Who could not love a country that proudly flaunts the Gaelic word fáilte?

One hundred thousand welcomes.

A place that is greener than anything you have seen before.

A place known for beer, butter, singing and scenery.

It would be impossible to cover in any depth the history of an island that began before the Celts in one small page. This destination page is only meant to give you some highlights and Ireland Travel Tips based on G&N visits. The island is made up of the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland, which remains part of the United Kingdom.

Visitors to Republic of Ireland are welcomed by a population that is very focused on tourism. The country is rich in heritage sites, fabulous gardens, challenging golf, incredible wild vistas, an active music scene and a vibrant food focus. This is a place to put on your bucket list.

Where to Stay

Killarney: The Malton Hotel this hotel was purpose built, it first opened in 1854 under the name of the Railway Hotel at a time when Killarney was establishing its name as a great tourist destination. A landmark hotel with traditional service values and modern comforts.

Dublin: The most amazing thing, other than 5-star service and first class decor, about the Merrion Hotel in Dublin is that it has only been around since 1997. Despite being a relative ‘newcomer’ to the hospitality world the Merrion Hotel exudes old-world charm from the very pores of the marble floors, and elegant whitewashed columns to your first cocktail in the No. 23 Cocktail Bar.

Where to Eat

All Island: Good Food Ireland was founded in 2006 by people who care about food. Tourism and food are brought together by matching artisanal producers, with creative chefs and authentic accommodation Good Food Ireland is Your guarantee for the best authentic Irish food experience from over 600 Places to Stay, Eat, Cook and Shop around the island of Ireland.

Cork: Farmgate Market Cafe – Kay Harte and her team have been operating in the market for over 20 years. Talk about market-fresh the daily menu is only created after the chef talks a walk through the market stalls located downstairs from the restaurant. FRESH! Expect a few traditional dishes, big salads, warm soup and more.

Cork: Market Lane Restaurant, Oliver Plunkett St., Cork city
This bustling two-story restaurant and bar near the English Market is a friendly and welcoming place with a lively atmosphere. Fresh and artisan produce from the English Market is used as much as possible, with the aim of offering good quality food – and real value for money. This they do well, offering well cooked, unfussy food at moderate prices; varied menus offer plenty of choice and a great range of popular dishes.
Contact: Lisa​​Tel.: 021 4274710

Dingle: Murphy’s Ice cream delicious!

Dingle: The Chart House Restaurant  ​“Jim McCarthy’s, passion for food and wine shows in everything they do at the Chart House – in the elegant interiors , the talented use of local ingredients, and the handpicked wines on the list.” Rick le Vert, Cara Magazine

Dingle: Dingle Food & Drink Trail  ​Tour the Dingle Peninsula, visit artisan producers, top restaurants and enjoy the scenery.

Dublin: Executive Chef Ed Cooney is proud of his Irish roots and thrilled to work with excellent regional, artisan, food producers to supply products for the Merrion Hotel in Dublin. Whether it is cocktails in the bar, afternoon tea or dinner in the Cellar Restaurant you can be assured that Chef Cooney has cast a creative spell on old favourites and new menu items.

Galway: Aniar Restaurant – Michelin one-star restaurant in the heart of Galway. Run by two passionate foodies JP McMahon and Drigin Gaffey. This is a unique restaurant and cooking school using ingredients ‘from the west’ (Aniar translated from Irish).

What to Read

Here are a few posts from Ginger and Nutmeg to tempt you:

Irish Tour ABCs

Irish Tour ABCs Part Two

The Blasket Centre on Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way

Louis Mulcahy Pottery Brings the Irish Coast To life

Dingle Brewing Company Tom Crean’s Lager

Photo Tours of Dublin Ireland from Dawn to Dusk

Dublin Sightseeing While Jogging

Things to Do

Try surfing! Checkout Ben’s Surf Clinic in Lahinch – or any of his other fun activities (rock climbing, biking).