Mystical, Magical & Magnificent Irish Music

You're never short of a selection of musical for every taste on this island over flowing with talent and "craic"...from the incredible tunes of U2 to the angelic voice of Enya and the soothing harmonies of The Corrs, from the raucous laughter at a pub gig or street cheile to famous lyrics of Snow Patrol and Westlife...there is plenty to tickle your musical fancy!

Come for Belfast’s famous Feile an Phobail (The West Belfast Festival), the fantastic Cork Jazz Festival in October, the traditional Fleadh Cheoil in August, the always exhilarating outdoor summer music festivals of Oxegen and Electric Picnic...or if you're feeling indecisive come at any time of year and find magical and lively traditional music spilling out the doors and windows of every pub in every town and city of this rythmical and wonderful land...

Discover a millennium of rich & fascinating history

Ireland's rich history stretches all the way back to 8000BC and the turbulent development of our island's rich history is visible in many distinct landmarks throughout the country.

Visit amazing stone-age tombs, relax in beautiful Georgian townhouses, meander the winding streets of ancient Norsemen towns, or experience a life of luxury in breathtaking Norman castles. You can even explore the ancient Viking way of life or relive Celtic civilization..in Ireland you have a whole millennium of rich and exhilarating history at your fingertips!

The must-see stops along the Irish History Trail:

• St Kevin’s Monastery and The Round Tower at Glendalough located in the magnificent county of Wicklow (also known as "the garden of Ireland")

• The megalithic tomb at Newgrange in county Meath is older than the Egyptian Pyramids! On the day of the winter solstice every year sunlight strikes the centre of the tomb and fills its main chamber with light, illuminating the beauty of this ancient monument

• View the unique and intricate calligraphy in the ancient Book of Kells in Trinity College

• Visit Dublinia and Christchurch Cathedral in Dublin City to relive the vivid history of the capital's famous streets

Retreats & Spa Vacations in Ireland

The tranquility of Ireland is the perfect atmosphere for a relaxing spa break and with many secluded country lodges and beautiful boutique hotels dotted throughout the Irish countryside what better way to relax than with a trip to the Emerald Isle?

Due to the unique and magical Irish landscape many spas and retreats are nestled amoung the most beautiful seaside coves and lush green forests. Here you can truly escape today's hectic lifestyle, enjoy a wide variety of relaxing treatments all whilst enjoying the most beautiful views Ireland has to offer.

The Official Irish Tourism Website www.discoverireland.com has a comprehensive listing of spas, resorts and wellness retreats to start you on your quest for the perfect relaxing holiday...

Surfing the emerald isle

For so long people have always associated surfing with the famous beaches of Hawaii and Australia but more and more people are realising there are some amazing waves and secret spots to be found all along the coast of our Emerald Isle! Not only will you find a huge variety of quality surf spots but at the end of a long day in the water you can go home to Irish welcome and the best Guinness you'll ever set your lips upon!

There's no need to worry about your level as there are numerous spots and schools to choose from. If surfing the BIG Atlantic waves seem too daunting there are plenty beach breaks that are perfect for beginner and intermediate surfers. If you're a pro-surfer thinking we don't have anything to offer you then THINK AGAIN! (As the infamous surfer flick "Waveriders" explains it was infact the son of an Ulsterman who re-introduced the ancient Polynesian art of wave riding in Hawaii after in had been stamped out by the missionaries!) For the more experienced surfers there are plenty of quality reef breaks to raise the bar and keep you challenged.

Although you can find good surf all year round the best time to surf Ireland is during the period from September to May each year when the swells are plentiful. The only real drawback to the Irish surfing experience is the cold water, but if you are prepared to don a good hood and some booties you are in for a real treat.

Some great spots to check out are Bundoran in Donegal, Lahinch in County Clare, The Cliffs of Moher (tow-ins for the REALLY brave) and Easkey in County Sligo.