Looking back on our travels and adventures, our journey to Ireland with family last fall was a standout. Creating great memories with people you love always ups the ante on an experience, but our time in Ireland was truly something magical. The weather worked in our favor, and the landscapes were some of the most stunning we’d ever seen. The pub culture kept us out into the evenings, sipping cider and local beer while we listed to trad music. The architecture and layered histories kept us fueled during the day to understand more and travel deeper. And how can I forget the people? As nearly all visitors to the Emerald Isle will attest, the people really do help make the journey remarkable; there’s a warmth and welcoming quality that’s simply hard to beat.
In honor of St. Patrick’s Day, I’m sharing some of my favorite memories and snapshots from Ireland.
Exploring Temple Bar during our time in Dublin.Being enamored with the library at Trinity College. Have I been transported to Beauty and the Beast?!Whisky tasting with the family at the Jameson Distillery.Beginning our road trip at Cahir Castle, where parts of Braveheart were filled. One of the best parts? The photo shoot afterwards and attempted jump shot!
Dinner at Dromoland Castle, where my mom told me she felt ‘like a princess’.Horseback riding in Killarney National Park – incredible.A family photo shoot in Killarney National Park – this was snapped at Ross Castle!
The journey to Skellig Michael and hike to the secluded monastery at the top.Exploring the town of Dingle.…and the stunning landscapes during our drive along the Dingle Peninsula!A pit stop at Adare Manor.Exploring ancient stone forts along the drive.Journeying around the Ring of Beara.Exploring fields and abandoned castles.Being alone with the world and the ruins of Dunboy Castle – so gorgeous.Cycling in Killarney National Park.Taking a boat ride on Loch Leane, the Lake of Learning.Arriving at Innisfallen Island, one of the coolest little places, and having a picnic lunch near a 12c. monastery.
Reminiscing on this is awe-inspiring. How we accomplished so much in less than 10 days is pretty incredible, and I wouldn’t have traded our destination choice for anything. Ireland was perfection!
Have you been to Ireland? What areas were highlights for you?
Shannon Kircher is the founder and editor of The Wanderlust Effect. Founded in 2009, she has continued to document her international escapes as an expat in Europe and the Caribbean. Additionally, Shannon is the founder of Compass & Vine, a luxury boutique travel design firm, and is the Director of Marketing for the Frangipani Beach Resort. Shannon holds an MSc in Social Policy and Development from the London School of Economics and is a current candidate for WSET Level 3 in Wines & Spirits.
