Tipperary Archives - Ireland Family Vacations

Ireland and castles go hand in hand. With thousands scattered across the island, it can feel like there’s one around every bend in the road. The real challenge isn’t finding castles in Ireland — it’s deciding which ones to add to your itinerary.

This article is based on the Traveling in Ireland podcast, episode 331. Use the player below to listen or scroll to continue reading the article and get resource links.

No matter the type of travel you enjoy—or the type of transportation you’re using—you’ll find castles that easily fit into your trip. With more than 30,000 castles and castle ruins scattered across Ireland, the real challenge isn’t finding them… it’s deciding which ones make sense for your route and the time you have.

That’s exactly the kind of planning the Ireland Travel Compass is designed to help with. It brings attractions and accommodations together geographically, helps you see what fits well together, and makes it much easier to build an itinerary that actually works.

And if you’d like a simple way to start thinking about your own itinerary, I’ve created a resource that walks you through my TRIP framework – a straightforward way to avoid the most common Ireland planning mistakes and build a trip that feels manageable and enjoyable.

With thousands of castles scattered across Ireland, choosing which ones to visit can feel a bit overwhelming. Here are a few of my favorite castles in Ireland—and why they stand out.

Rock of Dunamase may be one of the most atmospheric castle ruins in Ireland. The site dates back to the 9th century when it served as a stronghold of the Kings of Laois.

The ruins visitors see today sit on top of a massive rocky outcrop and were largely destroyed during Cromwell’s invasion in 1650. Even in ruin, the location tells you why it mattered: the views stretch for miles across the countryside.

Traveler tips:

Driving through narrow country roads and farmland to reach it only adds to the experience.

Just 10 minutes from Dublin Airport, Malahide Castle is a perfect first stop after arriving in Ireland.

The castle itself offers fascinating guided tours led by engaging storytellers who bring the Talbot family history to life. But the estate offers far more than the castle alone.

Visitors can enjoy:

The grounds are partly free to explore, while the gardens and castle tour require tickets. During busy months (May–September), it’s smart to pre-book the castle tour.

Malahide is also very easy to reach from Dublin city center by DART or bus, making it a great half-day excursion.

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If you want to understand the most common type of castle in Ireland, Bunratty Castle is the perfect example.

Tower houses — tall, four-story defensive structures — once dotted the Irish landscape. Bunratty is considered the most completely restored example in the country.

Visitors can explore:

Surrounding the castle is Bunratty Folk Park, a 26-acre living history village that showcases historic Irish homes and daily life.

Highlights include:

Bunratty is also famous for its medieval banquet experience, held year-round. These dinners are extremely popular, so booking well in advance is highly recommended.

Unlike many defensive castles, Kilkenny Castle evolved into a grand aristocratic residence.

Originally built as a fortress, it was transformed over centuries by the Butler family — Earls and later Dukes of Ormond — who held the castle for more than 600 years.

Today visitors will find:

The castle sits in the center of Kilkenny City, surrounded by roughly 50 acres of parkland that locals still use for picnics, sports, and relaxing on sunny days.

Kilkenny Castle is an OPW managed site. Tickets are available on site, and advance booking is rarely necessary.

Learn about the OPW Heritage Card – the best deal in Irish history

Cahir Castle is one of the largest and best-preserved Norman castles in Ireland.

Set on the River Suir, the fortress features massive stone walls, towers, and defensive structures typical of Norman military design.

Visitors can:

Guided tours are included with admission and provide fascinating insight into how these massive defensive castles operated.

Despite its impressive size, Cahir Castle often sees surprisingly small crowds, making it a rewarding stop between other popular attractions like the Rock of Cashel and Blarney Castle.

Leap Castle is often called the most haunted castle in Ireland.

Built in the late 15th century, the castle is tied to dark legends and family power struggles. The castle chapel is known as the “Bloody Chapel,” named after a violent incident during a rivalry between brothers.

During restoration work in the early 20th century, a hidden dungeon filled with human remains was reportedly discovered.

Leap Castle is privately owned and lived in by musician Sean Ryan, who has carried out much of the restoration work.

