Ireland is the third-largest island in Europe, and the twentieth-largest island in the world. It lies to the north-west of continental Europe and is surrounded by hundreds of islands and islets. To the east of Ireland, separated by the Irish Sea, is the island of Great Britain. Politically, the sovereign state of Ireland covers five-sixths of the island, with Northern Ireland (part of the United Kingdom) covering the remainder in the north-east. The climate in Ireland is very similar to that of mainland Britain, you can expect a reasonable amount of rain all year round and none of the seasons are particularly extreme. Layering is the key with clothing. Pubs and cafes are warm and cosy, while outside may be chilly and wet, or rather sunny and warm. Ireland is a popular tourist destination due to its relaxed culture, fun-loving people, natural beauty, proud traditions, and its love of Guinness. The past decade has been a time of rejuvenation for this island nation.
A self catering cottages in Ireland are the ideal places for a family holiday - accommodation for many people. Ireland has thousands of visitors every year and for many, the self catering option is preferred. Rather than staying in a hotel or resort, they choose to stay in one of the many, beautiful villas, or cottages, which are set back from the hustle and bustle of the many towns and cities. Choosing a self catering holiday, gives you the freedom to literally please yourself, as you are not tied to restaurant opening times, you can enjoy the peaceful surroundings, you don’t have to worry about finding a sun bed around a communal swimming pool. There are so many benefits to this choice of holiday. The most villas and cottages around Ireland, are situated in private grounds, with their own swimming pool, some with barbeques, all within an enclosed area. This makes the self catering option perfect for families with small children, or maybe people who just want to get away from it all and enjoy some privacy. A holiday in Ireland is truly inspirational, offering so much more than your average vacation requirements of sun, sea and sand.
Dublin is the thriving hub of Ireland, the capital city it is famed for being a friendly city for tourists. This is a city with a quirky sense of humour, ideal to explore on foot. The historic heart of the city lies south of the Liffey River, which has remained unaltered in appearance since Georgian times, though the last decade of regeneration makes the place buzz with excitement, especially around Temple Bar. Today, the area features fashionable pubs, great places to eat, discos and infectious vitality.
Ireland boasts some gorgeous, white sandy beaches.
Dunmore East, in County Waterford, is a charming village close to safe bathing beaches and attractive coves, including Ladies Cove, a neat sandy bay popular with local people and tourists.
Tramore is one of Ireland's main holiday resorts and has a 5km sandy beach caressed by the Gulf Stream.
Ardmore is renowned for its long, fine beach set against high cliffs and its place in Irish history as an important 6th century religious site.
County Cork has a very attractive coastline, from Kinsale, a pretty seaside town at the mouth of Bandon River, to Kilbrittain, Timoleague and Courtmacsherry, (all unspoilt in lovely settings), to Bantry, ideal for exploring Bantry Bay and the Sheep's Head Peninsula.
The Dingle Peninsula in County Kerry has some lovely beaches and the fine town of Dingle itself. Ventry has a lovely white-sand breach, on which legend claims the King of the Other World landed to subjugate Ireland.
Slieve League is outstanding, from the cliffs of Bunglass to the glorious sands of Silver Strand. Brandon Mountain and Brandon Bay are other must-see highlights.