The Republic of Ireland, commonly referred to as Southern Ireland, is known for its friendly welcome, music, literature, Whiskey, Guinness and its lush landscape, often being referred to as the "Emerald Isle”.
Dublin
Dublin is the capital of The Republic of Ireland and is on the River Liffey. Steeped in history with stunning buildings such as Dublin Castle - built in the 13th Century, and St Patrick’s Cathedral - which was founded in 1191. A visit to St Stephen’s Green and the vast grounds of Phoenix Park, which include Dublin Zoo, is a great way to spend an afternoon. The City is full of cultural places to visit including; The National Museum of Ireland exploring Irish heritage and culture; and The Dublin Writers Museum, which traces the lives of Oscar Wilde, James Joyce and Samuel Beckett who were all born in Dublin. The Frames manuscript of The Book of Kells, from the 9th century, is displayed at Trinity College.
The nightlife and cultural quarter of Dublin is known as Temple Bar along the riverside and is home to the Irish Film Institute. Shopping in Dublin is a colourful and exciting affair, walking along Grafton Street you can shop and listen to the famed buskers, soaking up the cosmopolitan atmosphere. A trip to Dublin is incomplete without a tour of the Guinness Storehouse and Old Jameson Distillery, you can see how it all began and try a famed pint of Guinness and a smooth glass of Jameson Whiskey.
The nightlife and cultural quarter of Dublin is known as Temple Bar along the riverside and is home to the Irish Film Institute. Shopping in Dublin is a colourful and exciting affair, walking along Grafton Street you can shop and listen to the famed buskers, soaking up the cosmopolitan atmosphere. A trip to Dublin is incomplete without a tour of the Guinness Storehouse and Old Jameson Distillery, you can see how it all began and try a famed pint of Guinness and a smooth glass of Jameson Whiskey.
K Club - Golf Experience
The K Club is Ireland’s Ryder Cup Venue having hosted the 2006 Ryder Cup, along with the Dubai Duty Free Irish Open, and thirteen European Opens. With two magnificent golf courses; The Ryder Cup Course and The Smurfit Course both designed by Arnold Palmer, one of golf’s superstars. As a guest, you can experience playing these courses with everything taken care of by the highly qualified team, giving you the ultimate golfing experience.
Kilkenny Castle
Kilkenny Castle is a fabulously historic place to visit with beautiful grounds, the beautiful building and interior, which are all available to see. The castle sits on the banks of the River Nore, at the strategic crossing, and dominates the 'High Town' of Kilkenny City. Due to many changes being made over the eight centuries of its existence, Kilkenny Castle truly is a unique piece of architecture.
Cork
Steeped in history, the city of Cork is fast gaining a reputation as one of Europe's hippest cities. Like Venice, the city is built upon water, and the city centre is built on an island in the River Lee just upstream of Cork Harbour. The two channels of the River Lee, which embrace the city centre, are spanned by many bridges giving the city a very European feel. Highlights of the city include the Butter Exchange, Parliament Bridge and St. Fin Barre’s Cathedral. Another highlight of a visit to Cork is seeing the ancestral home of Henry Ford, the famous car manufacturer.
Cork is a very walkable city meaning you can easily explore on foot and, due to its geography, wherever you venture to there is almost always a beautiful view. The English Market is a must see for foodies. Established in 1788 in Cork city centre, you will find under its roof that famous tripe and drisheen stall, skilful, long standing family butchers selling their own farm reared meats, an array of fresh fish and shellfish, great baking and artisan breads, Irish charcuterie and farmhouse cheeses. It’s impossible to go away empty handed!
Blarney Castle
Close to Cork is Blarney Castle which was built nearly six hundred years ago by one of Ireland's greatest chieftains, Cormac MacCarthy. Over the last few hundred years, millions have flocked to Blarney, making it a world landmark and one of Ireland's greatest treasures. The Blarney Stone which is within the Castle is the legendary ‘Stone of Eloquence’ and can be found at the top of the tower. It is said that once you kiss it you will never be lost for words again.
Galway
Galway has a Bohemian flavour and you will find a whole host of fabulous, brightly-coloured bars and pubs, with an exciting arts and music scene. During the racing season, you can have a fun filled day at Galway Racecourse. The history is quite apparent, you will see hints of old Galway around each corner, including the city walls and the distinctive Spanish Arch. The pavement cafés and boutique shops along the winding lanes make Galway a magical place to take a walk and watch the world go by. A short trip from Galway are the Cliffs of Moher, with awe inspiring views across the Atlantic Ocean. You will truly see and feel nature in its wildest and purest form. The rugged cliffs, wildlife and mighty Ocean are truly a fantastic place to experience.