Visits are possible, but only by appointment, so travelers must contact the owner ahead of time to arrange a tour.

Few castles in Ireland match the dramatic setting of Dunluce Castle along the Causeway Coast.

The ruins sit right on the edge of towering Atlantic cliffs, creating one of the most photographed castle locations in Ireland.

Visitors can explore:

The castle itself is impressive, but the surrounding views may be even more memorable.

Two particularly stunning viewpoints include:

Bring a jacket — the winds here are often strong even on calm days.

For travelers dreaming of staying in a castle, Ashford Castle delivers a truly luxurious experience.

Once owned by the Guinness family, the estate now consistently ranks among the best hotels in Ireland.

Activities on the estate include:

Afternoon tea is particularly popular and should be reserved ahead of time.

Ashford Castle works best as a destination stay rather than a touring base — there is so much to experience on the estate that most guests prefer to stay at least two nights.

Access to the estate is restricted to guests or visitors with reservations.

Lough Eske Castle offers a luxurious but peaceful castle experience surrounded by the landscapes of County Donegal.

The focus here is relaxation rather than packed schedules.

Highlights include:

Unlike some castle hotels, Lough Eske also works well as a touring base.

Nearby excursions include:

Families will appreciate that the hotel offers interconnecting rooms — something not commonly found in castle accommodations.

For travelers who want a castle experience that feels historic and intimate, Kinnitty Castle is a wonderful option.

Unlike many castle hotels that have been extensively modernized, Kinnitty retains much of its traditional character.

The baronial rooms at the top of the castle feature exposed stone and wood, creating the feeling of being a guest in a historic residence.

Activities nearby include:

Guests can also visit nearby attractions like Birr Castle and Gardens.

Inside the castle, the Dungeon Bar is a memorable spot for a meal, while the Library Bar is perfect for relaxing by the fire with a drink.

One practical tip: there is no elevator, so pack lightly if you’re staying on the upper floors.

No matter how you choose to explore Ireland, castles have a way of connecting you to the country’s history, its stories, and sometimes even its legends. And with so many scattered across the island, chances are you’ll find at least one – or several – that fit perfectly into your trip.

The post 10 Castles in Ireland to Inspire Your Trip appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

When a new list of “underrated” Irish attractions makes the rounds, I always take a look. Sometimes I nod in agreement. Sometimes I roll my eyes and wonder who decided the Rock of Cashel was a hidden secret.

That was my reaction to a ranking from SumUp, which used everything from TripAdvisor reviews to Instagram posts and Google searches to highlight Ireland’s lesser-known spots. A great idea, if the definition of underrated doesn’t stretch to include Blarney Castle.

That said, there are a few places on the list that truly fly under the radar – and quite a few more that didn’t make the cut but should have. So let’s talk about the ones that are worth your time, how to fit them into your itinerary without going miles out of your way, and why a trip that mixes well-known highlights with lesser-visited places often ends up being the most rewarding.

This article is also available as the Traveling in Ireland podcast, episode 280. Use the player below to listen or scroll to continue reading the article and get resource links.

Not everything on the list was a stretch. A handful of sites are genuinely overlooked by most travelers, even if they’re hiding in plain sight. Some are just far enough off the usual routes to be missed, while others sit in popular areas but don’t get the attention they deserve.

If you’re looking to skip the crowds without skipping the good stuff, these are the spots to consider adding to your itinerary.

Just 15 minutes from Dublin Airport, Malahide Castle and Gardens is an easy way to start your trip -especially if you’re trying to stay awake after an overnight flight. The guided tours are engaging (even for kids), the gardens are gorgeous, and the on-site café and Avoca shop are the perfect spot to refuel. The castles setting in a charming seaside village make it feel like a gentle, scenic welcome to Ireland.

Pair it with: Malahide is a perfect day trip from Dublin – just 30 minutes by DART or bus. This is also a terrific way to refresh yourself before taking on your first day’s drive.

