN IRELAND Emergency Services; police, fire, ambulance Tel: 999 PUBS The legal drinking age is 18 years. Some pubs will insist patrons are over 21 years and carry some form of identification. (Legislation in the Republic of Ireland stipulates that children under 18 years are not allowed in premises that serve alcohol after 9.30pm) Pubs in the Republic of Ireland are open 7 days a week, usually from 10.30am. Closing times vary through the week but usually range from 11.30pm Monday – Thursday and from 12.30am Friday – Saturday. Sunday opening hours are 12.30pm-11.00pm. Opening hours in Northern Ireland are, generally, 11.30am-11.00pm Monday–Saturday and 12.30pm-10.00pm

What a guidebook doesn’t tell you, she will… Stay at an Irish Home in the Town, on a Farm or in the Countryside and discover the things that only a local could know. Copies of our guide are available from Tourism Ireland on Tel: 800

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Key Travel Facts Sunday. Many pubs have extended opening hours, particularly at the weekend. PUBLIC HOLIDAYS New Year’s Day St Patrick’s Day Good Friday (NI only) Easter Monday May Holiday Spring Holiday (NI only) June Holiday (ROI only) July Holiday (NI only) Aug Holiday (ROI only) Aug Holiday (NI only) Oct Holiday (ROI only) Christmas Day St Stephen’s Day (ROI) Boxing Day (NI)

1st Jan 17th Mar 2nd April 5th April 3rd May 31st May 7th June 12th July 2nd Aug 30th Aug 25th Oct 25th Dec 26th Dec 26th Dec

(ROI - Republic of Ireland / NI - Northern Ireland) Good Friday is not an official public holiday in ROI, although most shops and businesses are closed.

SMOKING RESTRICTIONS Smoking is not allowed in any public areas and work places, such as pubs, restaurants or hotels, in both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. STORES Shops are generally open Monday – Saturday 9.00am-5.30pm/6.00pm with late night shopping until 8.00pm or 9.00pm on Thursdays at many large stores. Sunday opening hours are generally midday until 5.00pm or 6.00pm (1.00pm-5.00pm in Northern Ireland). CUSTOMS Customs operate green and red channels at most ports and airports. If you need to declare goods over the duty and tax-free allowances for non-EU visitors you must use the red channel. Pass through the green channel if you have nothing to declare.

VAT (SALES TAX) REFUNDS Visitors to Ireland from non-EU countries can claim back sales taxes on purchases made in Ireland. Look for the ‘Tax Free Shopping’ sign in the windows of participating stores. You must complete a valid tax refund document obtained from the retailer and present the tax refund document and goods to Customs on departure from the European Union. A customs officer will check the goods and validate the tax refund document. You can receive your refund on the spot at some airports, otherwise you should mail the validated tax refund document back to the store and a refund will be issued. Ireland’s VAT rate is 21.5% on most items, so claiming VAT back equates to a reduction of 17.70% on the displayed price of items in stores. Refunds only apply to goods being taken out of the country, not services. WEIGHTS AND MEASURES The metric system has been adopted in the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland but is not always enforced. For example, drinks in pubs come in pints and food is sold in both pounds and kilograms.

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Killarney - Ireland’s most beautiful destination

TRAVEL ADVERTORIAL

Marvel at the beauty of its breathtaking landscapes and explore its heritage including the world famous Muckross House, Gardens & Traditional Farms and the wonderfully restored 14th century Ross Castle. Killarney National Park is an outdoor paradise with thousands of acres of mountains, lakes and oak woodlands for lovers of outdoor activity from leisurely strolls to challenging adventure. There are an incredible 43 Golf Courses within a two hour drive of Killarney. For top quality and choice in Accommodation & Hospitality, Spas, Dining, Evening Entertainment and Shopping. - Killarney has it all. In the heart of County Kerry, Killarney offers superb touring options and is the “perfect touring base” for Ireland southwest. For further information on where to stay and dine and, what to see and do in Killarney, log on to: www.killarney.ie

Two of Killarney’s Victorian Gems! The Malton Hotel

The Malton in Killarney has been welcoming visitors since 1854. It is truly the gracious ‘old lady’ of Irish hotels. Located in Killarney town yet on its own private grounds of six acres, this elegant Victorian-era hotel combines old-world charm with up-to-date luxury facilities. Great service comes easily with 155 years of experience, and the welcoming atmosphere creates an oasis of calm amid the bustle of Killarney. The Malton, Town Centre, Killarney, County Kerry Tel: + 353 64 6638000 Web: www.themalton.com Email: res@themalton.com

