How to Convince Dad to Go on Trip to Visit Boyfriend
The history, the scenery, the people—there are few places more enchanting to visit than Ireland. From castles dating back to the 13th-century to beautiful lighthouses that continue to guide the way for ships crossing the tempestuous seas, some of Ireland's best attractions and most rugged landscapes can be found along the north and north-western coast. Below are just a handful of the most inspiring locations to explore.
1
Dunluce Castle
Jay Kolsch
One of the highlights of Northern Ireland's stunning Causeway Coast Route is the epic scene at Dunluce, where the ruins of a 16th-century castle sit atop a sheer basalt cliff that drops dramatically into the ocean. The site of numerous battles and sieges, this County Antrim icon has a long and colorful history, and has even served as a filming location for Game of Thrones.
Jay Kolsch
According to one legend, the castle's kitchens detached from the rest of the structure one stormy night and plunged into the waters below, the only survivor being a kitchen boy who was sitting in a corner, which remained attached. It's also storied that a banshee whose lover perished at sea haunts the premises, and she can often be heard shrieking from the Northeast Tower.
More adventures lie just beyond the castle grounds: Hunt for the winding staircase and walk 115 steps down to Mermaid's Cave, a massive cavern directly beneath the castle.
Visit the Castle
2
Fanad Head Lighthouse
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At nearly 130 feet tall, this historic lighthouse has stood proudly over the County Donegal coastline since 1817, an area known for its unspoiled nature and traditional Irish culture.
Jay Kolsch
Often ranked as one of the most beautiful in the world, the lighthouse's gleaming white surface is a stark contrast to the shoreline, which is one of the most rugged and remote in all of Ireland.
Should you choose to lean into the light-keeper experience and spend the night, there are several refurbished self-catering cottages on site—that way you can fall asleep to the hypnotic sounds of the Atlantic crashing and churning on the rocks below.
Visit the Lighthouse
3
Ashford Castle
Jay Kolsch
If you're looking for the ultimate Irish castle experience, look no further than Ashford Castle. Originally built in the 13th century, it was successively expanded in the 16th, 17th and 19th centuries, eventually becoming the crown jewel of Ireland's legendary Guinness family. The castle was first established as a hotel in 1915.
But don't expect clunky pipes or cobwebs here—in 2015, the current owners (Red Carnation Hotels) unveiled a stunning $75 million restoration of this 5 Star award-winning hotel.
Jay Kolsch
The property now features a cinema, gorgeously outfitted wine cellars for private dining, a secluded lakefront cottage for honeymooners, and a state of the art spa. With over 350 acres of Irish countryside on the estate, there's just as much to explore in the woods and meadows surrounding Ashford as there is indoors, with everything from clay shooting, horseback riding and falconry, to fishing, golf, and archery—if you can imagine a quintessential Irish outdoor outing, the concierge team at Ashford can make it happen. Best of all, the castle has two fluffy mascots: a pair of lovable Irish wolfhounds, which greet guests each morning before breakfast.
Visit the Castle
4
Kylemore Abbey
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The story of Kylemore Abbey is one of love and epic romance. After honeymooning in Connemara in County Galway in the 1840's—during the turbulent downturn of the Irish Potato Famine—London physician Mitchell Henry built this house for his wife Margaret as not only a token of their love, but as a way to bring economic stimulus to the region they both loved so much.
Jay Kolsch
Stone by stone, the Henrys built their dream home in this untamed and stunning area of Ireland. Unfortunately, Margaret passed away not long after the castle's completion, but her beauty and influence can still be seen all over the grounds—for example, over the castle's front door, where a carved angel holds Margaret's family's coat of arms. The castle was sold in 1903 to the Duke and Duchess of Manchester, who in turn sold it in the 1920's to a community of Benedictine nuns displaced from Belgium during World War One.
Today, the nuns still occupy and operate the Abbey, and visitors are welcome to experience the beautiful castle and grounds. This Victorian-era property was constructed in Gothic style, a stunning contrast to the rugged Connemara landscape. Take a stroll along the stunning lakefront, uncover the history of the abbey, visit the neo-Gothic church, and enjoy a guided tour through the Walled Garden (the largest of its kind in Ireland).
Visit the Abbey
5
Westport House
Jay Kolsch
Once you step onto the sweeping grounds of this gorgeous waterfront property, you'll easily see why this beloved attraction is often referred to as the most beautiful home in Ireland.
Jay Kolsch
Located in the colorful town of Westport along Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way—the estate traces its history back to the 1600s and Grace O'Malley, the "Pirate Queen of Connacht," known for her swashbuckling adventures as a fearless female leader in an era dominated by men.
Today Westport House offers a charming snapshot of 17th century life in Ireland. Owned by the same family for over 400 years, each of the home's 30 rooms are filled with over 300 years of history. Plan your visit during the summer or over the weekend, so you can partake in the authentically Victorian afternoon tea service.
Visit the Estate
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How to Convince Dad to Go on Trip to Visit Boyfriend
Source: https://www.townandcountrymag.com/leisure/a27346001/five-amazing-destinations-in-ireland/