Yes, it’s a cemetery. But it’s also one of the best places in Dublin to get a crash course in Irish history. The Glasnevin guided tours are anything but dull, and if you time it right, you might catch a re-enactment or costumed guide that brings the stories to life.

Don’t miss: A pint at John Kavanagh’s pub next door – known locally as The Gravediggers.

Pair it with: A visit to the nearby Botanic Gardens or following a tour of Kilmainham Gaol to continue your history lesson.

The Ireland Travel Compass brings together hundreds of places across the country and helps you turn ideas like these into a trip that fits your time and travel style.

Sitting in Cork Harbour, Spike Island was once a monastery, then a fortress, and eventually one of the largest prisons in Europe. It’s a fascinating (and chilling) half-day experience, but be prepared – between the ferry ride, guided tour, and time on island, you’ll need 3.5 -4 hours.

Pair it with: Cobh’s other maritime highlights, including the Titanic Experience and a hike up Spy Hill to get the iconic shot of the Deck of Cards houses and St. Coleman’s Cathedral. For safety reasons do not climb on the wall – just hold your camera (or phone) over the wall and you’ll get the shot.

Most visitors to Galway stick to the colorful Latin Quarter and Eyre Square, but a walk along the Salthill Promenade gives you sea views, fresh air, and a more relaxed pace. If you’re lucky, you might even spot someone kicking the “kicking wall” at the end for good luck.

Salthill is about an hours’ walk from the Latin Quarter. If you’re wanting to add it to a day’s touring, consider the hop-on hop-off bus.

Pair it with: An afternoon exploring Galway City or as a wind-down after a day trip to Connemara.

Some of my favorite experiences in Ireland don’t show up in rankings at all. They’re not tied to big marketing campaigns or social media influencers – but they’re rich in story, scenery, and character.

Here are the spots I’d add to the list, along with ideas for how to include them without straying too far off course.

Tucked into the middle of the country, Birr Castle Demense feels like a fairytale estate with a twist- it played a key role in astronomical discovery. The gardens are lush and expansive, but the real surprise is the Leviathan: a massive telescope that was the largest in the world for 70 years.

Pair it with: A visit to Clonmacnoise or as a scenic detour between Dublin and Galway. It’s also an easy stop if you’re overnighting between the cities.

Located in the Shannon Estuary, this uninhabited island is home to a round tower, ruined churches, and sweeping views – all without any tour buses. You’ll need to take a short boat trip from Kilrush, but once you’re there, it feels like stepping into another world.

Pair it with: A Loop Head drive or time in Kilkee. Great for travelers basing in west Clare and looking for something quieter than the Cliffs of Moher.

Often overshadowed by its flashier neighbor, the Rock of Cashel, Cahir Castle is one of Ireland’s largest and best-preserved Norman castles (keep your eyes peels for cannonballs!). Visitors can duck into the dungeon or climb to the tops of towers. Grab a sandwich and crisps at the cafe across the street before crossing the river to the parkland behind the castle for a picnic.

Pair it with: A visit to Cashel or the Swiss Cottage nearby. It’s a perfect half-day stop on your route between Dublin and Killarney.

Ireland’s most southerly point comes with a scenic drive, a dramatic bridge crossing, and views that rival the Cliffs of Moher – without the crowds. You might even spot seals lounging near the rocks below the signal station.

Pair it with: A stay in West Cork or as a very scenic drive from Kenmare or Killarney to Kinsale (plan a full day). Make sure to check opening times, especially outside of summer.

Westport House sits on the foundations of one of Gráinne Ní Mháille castles—you may know her as Grace O’Malley, Ireland’s legendary Pirate Queen. Inside, you’ll find elegant rooms and family history; outside, acres of parkland, a lake, and seasonal attractions that make it especially fun for families. It’s a site that surprises people—historic, scenic, and far more than just another stately home.

Pair it with: A climb (or photo op) at Croagh Patrick (don’t miss the moving famine memorial sculpture across the road!), or a bike ride along one of the coastal greenways.

Ireland’s northernmost point doesn’t get the love it deserves, but a drive around Inishowen delivers stone forts, famine history, a disappearing lake, and Malin Head – the actual tip-top of the island. You’ll even find a “magic road” that defies gravity (or at least seems to).