Muckross House, Gardens & Traditional Farms

Completed in 1843, Muckross House with its lakeshore gardens is Ireland’s most famous Victorian mansion - welcoming hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. Now incorporating an award-winning folk museum (Muckross Traditional Farms), Muckross House is the focal point for Killarney National Park and the premier heritage attraction site in Ireland. Muckross House, Gardens and Traditional Farms, The National Park, Killarney, County Kerry Tel: + 353 64 6670144 Web: www.muckross-house.ie

Luxury in the heart of Ireland’s magnificent Southwest Breathtaking views, World class service, Unrivalled complimentary leisure activities

An ideal base from which to explore famed Kerry beauty spots such as the nearby National Park, Ring of Kerry and the Dingle Peninsula Our hotels offer sheer comfort and exquisite cuisine. Whether enjoying the view from your balcony or relaxing in our spa, horse riding on our Haflinger ponies, playing tennis or fishing from our private pier you will feel truly at home in Ireland’s countryside.

E: hotelsales@killarneyhotels.ie I T: 011 353 64 66 71340 I W: www.killarneyhotels.ie

Traveling Around Ireland DRIVING A valid US license is sufficient to drive in Ireland. Driving in Ireland is on the left side of the road and seatbelts must be worn at all times, in the front and back of the vehicle. Drivers should note that they are obliged by law to carry their driving license at all times when driving in the Republic of Ireland. Motorcyclists and their passengers must wear helmets. There are very strict laws on drinking alcohol and driving and the best advice is simply “don’t drink alcohol and drive”. The measurement of speed limits on roads in the Republic of Ireland is kilometers per hour (km/h). In the Republic of Ireland, the speed limit is 120km/h on motorways, 100km/h on national roads and 80km/h on non-national roads. Motorists are urged to remember the change of driving laws when crossing into Northern Ireland. In Northern Ireland, the speed limit is 30 miles per hour (mph) in built-up areas 60mph on the open road and 70mph on motorways unless shown otherwise. CAR RENTAL Most of the major car rental companies have desks at airports, ferry terminals and cities across Ireland. Some companies do not rent cars to drivers under 21 years or over 70 years but please check with your car rental company before making a booking. All drivers must hold valid licenses. It is advisable to book in advance, especially if you are traveling during the high season. The majority of rental cars are standard shift but automatic cars are available, if booked in advance, for an additional charge. Child seats should also be booked in advance. For insurance reasons you should advise the car rental company if you intend traveling between the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. The trade organization for the car rental industry in the Republic of Ireland is the Car Rental Council – visit: www.carrentalcouncil.ie. In Northern Ireland, visit www.bvrla.co.uk. GAS/PETROL There is a good network of gas stations throughout Ireland, selling unleaded gas and diesel. TOLL CHARGES There are very few toll roads in Ireland. There are toll charges (c. €2-3) for using the new M50 (Dublin orbital motorway) and M1 Northern Motorway. Tolls for Tunnels and Bridges • East Link Bridge (Dublin) • West Link Bridge (Dublin) • West Link Bridge 2 (Dublin) 52

Motorway Tolls • M1 Toll (Drogheda By-Pass) • M4 Toll (Kilcock - Kinnegad) • M8 Toll ( Rathcormac - Fermoy Bypass) Barrier free tolling is in operation on certain motorways in the Republic of Ireland. Ask car rental companies if they provide an Easy Pass with your car. Visit www.eflow.ie for more information. INLAND FERRIES AND ISLAND BOAT SERVICES When visiting any of the offshore islands dotting the Irish Coastline, check out island boat services well in advance – and check again just before traveling since changes in the weather may affect services. Regular island boat services operate to the Aran Islands off the Galway coast; Rathlin Island off North Antrim; Aranmore Island off Donegal; Clare Island off the Mayo coast; and Sherkin and Cape Clear Island off the coast of West Cork. There are also several inland ferry services that ease traveling around Ireland and make the journey more interesting, such as the Strangford Lough ferry at Portaferry, Co. Down; the ferry across the Shannon estuary between Tarbert, Co. Kerry and Killimer, Co. Clare; and the ferry link between Greencastle, Co. Donegal, and Magilligan Point, Co. Londonderry. derry For information on the islands of Ireland log onto, www.irelandsislands.com PUBLIC TRANSPORT The island of Ireland has a reasonably comprehensive public transport system using rail and bus services. The rail network serves many large towns and cities across the island, including the ferry ports of Larne, Belfast, Dublin, Dun Laoghaire, Cork and Rosslare. Bus services link to the rail system as well as providing access to ferryports and airports. Recent investment in road and rail has provided more comfort for travelers offered greater frequency of service, improved travel times and opened up new services including the western rail link between Galway and Limerick. Rail and bus fares offer good value for the traveler with various discount tickets available offering unlimited travel on bus and rail services. Please check for offers when booking. REPUBLIC OF IRELAND Irish Rail – Iarnród Éireann Tel: +353 (0) 1 836 6222 www.irishrail.ie Irish Bus – Bus Éireann Tel: + 353 (0) 1 836 6111 www.buseireann.ie

