The Luck of the Irish...
...is that they live in one of the most beautiful places in the world. Yeah, I know, you've heard that before about 101 other travel destinations. But, really, my ancient family history aside, it is breath-takingly beautiful - but it can be a quirky place to visit. I'll grant you that.
The early trickling of green beer here in Toronto announces the arrival of St. Patrick's Day unleashes a surge of memories of two particular trips (translation: mishaps) which underscore the dual pleasures of Ireland: magic and mirth.
St. Patrick's Day in Dublin (Courtesy: Tourism Ireland)
One of my "magical" moments in Ireland turn into a pain in the butt, literally. I had just embarked on a four-day horse-riding holiday near Downpatrick (site of the Saint Patrick Centre, dedicated of course to Ireland's Patron Saint), very close to trails that would take me up and through the Mountains of Mourne.
I had long-awaited my chance to mount an Irish Draft Horse. The beast was not. Imagine, if you will, straddling a breathing bull-dozer who, in one sigh, tosses you to the ground. Limping along (post-toss) with the offending horse (who suddenly turned into a sucky baby) nuzzling my pack for treats, I couldn't help but admire the incredible scenery, something I wouldn't have done while cantering - maybe.
My other "magical" Irish moment transpired at Giants Causeway, the naturally-occurring wonder of 40,000 interlocking basalt columns that look like they were chiseled by human hands. Giants Causeway was created by volcanic action. It made for the perfect photo op - until the skies open with hail and thunder.
You'd think my excursions to Ireland were jinxed or were the leprechauns just having fun with me?
An informal survey of friends and fellow travellers netted me this round-up of favourite Ireland experiences. Do put them on your bucket list if you head to the Emerald Isles, but be wary of big horses and funny little men.
5 Amazing Ireland Wonders
1. Giants Causeway, Antrim
Giants CausewayIreland (Courtesy: Tourism Ireland)
Giants Causeway looks like it could be part of a movie set, the overnight work of craftsmen and special-effects technicians. But it's the real McCoy. You must walk the suspension bridge. (Just don't look down.) See www.giantscausewayireland.com
2. Horseback trekking in Connemara
Connemara, County Galway (Photo: Holger Leue, Tourism Ireland)
This conversation transpired at a bus depot in Connemara, a few days after my horse mishap in Downpatrick.
Jimmy from Connemara: I see you're limping.
Me: Why, yes, just a bit.
Jimmy: You had a wee bit to drink, then, laddie?
Me (taken back): Ah, no, I fell off a horse, if you must know.
Jimmy: Was it a Connemara horse then?
Me: Nope.
Jimmy: Ah, then that was your first mistake.
The next time I sign up for an equestrian holiday in Ireland, it seems I must head to Connemara. But really, a riding vacation anywhere in Ireland would appeal to me (depending on the weather that day). To quote one Willie Leahy: ""It´s difficult to translate the charm and magic of Ireland on horseback." Check out Horse Riding Ireland - Connemara Trailsfor reliable outfitters - and ask for a jitter-free horse.
3. Temple Bar, Dublin
Temple Bar, Dublin: popular with locals and visitors (Photo: Tony Pleavin, Tourism Ireland)
Don't chide yourself for for getting confused. Yes, there is a great drinking establishment called The Temple Bar. It's been serving brew since 1840. But Temple Bar also refers to the area on the south bank of the River Liffey in central Dublin, crowded with pubs and alive with streetlife. A good source for non-touristy pubs is Dublin Uncovered.
4. Cycling through the Emerald Isles
Cycling in Connemara (Photo: Tony Pleavin for Tourism Ireland)
A double plug Connemara, featured again in this photo. If you prefer wheels to horses, hop on a bike. Suggestion: budget more time for your back-country outings. It's not the winding roads that will take up more time, it will be your frequent stops and photo ops. The 'Cycling' section on Discover Ireland is the go-to stop to start planning a biking holiday in Ireland.
5. Chatting with the locals!
Friendly folk of Listowel, County Kerry (Photo: Nutan, Tourism Ireland)
Getting a grip on Irish customs can be entertaining. You can always check out any of the hundreds of cultural festivals taking place in Ireland throughout the year. Head to a friendly place like Listowel, County Kerry, where you can enjoy traditional Irish music at the ‘Seisiún’ held at the Seanchaí Literary & Cultural Centre every Thursday night.
Or you can simply stop for a pint at the The Harp & Lion or The Pure Drop on Listowel's Church Street.
If you're looking to avoid my equine mishaps and weather woes, Discover Ireland web site (www.discoverireland.com) has hundreds of great ideas to inspire your own magical Irish moments.
Go n-éirí an bóthar leat! (Have a good journey!) And Happy St. Patrick's Day!
