Special Interest Holidays
Ireland has to offer numerous opportunities to indulge in special interests. Whether you are interested in ancient pilgrims' routes or wreck-diving, long-distance hiking or golfing - Ireland is the place to go. Find out more about holidays off the beaten track.
Irish Fortifications You Should Not Miss
Irelands history could be termed "troubled" at the best of times - unrest from within and the threat of invasion were always there. Keeping the peace was not helped by the fact that most natives wanted the peacekeepers out and actively supported invaders at the drop of a hat. Hence a number of interesting fortifications that still dot the landscape ...
Irelands history could be termed "troubled" at the best of times - unrest from within and the threat of invasion were always there. Keeping the peace was not helped by the fact that most natives wanted the peacekeepers out and actively supported invaders at the drop of a hat. Hence a number of interesting fortifications that still dot the landscape ...
Irish Castles You Should Not Miss
You will find castles in Ireland - many in a state of disrepair, but impressive still. Some heavily (and often heavyhandedly) converted to more luxurious dwellings. And some even in official use today. Go and visit, Irish castles can make a vacation a truly historic trip.
You will find castles in Ireland - many in a state of disrepair, but impressive still. Some heavily (and often heavyhandedly) converted to more luxurious dwellings. And some even in official use today. Go and visit, Irish castles can make a vacation a truly historic trip.
Irish Hauntings
Irish hauntings tend to be seen as being a bit whimsical, from Hollywood movies depicting the Irish afterlife (like "High Spirits" and "Darby O'Gill") to Oscar Wilde's very own Canterville ghost. And it is also said that where other countries have ghosts and ghouls, the Irish have fairies. The …
Irish X-Files
Irish X-files are a non-starter if you trust TV shows - neither Mulder nor Scully ever hopped over the ocean into the "old country", to confront banshees, ghosts and aliens. But maybe they should have? There is more to Ireland than meets the eye of the sceptic beholder. And if you do not fancy the idea of spending a night in a haunted room, maybe you'll relish cruising in pursuit of lake monsters…
Irish X-files are a non-starter if you trust TV shows - neither Mulder nor Scully ever hopped over the ocean into the "old country", to confront banshees, ghosts and aliens. But maybe they should have? There is more to Ireland than meets the eye of the sceptic beholder. And if you do not fancy the idea of spending a night in a haunted room, maybe you'll relish cruising in pursuit of lake monsters…
Irish Nudism
So you want to strip off and go naked in Ireland? No problem - just be sure to do it in the privacy of your own room and only observed by consenting family and friends. Otherwise you might have a run-in with the law. But naturists take note - while nudism may not be legal, there are zones of toleration.
So you want to strip off and go naked in Ireland? No problem - just be sure to do it in the privacy of your own room and only observed by consenting family and friends. Otherwise you might have a run-in with the law. But naturists take note - while nudism may not be legal, there are zones of toleration.
The Knights Templar in Ireland
On Friday, the 13th of October, 1307, French men-at-arms took the Knights Templar of Paris into custody. It was the start of the end for the "warrior monks". Soon after the events in Paris the Templars in Ireland were also arrested under suspicion of heresy. Their empire crumbled - but are there still traces to be found on Irish soil? A few ... if you know where to look!
On Friday, the 13th of October, 1307, French men-at-arms took the Knights Templar of Paris into custody. It was the start of the end for the "warrior monks". Soon after the events in Paris the Templars in Ireland were also arrested under suspicion of heresy. Their empire crumbled - but are there still traces to be found on Irish soil? A few ... if you know where to look!
The Lough Ree Monster
Literally hundreds of tourists cross Lough Ree, part of the Shannon, every week on cruisers - looking out for shallows and rocks, at the same time enjoying the unspoilt landscapes. Seldom do they give a second thought about what might lurk beneath, watching and waiting ...
Literally hundreds of tourists cross Lough Ree, part of the Shannon, every week on cruisers - looking out for shallows and rocks, at the same time enjoying the unspoilt landscapes. Seldom do they give a second thought about what might lurk beneath, watching and waiting ...
Saints of Ireland
Ireland has long been known as the island of saints and scholars - and it has even been suggested that it was the Irish that saved civilization when Rome crumbled. And while most of the Irish saints were never canonized and are barely remembered, some even today manage to stick out.
Ireland has long been known as the island of saints and scholars - and it has even been suggested that it was the Irish that saved civilization when Rome crumbled. And while most of the Irish saints were never canonized and are barely remembered, some even today manage to stick out.
Megalithic and Prehistoric Sites of Ireland
Many visitors to Ireland are drawn towards the megalithic and prehistoric monuments on the island. Built a few thousand years ago by persons unknown with an intention we know nothing of they still hold a certain fascination today. Be it because of the sheer impact of the building works necessary or the (supposed) mystical background. But what actually are the best monuments to visit?