Dublin Bus – Bus Átha Cliath Tel: + 353 (0) 1 873 4222 www.dublinbus.ie The Dublin area is served by the ‘Dart’ – Rapid Transit Rail – from Howth to Malahide in north Co. Dublin and Dun Laoghaire to Greystones in Co. Wicklow, serving the south of the county. The Dublin ‘Luas’ tram system is a state-of-the-art Light Rail Transit (LRT) system connecting outlying suburbs to Dublin city center with a high capacity, high frequency, high speed service. When in the Republic of Ireland call Luas on 1800 300 604 or visit www.luas.ie. New for 2010 the Dublin Bike Sharing Scheme, www.dublinbikes.ie NORTHERN IRELAND Translink Northern Ireland Railways, Ulsterbus, Metro (Belfast’s bus service) Tel: +44 (0) 28 9066 6630 www.translink.co.uk Check for specially discounted fares when traveling by public transport. For instance the Freedom of Northern Ireland/Emerald Card/Irish Rover tickets offer unlimited bus/train travel for 3, 5, 8 or 15 days. NOSTALGIC RAILWAY JOURNEYS There is nothing quite so magical as a steam train chugging its way through breath-taking scenery. So for those interested in a nostalgic means of travel, the experience of taking a steam train journey along one of Ireland’s old heritage trails is not to be missed. Organised by the Railway Preservation Society of Ireland, the trails go all over the country, each with their own particular theme. For example, the Strawberries and Cream day out on the Belfast to Dublin trail operates along the scenic route between the two cities. Another tempting journey is the Sea Breeze trail from Dublin to the popular coastal resort of Rosslare in County Wexford. Steam powered services are also run by local enthusiasts across the island during holidays. The Fintown Railway – known as the Mhuc Dubh (Black Pig) – in the heart of County Donegal operates along a 3 mile route through scenic hills and valleys. The Giant’s Causeway & Bushmills Railway runs a narrow gauge track along part of the old Giant’s Causeway Tramway from Bushmills, and the Irish Steam Preservation Society based in Stradbally, County Laois operates a 3ft narrow gauge railway for both vintage steam and diesel locomotives. For these and other steam train journeys visit www.rpsi-online.org or www.heritagerailways.com TAXIS There are metered taxis in Belfast, Dublin, Galway, Limerick and Cork. In other areas, fares should be agreed beforehand. In Belfast and Londonderry derry there are share-taxi services which operate like minibuses. Taxis are usually found at ranks in central locations and do not usually cruise the streets.

TAYLORS TRADITIONAL IRISH CABARET Starring Noel V. Ginnity April â&#x20AC;&#x201C; October TAYLORS IRISH NIGHT 7 nights a week 4 course meal including an Irish Coffee Music and Dancing

Taylors Three Rock, Grange Road, Rathfarnham, Dublin 16 Tel: +353 (0)1 4942311 www.taylorsthreerock.ie

Traveling Around Ireland

REGIONAL FLIGHTS ARE OPERATED BY AIRLINE

TELEPHONE

WEBSITE

Aer Arann

(353) 818 210 210

www.aerarann.com

Aer Lingus

1-800-IRISHAIR

www.aerlingus.com

Ryanair

(353) 818 30 30 30

www.ryanair.com

REGIONAL AIRPORTS The following internal flights are available within Ireland: DEPART ARRIVE Belfast City Cork Cork Galway Donegal Ireland West Knock Dublin City of Derry Cork

AIRLINE Aer Arann Aer Arann Aer Arann Aer Arann Aer Arann Aer Arann, Ryanair Donegal Aer Arann Galway Aer Arann Ireland West Knock Aer Arann Kerry Ryanair Shannon Aer Lingus Sligo Aer Arann

All information correct at time of going to press.

