There are many tourist attractions south of the river Liffey as well. If you have an address to a place and wondering in which part of Dublin it is located then remember the following – areas or places north to the River Liffey have odd postcodes while those to the south have even postcodes and lower the number, closer the place will be to the city centre.

Tourists usually visit Dublin during summer though Dublin has a mild weather throughout the year. Top attractions of Dublin usually get crowded during the summer months therefore it would be wise to start the day early to avoid the rush. The Christ Church Cathedral is the oldest building in Dublin and it dates far back into the eleventh century, though it was restored once in the nineteenth century. The crypt at the cathedral is also of great interest because of the carvings on it.

Dublin is a fantastic place for those interested in literature. Dublin had given the world many great writers such as James Joyce, Shaw, Pearse and Yeats. The Dublin Writers museum is dedicated to famous Irish writers. The museum itself is an eighteenth century house. The Chester Beatty Library located in the Dublin castle was also rated as the European Museum of the Year a few years back. It houses many manuscripts and early books. Entry to the library is free of cost. One can also watch Irish plays in Ireland’s national theatre, the Abbey Theatre. The theatre is known to showcase both old as well as new plays.

If you are traveling with children, you must visit the Dublin zoo which is known for its efforts in wildlife conservation. Besides the Dublin zoo, kids are also most likely to like Dublinia and the Viking World. It explores life in the medieval period in the city as well life as led by the Vikings.  It would be a good idea to spend some time at Dublin’s beaches as well; the best beaches are found in the northern part of the city. The bird sanctuary located near the Dollymount Strand is also worth a visit.

A visit to Dublin would be incomplete if one didn’t visit one of the many pubs. Drinks are relatively expensive in these pubs but it is still worth the experience of visiting an Irish pub.

All stereotypes are unfair, but to suggest that Dublin is good for nothing but drinking is to do it a massive disservice. A visit here will open your eyes to a friendly, bohemian culture that prides itself on being game for anything. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious, indulgent weekend, or an unforgettable adventure, Dublin has everything you need.

Dublin is one of Europe’s greatest shopping cities, with a wonderful area around the famous Grafton Street. Find top brand outlets sitting harmoniously with top quality independent shops; if you can’t find it in Dublin you probably can’t find it anywhere. And when you’re done with the shops, there are a fantastic range of excellent restaurants to suit anybody’s taste. It’s a great place to spoil yourself.

But if you’re looking for more than shopping and dining, then don’t worry, Dublin won’t let you down. Absorb some of the magnificent culture with a trip to one of the many theatres to enjoy the famous River Dance; a one-of-a-kind spectacle that shouldn’t be missed. And don’t forget there are excellent opportunities to relax and unwind too. Dublin has a number of spas, where you’ll be looked after and pampered.

This city has a wild side too, of course, and if fun and excitement is theme of the party, Dublin has a few things to show you. Take lessons in energetic salsa, or flirtatious pole dancing; two very different ways to get your body moving. And if your group of girls are thrill seekers, there are even opportunities for bungee jumping.

Of course, as you would expect, Dublin also boasts a night-life that is one of the most vibrant and exhilarating in the world. The stereotype of heavy drinking may not be true, but certainly the Irish know how to have a good time. Whether you’re looking for top-class clubs with VIP lounges, or are more interested in the excellent smaller bars, Dublin’s social scene won’t disappoint.

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Since large sums of people have begun driving cars, problems have arisen. One significant one is that of traffic. Due to this problem the government has began reshaping its roads and has begun making them more drivable. These new developments are costing a large sum of money, but are well worth it to the people of Ireland. Another major problem is people in Ireland are being killed in fatal car accidents. One reason these deaths happen is because there are a vast amount of drivers who are exceptionally young. In addition the roads were not built very well, resulting in an unsafe driving experience. Another on going problem is that people feel the need to drink and drive. This is very unnecessary and impairs peoples driving.

As a result of all of these deaths the government in Ireland is taking precautions, and striving to make the road a safe place to drive. Now you May be asking yourself, “How are they making the roads safe?” The answer to that is simple, the government has enforced a system to stop drunk drivers. If someone drinks and drives more then once there is a chance that they will never again be able to drive. In addition they have started creating the new roads to make it safer for all drivers. Overall driving in Ireland is not horrific but you do need to take precaution and make sure you follow the rules, and drive safely.

