OLDE IRELAND CASTLES & TRADITIONAL WEDDING
- Traveldriven
- May 8, 2019
- 4 min read
Updated: Nov 6
Malahide and the Castle
Malahide is approximately 18 km from the city of Dublin. The castle is surrounded by the town of Malahide.
Malahide Castle, an impressive architectural marvel, dates back to the 12th century, making it one of Ireland's most historic and significant landmarks. This magnificent structure has a rich history, having been the seat of the Talbot family for nearly 800 years. The castle showcases a blend of medieval and Victorian architectural styles, reflecting the various renovations and expansions that took place over the centuries. Visitors to Malahide Castle can explore its beautifully preserved rooms, which are filled with exquisite period furniture, fine art, and artifacts that tell the story of the Talbot family's long-standing legacy.
Malahide Castle Grounds
& Squirrels
The extensive grounds surrounding Malahide Castle are equally captivating, featuring lush gardens and sprawling parkland that invite exploration and relaxation. Among the natural inhabitants of these grounds, squirrels are a common sight, often seen darting through the foliage, running along stone walls and scurrying up the trees. These lively creatures contribute to the enchanting atmosphere of the estate, their playful antics providing entertainment for visitors and adding a touch of vibrancy to the serene landscape. The castle's grounds are meticulously maintained, offering a habitat rich in biodiversity and large shady trees, where squirrels thrive amidst the diverse flora.
There are daily castle tours and a Gift shop.
Numerous local sports organisations utilize the Castle grounds for their events on weekends, with specific fields designated for these activities.
Muckross House
The House is situated a mere six kilometres from the picturesque town of Killarney, a charming destination known for its stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage. The journey from Dublin to Killarney spans approximately 300 kilometres by road, making it a popular route for both locals and tourists seeking to explore the beauty of County Kerry. This distance can typically be covered in about three to four hours by car, depending on traffic conditions and the chosen route, which often includes scenic views of the Irish countryside.
The mansion itself, a splendid example of 19th-century architecture, was constructed in the year 1843. Its design reflects the grandeur and elegance characteristic of that era, with intricate detailing and a majestic presence that draws the admiration of visitors. The estate is surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding natural beauty, further enhancing its appeal. Tours of the mansion are conducted daily, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the history and stories that have unfolded within its walls. These guided tours provide an opportunity to learn about the architectural features, the original inhabitants, and the significant events that have taken place over the years, making each visit a unique experience filled with educational insights and historical context.
The Cliffs of Moher: A Natural Marvel
The Cliffs of Moher are not just any sea cliffs; they are one of Ireland's most iconic natural landmarks, drawing visitors from around the globe. Situated along the western coast of Ireland in County Clare, these majestic cliffs offer breathtaking views and a unique glimpse into the power of nature.
Traveling from Dublin to the Cliffs of Moher
The journey from Dublin to the Cliffs of Moher by road is approximately 270 kilometres, making it a popular day trip for tourists and locals alike. The drive typically takes around three to four hours, depending on traffic and the chosen route. As travellers make their way westward, they are treated to a scenic landscape that includes rolling green hills, charming villages, and the occasional glimpse of the rugged coastline. The journey itself becomes part of the experience, with opportunities to stop at various points of interest along the way, such as the historic town of Limerick or the picturesque village of Doolin, known for its traditional Irish music.
Dimensions and Features of the Cliffs
The Cliffs of Moher stretch for an impressive length of about 14 kilometers along the Atlantic Ocean. These cliffs are not only remarkable for their length but also for their stunning height. From the southern end, they rise dramatically to heights of 120 meters (approximately 390 feet) above the crashing waves below.
Visitor Experience and Attractions
For those visiting the Cliffs of Moher, there are numerous facilities and attractions to enhance the experience. The Cliffs of Moher Visitor Experience includes an interpretive centre that provides insights into the geological and cultural history of the cliffs. There are walking trails that allow visitors to explore the area safely, offering various viewpoints along the way. Sometimes musical buskers are seen and heard along the walkway near to the Visitor Centre.
Irish Traditional Wedding
Accompanied by our Irish hosts, we embarked on a memorable journey to attend a traditional Irish wedding nestled in the picturesque countryside, a few hours' drive away from the bustling city of Dublin. Along the way, we passed by numerous hauntingly beautiful ruined and abandoned castles, each telling a story of bygone eras.
Despite encountering a few wrong turns and moments of confusion, we managed to reach the charming village where the wedding was taking place just in the nick of time, with only 15 minutes to spare before the commencement of the service.
The outdoor setting exuded a rustic charm, adorned with grand marquees and the tantalizing aroma of a roasting pig on a spit, adding to the festive atmosphere of the celebration.
As we arrived, a moment of panic ensued when the car keys seemed to have disappeared amidst the lush green grass of the lawns. I frantically searching with the help of others, we scoured the area for over an hour, fearing the worst. Fortunately, after a thorough search, it turned out that the keys were merely misplaced, bringing a collective sigh of relief to all involved.
Despite the initial hiccup, the rest of the day unfolded seamlessly, filled with joyous celebrations, heartfelt moments, and the warmth of Irish hospitality. It was a truly unforgettable day that left a lasting impression on everyone present, a perfect blend of tradition, camaraderie, and love that made the Irish wedding a truly magical experience.
Traveldriven
MALAHIDE CASTLE
MALAHIDE CITY CENTRE
OUT TO DINNER IN MALAHIDE
IRISH HOTEL MUSIC JAM, MALAHIDE
EXIT MALAHIDE CASTLE GATES
MUCKROSS HOUSE
WALKING THE POODLES MUCKROSS HOUSE
CASTLE RUINS IN THE IRISH COUNTRYSIDE
CASTLE RUINS
CLIFFS OF MOHER
CLIFFS OF MOHER
MALAHIDE CASTLE
GOOGLE MAPS
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