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IC E

B EST

LIT

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THE CASTLEMARTYR RESORT is nestled in a 220 acre estate amid the picturesque woodlands of County Cork, 20 minutes from Cork International Airport. Castlemartyr Resort is a seventeenth century manor house that sits adjacent to the ruins of a storied 800-yearold Castle. Its 103 guestrooms and suites offer contemporary design seamlessly blended with old world elegance. Property enhancements include The Spa at Castlemartyr, a renowned inland links-style golf course, a private lake with swans and miles of unspoiled walking trails.

CASTLEMARTYR, COUNTY CORK For reservations call us at +800 61363636 or book online www.castlemartyrresort.ie

Route Mileage Planner THE ROUTE MILEAGE PLANNER HELPS PLAN YOUR JOURNEY Roads in Ireland range from wide modern motorways to narrow country lanes. Driving in Ireland isn’t without its challenges but the rewards are great with scenic treasures around every corner.

Erne

non-

Shan

ay erw Wat

Ashbourne 2

h ag

MILES KILOMETERS

59 37

227 141

99 62

252 157

155 96

Inis Meáin

390 219 424 486 242 136 264 302 50 31

Inis Oírr

ai ler

89 55

113 209 117 70 130 73

Inis Mór

lf Be

128 183 180 151 79 114 112 94 250

127 167 230 256 237 233 78 104 143 160 147 138

53 33

144 90

84 52

83 52

133 82

130 148 347 81 92 215

236 146

93 58

306 320 209 272 204 212 237 190 199 130 139 127 136 148

257 160

116 284 353 148 335 309 114 78 177 219 92 208 192 73

149 323 156 93 202 97 98 61

377 232 436 474 234 144 271 295

87 54

102 244 64 152

451 115 280 71

80 50

135 84

35 22

y rr de C n o nd l 428 Lo ga 266 ne 402 69 Do k or

n Du

157 98

85 53

59 37

163 130 101 81

177 110

197 231 123 144

ll ki

en lk Ki

172 107

188 196 117 122

115 71

29 18

158 98

59 36

152 361 142 94 224 88

157 98

105 65

24 15

112 70

158 98

32 20

224 246 251 211 139 153 156 131

151 94

156 91

151 104 94 64

113 70

98 61

ick

Whilst every care has been taken to ensure accuracy in the compilation of this map, Tourism Ireland cannot accept responsibility for errors or omissions.

Lim

111 392 69 244

250 228 408 155 141 253 80 51

170 337 319 499 106 209 198 310

270 121 323 367 105 328 296 193 242 248 104 168 75 201 228 65 204 184 123 150 154 65

lla

441 407 304 350 355 193 198 274 253 192 219 220 120 123

301 187

y R

158 264 247 149 169 98 164 153 94 105

286 201 330 382 208 397 391 153 245 315 274 178 130 205 237 129 247 243 101 153 196 170

98 62

275 348 211 257 241 171 216 131 160 150

283 133 346 380 128 351 282 218 264 261 176 83 215 236 80 218 176 138 165 162

93 57

135 85

135 372 84 231

145 90

138 245 343 226 232 174 86 152 213 140 144 108

117 206 192 336 135 73 128 119 209 84

66 41

214 166 135 104

66 41

25 15

c os

Sli

325 218 203 136

301 164 333 391 126 383 357 163 242 281 220 187 108 207 243 78 238 222 98 151 175 137

48 30

193 357 129 266 208 120 222 80 165 129

82 51

152 293 95 182

264 184 309 360 187 164 117 192 223 116

80 50

254 326 190 235 222 158 202 118 146 138

19 12

213 133

378 372 135 226 293 253 235 231 88 141 182 157

320 154 234 199 96 146 85 53

lar

307 191

61 39

at W

ex W

To view or download a copy of ‘The long and winding roads of Ireland’ guide, visit www.discoverireland.com