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With Ireland’s rich culture and history, you will see how in tuned they are to old traditions. With the additional fascinating scenes of farming communities, you might think that Ireland is behind the times. Surprisingly, as they say “old traditions die hard” you will find how Ireland has come to terms in the modern times and is rising among its peers and even so not sacrificing their rich cultures and heritage.

Let’s start your dream holiday in Dublin. The capital and the largest city of Ireland, this is somewhere you can enjoy what modern day Ireland to offer has dubbed in 2007 and again in 2009 as one of the friendliest cities in Europe. This youthful city as it was dubbed caters to a lot of pubs all over the area. Like most of Ireland, this is one of the most popular destinations you can go to. The most known tourist spots are the Guinness Storehouse where you can enjoy a pint, or what they call a swig. Enjoy the live music that is played as you pass these traditional cobbled streets to take pleasure in the rest of Dublin and what it has to offer.

Up north of Ireland tells tales of its darker history. Belfast, the capital and largest city of Northern Ireland, offers us the rural side of the country. Enjoy the scenic and natural attractions of Belfast from the Giant’s Causeway which are hexagonal rocks that are on a sloping angle into the waters, this natural formation is located in the northern part of Belfast. Another natural attraction is the rural fishing villages that give you the feel of the culture of Belfast is. But though rural, the modern architecture of their City hall and their busy Metropolitan Area won’t make you forget how modern and up to date they are too.

Regardless of where you are in Ireland may it be in the busiest streets of Dublin or the quiet and quaint town of Belfast, there are really some adventure you can do for you and your loved ones. From the exciting Volvo Ocean Race, peaceful Lakelands, escorted tours for a ready and relaxing adventure, their food, music, arts and festivals and anything else they can find a reason to drink beer with.

Historic Ireland is rich of traditions, stories and modern day adventures, whatever suits you and the one you’re traveling with, get your dream holiday in Ireland: discover it – find it – experience it!

Creagh Gardens and Lakeside walks are closer to the city of Skibbereen. The Creagh Gardens is ideal for couples or the elderly who prefer serenity amidst picturesque views. The garden is situated on woodland glades and a mill pond meanders through the garden. The place is also home to orchards and kitchen gardens and dates back to the Regency times. Lakeside walks bring walkers face to face with some of the common animal species in the region like otters, foxes and minks. Rare water birds have provided exclusivity to the place as a natural reserve.

The Kenmare road leads from the Glengarriff Village to the Carrigrour and Rossnashunsoque walks. Although the path is a bit steep but pleasant scenery makes the walk pleasurable. At the peak beautiful views of the harbor and the Garnish Island can be enjoyed. The walk along the Coomhola Bridge by Bog Road begins from Glengarriff village along the Glengarriff Castle and the golf course to lead towards east in the direction of Coomhola. After a few miles one can enjoy places like The Priests Leap, Borlin Balley, Ballylickey, Pearsons Bridge and Snave. Those interested in nature and wildlife must visit the Millstreet Country Park that is again home to beautiful lakes, waterfalls, streams and meadows.

Some more popular walks include the The Black water Way in Millstreet which provides glimpses of historic settlement in the Blackwater Valley and the Beara Way that is both rich in natural as well as historical and archaeological wealth. The Sheeps Head Way and the Currabinny Woods offer breathtaking coastal views.

Best Time to Visit

The most popular and arguably the best time to tour Donegal is the summer. The county is simply gorgeous during this time of year. Summer is when all attractions are open and offer the longest hours. Temperatures stay comfortably warm and breezy during the day and drop to that perfect light-sweater temperature at night. You’ll still get caught in the rain, but it will be a bearable, if not pleasant and refreshing, experience. But do consider the hotel’s high-season rates as a cover charge for the great weather.

Places to Visit

Ireland’s most northerly county has little in common with its neighbors in the Republic, either geographically or historically. Donegal’s supreme appeal lies in the natural beauty of its coast, with windswept peninsulas, precipitous cliffs and a host of golden beaches that rival any in Europe.

Ballyloughan House & Gardens

Inaugurated in 1905; the south facing semi-wild garden on Donegal Bay sheltered from the sea by mature woodland. You will surely be mesmerized by the cliff-top paths with lovely views. The huge 100 years old weeping beech overlooking stream borders the fruit and vegetable garden. Many spring flowering shrubs, acid-loving shrubs such as Rhododendron, Azalea, Magnolia and plants like Rodgersis and Primula can be found in plenty here.

