Film, food, fascinating sights and fun; Ireland is more than meets the eye
Picture driving through verdant landscapes with watercolour palette shades of pink and lavender across the sky, and majestic storybook castles in the distance. Or standing at a tall cliff, riding bicycles off the beaten path, strolling through historic towns, chatting with the friendliest locals at town markets.
Or visiting the 2020 European Capital of Culture, Galway – which will welcome visitors with a week- long opening ceremony set to light up Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way, and a series of festivals and events that showcase the remarkable culture that Galway city has to offer. When it comes to wonderful travel experiences, the island of Ireland has it all.
Ireland is the perfect destination to fulfill all 2020 holiday desires - whether it’s making a solo trip for some eat, pray, love style soul-searching, an adventure with friends or a partner, or travelling with the family.
Here are a handful of things one can look forward to when planning their trip:
Take a Dip in the Irish Sea at Forty Foot
For thrill-seekers daring enough to brave the sub-zero temperatures of the Irish Sea, this historic bathing pool at the Southern tip of Dublin Bay has been named one of the best places to swim in the world by The New York Times. Start the day with an insanely refreshing wakeup call like the locals do.
Game of Thrones
Did you even go to Ireland if you didn’t visit the Game of Thrones filming locations? Take an immersive tour of the popular show’s most iconic Irish settings such as Winterfell, Robb’s Camp, and Giant’s Causeway. The interactive tour includes fun costumes and swords, a group of diehard fans, as well as knowledgeable, enthusiastic guides.
Moonlight Kayaking on Lough Hyne
This one is by far one of the most unique things to do in Ireland and is well worth the drive down to West Cork. The moonlight kayaking sessions take place on Lough Hyne, which is both a lake and Marine Nature Reserve, home to an enormous variety of plants and animals, which are not found anywhere else in Ireland. A lucky few can see the water below light up with bioluminescent every time they paddle - an unforgettable experience.
One of the Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Ireland, Dingle
National Geographic once called it “the most beautiful place on earth”, Dingle is constantly ranked as one of the most aesthetic places in Ireland. This coastal region is surrounded by scenic beauty, immaculate sandy beaches and magnificent mountains. Sprinkled with lush greens, deep blues, and sights of cotton white sheep. A trip down to Dingle is always one to remember, whether it’s in a car or via or bespoke helicopter tours.
Charming Cobh
On the south coast of County Cork lies Cobh, a charming seaport town with rows of candy-coloured homes along the water and towering cathedral over the harbour. This town is particularly popular with cruise-lovers - about 60 ships stop there every year. Cobh was the final port of call for the RMS Titanic, and a commemorate museum stands in the city today.
Cobblestone Town of Galway
A prime location on Ireland’s West Coast, Galway’s cobblestoned streets, ancient architecture, colourful buildings and swans floating by are alluring and inescapable. Stone-clad cafes, boutiques, art galleries and fabulous street markets line the tangled lanes, it’s no surprise that this charming, picturesque harbour city has been bestowed the honour of European Capital of Culture 2020.
Catch Aurora Borealis A must-see on everyone’s bucket list, Aurora Borealis, more commonly known as ‘the Northern Lights’ is one of the world’s greatest solar phenomenons. Lucky sky-watchers can experience this once-in-a-lifetime sight of awe-inspiring shades of pinks and bright greens along the clear skies of the Wild Atlantic Way.
Cycle down the Greenway in Waterford Escape the shackles of urban life on the longest off-road walking and cycling experience in the country. The 46km traffic-free route is ideal for getting out on a bike for a spin and day of family fun to enjoy the open road of idyllic countryside. Base
Glamping in River Valley Holiday Park
Camp in style at County Wicklow’s River Valley Caravan and Camping Holiday Park, where guests can choose from a variety of accommodation options: Treehouse, Kukoo Hut, Microlodge or Maxilodge. There’s nothing traditional about this form of camping, relax and unwind in glamour with the family, or stay at the Secret Garden section of the Park where couples can enjoy a child-free zone.