Nicknamed “The Emerald Isle” for its lush terrain, Ireland offers both vivid scenery and rich cultural traditions. It has contributed to world-class literature with authors such as James Joyce, Jonathan Swift, Oscar Wilde, William Butler Yeats and others. From the rugged coastal landscape of Connemara, which Wilde once described as having “savage beauty,” to the bustling birthplace of Guinness beer in Dublin, Ireland’s attractions never disappoint.
Major Attractions: Drive along the scenic coastline of the wild Atlantic or sample a pint of Guinness beer in Dublin. Other prominent attractions include the Cliffs of Moher, Killarny National Park, Ireland’s renowned golf courses, Old Jameson Distillery, St. Patrick Cathedral and the passage graves in the Brú na Bóinne region, which predate the pyramids of Egypt.
Great for Church Groups: Hike the holy mountain of Croagh Patrick, where St. Patrick fasted for 40 days at the summit, or stop by Our Lady of the Knock Shrine, which marks the location where the Virgin Mary, St. Joseph and St. John are said to have appeared. Clonmacnoise Monastery is where the last high king of Ireland is buried.
Hidden Treasures: Try your hand at flying falcons at Dromoland Castle, examine the intricate Book of Kells at Trinity College Dublin, or learn about the construction of the ill-fated Titanic at Titanic Belfast. An additional treat is the Dublin Literary Pub Crawl, which leaves nightly from Duke Street and features tributes to many of Ireland’s great authors at each pub.
Unique Souvenirs: Some of Ireland’s most beloved keepsakes include Celtic art, ceramics, pottery, chocolate, Irish whiskey, Aran sweaters, Avoca woolen throws, Claddagh rings, traditional Irish drums and books from native authors like Joyce and Wilde.
For more information contact Ireland Tourism at 212-418-0800 or go to www.ireland.com