Discover the Emerald Isle

Posted 21 July, 2025 Andrew Rasch. This content is sponsored by Cosmos Tours.

Green, gorgeous Ireland. A lush land of medieval villages and craggy cliff faces plunging towards the ocean.

There are charming pubs filled with friendly locals and stirring Irish music. And it’s the home of the precocious wit, Oscar Wilde, the mythical Blarney Stone, and has deep ancestral ties to Australia.

Metro melting pots

Central to Ireland’s social life is the term craic, meaning fun, entertainment and good conversation. Its vibrant cities are known for their rich blend of history, culture and modern city life. And as the hometown of mega musicians like U2, the soulful Van Morrison, and countless others, its capital, Dublin, has music flowing through its veins.

Dublin is also a UNESCO City of Literature and the birthplace of influential writers such as James Joyce and Samuel Beckett. Trinity College is a must-visit. You’ll see the treasured Book of Kells, a 9^th century manuscript of the New Testament, and the Long Room, one of the world’s most beautiful libraries. For more history, don’t miss the 12^th century Saint Patrick’s Cathedral, with its soaring spires and Gothic architecture.

And let’s not forget Dublin’s famous export, Guinness Draught. Any Dublin trip must include a visit to the Guinness Storehouse, where you’ll learn more about Arthur Guinness’ gift to the world and how each year this brewery sells nearly 1.9 billion pints of their nectar of the gods.

Hit the high notes

On the rugged Irish west coast, near Liscannor village in County Clare, lie the spectacular Cliffs of Moher. Standing 214m at their highest point and spanning 8km, the summit’s O’Brien’s Tower offer breathtaking views. On a clear day, you can see Hag’s Head, the Aran Islands, Galway Bay and the green, rocky Blasket Islands in Kerry.

These famous cliffs are a declared protection area for birds, so expect to see about 20 species, including the orange, black and yellow-beaked puffins that nest on Goat Island. Accessible to all, the astonishing Cliffs of Moher are a highlight on any Ireland trip.

Medieval mystery

Walk the trails of the 13^th century village of Adare and admire the charming, thatched cottages and medieval castles. Known as Ireland’s prettiest village, Adare transcends various historical eras, with ties to the Normans’ arrival and the monasteries of the Middle Ages. Adare is home to historical museums and the Adare Desmond Castle. You can stroll through the tree-lined parks or visit the bustling town market. Perhaps you could enjoy shopping at the boutiques and craft shops or a smooth, rich coffee at one of the village’s delightful cafés. Whichever way you see Adare, you’re in for a treat.

Crystal clear

A variation on the saying, ‘When in Rome, do as the Romans do’ is, ‘When in Waterford, visit the house of Waterford Crystal.’ Since 1783, this world-renowned brand has manufactured exquisite crystalware, from Shamrock Bowls for former US President Barack Obama to magnificent chandeliers, hung from the ceilings of Westminster Abbey and Windsor Castle.

Tour Waterford Crystal’s flagship factory in this Viking-built, 10^th century city and watch these intricate pieces come to life. Visit the master blowers in the mould room and then watch the molten crystal being transformed into majestic shapes. Watch experts cut, sculpt and engrave the objects until they become something truly special. Just don’t bump into anything.

Giant steps

Step back 60 million years and climb the hexagonal basalt columns of Giant’s Causeway, in Northern Ireland. Formed by surges of molten rock and lava when Europe split from North America, and a process of erosion, water and more lava, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is the story of legend.

Or was it formed by Irish giant Finn McCool who needed a passage across the Irish Sea to face his rival, the Scottish giant Benandonner? Did he rip up most of the causeway as he returned from battle, or was it really built for love, to help Finn see his fair Scottish maiden across the water? Make up your own mind when you stand atop these famous columns on Northern Ireland’s north coast.

Let Cosmos plan your Irish adventure

With expert local guides and tour directors, hand-picked accommodation and seamless transport between destinations, Cosmos is the team to choose for your next trip to Ireland.

Enjoy complimentary headsets, and a private, first-class, air-conditioned motorcoach with free Wi-Fi. And, with the CosmosGO mobile app, you can make the most of your free time and explore the Emerald Isle like a local.