5 uniquely Irish experiences

By Clair Morton
Published: Thursday, February 28, 2019

There’s one phrase that stands out from the moment you touch down in Ireland – you may see it at the airport, emblazoned on shopping centre archways, and hear it spoken by publicans and locals. That phrase is Céad Míle Fáilte, a Gaelic term that literally means ‘a hundred thousand welcomes’.

Where else but the Emerald Isle can you get a greeting like that? And it’s not only the people that’ll welcome you either. Ireland’s rolling green hills, dramatic cliffs and vibrant streets are just as inviting.

Let us take you through some of Ireland’s must-dos.

Indulge at Dublin’s Temple Bar

Have you heard Ireland’s capital city gets larger by the day? It just keeps Dublin’ and Dublin’. Terrible jokes aside, this bustling metropolitan hub is full of Irish charm.

Along the cobbled streets on the River Liffey, you’ll find Temple Bar, a lively neighbourhood famous for its quality craic (good times). Also known as the cultural hub of the city, Temple Bar has always been popular – Vikings set up camp here as far back as 795 AD. The remains of their settlement can be found at nearby Dublin Castle.

These days it looks a bit different, with quirky shops, delicious eateries and bars and pubs aplenty. Grab a pint of Guinness and take it all in.

Have a tipple in Dublin's Temple Bar.

Frolic through the Wicklow Mountains

Not far from Dublin is a lush, green national park that offers a true taste of the Irish countryside. Here you can walk part of the 127km Wicklow Way, hunt for lakes and waterfalls, or head to the Monastic City of Glendalough for a first-class history lesson.

Whatever you do, a day in the Wicklow Mountains is sure to work up an appetite. Possibly the best place to appease it is at Johnny Fox’s Pub, one of the country’s oldest and most famous establishments. Nestled in the heart of the mountains, this picturesque pub serves up traditional Irish fare and nightly live entertainment.

Lower Lake in Glendalough, County Wicklow, Ireland

There are gems to be found in the Wicklow Mountains.

Kiss the Blarney Stone… or don’t

At the Blarney Castle in County Cork, hundreds of visitors arrive every day to undertake a strange pilgrimage – kissing a big, cold, slab of rock embedded in the walls of the castle. Why? Legend has it that whoever kisses the Blarney Stone, also known as the Stone of Eloquence, will be given the gift of the gab. There are plenty of legends surrounding how it came to be, but people have been doing it since the 1800s, so there must be something to it.

Be aware that kissing the stone is a feat of endurance – to get there you’ll have to climb more than 100 steps up the castle, and suspend yourself over a significant gap while you pucker up.

If you decide it’s not for you, the medieval fortress is still worth a visit for the sprawling gardens that surround it.

Blarney Castle in County Cork, Republic of Ireland

The historic Blarney Castle is a sight to behold.

See the Cliffs of Moher

Along the coastline of County Clare you’ll find a natural masterpiece that makes you truly feel as if you’ve reached the edge of the world. One of Ireland’s most visited attractions, the dramatic Cliffs of Moher stretches over 14km of the country’s west coast.

Exposed to the elements, you never know what mood you’ll find them in until you get there. On a clear day you can see for miles, and the moss green of the cliff edge plays off against the cool blue water below. A more ‘Irish’ day could see rolling clouds settle in the nooks and crannies of the cliff face, or a howling wind that threatens to lift you off your feet. Either way, this is a sight to behold.

The scenic Cliffs of Moher.

Browse Galway’s vibrant streets

This lively seaside city is full of good craic, good food and even better music.

Stroll among the colourful buildings of Galway’s cobbled pedestrian streets and you’ll feel like you’re in a movie – the soundtrack of street buskers and live music follows you wherever you go.

At some point you’re sure to hear a rendition of Galway Girl, a popular Celtic love song recently revived by Ed Sheeran.

Galway’s other romantic claim to fame is one which might make the perfect keepsake for your Irish jaunt. The fishing village of Galway Bay is home to Ireland’s most famous piece of jewellery – the iconic Claddagh Ring. Visit Thomas Dillon’s, the oldest jewellers in Ireland, and find out if the ring fits.

Music is part of the fabric of Galway.

Experience the craic

Talk to one of RAA’s travel experts about how you can see Ireland for yourself.

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