Top Five Castles in Ireland

Posted on Sunday, May 09, 2010

Traveling to Ireland can be one of the most adventurous trips you'd ever experience. The shores lines are covered with many castles and battlement ruins preparing Ireland to protect their 5,600 kilometeres of coastline. Whether you want to experience the history and heritage or relax for a day at a local golf course or the many beaches, there is something everyone will enjoy.  

Some of the top five castles and attractions that you can experience while visiting Ireland include some of the following...

The Dunguarie Castle in County Galway  
The Dunguarie Castle has survived 12 centuries in battle and siege, up until 1924. Since 1924 it has become the perfect retreat for poets and writers. After seven centuries of standing on the site of Guaire, King of Connaught, the Dunguarie Castle is one castle you'll want to experience in Ireland.  

The Dunluce Castle in County Antrim
Many years ago a violent storm caused an abundance of lose when a portion of the Dunluce Castle fell into the sea killing many cooks and kitchen hands. After many years the Dunluce has become the spot that was the inspiration of Cair Paravel from Chronicles of Narnia, done by C.S. Lewis.  

The Leap Castle in County Offaly
If you'd like a little excitement and scare in your travels, travel to the Leap Castle. This castle is said to be haunted by ghosts. The Leap Castle was once the fortress for the O'Carrolls many years ago and now has become the picturesque ivy-clad ruin.  

The Hillsborough Castle in County Down
The Hillsborough Castle has become the residence for Elizabeth II when traveling through Ireland. The best time of year to visit this castle is in July, when the Garden Festival is held within the beautiful walled gardens each year.  

The Belleek Museum in County Fermanagh
Over the past 150 years the Beleek Museum has been the creators of many fine pottery collections. The Belleek museum gets over 250,000 tourists each and every year, including John and Jackie Kennedy back in 1961. The shop and tea room are the most popular tourist attractions within the Belleek Museum.

All throughout Ireland there are many things for travelers to experience. You don't want to miss out on any of them, so make sure to plan out your vacation to Ireland beforehand. Ireland is the home of endless amounts of adventures and experiences... take the time to experience them all before you leave.