Donegal Abbey

The remains of the Donegal Abbey are picturesquely situated at the mouth of the River Eske. The abbey is actually a 15th century Franciscan house. This abbey near Donegal town is perhaps most well known as the place where the Four Masters gathered to plan and write the Irish Annals. They are commemorated by an obelisk in the Diamond, Donegal’s market square. The only recognizable parts of the ruins today are the south transept, choir, and parts of the cloisters.

Donegal Castle

The Castle was built in 1505 by the O’Donnell family who were the ruling Gaelic family in Donegal for over a thousand years. The rectangular tower was then occupied by Sir Basil Brooke who transformed it by adding gables and windows and making the first floor into a banqueting hall complete with a Jacobean fireplace bearing his coat of arms. Beside the Tower Sir Basil built a southern facing manor house and reinforced the bawn-wall surrounding the Castle.

St. Patrick’s Purgatory

Pettigo is a village where the border separating the Republic of Ireland from Northern Ireland runs. It is a handsome village and is the main centre for pilgrims visiting Lough Derg. The village has received pilgrims from all over Europe since early Christian times. Only pilgrims are allowed on the island, known as St. Patrick’s, during the summer pilgrimage season. The Octagonal church here which can be seen from the mainland was built in 1921.

Dunfanaghy

Located on a flat, narrow connector in the shelter of Horn Head, Dunfanaghy used to be a fishing village until its harbor silted up. It has now turned to tourism, attracting visitors to its long sandy beaches and sailing, surfing and water-skiing facilities. Sport fishing is also available in this small village of approximately 280 inhabitants.

Donegal County Museum

Donegal County Museum was first opened to the public in 1987. The museum preserves and celebrates the collective memory of the county and its communities through the display, preservation and interpretation of artifacts. It aims to make the community live through these objects. The artifacts in this museum dates back from the prehistoric to the early medieval periods.

Glenveagh National Park

Glenveagh National Park is one of six national parks in Ireland. Situated in the Northwest of Co. Donegal, Glenveagh encompasses some 16,000 acres in the heart of the Derryveagh Mountains. Such a great wilderness is the haunt of many interesting plants and animals. Glenveagh Castle is a 19th Century, castellated mansion and was built between 1867 and 1873. Its construction in a remote mountain setting was inspired by the Victorian idyll of a romantic highland retreat. Access is available by tour only. Morning and afternoon teas are served in the castle tearooms.

Lough Derg

Lough Derg is a unique place of peace. In today’s modern world where everything is fast and instant; Lough Derg still manages to maintain calm where people have to move more slowly, where the mind can be stilled. This small island offers no distractions, no artificialities, but instead a warm welcome, for nobody is a stranger here.

Maghera Caves and Port

While approaching Ardara, you can find the Maghera Caves. It is not just the spectacular caves, the chemistry of dark sea caves, the wide, dazzling silver beach – the amalgamation of all these give you an astonishing sense of being transported to a magical wilderness.

Arguably the most picturesque location in all of Ireland, County Donegal has inspired writers, artists and the occasional traveler who vows never to return home after traveling here.

It is stark and vivid, with raw sea cliffs, barren mountains, jagged peninsulas, miles of green pastures, isolated coastline and moist weather that leaves a chill in the air. Donegal is organic and real, a must-visit destination for anyone hoping to escape from the hustle and bustle of Europe’s busy cities and get a feel for the authentic Irish countryside.

Though Donegal is the second largest county in the country, it is virtually unvisited and primarily populated by small farms and fishing boats. Glencolmcille Peninsula is the most visited area of the county, but visitors should also visit the Rosguill and Inishowen peninsulas. The Grianán Ailigh, one of the most beautiful 20^th-century churches in all of Ireland, is located on Inishowen. Its seating is arranged concentrically and sunlight is able to beam directly onto the altar. Tory Island, located 12km north of the mainland, is difficult to reach and therefore a hub of rich Irish culture.

Further inland, Errigal Mountain, Lough Beagh and Lough Gartan are particularly stunning and worth a checking out. Travelers looking for some exercise may enjoy a couple hours or even a whole day hiking up the ridge of Slieve League, which overlooks the Amharc Mór. These are supposedly the highest marine cliffs in Europe, and on a clear day, nearly one-third of Ireland can be seen from the peak.