Tip: Contact Adam Stewart at Flat Cap Adventurers for an off-road adventure you won’t soon forget!

Pair it with: A day trip from Derry or a side trip as you enter or leave Northern Ireland. Allow a full day to explore the loop.

Some of the sites on the original list are well worth visiting, but calling them underrated might be a bit generous. These are the places that regularly appear on “must-see” lists, sell out in advance, or are already firmly on the tourist trail.

That doesn’t mean they aren’t great. It just means they’re not quite hidden.

You can’t even get to Skellig Michael without advance planning – and that’s if the weather cooperates. It’s spectacular, but it’s no secret. Just ask the next Star Wars fan in line.

Yes, there’s more to see than the stone, but when your wait to climb to the top of the castle ruin to kiss the rock stretches on and on, it’s safe to say it’s not flying under the radar. Especially when a cruise ship is anchored at Cobh.

Kilkenny’s crown jewel and one of the most photographed spots in Ireland. Gorgeous? Absolutely. Underrated? Not quite. That said, Kilkenny is far more than just its castle – and most people leave wishing they’d allowed more time for exploration in Ireland’s medieval capital.

Still the most popular scenic drive in Ireland, especially with tour buses – though the Dingle Peninsula seems determined to take that crown. For a more underrated experience, head to the next peninsula over and follow the quieter, wilder Ring of Beara.

Both are standout heritage sites—just not hidden ones. Muckross draws huge crowds within Killarney National Park, and Bunratty’s medieval banquets book up fast.

Underrated can mean a lot of things. Sometimes it’s a place few people have heard of. Other times, it’s a stop that gets overlooked simply because it’s not on the tour bus circuit or trending on Instagram. But often, it’s a site that’s hiding in plain sight: worth your time, but easy to miss if you don’t know to look.

The best trips to Ireland don’t rely on someone else’s definition of what’s worth seeing. They find a balance – between the iconic and the unexpected, between the stops you’ve been dreaming about for years and the ones that take you by surprise.

Articles like this highlight a few great options — but they’re just a small part of what Ireland offers.

The Ireland Travel Compass brings together hundreds of places across the country and helps you understand how to combine them into a trip that feels balanced and easy to navigate.

If you’re looking for a place to start, my free Ireland itineraries include many of the spots I’ve mentioned here- underrated and marquee – woven together in routes that feel manageable, flexible, and full of those moments that make a trip truly memorable.

The post Ireland’s Underrated Attractions(how to add them to your itinerary & escape the crowds) appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

It’s no surprise that most travelers to Ireland have the Rock of Cashel on their list. It’s dramatic, iconic, and completely captivating as it rises unexpectedly from the landscape. But if that’s the only stop you make in County Tipperary, you’re missing so much.

Photographer and tour guide John Cash knows the county inside and out—and he’s quick to share that while Cashel is impressive, it’s only the beginning.

This article is based on podcast episode 274 featuring John Cash, professional photographer, historian, and tour guide.
Use the player below to listen or scroll to continue reading the article and get resource links.

Yes, it’s breathtaking from the road – but the true magic happens when you dig into the history. Cormac’s Chapel, with its centuries-old frescoes, is now limited to small groups to preserve the delicate interior. Time your visit right and you may be among the few allowed inside. Don’t skip the Vicar’s Choral, either – it’s been beautifully refurbished and adds even more dimension to your visit.

For those who prefer a self-guided option, QR codes around the site make it easy to learn on your own. And if you have time, explore Cashel town itself. You’ll find charming shops, great places to eat, and remnants of medieval walls that make it worth a wander.

The Rock of Cashel & many other locations mentioned in this episode are OPW Heritage sites. Learn how the OPW Heritage Card can help you save money in Ireland!

If you’re looking for a stay you won’t soon forget, consider Cashel Palace. The Palladian Manor sits directly below the Rock of Cashel (it even has its own private gated walkway to the majestic site) and features luxurious rooms, an amazing spa, and two delicious restaurants.