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Things to See & Do As there is so much to see and do in Ireland it helps to have as much information at your fingertips as possible. As well as checking the Tourism Ireland website www.discoverireland.com we also recommend you try the following contacts to find out more about the wonderful range of historic houses and gardens, museums, castles, galleries and beautiful countryside when putting together itineraries. ALL ISLAND Houses, Castles and Gardens of Ireland Tel: +353 (0) 1 288 9114 www.gardensireland.com Heritage Island Tel: +353 (0) 1 236 6890 www.heritageisland.com REPUBLIC OF IRELAND The Heritage Service Tel: +353 (0) 1 647 6000 www.heritageireland.ie Heritage Towns of Ireland www.heritagetowns.com National Museum of Ireland Tel: + 353 (0) 1 677 7444 www.museum.ie NORTHERN IRELAND Northern Ireland Environment Agency Tel: + 44 (0) 845 302 0008 www.ni-environment.gov.uk The National Trust Tel: + 44 (0) 844 800 1895 www.nationaltrust.org.uk National Museums of Northern Ireland Tel: +44 (0) 28 9042 8428 www.nmni.com Northern Ireland Museums Council Tel: +44 (0) 28 9055 0215 www.nimc.co.uk

FESTIVALS AND EVENTS THEME

EVENT & LOCATION

DATE

TRADITIONAL

Temple Bar Trad Festival, Dublin

27-31 January

EQUESTRIAN

Hennessy Cognac Gold Cup, Leopardstown

7 February

FILM

Jameson Dublin International Film Festival, Dublin City

18-28 February

MUSIC

Opera Ireland 2010 Spring Season, Dublin City

27 February-7 March

FAMILY

St Patrick’s Day Festival – various venues throughout Ireland

12-17 March

ART

EV+A Exhibition of visual and art, Limerick City

13 March-23 May

EQUESTRIAN

Powers Irish Grand National, Fairyhouse

5 April

ARTS

Cúirt International Festival of Literature, Galway City

20-25 April

ARTS

Cathedral Quarter Arts Festival Belfast

29 April-9 May

OPERA

Summer Opera Festival, RDS, Dublin

May- June

GARDENS

Wicklow Gardens

May-August

EQUESTRIAN

Downpatrick Festival

7 May

AGRICULTURAL

Balmoral Show Belfast

12-14 May

MUSIC

Fleadh Nua Ennis

23-31 May

FAMILY

World Street Performance Championships, Cork and Dublin

June

ARTS

Listowel Writers’ Week, Co. Kerry

2-6 June

COMEDY

Carlsberg Cat Laughs Comedy Festival, Kilkenny City

3-7 June

FAMILY

Bloom 2010, Phoenix Park

3-7 June (provisional)

FAMILY

Cork Midsummer Festival

12-27 June

EQUESTRIAN

Irish Derby Festival Curragh

25-27 June

FILM

22nd Galway Film Fleadh

July

FESTIVAL

Lady of the Lake Festival Enniskillen

July

ARTS

Galway International Arts Festival

12–25 July

FESTIVAL

Festival of World Cultures, Dublin

23-25 July

EQUESTRIAN

Galway Festival

26-31 July

FAMILY

Waterford Spraoi Festival

30 July – 1 August

ARTS

Féile an Phobail Community Festival Belfast

31 July – 8 August (tbc)

OPERA

Castleward Opera

August (provisional)

EQUESTRIAN

Fáilte Ireland Dublin Horse Show

4-8 August

ARTS

Kilkenny Arts Festival

6-15 August

FESTIVAL

Puck Fair Killorglin

10-12 August

MUSIC

Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann

15-22 August

FESTIVAL

Rose of Tralee International Festival Kerry

20-24 August (tbc)

HERITAGE

Heritage Week (all island)

21-29 August

FESTIVAL

Ould Lammas Fair Ballycastle

30-31 August

FOOD

Hillsborough Oyster Festival

2-4 September (tbc)

MUSIC

Appalachian and Bluegrass Music Festival, Omagh

4-6 September (tbc)

ARTS

Dublin Fringe Festival

11-26 September

FESTIVAL

Midleton Food and Drink Festival

11 September

FESTIVAL

Belfast Garden Gourmet Festival

18-19 September

FOOD

Galway International Oyster Festival

23-26 September

ARTS

Dublin Culture Night

24 September

THEATER

Ulster Bank Dublin Theater Festival

30 September – 17 October

TRADITIONAL

Lisdoonvarna Matchmaking Festival, Co. Clare

October

FILM

Corona Cork Film Festival

October

OPERA

Wexford Festival Opera

14-31 October (tbc)

ARTS

Belfast Festival at Queen’s

15-30 October (tbc)

JAZZ

Guinness Cork Jazz Festival

22-25 October (tbc)

CINEMA

Foyle Film Festival Londonderry derry

November

EQUESTRIAN

Down Royal – Festival of Racing Lisburn

5–6 November

A detailed and up to the minute listing of Festivals & Events is available from www.discoverireland.com/festivals

