Touring Ireland: Our Six National Parks
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text] Touring Ireland: Our Six National Parks [/vc_column_text][focus_image_nd image=”9277″ link=”url:%23||”][vc_empty_space][vc_column_text] Ireland is extremely well-known for its nature. Our nickname “The Emerald Isle” was given to us due to our limitless, rolling green landscapes, teeming with flora, fauna and bodies of water. Six National Parks have been set up across the island to preserve slices of the land and ensure the safety of countless different habitats unique to Ireland. These parks are all different to each other, with every park offering something totally unique for visitors to explore and learn about. Our National Parks are perfect for a day trip, so read on and start planning a day out while you’re touring Ireland![/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][team_horizontal_nd color=”green” title=”Ballycroy National Park” image=”7520″ link=”url:%23||”][vc_column_text]Ballycroy is located in Northwest Mayo and is one of the largest natural expanses of peatland in Europe. It is roughly 45 square miles in size, containing a diverse mix of flora and fauna. It was established as a national park in 1998. The park contains an information centre as well as tea rooms for anyone visiting the park. When touring Ireland, if you’re looking to find a landscape that is the epitome of the West Coast, Ballycroy is the destination for you. The park contains countless breathtaking views of the western landscape, providing lots of brilliant photo opportunities for anyone lucky enough to be touring Ireland. For more details on Ballycroy National Park,click here.[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][team_horizontal_nd color=”green” title=”Connemara National Park ” image=”7525″ link=”url:%23||”][vc_column_text]Located in west County Galway, Connemara National Park was established and opened in 1980. It contains roughly 30 square miles of mountains, grasslands, bogs, heaths and forestry. The park contains mountains (Benbaun, Bencullagh, Benbrack and Muckanaght) which are part of a local mountain range known as the Twelve Bens. 4000-year-old megalithic court-tombs also reside on the land. Fauna including the famous Connemara ponies and red deer roam the park. The grounds contain an information centre and tea rooms for visitors. Connemara is a picture-perfect destination for visitors, with the rich, rugged landscape providing a paradise for any adventurous spirits touring Ireland. For more details on Connemara National Park, click here[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][team_horizontal_nd color=”green” title=”The Burren National Park ” image=”7523″ link=”url:%23||”][vc_column_text]The Burren is a huge karst landscape situated in County Clare. It was created in the Ice Age, and the etymology behind its name is Irish for “Great Rock”. The Burren National Park is located in the south-eastern corner of the Burren and is approximately 1500 hectares (6 square miles) in size. The land was bought by the Government for nature conservation and public access. It contains examples of all the major habitats within the Burren, including limestone pavement, calcareous grassland and hazel scrub. The Burren contains many hidden gems, such as underground rivers and lakes, as well as caves and chambers, making it a fun, adventurous day out for people touring Ireland. It also contains some of the best examples of Europe’s Megalithic tombs. For more information on The Burren National Park, click here.[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][team_horizontal_nd color=”green” title=”Glenveagh National Park” image=”7527″ link=”url:%23||”][vc_column_text]Glenveagh was established in 1984 and is Ireland’s second-largest national park. Located in County Donegal, it covers over 65 square miles of hillside within the heart of the Derryveagh mountains. Glenveagh is brilliant for anyone touring Ireland with an interest in wildlife, as the park is home to the largest herd of red deer in Ireland, and the formerly extinct golden eagle was reintroduced to the park in 2000. Other fauna such as hares, peregrine falcons, and foxes all thrive in Glenveagh. At the centre of the park resides Lough Veagh, the largest body of water in the park. A nature education centre, restaurant and tea rooms are all open to the public. For more information on Glenveagh National Park, click here.[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][team_horizontal_nd color=”green” title=”Killarney National Park” image=”7529″ link=”url:%23||”][vc_column_text] Killarney National Park, situated in County Kerry, is Ireland’s first established national park. Opened in 1932, the park covers over 39 square miles of woodland, lakes, waterfalls and mountains. The park contains Ireland’s only native herd of red deer, and is a prime area for many rare species of fauna to thrive. The park provides sanctuary to oak and yew woodlands of international importance, and was designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1981. There are also many attractions on the grounds, including Muckross House, Knockreer Demesne and the Old Weir Bridge. There is an education centre for visitors located in Muckross House. Killarney Park is worth a visit when touring Ireland at any time of the year. For more information on Killarney National Park, click here [/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”52px”][team_horizontal_nd color=”green” title=”Wicklow Mountains” image=”7530″ link=”url:%23||”][vc_column_text]The Wicklow Mountains form the largest continuous uphill area in Ireland. They were established as a National Park in 1991, covering approx. 79 square miles of land. Powerscourt Waterfall is situated in the park and is Ireland’s largest waterfall at 397 feet tall. Glendalough Valley, the park’s biggest tourist attraction, sees more visitors than any other part of the park. Glendalough features a collection of Early Medieval monastic structures associated with St Kevin, a hermit priest. The grounds are also home to an education centre and a sensory garden. Anyone visiting the park is in for a treat, as recreational activities available within the park include walking and hiking, rock climbing, limited swimming and fishing. For more information on Wicklow Mountains National Park, click here.[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][/vc_column][/vc_row]
The Nine Best Castle Tours In Ireland