Many visitors to Ireland are drawn towards the megalithic and prehistoric monuments on the island. Built a few thousand years ago by persons unknown with an intention we know nothing of they still hold a certain fascination today. Be it because of the sheer impact of the building works necessary or the (supposed) mystical background. But what actually are the best monuments to visit?
What are the Geographical Extremes of Ireland?
Some people like to go to the ends of the world. Find the geographical extremes of Ireland and try to cover them all.
Some people like to go to the ends of the world. Find the geographical extremes of Ireland and try to cover them all.
Valentine's Day Activities in Ireland - How to Say "Be my Irish Valentine"
Ireland offers some unique ways to say "Be my Valentine" and maybe to pop the question. Here are some suggestions for that special Valentine's Day in Ireland.
Ireland offers some unique ways to say "Be my Valentine" and maybe to pop the question. Here are some suggestions for that special Valentine's Day in Ireland.
Ireland on Two Pedal-Driven Wheels
Cycling through Ireland can be a rewarding alternative for anyone moderately fit and with a willingness to invest their own muscle-power into getting from A to B. It is, however, not as idyllic as described in many brochures - Ireland has changed immensely in the last few years.
Cycling through Ireland can be a rewarding alternative for anyone moderately fit and with a willingness to invest their own muscle-power into getting from A to B. It is, however, not as idyllic as described in many brochures - Ireland has changed immensely in the last few years.
Hiking in Ireland - Walking the Irish Walk
Hiking through Ireland can be a rewarding alternative for anyone moderately fit and with a willingness to invest their own muscle-power into getting from A to B. Several way-marked routes are available for long-distance hikes and shorter routes are identified locally.
Hiking through Ireland can be a rewarding alternative for anyone moderately fit and with a willingness to invest their own muscle-power into getting from A to B. Several way-marked routes are available for long-distance hikes and shorter routes are identified locally.
Cruising on Ireland's Inland Waterways
Ireland is not only surrounded by water, it also has an amazing 9,000 miles of waterways and around 800 sizeable lakes. As many of the lakes are interconnected by rivers and canals a veritable network of navigable waters exists. Cruising on Ireland's inland waterways is a very popular option for a really relaxing vacation.
Ireland is not only surrounded by water, it also has an amazing 9,000 miles of waterways and around 800 sizeable lakes. As many of the lakes are interconnected by rivers and canals a veritable network of navigable waters exists. Cruising on Ireland's inland waterways is a very popular option for a really relaxing vacation.
Typical Boat Types Used on Ireland's Inland Waterways
Ireland is not only surrounded by water, it also has an amazing 9,000 miles of waterways and around 800 sizeable lakes. As many of the lakes are interconnected by rivers and canals a veritable network of navigable waters exists. And several companies offer boats for hire. Cabin cruisers of varying size and technology, but all designed to provide transport and accommodation in one. Cruising on Ireland's inland waterways is a very popular option for a really relaxing vacation.
Ireland is not only surrounded by water, it also has an amazing 9,000 miles of waterways and around 800 sizeable lakes. As many of the lakes are interconnected by rivers and canals a veritable network of navigable waters exists. And several companies offer boats for hire. Cabin cruisers of varying size and technology, but all designed to provide transport and accommodation in one. Cruising on Ireland's inland waterways is a very popular option for a really relaxing vacation.
Spectator Sports in Ireland
When in Ireland, do as the Irish do! And one thing the Irish are certainly fond of are sports. At least in the role of a spectator. Here are the ten most popular spectator sports:
When in Ireland, do as the Irish do! And one thing the Irish are certainly fond of are sports. At least in the role of a spectator. Here are the ten most popular spectator sports:
Gaelic Football - An Introduction
Forget Beckham, forget the Superbowl ... for any true-blooded Irishman football is nothing but Gaelic Football. Often compared to Association Football (or "soccer" to you and me) or to Rugby. But maybe the origin of both these sports.
Forget Beckham, forget the Superbowl ... for any true-blooded Irishman football is nothing but Gaelic Football. Often compared to Association Football (or "soccer" to you and me) or to Rugby. But maybe the origin of both these sports.
Hurling and Camogie - An Introduction
Hurling is regarded as one of the fastest ball-games in the world - and to the uninitiated a first encounter may also beckon forth the attributes "chaotic" and "brutal". Sometimes hurling is confused with hockey. At least until the game starts ...
Hurling is regarded as one of the fastest ball-games in the world - and to the uninitiated a first encounter may also beckon forth the attributes "chaotic" and "brutal". Sometimes hurling is confused with hockey. At least until the game starts ...
Handball - An Introduction
Handball may be the strangest Gaelic Game and is not really a big hit with the crowds. A friend of mine once described it as "squash without rackets". He was basically right ...
Handball may be the strangest Gaelic Game and is not really a big hit with the crowds. A friend of mine once described it as "squash without rackets". He was basically right ...
