Culture & Craic of Ireland

Dún Laorghaire, pronounced Dunleary, is an elegant coastal town situated close to Dublin, steeped in history. Take a stroll along the mile-long East Pier Walk, marvelling at the views across Dublin Bay, and past the Victorian bandstand, as small boats quietly sail in and out of the harbour. Explore the People’s Park, created as a formal Victorian Garden, housing a multitude of landscaped lawns and sweet-smelling flowers. The famous James Joyce Tower and Museum, noted for its appearance in the opening scenes of the novel Ulysses, now houses many artefacts of Joyce, including letters, photographs and rare first edition books. Take a dip in the Irish Sea at Forty Foot, a historic bathing pool, named among the best places to swim in the world, or visit Mariner’s Church, or the Oratory of the Sacred Heart.

The charming town of Cobh has always maintained a strong maritime connection and is perhaps most notably remembered for being the final port of call on the ill-fated RMS Titanic’s maiden voyage in 1912. As you set foot here, you can experience the sense of excitement the passengers felt on boarding the most luxurious cruise liner of her time, which can be encountered further at the Titanic Experience. You can explore nearby Blarney Castle, where legend has it that those who visit must uphold the tradition of kissing the Blarney Stone, said to bestow the gift of eloquence, or visit the ornately detailed Neo-Gothic St. Coleman’s Cathedral. Alternatively, immerse yourself in local life here and discover the Jameson Distillery in nearby Midleton, learn how Paddy Whiskey is made, and enjoy a warming taste of its nutty and woody notes. The iconic city of Cork is easily accessible from Cobh, with regular trains departing from the nearby station.