The Irish landscape is a beautiful place to explore and the best way to see it all is by car. Traverse the Emerald Isle on four wheels to uncover the charm of this captivating place.
Ireland is a land famous for fairies and leprechauns. Its folklore is without doubt a predominant part of its attraction. So, why not plan a tour of the sites that are home to the most cherished legends and epic tales. Mythical and humorous the Irish knack for storytelling will capture your imagination like no other!
For a scenic drive with a difference make a circuit of Ireland’s most iconic castles! Stay in quaint rural towns and sample some original Irish hospitality. Enjoy a pint of Guinness or a dram of whisky in a traditional Irish pub after a day exploring the gorgeous scenery and medieval castles.
Kilkenny, Cahir, Barryscourt and Dunguaire are some of Ireland’s most famous castles.
Kilkenny Castle
Pick up your hire car at Dublin Airport and make your way to Kilkenny. Once you arrive spend some time exploring the town. Wander through the tangle of 17th century passageways. Browse the rows of colourful shop fronts, and century’s old pubs. The castle itself was first built around the 12th century. However, the structure you see today is a considerably modified version. It features a number of 19th century alterations, renovations and additions. Nowadays, Kilkenny castle is more ornamental than defensive but brimming with history nonetheless. Don’t miss the Long Gallery exhibition!
Cahir Castle
Wander through the grounds at Cahir, a remarkable survivor of Ireland’s medieval past. The castle boasts a moat, turrets, towers, defences and dungeons. Cahir is the perfect setting for fairy tales of beautiful maidens and chivalrous Knights. Cahir is not only one of Ireland’s largest castles but also one of the oldest. Dating back the 12th century book a guided tour to experience the colourful history of this legendary site.
Barryscourt Castle
From Cahir most would head to Blarney Castle to try their luck with its enchanted kissing stone. Story has it that if visitors can bend over backwards to kiss the stone they will be granted the eternal gift of eloquence! However, crowds and queues tend to spoil the magic of this legendary spot. Instead, make a detour to Barryscourt castle for a quieter alternative. Here you’ll find a few more stories than a well smooched stone. Tour the Main Hall and Great Hall and wander through the orchard. All of which have been restored to their original 16th century designs.
Dunguaire Castle
Next stop is Dunguaire. Don’t miss the medieval banquet entertainments for a unique castle experience. Get stuck in to an evening of revelry and feasting for a first-hand account of how the noble lords and ladies at Dungaire once lived. The banquet hosts dressed in full medieval costume set the scene as they welcome you with a goblet of mead and direct you to your seats. As the courses are served the castle entertainers will regale you with the great stories, ballads, songs and poems from Ireland’s days of medieval legends.
Finally, round off your scenic tour with an overnight stay at Abbeyglen or Ballynahinch Castle.
A stay at Ballynahinch Castle hotel will plunge you deep into the history of the Connemara area. Home to cosy rooms with riverside views Ballynahinch is the perfect rural escape. Built in the late 1500s Ballynahinch was originally owned by the infamous pirate queen Grace O’Malley. Bursting with character the castle boasts a rather unorthodox floor plan.
Or, if all this talk of castles and fairy tales has got you hankering for something a little more extravagant take the Sky Road to Abbeyglen. The luxury suites will make you feel like King or Queen of your very own castle.
For more ideas on scenic drives with a difference why not check out our favourite driving destinations.
Leave us a comment below if you have a favourite Irish legend!
