Ireland has plenty of things to offer the world: Guinness, Terry Wogan and Jedward, who will be representing the country in the 2012 Eurovision Song Contest, are just some of the more well known exports.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing break or a more vibrant experience, there are plenty of things to see and do in the Emerald Isle.
Temple Bar, Co Dublin
Dublin is a “must see” city and should be on any traveller’s wish list when heading to Ireland. The Temple Bar area is known for its narrow cobbled streets and numerous bars. The area is often bursting with life at weekends, with live music available in all quarters.
Connemara, Co Galway
Connemara is an area of extraordinary scenic beauty in the west of Ireland. The region offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and is a real gem for any fans of natural beauty.
Belmullet, Co Mayo
If you fancy an authentic Irish experience, you could head into the depths of County Mayo for a truly rural taste of Ireland. Free from the hustle and bustle of the country’s tourist hot-spots, Belmullet offers a truly relaxing experience surrounded by a host of traditional Irish bars.
Wicklow Mountains National Park, Co Wicklow
Situated close to the upper lake, the Wicklow Mountains National Park stretches over 200,000 hectares of rolling countryside.
Perfect for nature walks and challenging hikes, the Wicklow Mountains are the ideal spot to view nature at its finest. Surrounding towns and pretty villages in County Wicklow also offer cosy accommodation and pubs in the evenings.
(Images: arndt_hoppe, Chalky Lives, Anne Burgess, Joe King)