It's St Patrick's Day and to celebrate we have picked the top six landmarks to visit in Ireland. From stunning cliffs to a bustling city area, Ireland has much to offer all types of travellers.
St Patrick's Day on Female First
Cliffs of Moher
A must-see landmark site for those visiting the west of Ireland, the spectacular Cliffs of Moher soars 700 ft above a rough five-mile coastal stretch in County Clare. The impressive area can be appreciated from O’Brien’s Tower, which, on a clear summer’s day can provide views of the Aran Islands.
The Cliffs of Moher are a haven for birdlife-buffs, who can spot puffins, gannets and shags, among the many species, nesting and feeding around the cliffs.
Blarney Castle
With gorgeous grounds, well-kept footpaths and informative signs, a visit to Blarney Castle should be on the lists of everyone visiting Cork city or surrounding areas. The historic castle is famous for its stone, which is said to have the traditional power of conferring eloquence on all who kiss it. If not for the stone, then for the picturesque setting, Blarney Castle is well worth a visit.
Dublin Castle
The heart of the city, Dublin Castle is where you can take a guided tour to view the remains of the 13th century citadel which was the seat of British power in Ireland for around 700 years.
Today, the prestigious building houses state-of-the-art conference and dining facilities and is used by the Irish Government for state banquets and visiting dignitaries. Visitors can marvel at some of the complex’s highlights, including the Throne Room and St. Patrick’s Hall, on guided tours.
Rock of Cashel
Dominating views for miles around, these ruins are a dramatic outline of a craggy abbey, at the top of a hill, in the town of Cashel. Here, you’ll find Hore Abbey, one of the amazing structures with great history - if your family traces from southeast Ireland, you may discover your last name carved into a headstone.
Entry is relatively cheap and you’re guaranteed a special scenic sight on a lovely summer’s day.
Dingle Peninsula
The stunning Dingle Peninsula carries many accolades including, Nat Geo’s title for ‘the most beautiful place on Earth’; CNN’s Top 10 places to be on New Year’s Eve; and TripAdvisors top 100 destinations in the world, to name but a few, and it sure deserves the recognition.
The Dingle Peninsula, in County Kerry goes beyond the westernmost point of Ireland, and is a place of surreal beauty with steep sea-cliffs, sandy beaches and a host sea life, like dolphins and seals, to encounter.
Temple Bar, Dublin City
Temple Bar, an area located on the south bank of the River Liffey has become somewhat of a landmark for being the life and soul of central Dublin. The whole area is full of great pubs, bars, cafes and restaurants, lining the narrow cobbled streets that have preserved their medieval road structure.
What are your favourite places to visit in Ireland? Tell us in the comments below or tweet us @FemaleFirst_UK