Not only home to mythic leprechauns and their legendary treasure troves, Ireland is a magic place where both ruined and restored castles dot the emerald green landscape. Of course, there is plenty for travelers to see and do in the country even if they never find their own pot of gold.
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Dublin is usually the beginning point of any Irish vacation. Thirsty city visitors can easily stop by one or both of the local breweries in order to take a guided tour of the facilities and sample the potent local spirits. Another popular stop in this town is Trinity College. The university itself dates back to the Middle Ages and the library is currently home to the beautifully illuminated medieval manuscript The Book of Kells. Travelers should come to the library early in order to avoid standing in line.
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Newgrange is another interesting Irish spot. This ancient burial mound is aligned with the sun so that the main passageway is bathed in glowing light during the annual winter solstice. A limited number of tickets are available for this spectacular show. Therefore, interested travelers should put their names in the drawing to do so as early as possible and keep their fingers crossed. Those that don’t win the lottery can go to the nearby Dowth burial mound for their solstice celebrations instead, because everyone that shows up there is usually allowed to attend as long as the weather is good.
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The Burren is likewise a good place to visit when journeying through Ireland. The scenic environment is devoid of large trees, but it is nonetheless home to a wealth of plant and animal life including many rare species. A number of tour buses traverse the so-called “ring road” that encircles the landscape. However, the area can be easily accessed by rental car as well. Those making their way out to the Burren should exercise especial caution near the edge of the Cliffs of Moher because the weather is often very windy and the porous rock can be quite crumbly. As a few unfortunate travelers have tragically learned, one ignores the warning signs at their own peril. After all, it’s a long way down.
What’s your favorite place in Ireland? Tell us about it in the comment section below.
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Sources: Wikitravel; Lonely Planet; Wikipedia
