Ireland is an island to the northwest of Europe and is the third largest island in all of Europe. When people come to hear about Ireland, what usually pops into their minds are ancient castles and anything medieval. Although true, the country has also embraced the modernized world and at the same time embracing their roots.
Kiss The Blarney Stone
For over 200 years, world statesmen, literary giants, and legends of the silver screen have joined the millions of pilgrims climbing the steps to kiss the Blarney Stone and gain the gift of eloquence. Its powers are unquestioned but its story still creates debate. Some people even call it the Sorting Hat of the Harry Potter movies but a ‘Sorting Hat’ for kings.
Once upon a time, visitors had to be held by the ankles and lowered head first over the battlements. Today, the safety of visitors are the main concern of the caretakers of the Stone. The Stone itself is still set in the wall below the battlements. To kiss it, one has to lean backwards (holding on to an iron railing) from the parapet walk. The prize is a real one as once kissed, the stone bestows the gift of eloquence. Many tourists flock to kiss the Blarney Stone because they never know, they might be the lucky few who will be bestowed with the ‘gift of the gab’.
Sample A Pint of Guinness
Ireland has always been known to have lots and lots of pubs as they offer great pints of beer. Therefore, a trip to Ireland will be rendered incomplete if you have not tasted some of the ‘black stuff’ or Guinness. The best place to sample a pint of this renowned drink is in the Guinness Storehouse, after a tour around the brewery, finishing with a pint in the Gravity Bar with stunning views across Dublin.
Bunratty Castle
Tourists will always take the time to visit Bunratty Castle because they would like to think that they are living in the 1500s. As soon as you step into the castle, you are going to feel as if you were transported several years back as you are going to be escorted by people dressed in medieval costumes and led to rooms of splendor. Dine in medieval style with goblets, daggers and serving wenches with live entertainments from traditional Irish balladeers and someone being thrown into the dungeon. A feast of food and fun will surely delight any traveler visiting the castle.
Ring of Kerry
For tourists who want to view a scenic landscape in Ireland, visit the Iveragh Peninsula or more commonly known as the Ring of Kerry. The peninsula is part of the mystical and unspoilt region of Ireland that has attracted visitors for hundreds of years. Its spectacular beauty is beyond question and it is a natural centre for outdoor pursuits including golf, watersports, cycling, walking or hiking.
The Ring of Kerry also has some of the finest beaches in all of Ireland. From above, it also provides a great view of the ancient heritage of Ireland like the Iron Age Forts & Ogham Stones, Old Monasteries and a landscape carved out of rock by the last Ice Age 10,000 years ago. Visitors to Ireland should not miss a trip to the beautiful Ring of Kerry.
There still is a lot of things to see in Ireland. Do not limit yourself to what the usual spots tourists will often visit. Try to uncover your own favorite spots in Ireland and feel the rush of your blood as soon as you get to see what the country has to offer. For more ancient landmarks, you may want to take a trip to Athens, a neighboring country.
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