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text][/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][vc_column_text]Ireland is famed for its ancient and mystical scattering of castles and ruins. The large, hulking figures of centuries-old battlements dot the landscape from Donegal to Cork. Much of our myth, legend and history is centred around crumbling castles and their grounds, spawning stories that have been passed from generation to generation. Whether you’re looking for a spooky tour of some haunted castles in Ireland, want to take a closer look at artefacts and furniture, or are on the hunt for a historical experience, one of these 9 top Irish castles should definitely be on your vacation itinerary. Here are the 9 best castles to visit in Ireland.[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][vc_column_text] [/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][vc_column_text] King John’s Castle At the heart of Limerick City lies King John’s Castle. The monument was built around the 1200s by its namesake, and is currently one of the most painstakingly preserved Anglo-Norman castles in Europe. The castle has been the site of Viking settlements and bloody battles alike; it was an especially important part of the 1642 Siege of Limerick. Today the stronghold is home to a visitor’s centre, a charming café and many interactive exhibits. The castle overlooks the stunning River Shannon – if you visit, be sure to enjoy a coffee whilst taking in the view. To learn more about King John’s Castle, click here. [/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][vc_column_text] [/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][vc_column_text] Trim Castle Based in Trim, Co. Meath, Trim Castle is the largest remaining Anglo-Norman construction in Ireland. It took thirty years to construct and was built in the 12th century. The stronghold was the headquarters of the Lordship of Meath for years. It is also famed for its use as a backdrop in the film Braveheart. Trim is considered to be the oldest castle in Ireland. Today, the castle has an excellent tour, detailing its bloody history expertly. The castle is open to the public during the period between Easter Saturday and Halloween, and guided Trim castle tours are available from Monday to Friday. To learn more about Trim Castle, click here.[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][vc_column_text] [/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][vc_column_text] Donegal Castle Dominating the centre of Donegal town, Donegal Castle is rumoured to have been a Viking stronghold in the 12th century. The part of the castle that stands today was built in 1474, with walls and other extensions being added on over the centuries. Today Donegal Castle has been restored wonderfully and is available to tour. As you explore the castle, its history is explained through a series of informative panels. It is home to unique and interesting events all year round, including Gaelic evenings. To learn more about Donegal Castle, click here.[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][vc_column_text] [/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][vc_column_text] Bunratty Castle This castle resides in Bunratty Co. Clare, and has been named an official National Monument of Ireland. The fortress has a bloodied past and was the battleground for The Bruce Wars. It has been demolished and re-erected four times total, with the current version dating back to 1425. The castle is the most complete example of medieval architecture in the country and is home to The Bunratty Collection, a vast selection of important artefacts. The surrounding grounds are also home to the charming Bunratty Folk Park, a recreation of 19th-century Irish life. To learn more about Bunratty Castle, click here.[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][vc_column_text] [/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][vc_column_text] Kilkenny Castle Named for the county in which it resides, Kilkenny Castle dates back as far as 1172 when it was a wooden stronghold built by Strongbow. The castle has a rich history spanning centuries and was the backdrop for the Norman occupation of Ireland as well as the Civil War. In modern day, the castle is home to stunning art collections and important pieces of history. The castle and surrounding grounds are available to visit, and the gardens are home to exhibitions and a playground for children. It is one of the most culturally immersive castle tours in Ireland. To learn more about Kilkenny Castle, click here.[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][vc_column_text] [/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][vc_column_text] Birr Castle Birr Castle is situated in Co. Offaly, in the center of the country and is definitely one of the must-see castles in Ireland. The castle has been in existence since the 12th century and was a lively hub of astronomical pursuits for many decades. The largest telescope in the world (at the time) was constructed here in the 1600s, and could see further into space than any other instrument. Today, Birr is home to many fun and interesting sights, making it one of the best Irish castle tours. They have a Science Centre as well as some beautiful gardens to explore – Birr is home to the World’s Tallest Hedges, which are over 300 years old! To learn more about Birr Castle, click here.[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][vc_column_text] [/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][vc_column_text]Blarney Castle is without a doubt the most famous entry on our list of the best castles of Ireland. Dating back to the 11th century, it’s one of the oldest structures in the country and is situated in Cork. The stronghold is best-known for its mythical Blarney Stone, a slab of rock believed to give the Gift of The Gab to anyone who plants a kiss on it. The castle itself has lots of other intriguing features – it isn’t the most famous castle in Ireland for no reason! Take a tour of the insides before exploring the vast, sprawling grounds. The castle gardens are home to the Witches’ Kitchen, some wish-granting waterfalls as well as a cornucopia of native flora and fauna. To learn more about Blarney Castle, click here.[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][vc_column_text] [/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][vc_column_text] Dublin Castle Dublin castle, situated off Dame Street in Dublin City, was a major stronghold and the epicentre of the city for decades. The castle began construction in the 1200s and has a bloody but brilliant history. It’s most infamous for being the British seat of Administration before Ireland gained its independence in 1921. Today, the castle houses two museums devoted to telling the story of Irish history. The halls are full of sumptuous art, architecture and artefacts that help illustrate the Ireland of old. Specialized tours of the castle are available and there’s no shortage of things to see and do.