Once you’ve explored Cashel, it’s time to widen the lens.

County Tipperary is rich with castles, sacred landscapes, family-friendly adventures, and that slower pace that makes Ireland unforgettable. Whether you’re into history, scenery, or simply discovering places most travelers rush past, Tipperary rewards the curious.

Just ten miles down the road, Cahir Castle sits gracefully along the River Suir. While it has Hollywood connections – filming took place here for Excalibur, The Last Duel, and The Green Knight – it’s the hands-on experience that makes it shine. You can climb towers, dip into dungeons, and walk the same grounds the Butler family once ruled.

Don’t miss the path to the Swiss Cottage, a storybook lodge built as a riverside retreat. Wildflowers, ducks, dragonflies… this riverside walk offers nature, history, and kid-friendly charm.

And, if the day is fine, grab a sandwich from the River House Café and picnic in the castle park. You’ll feel like you’ve discovered something extraordinary – because you have.

Tipperary’s location in the heart of Ireland makes it an ideal base if you want flexibility. Within two hours you can reach the Cliffs of Moher, Kinsale, or even the shores of the Shannon. But the county itself offers enough variety that you might not want to go anywhere else.

Planning to stay overnight? You’ll want to prioritize:

to renting a car & driving
in Ireland

John Cash is not only a knowledgeable guide and talented photographer, he’s also incredibly generous with his insights. Whether you’re looking for a guided tour in Tipperary or just need a few pointers for your trip, he’s happy to help.

📧 Email: [email protected]
📘 Facebook: Love Tipperary
📸 Instagram: @johncashgip

Drop him a message, follow his work, and let him know you heard about him here.

John shared a few of his go-to places when he wants that jaw-dropping photo or just a quiet moment:

If you’re someone who chases that “feeling” of Ireland – mist over hills, history layered in stone, and the kind of beauty that doesn’t need a filter – you’ll find it here.

Ireland’s beauty is more than a checklist of big-name stops. It’s found in the smaller places where stories still matter, names still mean something, and the people still take time for a chat.

Take your time in Tipperary and you’ll come home with more than just pictures.

The post County Tipperary Beyond the Rock: Make It More Than a Pit Stop appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

When you think of Ireland, you might picture rolling green hills, ancient castles, and lively pub music. But did you know that Ireland is also one of the world’s top destinations for equestrian tourism?

Welcome to Horse Country—an area that embodies the island’s deep-rooted connection to horses, from world-class breeding to immersive visitor experiences.

Get the Free Horse Country Itinerary

Whether you’re a lifelong horse enthusiast or just someone looking for a unique Irish adventure, Horse Country offers unique experiences that can fit into most itineraries.

This article is based on a podcast episode featuring Laura Magee, CEO of Ireland’s Horse Country. If you prefer to listen to the podcast, you can find the player at the bottom of the page.

Horse Country focuses on the counties of Kildare and Tipperary—two regions renowned for their equestrian heritage. These areas aren’t just picturesque; they boast some of the finest land for breeding and training thoroughbreds. The rich limestone soil, combined with Ireland’s temperate climate, makes it an ideal environment for raising strong, healthy horses. It’s no wonder that global thoroughbred breeders, including Godolphin, Coolmore Stud, and Juddmonte, have chosen this area as their European base.

But Horse Country isn’t just about racing. This region welcomes visitors of all backgrounds, offering access to exclusive stud farms, behind-the-scenes tours, and interactive experiences that make the world of horses accessible to everyone.

One of the highlights of Horse Country is the opportunity to go beyond the spectator stands and into the heart of Ireland’s equestrian culture. Whether you’re visiting with family, traveling solo, or with a group, there’s an experience tailored just for you.

While the equestrian experiences are a major draw, Horse Country offers more than just horse-related activities. The region is home to excellent dining, charming towns, and other uniquely Irish experiences. Enjoy a gourmet meal at Sadler’s in Fethard, visit Kildare Village for some high-end shopping, and don’t miss the incredible historic sites in the area – including the Rock of Cashel and Cahir Castle.