Malin Head, Ireland’s northernmost point, is rocky and weather-battered with few services. A cliff-top tower sits at the very edge of the tip, which is known as Banba’s Crown. A path from this area leads to Hell’s Hole, a chasm where the sea waters crash along the shore. Malin Head is a great place for bird watching; many endangered species live here including the corncrake, choughs, snow bunting and puffins.

Though County Donegal is known primarily for its exquisite natural beauty, travelers may want to stop by Donegal town and Letterkenny for a feel of “city life” here. Three-thousand people call Donegal town home, and it is the largest small village in Northwest Ireland. Visitors may want to check out Donegal Castle and the Franciscan Abbey before moving on to an afternoon of shopping, which is the town’s most popular attraction.

Letterkenny is the largest city in Donegal and offers a mix of historical sites, industrial growth and thriving nightlife. The Cathedral of Saints Eunan and Columba is beautiful simply for its architecture while the Donegal County Museum offers further information about the history of the city and county as a whole. An Grianán, the local theatre, is rumored to be one of Ireland’s best music venues. The city’s countless bars often have live music on the weekends.

Donegal town and Letterkenny serve as hubs to an extensive system of public and private bus services, though transportation to some of the more isolated and harder-to-reach areas in County Donegal can only be accessed by car.

When you plan your next travel destination, considering certain precautions can create a world of difference! Always keep in mind that tourist friendly countries can assure you a memorable trip; but at the same time the opposite can bring forth a truly terrible experience. A country committed to tourism and tourists immediately help you feel at home and carry similar qualities to what we’d want from the country we live in – low crime rates, appreciation for the company of other people and love for tourists.

Ireland

Ireland was elected as the World’s Friendliest Country by Lonely Planet. The country is fast growing as the top vacation choice in Europe and Ireland currently enjoys more than 10 million annual visits from the tourists overseas. The tourists love to enjoy the comedy acts and visual arts, complete with street performers and the events like the Galway Arts Festival. Ireland’s falling crime rates plays a major role in drawing tourists globally along with the very scenic rural areas of the country.

New Zealand

New Zealand is unique country as it has a population close to 4 million and the country’s average annual tourist turnout is nearly 2 million. The friendly attitude of New Zealand is evident in how people treat each other. Call it foolishness or trust, but New Zealanders have a high degree of faith in their fellow citizens and neighbors. They’ve been known to use less security in business settings than Westerners are used to. Be sure, most Kiwis will make your stay as friendly as it can be.

Canada

Canada is one of the top friendly countries and known for being coined the friendliest country of 2007 in the Anholt Brand Index. Canada receives over $60 billion annually from tourism, with visitors getting friendly vibes from the country and citizens. Recently, The Economist chose Vancouver as the Best Place to Live. Crime rate in Canada is low, partly because of a tight stance on gun control. Just over 10% of the country’s crimes are violent.

Greece

Greece truly satisfies the blurbs that shout ‘has something for everyone’ does. Whether you’re there to soak in the sun on the magnificent beaches, roam around the ancient ruins or party till you drop, the country leaves you clamoring for more. It ensures a guilt-free travel; low crime rates make sure you have come back again to marvel at the floral aromas that permeate the air and the pervading sense of spirit.

Switzerland

The Swiss are known for their honesty and hard work. Their friendliness is visible in their consideration for tourists. The carefully crafted hiking trails or the neatly polished ski resorts are only a few to name. The tourists help the country to earn a collective $20 billion annually and are more than happy to ski the scenic mountainside, while the rest finds something more social at one of the country’s many youth hostels. Safety in Switzerland is moderate when compared to developed countries. Though violent crime rate is much lower than U.S. but the country has a higher record of burglaries. It may sound alarming but most people are safer exploring Switzerland than they are back at home.

Scotland

Approximately 16 million people travel to Scotland every year. You can have the pleasure of meeting a nation of well-educated locals who are rich with culture and know how to have fun. Even the regular arts and musical events like the annual Highland Festival reflect the festive Scottish spirit. The country’s crime rates are higher than U.S. but these cases are mostly confined to inner-city areas. But such setbacks never take away from Scotland’s friendly heart.

