Lonely Planet Ireland (Travel Guide)

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Detour: On this trip, you’re not far from Ireland’s highest mountain, Carrauntoohil. It’s worth taking a day to attempt the hike via the Devil’s Ladder. 4. Mayo coastal road trip When you've worked up an appetite, enjoy a picnic in the People’s Park, which has been open to the public since 1890 and hosts a popular farmers market every Sunday. It features fine examples of Victorian architecture with the Gate Lodge and the Tea Rooms, a bandstand with the original gaslight standards and a playground. Ireland’s National Maritime Museum is housed in the 180-year-old Mariners Church, and no visit to Dún Laoghaire would be complete without a trip to Teddy's Ice-Cream for a 99 cone. Hurling is Ireland’s ‘official’ sport and most fans swell with pride when talking about the thrilling mix of speed and skill that makes it such an exciting game to watch.

But if you ask politely, you’ll find most Irish people surprisingly open to talking about the controversial topics of the day. As a small nation with a complex history and politics, we don’t like being misunderstood so we’re usually happy to give our perspective if we’re being treated with respect. Do read one of our amazing authors before you visitAn imposing grey building, built in 1796, it's played a role in virtually every act of Ireland's painful path to independence, and even today, it still has the power to chill. Sometimes referred to as "The Bastille of Ireland", Kilmainham Gaol was decommissioned in 1924 and is now a museum with an enthralling exhibit on the history of Irish nationalism. With ancient ruins telling history of forgotten times, stunning mountain ranges and alluring small villages, there is something here that will captivate even the most seasoned traveler. Here are the don’t-miss things to do on your next trip to Ireland. 1. Road trip around the Wild Atlantic Way Drivers can take a ferry across the river Shannon to go directly from County Kerry to County Clare. Boat hire Take a mythical walk through Ballinastoe Woods before emerging at a viewpoint overlooking Guinness Lake. This is one of those trails where you have to keep reminding yourself to watch where you’re putting your feet because it’s nearly impossible to take your eyes off the views. Lough Ouler is known as the "Love Heart Lake", so you can probably guess why it’s the ultimate hike to go on a date. This trail is the best place to catch an epic sunrise with your significant other, but of course you don’t need to go as a couple.

Planning tip: There's a farmers market in the grounds of Farmleigh House at the weekends. 7. Learn some recent history at Kilmainham Gaol The warmest months from April to August offer endless hours to explore the coastline or lush, rolling green countryside, but with a year-round temperate climate that rarely freezes in winter or blisters in summer, it’s possible to enjoy daytime outdoor activities in any month. Key events: Cork International Choral Festival, Fleadh Nua, Cathedral Quarter Arts Festival, Listowel Writers' Week. June is full of festivals Wrapped up in that pride is a sense that hurling represents a form of idealized Irishness, an ancient game unique to this island that combines skill, athleticism, courage (watch a player rise to grab a bare-handed catch while his opponent swings his hurl to field the same ball and you’ll see what we mean) and – most importantly – an undiluted feeling of community pride.Local tip: Rinroe, a secret cove north of Erris, has caverns that offer a good photo op. 3. Kilkenny For many, the best route to take starts and ends at Silverstrand beach. Not only do you get constant coastal views on the trail, but you can also hop straight into the sea to cool down afterwards. 4. Mt Errigal, County Donegal While traces of Ireland's Viking past have been largely washed away, the city is a living museum of its history since then, with medieval castles and cathedrals on display alongside the architectural splendors of its 18th-century heyday. As an added bonus, Dubliners are the greatest hosts of all, a charismatic bunch with compelling soul and sociability. Key events: Cat Laughs Comedy Festival, Dublin LGBTQ Pride, Irish Derby, Bloomsday, Cork Midsummer Festival, Mourne International Walking Festival. July is party time Cultural insightsgive you a richer, more rewarding travel experience - history, people, music, landscapes, wildlife, cuisine, politics