5 uniquely Irish experiences

Posted 28 February, 2019 Clair Morton

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.    

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.    

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.