As St Patrick's Day approaches, what better way to show some national pride than booking a trip or two for the year ahead - right here in Ireland, of course. Here are a few ideas to get the ball rolling:
1) Clare
As close to perfection as you'll find in Ireland, the Cliffs of Moher are as impressive as the most amazing natural wonders throughout the world. But they're not the only thing to visit in Clare - far from it in fact. The coast comes alive throughout the summer months with Lahinch, Kilkee and Doonbeg just some of the lively spots to spend a few great days and nights with amazing beaches, coastal walks and world class surfing conditions where the craic is guaranteed. Some of Ireland's best golf courses are also to be found in the Banner county, while the Burren is an inland beauty waiting to be discovered. And don't forget Lisdoonvarna, sure you never know who'll be hanging about. www.discoverireland.ie/clare
2) Take a Walking Holiday
Walking holidays are very much en vogue throughout the world with the Camino in Spain or the Patagonia region in Argentina two of the most popular spots. But why travel when Ireland is blessed with so many amazing walking trails. From the majestic Mountains of Mourne to the beautiful Benbulben, this country has walking trails that cater to everyone from the Sunday stroller to the hardcore trekker. To get a taster of what is out there beyond the city limits, jump on the DART to Howth and follow the coastal trail for some breathtaking scenery - start with tea and scones in the Summit Pub and finish with the best fish and chips that you will ever taste down by the harbour. www.walkingholiday.ie
3) Belfast
If you haven't yet been to this vibrant city, you don't know what you're missing. Belfast is experiencing a rebirth of sorts at the moment with huge investment in both infrastructure and its cultural and historical past. Explore the four quarters of the city; wander the dry docks where the Titanic was built, take a black cab tour, which gives a great insight into the troubled past, indulge in some high end retail therapy at Victoria Square shopping centre, or jump on the music tour of Belfast that takes you from the Ulster Hall, across the Lagan and on down to Cyprus Avenue, and you may even spot Van the Man - well you'll see the house where he grew up, anyway. And as for the nightlife, well you'll have to find that out for yourself - you won't be disappointed. www.gotobelfast.com
4) Water-based Holidays
Ireland boasts over 1440 kilometres of coastline and more than 950km of inland waterways, throw in the many freshwater lakes and rivers and you will realise how spoilt for choice we are as an island race. Kayaking is the sport of choice for the inland waters, quality surfing is to be found from Waterford all the way around the Atlantic coast to Donegal. Sailing is becoming much more accessible and for the daring, why not try a bit of kiteboarding down on blowy Dollymount Strand. Apparently, some paddleboarders are to be found around the waters of Dún Laoghaire - it's a bit of new craze but don't be surprised if this very enjoyable sport goes national. www.discoverireland.ie
5) Golf the North and West Coast
While we've known about it for years, the golf courses of Ireland's north and west coast have recently been awarded the prestigious title of European Golf Resort of the Year for 2011. The association involved incorporates 14 of Ireland's best championship golf courses so throw the clubs in the boot and hit the road whether you start in Connemara or Ardglass in County Down. Gems such as Ballyliffin, Nairn and Portnoo, Enniscrone and the amazing Royal Portrush are awaiting your arrival. www.northandwestcoastlinks.com
6) Cruising the Inland Waterways
A recent television programme highlighted the beauty of Ireland's inland waterways as three men in a boat took a barge trip along the Grand Canal and beyond to the broad, majestic Shannon. Well if a barge is a bit too slow and old fashioned, the cruise boat is probably the ideal way to traverse these inland waters. Whether you travel on the amazing Shannon and its great Loughs or hit Fermanagh to explore the beauty of Lough Erne and its surrounds, you will be set for a very memorable holiday. www.iwai.ie
7) The Fleadh
We recommended a trip to Cavan last year for the Fleadh Cheoil. To say that it surpassed expectations would be a bit of an understatement. Whether you like traditional Irish music or not, a return trip to Cavan this year will not disappoint. Thousands will, once again, flock to the town of Cavan for the festival and if anything, this year should be even better as pubs and restaurants should be even better prepared this time around. Book your accommodation early as there won't be a free bed in the town come Fleadh week. www.fleadh2011.ie
8) Jazz It up in Derry City
The tenth City of Derry Jazz and Big Band Festival takes place from 28 April to 1 May and will see over 300 musicians play four days of gigs in over 75 venues featuring everything from classical jazz to rockabilly, jump jive to swing and every type of big band extravaganza in-between. The 2011 line-up is still to be released, but with last year's artists including Bill Wyman of the Rolling Stones, this is a festival for jazz lovers to look forward to. And staying with the music theme, Ireland's leading electronic festival, Celtronic, will take place in a number of venues across Derry from 29 June to 3 July. Now in its 11th year, the festival offers the best Irish DJs and live acts over five days. www.derryvisitor.com
9) Equestrian Holidays
Ireland's horse breeders and trainers are renowned around the world and with over 300 race meetings and festivals a year at 26 racecourses, a day out at the races is always a great option. The Christmas festival at Leopardstown was a bit of an anti-climax due to the weather but that will all change once the Galway Races kick in. The Listowel Festival is another one to mark on the calendar, not to mention the old reliables at Punchestown, Fairyhouse and the Curragh. And if you want to muck in with some first hand experience, there are a huge range of horse riding options available from post-to-post trail rides and leisurely hacks to western riding and exciting beach treks. www.ehi.ie
10) Get On Your Bike
The glory days of Ireland's cyclists ruling the world may be a while returning but the legacy remains in the form of top quality cycling holidays that are available throughout Ireland. Hit the hills of Kerry, travel inland to the Galtee Mountains or loop the Twelve Pins in Galway - it might be a tiring trip but well worth it, you'll find.
www.cyclingireland.ie/Home.aspx
www.cycleholidaysireland.com/
For more information on what's happening around Ireland this summer, visit www.discoverireland.ie or www.discovernorthernireland.com.
Ed Leahy
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