Malaysia

Malaysia is often criticized for being mild compared to its grittier neighbors, Thailand and Indonesia. The facilities a tourist get here is of truly world class; the roads are free of potholes and dirt, local buses and trains have air-con and plush seats and hotels are of international standard. Malaysian people are friendly in nature and the crime rate here is significantly low. While troubles are few, cheap connections to Europe and great exchange rates ensure that you won’t get eaten up by your wallet.

Fiji

Over an amount of $430 million earned through tourism, Fiji and its 300-plus tropical islands are a must visit place. The locals represent a culture that celebrates everyone, regardless to religion, cast or country of origin. As a tourist, you can expect a welcome kava celebration from the locales. Fiji is a safe place to visit. Violent crimes have dropped significantly. Tourism is going strong and the harmonized experience here will surely blow you away.

Portugal

Portugal is one of the greatest seafaring nations in the history. It is a land of great tradition, you can experience the Saint’s-Day festivals or visit the ancient vineyards that bring sleepy medieval villages to life. In other hand, a modern Portugal, with all its dazzling city centers, the new wave of boutiques, art galleries and cafes is ready to welcome he visitors. People here are very friendly and charming. Crime rates in Portugal are moderate but the country has no records of any serious troubles with the tourists so far.

Germany

The Germans travel a lot themselves; therefore, they are cordial to their nearly 20 million annual visitors. Tourists in Germany become connected to the country’s warm and cultured atmosphere through classical opera houses, numerous museums and large-scale events like the Oktoberfest fair. Germany is a large, industrialized country with a fair amount of crime. But German’s violent crime index is still lower than in the U.S. and most of its other crime rates are falling.

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From breathtaking scenery and village life to the energetic buzz of the larger cities, Ireland is waiting to be discovered!
Welcome to our first Ireland’s Premier Cottages Newsletter. Yes, it’s time to consider a unique break, a few exhilarating autumn days followed by luxurious cosy evenings curled up in front of your very own cottage fire…

Ireland Premier Cottages

Come and Discover…Ireland
Choose from one of Ireland’s premier cottages in either Co Meath (nr Dublin) or Co Fermanagh.
Co Meath
Explore the mysterious and ancient beauty of County Meath, choose from one of our undiscovered luxury coastal or country cottages where you can relax, unwind and recharge your batteries.

Ireland Premier Cottages

The wealth of choice that Counties Meath, Louth and Dublin have to offer spans The Arts, Culture and craic – that’s what we call ‘having a great time’ over here!

Local attractions include…
Newgrange World Heritage Site
Battle of The Boyne Visitors Centre with live re-enactments at the weekends
Trim Castle – where Braveheart was filmed
Superb links and parkland golf courses – not only is Meath home to The Mulligan, but will also host The Solheim cup in 2011
Racing at Fairyhouse, Navan and Dundalk
Numerous festivals and events to liven your spirits
Local events in September…
6th Sept: Royal Meath Agricultural Show
6th – 27th Sept: Bulmers International Comedy Festival
12th – 13th Sept: Septemberfest Food Festival
24th Sept – 11th Oct: Ulster Bank Theatre Festival
Local events in October…
2nd – 4th Oct: Cultural and Heritage Festival
23rd – 1st Nov: Spirit of Meath Festival – come and have a howl this hallowe’en in Meath!

Co Fermanagh
With forests, beautiful vistas, old country houses, excellent restaurants, intriguing caves and castles, Fermanagh is one of Northern Ireland’s best-kept secrets.

Within the hidden heart of Fermanagh you’ll relax in peace & quiet that’s beyond imagination in your own luxury five-star lakeside Irish cottage. Discover the magical moods and the stunning views of the Fermanagh lakelands.

Local attractions include…
Belleek Pottery
International GeoPark Marble Arch Caves
Living History Ulster American Folk Park
Historic buildings and National Trust properties Castle Coole, Florence Court, Enniskillen Castle, Devenish and White Islands and the woodlands of Castle Caldwell, Lough Navar and Castle Archdale.
Local events in September…
4th – 6th Sept: 18th Appalachian & Bluegrass Music Festival
17th – 20th Sept: International Horse Trials 3 Day Event
26th – 27th Sept: Lough Erne Canoe Rally at the Share Centre
26th Sept – 5th Oct: The Enniskillen Arts Festival
Local events in October…
9th – 11th Oct: Fermanagh Walking Festival
24th – 31st Oct: Hallowe’en Festivals

Ireland Premier Cottages