I love the food. I probably wouldn't have said this the first time I went to Ireland. Today the dairy, the beef, the lamb, the seafood and the produce are outstanding. One night at the Abbeyglen Castle Hotel I had the most fabulous meal of mussels and salmon, paired with the most wonderful white wine. The cozy dining room, overlooking a beautiful garden, was being lovingly overseen by the owners Paul and Brian Hughes. And it was perfect. The truth is that a lot of meals stand out like that from coast to coast. The scones at Powerscourt are the best I've ever had and what I wouldn't do to get the recipe.
I love the size of the country. You don't have to spend months here to see the things you shouldn't miss. From Dublin to Shannon it's a 3 1/2 hr drive. From the Giant's Causeway to Waterford, it's only 4 1/2 hours. And from Cork to Sligo it will take you just a bit over 4 hours and worth the trip.
I love the scenery. Ireland's breathtaking landscapes seem untouched and remote. From the rolling hills of Connemara, to the mysterious Skelling St. Michael, to the Rock of Cashel, to the Giant's Causeway, every drive has a pot of gold at the end of the day. Even Dublin is unique among European capitals with its colorful Temple Bar Area, Trinity College, Georgian Manor Houses and St. Stephen Green.
I love that its affordable and only 7 hours from New York to Dublin or even less to Shannon. I like to fly into Dublin and out of Shannon. With its charming Bed & Breakfast options or small family run boutique hotels throughout the country you can easily spend 7 days here without breaking the bank and they speak English with a wonderful Irish brogue.
It's one of my favorite places in the world. And every time I go back I see something new.
Even more reasons.....
Top 10 Reasons to Choose Ireland for Your Next Trip