Dublin is the most exciting, diverse and beautiful place in the world to us, but there is so much more of Ireland’s ancient east to explore on your visit. While it’s not mapped out in a single route like the Wild Atlantic Way, the historic sites dotted across this gorgeous region will make it a holiday to remember forever. Most of the more notable sites are perfect for a driving day trip from our serviced apartments on Dublin’s Leeson Street. Here are some must-see spots on your visit to Ireland’s ancient east.
Newgrange, Co Meath
Top of the list, and for good reason, Newgrange is one of the oldest and most fascinating attractions on the island of Ireland. It is over 5,000 years old, older than both Stonehenge and the Great Pyramids in Egypt and is a well-deserved World Heritage Site. Newgrange is a passage tomb built by Stone Age farmers to signal the beginning of the New Year as part of the Winter Solstice. Every year on December 21st the entire chamber of the tomb illuminates in an awe-inspiring feat of ancient engineering and the wonder of nature that has baffled experts for years. How did they do it, and how is it still in sync with the seasons! There are waiting lists of years to experience it naturally, but all of their tours include an artificial simulation so you can imagine what it would be like.
Rock of Cashel, Co Tipperary
The gorgeous Rock of Cashel, sometimes referred to as St Patrick’s Rock, was once the seat of the High King of Munster and has been a symbol of royalty and religious power for over 1000 years. In true Irish fashion, there is a legend about St. Patrick banishing Satan from a cave, resulting in the Rocks landing in Cashel. The whole area looks like a scene from a period drama with its Medieval Round Tower, Chapel, Cathedral and a walled castle. The views from the rock are unrivalled, showing you the full beauty of the rolling hills of the Irish Countryside. The Rock of Cashel is a scenic two-hour drive from Dublin.
Hook Lighthouse, Co. Wexford
Christened by Lonely Planet as “the granddaddy of all lighthouses”, The Hook Lighthouse in the Hook Peninsula is one of the more iconic and scenic lighthouses in the country. The existing building has been there for over 800 years and continues to guide ships home to this day. You can enjoy a tour of the lighthouse, climbing the 115 well-worn steps to the top to marvel at the wonderful panoramic views over Wexford and the Irish Sea. Hook Lighthouse was recently voted as one of the top ten places to visit in Ireland and it’s a great day out for all of the family.
Glendalough, Co Wicklow
Glendalough is one of the most picturesque places in Ireland and one of our favourite places for a leisurely walk or to enjoy lunch with a view. Glendalough is a beautiful example of a glaciated, U-shaped valley and takes its name from the old Gaelic meaning ‘The Glen of the Two Lakes’. It is located inside one of Irelands largest National Parks, Wicklow National Park. Glendalough is also home to one of Irelands oldest Monastic settlements, dating from around 600BC. Immerse yourself in Irish history and learn something along the way from the informative visitors centre in Glendalough.
Kilkenny Castle, Co. Kilkenny
The magnificent Kilkenny Castle overlooks the River Nore and has guarded this important river crossing for more than 900 years. The castle and its gorgeous grounds are one of the most remarkable and well-known historical sites in the county. The gorgeous castle and the surrounds grounds of rolling green fields surrounding makes it a popular spot to visit. The castle is a gorgeous tourist destination with a historic house holding important art collections, a library, drawing room and the noted Long Gallery. Its location in the centre of Kilkenny is ideal for exploring the gorgeous city too.
Dublin is the ideal base for exploring Ireland Ancient East. Our Airport, port and excellent connections to all major roadways makes us ideal for day trips. Our serviced apartments in Dublin offer you and your family all the space, flexibility and comfort you need for a true home from home experience. Don’t forget to use our official website when making your booking so you are guaranteed out best available rates. We look forward to welcoming you soon
