While you might read the title of this blog post and think to yourself, “why NOT travel to Ireland?”, you’re not wrong! Ireland is a spectacular, unspoiled island filled with natural beauty, friendly people, and plenty to do and experience. In the spirit of St. Patrick’s Day coming up later this month, we wanted to highlight a handful of reasons that an Ireland vacation needs to be on your radar and what you must do and see when you go!

History and Culture

Ireland is truly rich with culture and immersed in history. As an isolated island, Ireland is a country that hasn’t really been affected by external influences. Celtic culture is abundant throughout the island, and many of the people living there today are descendants of pure Celtics. All throughout Ireland, you will find historical treasures in places such as burial grounds and ancient monasteries.

You can’t travel to Ireland without visiting the many historical castles. You’ll be surprised how casually you stumble upon these majestic and historically incredible structures. There are over 340 of them spread across the island built by the Irish, British, and Scottish through various times of conflict. There are certain castles you’ll want to make sure you see during your trip including Blarney Castle in Cork, Kilkenny Castle by River Nore, and Cahir Castle in county Tipperary.

The Scenery

Nearly anywhere you travel to in Ireland, there’s a scene that will take your breath away. Rolling hills, the sparkling sea, rivers, lakes, and even pristine golf courses will provide you with the opportunity to step back and enjoy the splendor.

Truly iconic sites that can’t be missed are the Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland, the Cliffs of Moher overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, and the Aran Islands outside of Galway Bay. The Aran Islands can be accessed from a ferry out of Galway, where you can then rent bikes and explore the islands yourself.

There is also the Ring of Kerry, a 111 mile circular drive in Kerry county. And we will tell you, it is worth the drive. Not only is the scenery spectacular, but there is beauty from start to finish and everywhere you look. Sights include castles, standing stones, historic mansions, forts, cathedrals, and endless scenic landscapes. Be sure to bring your camera for this one.

Music, Pubs, and Nightlife

It’s not secret that Ireland is an excellent spot for knocking back a few pints in a pub while listening great live music. Pubs are virtually everywhere you look and are a great place to interact with the locals. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, and you’re sure to make a few new friends.

Be sure to visit The King’s Head pub in Galway. This 800 year-old pub was named after the execution of King Charles I of England. The pub is 3 floors and features free live music every night. You’ll also have a chance to catch live sports and enjoy great food with locally sourced ingredients. Galway itself is a young town bursting with great food and vibrant nightlife.

The live music you’ll discover throughout Ireland is a whole other topic. Irish music has a specific sound to it whether it is upbeat and energizing or slow and eerie. Going on a pub crawl is the best way to experience a wide variety of live music. Outside of traditional Irish music, you’ll get the chance to hear American blues, rock, indie, and more.

Festivals

It doesn’t have to be St. Patrick’s Day to party in Ireland. No matter what time of year you choose to travel to Ireland, it’s highly likely you’ll be able to participate in one of the country’s many festivals. Every September there is the Galway International Oyster Festival. If you’re not an oyster lover, Dublin hosts a Writer’s Festival and a Dance Festival in the winter months. The Battle for the Bay is a watersports festival that is set to take place this May and is free entry for all. And anyone who loves to eat will thoroughly enjoy the Kinsale Gourmet Food Festival.

The longest running festival may perhaps be the Puck Fair. This festival takes place in Killorglin and is over 400 years old. It occurs for a couple days every August and it something you don’t want to miss. People fill the streets; there is live music, ample drinking, domesticated animals abound, and lots of fireworks and general family entertainment.

Ireland Vacation Accommodations

There’s too much to plan and prep for when you visit Ireland. Let us help you with the accommodation portion of your trip. Find Ireland timeshares for sale and rent in our inventory at incredibly affordable prices. Resorts featured include the Killarney Country Club and Connemara Country Cottage. Both offer spacious accommodations that are simultaneously quaint and cozy and offer incredible views of rivers, lakes, and the green rolling hills that Ireland is so well known for.

Killarney Country Club is meticulously kept and offers a great range of amenities including an on-site pub and restaurant, clay-pigeon shooting, horseback riding tours, and a nearby golf course.

Connemara Country Cottage resides in a stunning natural setting that features views of the sea, rivers, mountains, and woodlands. This is the perfect Irish escape with ample opportunities for fishing, walking, hiking, biking, and just taking in the surrounding scenery.

For help with planning your Ireland vacation, contact us now by calling 1-877-815-4227.