Raahe Guide Raahen Esittely
Ireland is located in the North Atlantic west of Great Britain. Ireland is also nicknamed the Green Island, because a large part of the central parts of the island is a green lowland dominated by agriculture, colored by several lakes and marshes.
It has an area of 70,273 square kilometers, a population of about 5.1 million and the official languages are Irish and English. The coastal mountains rising in the western parts of the island are in places more than 1000 meters high. Of all the western countries, perhaps Ireland has experienced the fastest economic boom in recent decades.
Attractions in Ireland
Home to some of the greenest landscapes and most impressive ancient sites, Ireland is a magnet for nature lovers and history enthusiasts. In the list below you will find some must-see attractions in this country.
The Cliffs of Moher
Visited by about a million people from all over the world every year, the Cliffs of Moher are one of the top attractions in Ireland. They entrance visitors with their grandeur and rugged beauty, stretching for 8 kilometers along the Atlantic and rising some 200 meters above the ocean. It is the perfect place to experience the raw power of nature and escape the urban routine. There is a walking trail atop the cliffs that allows you to enjoy their splendor and take memorable photos.
Dublin
Dublin is a vibrant city packed full of both medieval and modern sightseeing spots. For a trip to the city’s past, explore the Dublin Castle that has served as the central administration until 1922, the imposing 12th century St. Patrick’s Cathedral and the oldest university in Ireland, Trinity College.
Also, visit the multitude of museums that present the history and culture of the country through ages including the National Museum of Ireland, the Irish Emigration Museum and the National Gallery. To take the pulse of modern Dublin, head to the buzzing Grafton Street. Aside from being the shopping heartland of the city, it is full of cafes, restaurants, flower-sellers and street performers.
Blarney Castle
Blarney Castle is a massive stone building that dates back to the 15th century. People crowd here to perform a centuries-old ritual that is said to give them the gift of eloquence. They climb to the mysterious stone on top of a castle’s tower, lean backwards and kiss it, hoping the miracle to happen. Aside from stone kissing, you can take a guided tour of the castle’s towers and dungeons, roam the lovely garden and buy a gift in the souvenir shop.
The Ring of Kerry
If you have enough time in your schedule, you can embark on a journey across Ireland’s most scenic route, the Ring of Kerry. If driving non-stop, you can complete the 111-mile-long route in under three hours. But you will most likely fail, because en-route there is a wealth of breath-taking Atlantic Ocean views, beautiful islands to visit, majestic mountains and picturesque villages.
The area offers a wide choice of activities such as golf, cycling, water sports, horse-riding and fishing. History buffs can visit ancient stones, age-old monasteries and long-standing forts.
Bunratty Castle
The Bunratty Castle is the perfect place for a journey through ages. The stately stone building served as a Viking trading camp in 970. It has been restored to presentable condition and boasts some of the largest collections of medieval furniture in the country. A highlight of every castle’s tour is the Folk Park, a 19th century village with 30 farmhouses that render the life in Ireland in the 1800s. You can stroll the quaint streets and absorb the old countryside vibes accompanied by Irish music.
