PHOTO: The legendary Blarney Castle in Ireland. (Photo courtesy of Regent Seven Seas Cruises)
We're celebrating the month of Ireland's patron saint, St. Patrick, with a list of our favorite things to see in the Emerald Isle.
From legendary Blarney Castle and tasty Guinness to the breathtaking Powerscourt gardens and spectacular Giant's Causeway, these glorious sites are all available to explore as part of Regent Seven Seas Cruises FREE Unlimited Shore Excursion menu or selections from Regent Choice Shore Excursions.
Mount Stewart House & Gardens
This elegant estate has been the home of the Londonderry family since the early 18th century and as Lord Castlereagh's house, has played host to many prominent political figures. Designed by George Dance, surveyor to the City of London, the home is full of Irish memorabilia. The magnificent gardens that were first planted in the 1920's have made Mount Stewart famous and earned it a World Heritage Site nomination.
Spectacular Giants' Causeway
The Giants' Causeway is Northern Ireland's most famous landmark and has been an official UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1986. Formed between 50 and 60 million years ago by an ancient volcanic eruption, the causeway takes its name from the legends of Finn MacCool and draws people from far and wide to this corner of north Antrim who come to marvel at its majesty and mystery.
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Legendary Blarney Castle
Built in two sections, the legendary Blarney Castle features a massive oblong keep, and typical Irish battlements. Below them, the famous Blarney Stone is set in the wall, and to kiss it, one has to lean over backwards from the parapet walk of the battlements. According to legend, the stone imparts the gift of eloquence to all whose lips touch it.
Old Jameson Distillery
Visit the unique 18th century Jameson Heritage Centre, site of the Old Jameson Distillery, a beautifully restored and self-contained industrial complex which will take you right to the heart of the cherished whiskey making tradition. See the fully-operational water wheel and the copper pot still of 32,000 gallons, the largest in the world. After a worthwhile tour, sample Ireland's finest whiskey.
Scenic Kinsale by Sea Safari
Visit the picturesque sailing town of Kinsale by way of a thrilling sea safari boat ride. Don your life vest and follow the instructions from your skipper as you climb aboard the RIB safari vessel in Cobh and enjoy the magnificent views only possible from the sea. Learn of the harbor's history and enjoy spectacular scenery and wildlife en route to Kinsale and visit Royal Cork Yacht Club, the oldest Yacht Club in the world.
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Guinness Brewery
Embark on a Guinness Brewery adventure with a tour of the Guinness Storehouse. Enter the famous Storehouse and walk into the building's giant, pint-shaped heart of glass, where you will discover the dramatic company history dating back over 250 years. Learn about the ingredients, processes and effort that go into making Guinness - one of the most popular beverages in Dublin.
Breathtaking Wicklow, Glendalough and Powerscourt
Experience the unmistakable beauty of the Irish countryside during a scenic journey to Wicklow, Glendalough and Powerscourt. Known as the Garden of Ireland, Wicklow is home to an abundance of diverse scenic beauty within its borders. Pause in Glendalough for morning coffee before touring the magnificent House & Gardens at Powerscourt, with its sweeping terraces, statuary and ornamental lakes with secret hollows, rambling walks, walled gardens, and over 200 varieties of trees and shrubs.
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