Activities The island of Ireland offers a wide range of world-class activities from golf and angling to horse riding and cruising. For detailed information on Ireland, visit www.discoverireland.com/activities ANGLING With a huge variety of species of fish to be found in the large network of loughs, rivers and canals and surrounding lakes; a superb infrastructure of angling centers and fishing boat operators; and the beauty of the surroundings, it is not surprising that Ireland has become one of the world’s favorite destinations for game, sea and coarse angling. www.discoverireland.com/angling CRUSING & WATERSPORTS Ireland’s large network of lakes, rivers and canals is perfect for all kinds of relaxing cruising vacations. Family fun or the ultimate in romantic trips, nothing compares with boating over glorious waterways, passing some of Europe’s most beautiful scenery and stopping at lovely country pubs and restaurants along the way. For more information please visit www.discoverireland.com/cruising CYCLING A hugely popular sport in Ireland (which has produced several of the world’s leading cyclists), it is marvelous way to tour the country. A number of companies provide guided and selfguided cycling tours and you can hire bicycles throughout Ireland. For more information please visit www.discoverireland.com/cycling GAELIC FOOTBALL/HURLING/ RUGBY/SOCCER The unique Gaelic sports of football and hurling are as exciting as any sport in the world to watch and can be seen at stadiums throughout Ireland as well as at Croke Park in Dublin, home of the Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA). For further information Tel: +353 (0) 1 836 3222 www.gaa.ie Ireland’s four provinces – Ulster, Munster, Connacht and Leinster – all have strong rugby teams and the national side, composed of players from all four provinces, is one of the best in the world. For further information Tel: +353 (0) 1 647 3800 www.irishrugby.ie Soccer is hugely popular throughout the island of Ireland. For further information contact the 60

Football Association of Ireland (Republic of Ireland) Tel: +353 (0) 1 899 9500 www.fai.ie Irish Football Association (Northern Ireland) Tel: +44 (0) 28 9066 9458 www.irishfa.com GENEALOGY The following associations may be useful in assisting your search to trace your ancestors in Ireland: REPUBLIC OF IRELAND Genealogical Office (National Library) Tel: +353 (0) 1 603 0200 www.nli.ie The Association of Professional Genealogists in Ireland www.apgi.ie National Archives Ireland Tel: +353 (0)1 407 2300 www.nationalarchives.ie NORTHERN IRELAND Association of Ulster Genealogists and Record Agents www.augra.com The Public Record Office Northern Ireland (PRONI) Tel: +44 (0) 28 9025 5905 www.proni.gov.uk General Register Office Tel: +44 (0) 28 9025 2000 www.groni.gov.uk GOLF With over 400 courses around the island of Ireland, including over 30% of the world’s natural links courses and championship parkland courses of the highest standards, Ireland is now one of the world’s leading golf destinations. For more information visit www.discoverireland.com/golfing HORSE RIDING AND HORSE RACING Ireland is a beautiful country to explore on horseback and you will find a large network of friendly equestrian centers, some specializing in family vacations, offering all kinds of horse riding vacations. For more information visit www.discoverireland.com/equestrian or Equestrian Holidays Ireland at www.ehi.ie. Horse racing is a passion in Ireland and you’ll find several of the world’s most exciting and atmospheric race courses here, from

Punchestown and the Curragh in Co. Kildare to Down Royal in Co. Down and the famous Leopardstown and Fairyhouse courses close to Dublin. There is also a number of fabulous horse racing festivals to look out for, including those at Galway and Downpatrick. For further information and a full list of events, contact: Horse Racing Ireland, Tel: +353 (0)45 455 455 www.goracing.ie HORSE DRAWN CARAVANS The most colorful way to enjoy traveling in Ireland, this kind of vacation offers transport and accommodation and allows you to tour the country at your own pace. Don’t forget that you will need to feed, groom and harness your horse! For more information visit www.irishhorsedrawncaravans.com SPAS Ireland boasts some of the premier wellness centers and spa resorts in Europe, with dreamy pools, jacuzzis which cleanse the soul and a menu of luxurious exotic treatments. The list is endless, but for a taster why not try Temple Spa, Co. Westmeath, Molton Brown Spa at Killarney Plaza, Co. Kerry, Sámas Luxury Spa, Kenmare, Co. Kerry or Culloden Estate & Spa, near Belfast. For more information visit www.discoverireland.com/spa WALKING By spectacular coastline, over dramatic mountain scenery, over wild moorland, or by tranquil lakes, walking in Ireland is a joy. Look out for a whole network of Waymarked Ways, walking holidays and special festivals through the year. For more information please visit www.discoverireland.com/walking

8 and 15 Days

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Luxury Coach & Chauffeur Drive

g ratin 19 98 Celeb

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Taste the tradition we are rich in. • Bread • Butter • Cheese • Salmon • Jam • Irish Style Breakfast

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We are in the business of self-catering and finding you the perfect Irish Holiday Cottage. We can also help you with car hire.