One of the biggest takeaways from visiting Horse Country is the reminder to slow down. Instead of rushing through attractions, take the time to truly immerse yourself in the experience. Whether you’re watching a newborn foal joyfully race across a paddock or sipping tea in a historic stud farm, these are the moments that make travel unforgettable.

If Horse Country sounds like your kind of adventure, you can start planning your trip at HorseCountry.ie. The site provides detailed information on experiences, pricing, and how to customize your itinerary.

You can also get trip inspiration at the social accounts on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

For an even easier way to explore, check out the new Horse Country itinerary where you’ll find a carefully curated guide to making the most of your time in this extraordinary part of Ireland.

Irish National Stud & Gardens Immerse yourself in one of the only public stud farms in the world. Learn about horse breeding, see the horses, and visit the amazing gardens.

Coolmore Stud The largest stud farm in the world, headquartered in County Tipperary.

The Curragh Plains in Kildare 30,000 acres of publicly owned land. You can drive through the area and may see horses training.

Whether you’re a lifelong equestrian enthusiast or simply someone looking to explore a new side of Ireland, Horse Country welcomes you to discover the passion, tradition, and beauty that make this place so special.

Traveling in Ireland podcast episode 252

The post Welcome to Horse Country: Ireland’s Equestrian Heartland appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

Welcome to your culinary journey through Ireland, where the rich history and vibrant culture come alive on your plate. From hearty stews to the beloved boxty, discover the flavors that make Ireland a food lover’s paradise.

This article is based on a podcast featuring Frank Corbett, the mastermind behind Corbett’s Traditional Irish Food Experience. If you prefer to listen to the podcast, you will find the player at the bottom of the page.

What exactly is traditional Irish food? According to Frank Corbett, it encompasses the island’s culinary history, spanning over 9,000 years.

Originally, it was about what the land could provide—fishing, hunting, and farming. As time passed, Ireland embraced new ingredients, creating a rich tapestry of flavors.

Today, traditional Irish food is a celebration of local produce, with dishes like Irish stew and bacon and cabbage leading the way.

Ireland’s culinary landscape is dotted with regional specialties that have become iconic.

Dublin’s coddle, a savory stew of bacon and sausage, is a must-try for anyone visiting the capital.

In the north, boxty—a versatile potato dish—showcases the creativity rooted in Irish kitchens.

Meanwhile, Wexford’s strawberries and Kerry’s butter are celebrated across the country.

Many dishes, like the universally adored Irish fry and lamb stew, have found a place on tables nationwide, each reflecting the unique touch of the cook.

Irish cuisine is deeply intertwined with cultural traditions and celebrations.

During Halloween, barmbrack—a sweet bread with hidden trinkets—is a nostalgic treat that tells stories with every bite.

Christmas in County Cork brings the delight of spiced beef, a festive dish steeped in local tradition.

Corned beef is a traditional food for St. Patrick’s Day in the US – but is it Irish? The answer may surprise you.

Inspired by his time in China, Frank Corbett launched the Traditional Irish Food Experience to educate and delight both locals and visitors.

This intimate dining experience, with a maximum of 8 guests, is offered in Dublin and Tipperary. The menu features about 10 traditional items, treating guests to a feast of flavors while Frank shares his passion and knowledge.

This experience, which ends with a moving ballad sung in Irish, is not just about tasting food but understanding its history.

Bookings are made through the website trytraditional.com. Groups can be as few as 2 people, with a maximum of 8 guests. The experience is available in Dublin at Gallagher’s Boxty House and in Tipperary at Cahir House Hotel.

Whet your appetite by following Corbett’s Traditional Irish Food Experience on Facebook or Instagram.

No trip to Ireland would be complete without sampling some of its iconic dishes.

First on the list is black pudding, a savory blood sausage that surprises and delights with its rich flavor. Try black pudding with a traditional Irish Breakfast.

Next, try boxty, a versatile potato-based dish that can be served as pancakes or bread, showcasing the creativity and resourcefulness of Irish cooking. Boxty recipe to make at home.

