The island country evokes images of lush green countryside, as well as the legacy of ancient Celtic art and druid mysticism.
Ireland is a travel destination rich in culture, language and history, and it will give visitors a keen understanding of the meaning of the Irish people in the 21st century.
While I can give you a list of top bars to visit or hike, there are something very unique and universal in Ireland. Since it’s nearly impossible to see over 30,000 castles that exist on the island, I’ve compiled a list of the top six you should visit to indulge yourself in Irish culture.
Blaney Castle
Blarney Castle is a medieval fortress located in Cork, and its iconicity is for many reasons. Blarney Castle was built in the early 1200s and was renovated by the McCarthys in the 15th century, with 60 acres of gardens and sitting with the Martin River. However, the main attraction of the stronghold is Blarney Stone, a bunch of limestone allegedly blessed by the Banshee Queen Clíodhna. Rumors say that if you climb ten stories to the top and kiss the stone upside down, you will be given “Gab’s gift” (i.e. eloquence).
Visit their website here Learn more about visiting the castle and outdoor gardens.
Jump the castle
(Show at the top of this post)
Located in Offaly, the structure is a beautiful sight to see an ominous secret. Leap Castle is known for being the most “haunted house” castle in the world, with a bloody history involving many prisoners and executions. A hike tour to the site, breathing in the scent of sulfur, may witness one of the many ghosts that haunt the hall. You might just encounter the red lady of the dagger, or the sisters Charlotte and Emily, or a mysterious creature with the size of a sheep and the rotten face called “It” (not to be confused with Stephen King’s equally terrifying clown).
Ask for a private tour in their horror venue website.
Cashel’s Rock
Although most of us have heard of St. Patrick (with a whole holiday after all), many don’t know about his feat. The legend owns it, and rocky land lands 20 miles south of Cashel when St. Patrick drives Satan from a cave located on the mountain pass. Furthermore, the castle witnessed the baptism of St. Patrick, the first Christian king of Munster, the fifth century. Apart from its religious and historical significance, you can also visit the beautiful Irish frescoes of Cashel Rocks, Romanesque cathedrals and endless green landscapes.
Learn more about how to visit among the town officials website.
Dunlus Castle
Are there any Game of Thrones fans here? You may recognize Dunluce Castle as this is a set of Greyjoy Castle in the HBO series. But beyond that, these abandoned ruins are known for their dangerous cliffs on the coast of Causeway in Northern Ireland. The castle is accessible only through the bridges of the mainland and was built in the 1500s and witnessed the struggle between various warrior clans. While the cliff-bridge location is ideal for defensive measures, it is very unstable – the kitchen part even fell into the ocean in the 1630s! But don’t worry, we promise you that you can still tour safely today!
Ashford Castle
Once a medieval and Victorian landmark, Ashford Castle is now a five-star luxury spa hotel, one of our preferred partners (which means I can provide you with extra service during your stay there. The relaxing pool has shell chandeliers on it, and the mosaic mural of the “Tree of Life” symbolizes the Irish Celtic myth. Forget the pressure and live like a royal family for a few days! There are rumors that Ashford Castle is where Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have honeymooned. But, unfortunately, it’s just a rumor! Ashford Castle also won the “Best Sustainability” award at our favorite 2019 Irish Tutler Awards.
Book your luxury accommodation and learn about their wellness facilities at the hotel website.
Dublin Castle
Last but not least is the iconic Dublin Castle located in the capital of the Republic of Ireland. Over the centuries, this structure has played a variety of crucial roles:
- Viking settlements
- Military fortress
- prison
- Ministry of Finance
- Before Ireland’s independence in 1922, the location of the British government
Today, it presides over the inauguration ceremony of the President of Ireland and the receptions of various states. When not formally used, visitors can visit parts of the castle. I remember my own visit; I saw the beautiful red double-floor staircase, majestic throne room, courteous ballroom and fabulous ceilings.
Plan your visit to the grounds of Dublin Castle online here.
While you may not be able to visit the thousands of castles spread throughout the island, here are six of them my favorites. The various features and elements provided by each represent the magic of Ireland well.
Whether you want to experience royal life or accept gifts of eloquence, each castle can give you a unique taste of Irish Gaelic culture and history. Additionally, most of these sites have travel safety measures in place, so make sure you will have a safe and healthy trip whenever you decide to travel in the future!