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Irelandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s National Marian Shrine

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Our representative in the U.S. and Canada is Donna Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connor, who will be delighted to assist with full information on Shrine and Pilgrimages to Knock. Web:

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Please inquire about our new Genealogy Research Tours by County Series For further information on tracing your Irish roots please see page 9

Where to Stay In a country where hospitality is second nature, Ireland has a wonderful range of places to stay from the friendliest Bed and Breakfasts in the world to 5-star hotels. Visit www.discoverireland.com/offers for thousands of offers on accommodation in Ireland and to check out a range of attractive inclusive packages available from many tour operators. You can find welcoming Bed and Breakfasts throughout Ireland, even in the most remote areas, with a friendly personal service and wonderful full Irish or Ulster Fry breakfasts. To feel part of the countryside, nothing compares with a Farmhouse holiday but book early as they are very popular – it is a great way to get to know local people. Situated in lovely surroundings, Ireland’s elegant Country Houses offer a truly unique place to stay and often provide access to a variety of pursuits from angling to country cooking courses. Book in advance if possible. Inexpensive and comfortable, Ireland’s large network of Hostels gives budget travelers great independence. Facilities vary so check in advance. Camping and Caravanning in Ireland’s 200 sites, usually near the most beautiful scenery, is another way to enjoy the countryside on a budget, while selfcatering holidays, in traditional Irish Cottages or modern apartments and chalets can be enjoyed in villages, towns and cities. HOTELS & GUESTHOUSES The Irish Hotels Federation Tel: + 353 (0) 1 808 4419 www.irelandhotels.com Northern Ireland Hotels Federation Tel: +44 (0) 28 9077 6635 www.nihf.co.uk

e n e ui nc en rie g a xpe r e Fo d o fo

Manor House Hotels and Irish Country Hotels Tel: + 353 (0) 1 295 8900 www.cmvhotels.com Ireland’s Blue Book Tel: + 353 (0) 1 676 9914 www.irelandsbluebook.com Good Food Ireland Tel: +353 (0) 53 915 8693 www.goodfoodireland.ie BED AND BREAKFASTS Town, Farm & Country Homes (TF&CH) trading under B&B Ireland Tel: +353 (0) 71 98 22222 www.bandbireland.com The Friendly Homes of Ireland (Adams & Butler) Tel: + 353 (0) 1 288 9355 www.tourismresources.ie/fh Northern Ireland Bed & Breakfast Partnership Tel: +44 (0) 28 2177 1308 COUNTRY HOUSES The Hidden Ireland Guide Tel: + 353 (0) 1 662 7166 www.hiddenireland.com HOSTELS An Óige – Irish Youth Hostel Association Tel: + 353 (0) 1 830 4555 www.irelandyha.org Independent Holiday Hostels Tel: + 353 (0) 1 836 4700 www.hostels-ireland.com

Celtic Budget Accommodation Tel: + 353 (0) 1 855 0019 www.celtic-accommodation.ie Hostelling International Northern Ireland Tel: + 44 (0) 28 9032 4733 www.hini.org.uk CAMPING & CARAVANNING Irish Caravan and Camping Council www.camping-ireland.ie or British Holiday and Home Parks Association Tel: +44 (0) 1452 526911 www.bhhpa.org.uk SELF-CATERING REPUBLIC OF IRELAND Irish Self-Catering Federation Tel: +353 (0) 818 300 186 www.iscf.ie NORTHERN IRELAND The Northern Ireland Self-Catering Holidays Association Tel: +44 (0) 28 9043 6632 www.nischa.com Visit www.discoverireland.com to find a comprehensive list of every registered accommodation unit on the island of Ireland, including hotels, B&Bs, guesthouses, self-catering, camping and caravanning.