Lastly, don’t miss Dublin coddle, a hearty stew of sausages and bacon, perfect for warming up on a chilly Irish evening.

Each of these dishes offers a taste of Ireland’s culinary heritage and a delicious way to connect with its culture.

Traveling in Ireland podcast episode 238

The post A Taste of Ireland: Corbett’s Traditional Irish Food Experience appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

Round towers are an -almost- uniquely Irish structure. (Only 3 ancient round towers exist outside of Ireland.)

In Irish they are called cloitheach (cloy- cach), meaning bell house, and were probably built between the 9th and 12th centuries.

This article is also available as a podcast. To listen please scroll to the player at the bottom of the page.

At least 120 round towers are thought to have existed in Ireland. Today about 20 towers survive in complete condition.

The monastic settlement of Glendalough, located in the Wicklow Mountains, is a popular day trip from Dublin. The round tower stands tall in the ‘valley of the two lakes', almost presiding over the cemetery, churches, and cathedral. There is quite a lot to see and do here, including some wonderful walks around the lake and along mountain paths.

Clonmacnoise was a major centre of learning and trade from the 8th to 12th centuries, located at one of the most important crossroads of ancient Ireland. You'll find two round towers here, though one is missing a top. Clonmacnoise also has 3 high crosses; the Cross of Scriptures is 13 feet tall and absolutely magnificent.

The Rock of Cashel in County Tipperary was the traditional seat of the kings of Munster until 1101 when it was donated to the church by the reigning king. The round tower is the oldest structure on the site. The sight of the magnificent castle structure atop the stony outcropping and reigning over the surrounding farmland is one that will leave you in awe.

Many visitors make the pilgrimage to Kells in County Meath as that is where the Book of Kells was held until 1654, before it was presented to Trinity College in 1661 (where you can see it today). The round tower, though still standing, has lost its cap. Five high crosses, in various states, are also here.

If your itinerary doesn't take you near any of those popular spots there are plenty more round towers to visit. These are some of my favorites.

Rattoo round tower in County Kerry was the first round tower I saw in Ireland. In 2002 I was following the route that would become the Wild Atlantic Way when I saw the cone in the distance. As I drove the road became more narrow, finally becoming a path. And there it stood. I had it all to myself… It was magical. The Rattoo round tower is the only complete round tower in Kerry and also has a sheela na gig.

Ardmore, County Waterford, is believed to be the oldest Christian settlement in Ireland, founded by St. Declan in the 5th century. Rising from a hill overlooking the town below, the round tower dates to the 12th century. The round tower marks the end of the cliff walk, which begins at the beach, following the coast past St. Declan's Stone, up the (steep) hill past the Cliff House Hotel (amazing spot to stay), and then to the holy well and the ruined church, before continuing along the cliffs to the cathedral and church yard.

You're likely to pass near Kilmacdough Monestery in County Galway if you are driving between Galway city and the Cliffs of Moher. The round tower is noted as the tallest standing round tower in Ireland.

Scattery Island, in the Shannon Estuary , is owned by the Office of Public Works (OPW) and is (obviously) only reachable by boat. Scattery Island Tours offers daily sailings during the season. The round tower on Scattery is unique as the door is at ground level. The island also has seven small churches, a holy well, a lighthouse, and an artillery battery.

The round tower at Turlough Abbey in County Mayo appears rather short and squat when compared to other towers. This abbey is one of few that survived the Dissolution of the Monasteries by Henry VIII and, later, Oliver Cromwell. If you visit the National Museum of Ireland Country Life in Castlebar the round tower can be seen from there and makes a nice addition to your visit.

A round tower, locally known as The Steeple, still remains from an ancient monastic settlement in the town of Antrim, Northern Ireland. Nearby is a ‘witches stone', the story being that a witch, upset by the construction of the tower, climbed to the top and jumped off, landing on the stone and leaving the impression of her knee and elbow. Legend says that one hollow never runs dry.

The round tower at Glasnevin Cemetery, built in 1855 to commemorate Irish political leader Daniel O'Connell can be climbed, but it is not quite as impressive as scaling an ancient round tower.