Irish Golf Courses
Ireland can be a golfer's paradise - if you are prepared for changing weather, strong winds and challenging courses. Choosing the perfect courses for a golfing tour of Ireland is a hard task. Find the Top Ten Irish Golf Courses with About.com.
Ireland can be a golfer's paradise - if you are prepared for changing weather, strong winds and challenging courses. Choosing the perfect courses for a golfing tour of Ireland is a hard task. Find the Top Ten Irish Golf Courses with About.com.
In Patrick's Footsteps
Patrick, Ireland's patron saint, is commonly known as the man who in 432 singlehandedly brought Christianity to the Irish and drove the snakes out of the Emerald Isle. While both these claims are suspect, the historical Patrick seems to have been a very successful missionary in the northern part of Ireland. A tour in his footsteps makes an interesting departure from the beaten track.
Patrick, Ireland's patron saint, is commonly known as the man who in 432 singlehandedly brought Christianity to the Irish and drove the snakes out of the Emerald Isle. While both these claims are suspect, the historical Patrick seems to have been a very successful missionary in the northern part of Ireland. A tour in his footsteps makes an interesting departure from the beaten track.
Movie Locations in Ireland
Ireland has long been a country where cinemas were an important part of popular culture - indeed the Irish are regarded as some of the most enthusiastic cineasts of Europe. But Ireland has also a tradition of film production. Many major movies were filmed here, find the places where this happened ...
Ireland has long been a country where cinemas were an important part of popular culture - indeed the Irish are regarded as some of the most enthusiastic cineasts of Europe. But Ireland has also a tradition of film production. Many major movies were filmed here, find the places where this happened ...
The Cinematic Drives of Wicklow
Any drive through the Wicklow Mountains never fails to impress, but how doe the thematic "Movie Drives" fare? Landscapes can be seen in movies like "Excalibur", "Michael Collins" and "Braveheart". But is it worth taking the drive if you are a fan of these blockbusters?
Any drive through the Wicklow Mountains never fails to impress, but how doe the thematic "Movie Drives" fare? Landscapes can be seen in movies like "Excalibur", "Michael Collins" and "Braveheart". But is it worth taking the drive if you are a fan of these blockbusters?
Churches to Visit in Ireland
Ireland, known as the island of saints and scholars, is dotted with church buildings - from small, early medieval oratories to Byzantine extravaganzas. Here are ten churches I would recommend for a visit and which would give you a fair impression of the different styles.[/p]
Ireland, known as the island of saints and scholars, is dotted with church buildings - from small, early medieval oratories to Byzantine extravaganzas. Here are ten churches I would recommend for a visit and which would give you a fair impression of the different styles.[/p]
Reaching out to the Heavens - The Round Towers of Ireland
The round towers are a unique Irish form of architecture - and have been puzzling antiquarians for centuries. See some of the remaining towers in a gallery put together by your About Guide Bernd Biege.
The round towers are a unique Irish form of architecture - and have been puzzling antiquarians for centuries. See some of the remaining towers in a gallery put together by your About Guide Bernd Biege.
Honeymoons and Romantic Getaways in Ireland
Irish vacations for couples in love ... on About.coms Honeymoons site.
Irish vacations for couples in love ... on About.coms Honeymoons site.
Golf Travel Ireland
Travel to Ireland and have a game of golf on world-famous links.
Travel to Ireland and have a game of golf on world-famous links.
Golf in Ireland
Tourist information for golfers from Fáilte Ireland.
Tourist information for golfers from Fáilte Ireland.
Genealogy in Ireland
Special website prepared by Fáilte Ireland to promote genealogy as a holiday pursuit - giving you valuable hints on how to research your Irish roots.
Special website prepared by Fáilte Ireland to promote genealogy as a holiday pursuit - giving you valuable hints on how to research your Irish roots.
Equestrian Holidays Ireland
Website aimed at tourists who want to experience a holiday with an equestrian theme - including trailriding, cross country, dressage, hunting and trekking.
Website aimed at tourists who want to experience a holiday with an equestrian theme - including trailriding, cross country, dressage, hunting and trekking.
Horse Racing Ireland - Festivals
Complete information on all horse racing festivals.
Complete information on all horse racing festivals.
Fishing in Ireland
Information on coarse, sea, pike and flyfishing in Ireland stright from the Central Fisheries Board.
Information on coarse, sea, pike and flyfishing in Ireland stright from the Central Fisheries Board.
Boating in Ireland
Website of the Inland Waterways Association of Ireland with valuable information on boating in Ireland.
Website of the Inland Waterways Association of Ireland with valuable information on boating in Ireland.
Knock - Ireland's National Marian Shrine
Comprehensive information on this major pilgrimage site in County Mayo.
Comprehensive information on this major pilgrimage site in County Mayo.
Burren Yoga Centre
The Burren Yoga Centre offers retreats and yoga instructions on all levels.
The Burren Yoga Centre offers retreats and yoga instructions on all levels.