Failte Ireland - Ireland Buyers Guide 2018

DAY 2 Start your day inWaterford City often referred to as “Ireland’s oldest city”.Waterford was founded by Norse invaders in 915AD. In its Viking Triangle of historic monuments, you can trace the city’s past within the fascinating trio of Waterford Treasures , including the Medieval Museum, Reginald’s Tower and Bishop’s Palace . New toWaterford is King of the Vikings – the world’s first virtual reality Viking adventure set in a reconstructed Viking house. Allow 2 ½ hours for these experiences Walking around, you’re likely to notice a “blaa” or two. Part of the city’s history, it’s thought they were introduced by the Hugenots in the 17th century. Enjoy one at the Bodega Restaurant andWine Bar before hitting the road to New Ross. If you have more time: See world famous Waterford Crystal being crafted in the House of Waterford Crystal . As you walk around the City, you will also see signs for the new Waterford Greenway – a spectacular 46km off road cycling and walking trail between Waterford and Dungarvan. Perched on the River Barrow, New Ross is a small but bustling place, anchored by the Dunbrody Famine Ship , a replica of an 1840s emigrant vessel. Step on board to uncover the truly emotional history of Ireland’s emigrant past. Allow 1 hour for this experience If you have more time: Make your way to Hook Head and Lighthouse – the amazing lighthouse is over 800 years old and is the oldest intact operational lighthouse in the world, with knock-out views of the sea. Nearby, is Loftus Hall – an abandoned haunted house with a dark and troubled history. Allow 60 minutes for each of these experiences Travel north to Kilkenny, following the scenic route through the Nore Valley. Now you’re into beautiful terrain studded with pretty villages, such as Thomastown and Bennettsbridge. Continue to Kilkenny City, as well as its lively nightlife, great restaurants and traditional old pubs, Kilkenny’s star is the Medieval Mile – hear tales of witch trials, almshouses and besieged castles as you tour this city at a leisurely pace, taking in such sites as Kilkenny Castle , Medieval Mile Museum , Smithwick’s Experience and St Canice’s Cathedral . Allow 2 hours for this experience. Overnight & Dinner Kilkenny DAY 3 Setting the tone perfectly for today’s trail is a gentle wander around 5,000 plants and flowers in Carlow’s stunning 19th century Robinsonian-style Altamont Gardens . Allow 45 minutes for this experience This verdant theme is followed through as you continue on to the “Garden of Ireland”, whereWicklow’s hills bloom with beautiful greens flecked with purple heather. But first, the town of Wicklow regales somewhat brutal tales from the early 18th century at Wicklow Gaol . Among them stories of convicts transported fromWicklow to Australia, sometimes just for the crime of stealing bread. Allow 1 hour for this experience Lunch in Wicklow 83 Irish National Heritage Park, Co.Wexford Viking Sword, Co.Waterford