Just west of Dublin Kildare Cathedral, also known as St. Brigid's Cathedral, was built on the site of an important Celtic Christian abbey said to have been founded by Saint Brigid. The round tower can be climbed – be sure to note the Romanesque decoration around the doorway -and do visit the cathedral which also has a sheela-na-gig.

St. Canice's Cathedral, at the opposite end of Kilkenny's Medieval Mile from Kilkenny Castle, has a climbable tower which was built in the 9th century. The Cathedral is Early Gothic in design and is the second longest cathedral in Ireland, St. Patrick's in Dublin is longer. Purchase your tickets to climb the 100 foot tower inside the cathedral.

Devenish Island in County Fermanagh had two round towers, though one remains intact and can be scaled. This is the only high tower you can climb that still retains a conical cap. The base of the cap has a decorative cornice with a carved head above each of the 4 rectangular windows, Commercial boat tours of Lower Lough Erne can take you to the island, which also has multiple church ruins and an intricate high cross.

Traveling in Ireland Episode 193

The post Round Towers – Amazing Ireland Experiences appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

While most people associate Guinness with Dublin, it was a happy ‘accident' in Cashel, County Tipperary, that was the beginning of ‘the black stuff'.

It all started with some burnt hops and money from an Archbishop…

This article is based on a podcast episode featuring John Long, from Cashel Palace. If you prefer to listen to the podcast, you can find the player at the bottom of the page.

For an ‘only in Ireland' experience be sure to try a seaweed bath. Moisturizing, detoxifying, relaxing. And the experience at Cashel Palace is second to none.

Visiting the Rock of Cashel

If you are searching for a ‘real' traditional Irish pub be sure to stop into Morrissey's Pub in Abbeyleix. Enjoy a pint – and a story.

I truly believe the ‘pass thru' county of Laois will be one of the next ‘discoveries' in Irish tourism.

Thanks to John Long from Cashel Palace for sharing this interesting bit of ‘hidden' Irish history!

Traveling in Ireland Podcast Episode 167

The post Guinness is from Cashel appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

What is it like to inherit a beautiful Georgian country house? Today's guest is sharing her experience – and inviting you to stay during your Ireland vacation.

This article is based on a podcast episode featuring Helen Brennen, the owner and caretaker of Clonacody House. If you prefer to listen to the podcast, you can find the player at the bottom of the page.

Helen & Michael Brennan are the current ‘caretakers' of Clonacody House in Fethard, County Tipperary.

Clonacody House is a ‘small' Georgian house with 3 floors over basement

In the past the basement would have held the kitchen. The ground floor, which is where all the parties and entertainment would have taken place. The family and guest bedrooms would have been on the first floor. Staff, governesses and small children would have stayed up in the top floor.

The house was built between 1740 and 1780. The family that it was commissioned for were called the Kelletts. They were a British family, and they lived continuously here right up until 1937.

Helen's grandfather purchased Clonacody House from the original family, then her mother inherited it and, on her death, left it to her 5 children.

Helen and her husband Michael purchased the house from her siblings and, after borrowing a large amount of cash, they upgraded the building and turned it into a B&B. It has also become a very popular wedding and party venue.

Cahir Castle in Tipperary – Our Most Favorite Castle in All of Ireland

Fethard is known as one of Ireland's few remaining walled towns. One of the village churches has a Sheela-na-gig. Andrew Lloyd Weber owns nearby Kiltinan Castle and his influence can be found around the town.

Slievenamon mountain is a lovely place for hill walking. Comeragh and Knockmealdown mountains are nearby, as well. And the Rive Suir has water activities like kayaking and paddleboarding. Fethard tourism information can be found here.

Clonacody House website or email [email protected] 

Clonacody House on Instagram

Walk around the Grove Estate – property near Clonacody

The Butler Trail in Clonmel

Discover the connection of Fethard to the Resolute desks in the White House and Buckingham Palace at the museum.

Round Towers- Amazing Irish Experiences

Traveling in Ireland Podcast Episode 105

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