Ireland floats in between the Irish Sea and the Atlantic Ocean in the perfect shade of emerald. While most stereotypes surround the country including redheaded leprechauns, shamrocks, and guzzling Guinness drinkers, Ireland has more than just pots of gold at the end of its rainbows. Lively cities, medieval castles, intimidating yet beautiful cliffs, all make for a unique and alluring country in Europe. Of course, those friendly Irish eyes sweeten the experience, prone to waving at strangers with a large grin.
The country of Ireland is much older than most think. Ireland first saw Mid-Stone Age settlers around 6,000 B.C. Those inhabitants had the land to themselves until 4,000 years later. By that time, tribes from southern Europe established Neolithic sites that can still be seen today. The Vikings took over in 795 A.D., settling first in what is today Ireland’s capital city of Dublin. Ireland would see its fair share of struggle. By the 19th century the Great Famine struck the country, leaving one million dead due to starvation. With the Famine brought emigration out of Ireland as many left for the USA, United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia. Today, around 80 million people boast Irish ancestry.
Many first arrive in the country’s capital of Dublin. Dublin is not only the capital, but also a youthful city. Dublin holds the culture of pubs and pints, but also a rich history. Many come here to view the famed Book of Kells or peruse the streets of former Irish authors like James Joyce and George Bernard Shaw.
Heading south, travelers can explore the counties of Carlow, Cork, Kerry, Kilkenny, and that long way to Tipperary. The counties of Waterford and Wexford also call southern Ireland home. The area is known for its water sports, mountainous peninsulas and villages dotted with ancient heritage.
The west of Ireland boasts some of country’s most nerve-racking drops. The Cliffs of Moher in County Clare are famous for their unspoiled beauty and steep drops, more than 650 feet down to the splashing Irish waters. The Aran Islands also look down from the height of steep cliffs, falling in Galway County. Even Galway City is worth a visit just to feel young again. The student population in town makes up for a quarter of the city’s population. The touristy Ring of Kerry also falls in Ireland’s west. The “ring” winds through medieval ruins, lakes, mountains, and beaches.
Up north, the major cities of Belfast and Londonderry City dominate. While politically and controversially stained with questionable relations with the rest of Ireland, the area contains castles and cosmopolitan cities just a car ride away.
Ireland’s premier attractions don’t cost an entrance fee. Travelers may just have to cough up the price of a plane ticket to reach the country to see them. The natural beauty of Ireland is overwhelming. Visitors particularly traverse one area, the Burren, for it contains 70% of Ireland’s native flora. Burren formed some time ago, 340 million years back in time. Not only noted for its natural beauty, but the Burren contains 500 ring forts and 80 Neolithic tombs.
Heading up north, the natural attractions in Ireland just keep on giving. The Giant’s Causeway falls on the UNESCO World Heritage List. The collection of jam-packed basalt columns stretch from the cliffs of the Antrim Plateau down to the sea. While volcanic eruptions are supposedly the cause of this, the Irish believe more in the tale of it being the work of giants. Exploring the Irish coastline is enough to satisfy travelers. With the Atlantic to the west and the Irish Sea on the east, Ireland lends 1,448 kilometers of coastline.
There is a reason why so many want to be Irish, and not just on Saint Patrick’s Day. All around the world, millions cling to whatever percentage of Irish ancestry falls in their blood. The reason for this comes through the Irish way of life. They surround themselves with some of the most remarkable scenery in all of Europe. They are hard workers, yet fun loving. Most important, they know how to exaggerate and tell a good tale. Yes, leaving Ireland, you will be green with envy just as the surrounding hills glow in emerald.
