We’ve a lot to be proud of in Ireland, from the natural beauty surrounding us to the many marvellous landmarks to our colourful past. Ireland’s Ancient East aims to take us on a journey through our most fascinating historical hotspots, from the Boyne Valley through Viking Waterford to coastal Cork, dwelling on the colourful characters, guided tours, fun festivals and all the extraordinary sights and sounds of the region. Immerse yourself in wonder and bring history to life - here’s just a taster of the many outstanding things to do:
1. Visit a garden
The tale is told of how, in the 1840s, leading architect of the day Daniel Robertson was challenged by the 6th Viscount Powerscourt to construct a garden to be reckoned with. He directed works sitting in a wheelbarrow due to severe gout, a bottle of sherry to hand – when the booze ran out, work was done for the day. Years of development down the years have crafted his efforts into a garden voted Top 3 in the world by National Geographic – Powerscourt in Co Wicklow. Another gem is the stunning 600-acre Dromana on the Waterford Garden Trail, while Altamont House and Gardens is the jewel in the 21-garden strong Carlow Trail. Don’t miss this year’s Carlow Garden Festival from 23 July-1 August featuring talks by such champions of horticulture as telly star Diarmuid Gavin.
2. Discover the Viking Triangle
While the lofty looters may have treated our country as their personal larder, we have the Vikings to thank for founding many of our towns and cities, including Waterford - the name derives from the Old Norse for ‘Windy Fjord’. Take the Epic Tour of the Viking Triangle where costumed guides give a whistle-stop overview of Irish history, through six monuments spanning a thousand years. Speaking of epic, Waterford also boasts one of our longest festivals, Summerval, making weekends a delight from late June to early September in locations around the city, Dunmore East and Tramore.
3. Climb a round tower
Another legacy of our old invaders, round towers are a distinctively Irish feature, built as a means to protect people and treasures of religious significance. St Canice’s in Kilkenny was founded in honour of the saint in the 6th Century, and is the city’s oldest standing structure, with astounding 360-degree views of the city and countryside. The later-built St Brigid’s in Kildare is believed to mark the site of the famous cross-weaving saint’s 5th-Century nunnery. Climb to the roof if you dare and marvel at the exquisite views.
4. Relax in this ancient land
Cavan Burren Park is a forest geopark with a striking glacial landscape, boasting one of the most diverse collections of ancient burial tombs to be found anywhere. These structures, such as the massive wedge tomb beside Giant’s Leap chasm, inspired much of the folklore of the area. Picnic by a dolmen, commune with our prehistoric past or take a tranquil stroll around Lough Gur, home to a heritage centre and stone circle.
5. Find your inner Viking
Athlone is a great spot to splash down from 9-11 September, with an array of water-based activities and a tasty selection of local produce showcased at the River and Food Festival. Climb aboard Viking Mike’s colourful replica of an old Knarr vessel and hear his wild accounts of battles and adventures of the era while sailing south to Clonmacnoise monastery.
6. Be part of the High Kings and Heroes story
Taking us back to 1315 in glorious living colour, the Battle of Kells Medieval Fayre (Aug 20-21) features costumed re-enactments of Edward de Bruce’s bid to claim the title of High King, with artisan food and ale, theatrical performances, falconry, archery, puppet and magic shows and an unmissable opportunity to dress up as a maiden, king, wench or knight of old.
7. Cruise or kayak along the Blackwater
If you’re not up for an adrenaline-pumping fast-paced voyage, also on offer are leisurely paddles or guided cruises along this expansive river. As well as the breathtaking scenery of the beautiful Lakelands, it’s a chance for a good gander at the procession of stately homes, castles and ruins skirting its banks.
8. Wonder at ancient wisdoms
While Newgrange steals all the solstice-celebrating thunder, nearby Knowth and Dowth are also awe-inspiring. The phenomenon of our 5000-year-old passage tombs in Co Meath tends to bring out any visitor’s spiritual side, evoking a sense of wonder at how deeply our ancient ancestors were attuned to the cycles of nature. Knowth has intricate tunnels marking spring and autumn equinoxes, Dowth is aligned to the winter solstice, while the spiral carvings adorning the Newgrange entrance are jaw-dropping.
So what are you waiting for? Start planning your adventure at www.irelandsancienteast.com
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