Ireland: Overview

Why go?

Eire - the Republic of Ireland - is an island of lush green hills, crumbling castles, rugged granite mountains, fine Georgian architecture and sleepy fishing villages, all surrounded by the brooding waters of the Irish Sea and Atlantic Ocean. Full of mystery, myths and legends, it evokes images of everything from leprechauns and Blarney stones to music festivals and perfect pints of Guinness.

i-escape is in the process of researching and reviewing all the best places to stay and things to do in Ireland, so you won't yet find the same detailed destination guides as for our other countries. Meantime, we are adding hotel and guesthouse reviews (with our usual level of detail!) as and when they are ready. So keep coming back to our pages, or drop us a line if you want to know what's in the pipeline.

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In Dublin:

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Activities

Sightseeing and culture:

Over the last decade, Dublin has reinvented itself as one of the most culturally vibrant and energetic cities in Europe, with art galleries, hip nightclubs, impressive churches and spontaneous folk music in its famously beery pubs. The quads and library of Trinity College, where the Book of Kells is kept (and Educating Rita was filmed), is a highlight. It's not a cheap city, and a rain shower is never far away, but the cheerful Dubliners don't less this dampen their spirits. These run especially high during Gaelic football and hurling matches at Croke Park, just outside the city.

Fishing and watersports:

Much of inland Ireland is a lattice of languid rivers, lakes and waterways, which you can cruise along by barge, sailboat or even speedboat if you're in a hurry (not that it's advisable to be). Pass the day reading, fishing, birdwatching or - on the larger loughs - water-skiing and sailing. Wineport Lodge near Athlone is a great spot for water-based (in)activities.

Yoga and hill-walking:

For a truly magical experience, try a one week ashtanga yoga retreat on a tiny island just off the west coast of Ireland. The dramatic scenery and invigorating sea air make a retreat on Clare Island an unforgettable experience for the hillwalking alone, but the well-taught yoga classes together with the delicious organic vegetarian food and live performances of local island music combine to make it a real treat.

	Overview
	Places to Stay
	What's Where
	Galway & West
	Dublin & East
	Cork & South
	Background Info
	Travel Tips
	Getting There
	Getting Around