Captivating Ireland

Are you ready to press the green button? Make Ireland the next spot on your bucket list.

The world is full of once-in-a-lifetime experiences – nowhere but on the island of Ireland, though, will you find so many of them packed into only 84,000 square kilometres (less than a third of the size of New Zealand).

Ireland is more than just a destination; it is a feeling. Full of a unique mix of green lands and stunning landscapes, warm welcoming people, incredible culture and music, and a compelling history, the island is home to some of the world’s great wonders, making it the perfect destination for culturally curious Kiwis looking for their next memorable adventure.

There are far too many places to visit, things to do and people to meet for us to list them all here, so instead we’ll share with you some of our favourite areas in Ireland and the unforgettable experiences that characterise them.

Discover wild Atlantic ways

The west coast of Ireland is a raw, rugged route full of untamed natural beauty. Featuring world-renowned sights like the majestic Cliffs of Moher and of Slieve League, Ireland’s western seaboard provides a breath-taking backdrop for exploration of wild land and seascapes.

If you’re looking to get out into nature, you can’t beat the rugged drama of Connemara National Park with its craggy cliffs and open plains – and for a bit of history, swing by Connemara’s famous Kylemore Abbey, a picturesque castle built in the 1800’s and full of a unique heritage.

It’s not only natural beauty that the west coast of Ireland has to offer. The cities of Galway and Donegal are full of character, lively music, delicious local cuisine and historical experiences, so make sure you get your fill of the vibrant city life before leaving the region.

Kylemore Abbey. Image credit: SUPPLIED

Embrace a giant spirit

Northern Ireland may be a small country, but its character is larger than life. At the very top of the island you can find the Giant’s Causeway, a one of a kind landscape (and UNESCO World Heritage Site) made up of around 40,000 polygonal-shaped natural features that were created by a volcanic eruption 60 million years ago.

Giant’s Causeway. Image credit: SUPPLIED

Giant’s Causeway. Image credit: SUPPLIED

Opportunities abound in Northern Ireland for history and culture buffs. After visiting the Giant’s Causeway, make sure to stop at Dunluce Castle, a beautiful ruin that sits perched on top of the cliffs and boasts a rich history stretching back to the 16th century.

Another must-see is ‘Titanic Belfast’, a striking landmark and exhibit situated in the old shipyards where the RMS Titanic was built over 100 years ago during Belfast’s shipbuilding heyday. Belfast is a remarkable city, with an abundance of stories to be told. Which also explains why it has been awarded UNESCO City of Music status. While in Belfast also check out the food and drink scene, which is closely integrated with local producers and artisans.

‘Titanic Belfast’ is a striking landmark and exhibit situated in the old shipyards where the RMS Titanic was built. Image credit: SUPPLIED.

‘Titanic Belfast’ is a striking landmark and exhibit situated in the old shipyards where the RMS Titanic was built. Image credit: SUPPLIED.

Ireland is more than just a destination; it is a feeling. Full of a unique mix of green lands and stunning landscapes, warm welcoming people, incredible culture and music, and a compelling history, the island is home to some of the world’s great wonders.

Explore the Ancient East

For those after a truly unforgettable journey of discovery through 5000 years of history, Ireland’s Ancient East will not disappoint – this region of rich green fields and stunning natural beauty also offers fascinating stories that bring it to life. One of the most awe-inspiring sights is Newgrange, a Neolithic structure built by those who lived in ancient Ireland. Older than Stonehenge and the Egyptian pyramids, the 85 metre wide building is estimated to have taken at least 30 years to finish.

Only a half hour drive from Dublin, you can stand where ancient kings have stood. Ireland’s Ancient East is home to the Hill of Tara, once the seat of the high kings of Ireland, which features a Neolithic passage tomb dating back to 3200 BC. The region is steeped in history and boasts a number of other notable sights to add to your checklist.

Hill of Tara. Image credit: SUPPLIED.

Hill of Tara. Image credit: SUPPLIED.

Sunrise at Newgrange, Co Meath. Image credit: SUPPLIED

Delve into hidden heartlands

Considered one of the under-explored regions of Ireland, the central heartlands offer an abundance of relaxed natural surroundings along scenic waterways and countryside. Enjoy the peace and quiet of still, picturesque lakes, greenery-lined canals, quintessentially Celtic peat bogland, and rolling green hills. In the heartlands, you’ll experience the true charm of the Irish – make sure to stop along your way in some of the lovely towns to taste authentic regional fare and get to know the friendly locals.

A must-see that’s only 8km from the geographical centre of the island is Clough Oughter Castle, a small ruin situated on a tiny island in the middle of Lough Oughter. You’re able to get up close and personal with the ruins by kayaking around the island, and there are also a number of walks through the woods along the shoreline where you can look out onto the lake and castle.

Cloughoughter Castle. Image credit: SUPPLIED

Be wowed by natural suprises

Dublin is known for its music, art, nightlife, rich history and social locals – in fact, it’s been named Europe’s most friendly city twice on Tripadvisor! What many don’t realise before visiting, though, is that this bustling metropolis thrives side-by-side with the natural outdoors, meaning curious travellers constantly jump between completely unique, different and often unexpected experiences.

Not far from town are a number of scenic coastal walks, ocean vistas, cliff walks, rock-climbing opportunities and rugged mountain views. The city is situated on the UNESCO Biosphere of Dublin Bay, known for both its rare wildlife and its bright red 20m high Poolbeg lighthouse. If you’re feeling particularly intrepid, you can join the locals and brave the cold waters for a sea swim throughout the year!

Gunniess Storehouse. Image credit: SUPPLIED

Gunniess Storehouse. Image credit: SUPPLIED

The Perfect Pint Tour, Dublin City. Image credit: SUPPLIED.

The Perfect Pint Tour, Dublin City. Image credit: SUPPLIED.

Dublin Bay is a UNESCO Biosphere known for its rare wildlife.

Dublin Bay is a UNESCO Biosphere known for its rare wildlife.

Mullaghmore Head, Co Sligo. Image credit: Chaosheng Zhang.

Mullaghmore Head, Co Sligo Image credit: Chaosheng Zhang.

Musicians at a pub in Doolin. Image credit: SUPPLIED

What are you waiting for?

Ireland abounds in views and landscapes, built heritage, living culture, outdoor adventure, friendly people and food and drink. There are countless experiences out there for culturally curious travellers who are keen to ignite their passion for adventure and discover the true spirit of Ireland.