4 minute read
Further Afield
Fota Wildlife
Advertisement
Rock of Cashel
Bunratty Castle
The Rock of Cashel Cashel, Co. Tipperary 062-61437
Overlooking the town of Cashel, there is a spectacular group of medieval buildings set on an outcrop of limestone. These include a 12th century round tower, high cross and Romanesque chapel, a 13th century Gothic cathedral, a 15th century castle and the restored Hall of the Vicars choral. This exciting stroll through centuries of history on a single site is complemented through an audiovisual show and exhibitions. Guided tours are available but visitors are advised to check times etc.
Scattery Island Kilrush, Co. Clare 085-2505512 / 085-2505514
Just one hour from Limerick city and located on the Wild Atlantic Way, just off Kilrush in Co. Clare, Scattery Island has a fascinating history, and was once the home of legendry monsters, medieval saints, Irish chieftains, Vikings, adventurers’ raiders and traders. The island features a wealth of historic sites, including five Churches, a Cathedral, a magnificent Round Tower, Napoleonic War Artillery Battery and a working Lighthouse.
Fota Wildlife Park Carrigtwohill, Co. Cork 021-4812678
Around 20 minutes from Cork City, Fota Island is home to a 75-acre wildlife park featuring both flora and fauna of Irish and more exotic origins. You can see animals like gibbons, wallabies, prairie dogs, monkeys, tapirs, cheetahs, ostriches, lemurs, giraffes, flamingos, kangaroos, zebras, seals, bison and more. The park is also home to many tree and plant species. There are tours and activity days that make for a fun family day out.
Blarney Castle Blarney, Co. Cork 021-4385252
A few kilometres outside Cork City lies the world famous Blarney Castle and stone. The current keep was built by the MacCarthy clan and dates from the 15th century but earlier fortifications are thought to have been based on the same site. It has a fascinating history, with sieges and tales galore. Large parts of the castle are intact. At its top, the main attraction is the ‘Stone of Eloquence’—better known as ‘The Blarney Stone.’ Legend has it that if you kiss it, you will get “the gift of the gab”!
The Burren
Killarney National Park Killarney, Co. Kerry 064-6631440
Ireland’s very first national park now covers almost 25,000 acres. This beautiful expanse includes the Lakes of Killarney, lush forests of oak and yew trees, boglands, mountains and is home to the country’s only native herd of Red Deer. Other highlights include historical sites like Ross Castle, Muckross Abbey and the mansion, Muckross House and Gardens, onetime home to the family that donated land to found the national park. Nearby beaches Several seaside towns and villages are within reach of Limerick by car, so if the weather is fine, many people head to the beach. In Clare, Lahinch, Kilkee, Spanish Point and Fanore are some of the most popular beaches for both swimming and watersports like surfing. In Kerry, Ballybunion beach and others like Banna Strand near Tralee are favourites with holidaymakers.
9ESCAPE IN COMFORT
Rest, relax and enjoy Limerick
The Bedford Townhouse & Café Bedford House, 11-12 Bedford Row 061-204400 www.thebedford.ie
The Bedford is a boutique 12-bedroom property located in the heart of Limerick city. Lovingly restored, with original architectural features and stylish modern touches, this heritage townhouse is just the place for an urban luxury escape.
The Bedford Café is located on the ground floor of the Townhouse and is the perfect space to meet friends, enjoy specialty coffee and sample the delicious all day brunch menu which is locally sourced.
The Bedford Townhouse & Café “ This heritage townhouse is just the place for an urban luxury escape
Townhouse guests can choose between the Chic, Elegant or Suite bedrooms and avail of the Parlour Room hideaway, gym and steamroom to unwind. Step back in time with The Bedford Row Heritage Trail on display in The Parlour Room and learn about the clothes making history of this unique property. After a restful night’s sleep, wake up to the Wellness Breakfast in The Bedford Café before exploring the many sights & attractions that Limerick has to offer.
The Bedford is also proud to be a sustainable business. All coffee cups and packaging materials in The Bedford Café are 100% compostable. The Townhouse also provides guests with eco-friendly Anyah spa products; minimising its use of plastic. “ A slick new addition to Limerick with lots
As a boutique property, The Bedford can tailor a personalised Limerick experience for each of their guests. Described by Pól Ó Conghaile as “a slick new addition to Limerick with lots of love for local materials and heritage, bang in the middle of the city” this is definitely one to add to the little black book for Limerick.
Follow The Bedford on: facebook.com/TheBedfordLimerick instagram.com/bedfordlimerick twitter.com/bedfordlimerick