Your Family Trip To Ireland: 5 Fun Days Out
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text][/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][vc_column_text]When it comes to family days out in Ireland, we certainly are spoilt for choice. We have a vast range of zoos, parks and family-oriented attractions for visitors to pick and choose from, ensuring that you and your brood are never bored on your visit here! Although it was difficult to narrow it down, we’ve put together a guide to 5 fun things to do during your family trip to Ireland. If you’re coming to visit Ireland and bringing kiddies with you, then this guide is an absolute must-read. It’s your kids holiday as well as yours, and while they may not mind visiting museums and taking in all the interesting culture Ireland has to offer, it’s nice to have some activities planned that the entire family will enjoy. Read on and plan some day-trips to ensure your family trip to Ireland will be fuss-free and fun for everyone, regardless of age.[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][vc_column_text][/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][vc_column_text]Tayto Park Located in Ashbourne, County Meath, Tayto Park is a theme-park/zoo in the Midlands. As its name suggests, the park is owned by the Irish crisp/chip brand Tayto. It is Ireland’s only year-round theme park and is home to Europe’s largest wooden rollercoaster. The zoo is home to a mob of meerkats, an Amur tiger, and some American Bison among other animals. The park is open all year round and is suitable for children and adults of all ages. Tayto Park has something for everyone of every age, making it a perfect day out during your family trip to Ireland. The official website for Tayto Park can be found here.[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][vc_column_text][/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][vc_column_text]Fota Wildlife Park Fota Wildlife Park is a 75-acre wildlife park located on Fota Island, near Carrigtwohill, Co. Cork. The purpose of the park is to preserve various species of wildlife, and the park is a non-profit organisation. Fota Wildlife has an extensive range of strange and exotic wildlife, making it an interesting destination to visit during your family trip to Ireland. Many non-native animals call Fota Wildlife Park their home, such as giraffes, cheetahs, red pandas and capybaras. Some of the animals roam freely among the visitors, such as lemurs and wallabies, providing a unique and up-close experience unavailable anywhere else in Ireland. The Park is open to visitors of all ages, all year around. The official website for Fota Wildlife Park can be found here.[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][vc_column_text][/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][vc_column_text]Dublin Zoo Dublin Zoo is Ireland’s largest zoo and is located in the Phoenix Park in Dublin City. Opened in 1831, it is one of the world’s oldest zoos. The Zoo is considered an Irish institution and is home to over 400 animals, such as elephants, zebras, tigers, penguins and a wide range of primates. Many of the species under protection in Dublin Zoo are rare and endangered, and Dublin Zoo is part of many international breeding programmes for the conservation and repopulation of certain species. The zoo is open all year round to visitors of all ages. The official webiste for Dublin Zoo can be found here.[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][vc_column_text] [/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][vc_column_text]The National Wax Museum Plus The National Wax Museum Plus is a waxworks museum housed in the left flank of the Irish Houses of Parliament in Dublin City. Like other wax museums, the National Wax Museum contains wax figures of celebrities, cartoon characters and movie characters, but they also have a mythology section, an Irish history section, a science department, and the Chamber of Horrors, a section containing many scary and creepy figures. The Museum is open all year round to people of all ages and is wheelchair accessible. The official website for the National Wax Muesum Plus can be found here.[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][vc_column_text][/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][vc_column_text]Glendeer Pet Farm Glendeer Pet Farm is an open farm located near Athlone, Co. Westmeath. The award-winning farm offers an interactive experience for visitors, with chances to pet the animals such as kittens, rabbits and puppies. Each visitor will also be provided with a bag of food and have the chance to feed animals including emus, cows, and llamas. In 2010, the farm became home to non-native wallabies, monkeys and tortoises, diversifying the animal population there. The farm also provides a café, indoor and outdoor playgrounds, a Sky Walk and a fantastic six-kilometre nature trail. Glendeer Pet Farm is open all year round to people of all ages. The official website for Glendeer Pet Farm can be found here.[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][/vc_column][/vc_row]