REGIONAL INFORMATION For further tourist information and useful addresses of regional tourism organisations visit: NORTHERN IRELAND & REPUBLIC OF IRELAND www.discoverireland.com

Best places to STAY, EAT, COOK & Shop committed to using Irish local and artisan food produce

BOOK DIRECT goodfoodireland.ie for everyone who simply loves good food

Advertisers’ Index A Adare Manor Hotel & Golf Resort www.ardaremanor.com Aer Lingus www.aerlingus.com Ashford Castle www.ashford.ie

D Dromoland Castle www.dromoland.ie Druids Glen Golf Club www.druidsglen.ie F Fado Fine Irish Jewellery www.fadojewelry.com Fexco Tax Free Shopping www.fexco.com Food Ireland www.foodireland.com

45 8

B B&B Ireland – Town & Country Homes 49 www.bandbireland.com Brendan Worldwide Vacations 45 www.brendanvacations.com Bunratty Castle and Folk Park 47 www.shannonheritage.com C Castlemartyr Resort www.castlemartyrresort.ie Celtic Golf www.celticgolf.com Celtic Journeys www.celtic-journeys.com Celtic Tours www.celtictours.com CIE Tours International www.cietours.com

H Heritage Ireland www.heritageireland.ie

56 55 56 58 56

8 39

44 47

I Imagine Ireland 61 www.imagineireland.com Insight Vacations 48 www.insightvacations.com Irish Country Hotels 45 www.irishcountryhotels.com Irish Family History Foundation 8 www.rootsireland.ie Irish Ferries 46 www.irishferries.com Irish Hotels Federation 62 www.irelandhotels.com Irish National Stud & Japanese Gardens 48 www.irish-national-stud.ie Irish Tourism.Com Ltd Inside Front Cover www.irishtourism.com Isle Inn Tours 50 www.isleinntours.com J Journey Through Ireland www.journeythroughireland.com Journey Through Ireland – Hertz www.journeythroughireland.com/hertz K Kildare Village Chic Outlet Shopping Centre www.kildarevillage.com Killeen Castle www.killeencastle.com Knock Shrine www.knock-shrine.ie

61 61

48 39 62

G Glynns Coaches 61 www.glynnscoaches.com Go Ireland Outside Back Cover www.goireland.com Golf International 38 www.golfinternational.com Golfpac Inc 39 www.golfpacinternational.com Good Food Ireland 63 www.goodfoodireland.com Guinness Storehouse Inside Back Cover www.guinness-storehouse.com

L Lough Erne Golf Resort www.loughernegolfresort.com M Manor House Hotels www.manorhousehotels.com Muckross House, Gardens and Traditional Farms www.muckross-house.ie

45 51

N National Museum of Ireland 58 www.museum.ie Nova Car Hire Outside Back Cover www.novacarhire.com

Q Quinlan Tours www.quinlantours.com R Radisson SAS Farnham www.farnhamestate.com Railtours Ireland www.railtoursireland.com Riverdance www.riverdance.com Royal Irish Tours www.royalirishtours.com S Shamrocker Adventures www.shamrockadventures.com South East Explorer www.southeastexplorer.com Specialized Travel Services www.special-ireland.com T Taylors Three Rock www.taylorsthreerock.ie Terry Flynn Tours Ltd www.terryflynntours.com The Europe Hotel & Resort www.killarneyhotels.ie The Island Golf Club www.theislandgolfclub.com The Malton Hotel www.themalton.com The Merry Ploughboy Pub www.mpbpub.com Thrifty Car Rental www.thrifty.ie Time Travel www.timetraveltours.com Tralee Golf Club www.traleegolfclub.com Trinity College Accommodation www.tcd.ie/accomodation Trinity College Library www.bookofkells.ie

39 47 43 6

64 12 54

53 58 51 38 51 47 57 62 38 42 10

U Ulster Scots Agency www.ulsterscotsagency.com

W Watercourse Distillery Ltd www.jamesonwhiskey.com

n-Ern

nno

Sha

rwa

te Wa

Ashbourne 2 3

Inis Mór Inis Meáin Inis Oírr

KEY TO SYMBOLS Train Route Ferry Airport Tourist Information Beach

Motorway Under Construction KILOMETRES

0 0

20 10

40 20

60 30

80km 50mls

MILES

Whilst every care has been taken to ensure accuracy in the compilation of this map, Tourism Ireland cannot accept responsibility for errors or omissions. Because of the small scale of this map, not all vacation centers can be shown. The information on this map is correct at the time of going to press. © October 2009 Tourism Ireland

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