On the back of the success of Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way, the east coast of Ireland now too has something about which it can brag – Ireland’s Ancient East. Unlike the Wild Atlantic Way, this is described as a touring region rather than a touring route connecting Ireland’s ancient megalithic sites, folk tales, the dark ages through to the Anglo Saxon period. It is a time that’s spread over 5000 years of history, so don’t expect to see it all over 1 weekend.
Cork on the south coast is the fulcrum that connects both Irelands Ancient East and the Wild Atlantic Way and is the simultaneous gateway to both regions.
4 days/3 nights, Ireland’s Ancient East – The Taster Trip
Fly in to Cork and spend two nights in the Cork area (either in the heart of the city) or just outside. There is plenty to see and do with galleries and museums, Gothic churches, stark gaol’s and historic forts – and this is just in the city. Moving east from Cork, you have the historic town of Cobh which was formerly known as Queenstown in honour of Queen Victoria’s visit in 1849 and is most famously remembered as the last embarkation point of the Titanic.
Then it’s on to Midleton and the home of Jameson Whiskey before stopping for tea in the beautiful Castlemartyr Resort replete with Norman Keep and 17th haunted manor. From here you carry onto one of Ireland’s best kept secrets – the town of Youghal (pronounced yawl) with it’s medieval walls, 12th century collegiate church, Norman tower houses lining the main street and even the home of Sir Walter Raleigh from the time when he was mayor of the town.
Tip: Youghal is a lovely town in which to base yourself to see a very different aspect of Ireland and there is also the stunning 5 star Cliff House Hotel in nearby Ardmore if you want to treat yourself.
Finally, its on to Waterford – Ireland’s oldest city, founded by the Vikings. It is also home to the world famous Waterford Crystal Factory to see their showrooms and to learn how they cut crystal on the factory tour. Waterford has plenty to see and its all compacted into a very small area.
The Viking Triangle is anchored by Reginald’s Tower which was built in the 12th century and forms a triumvirate of museums that also includes the Medieval Museum and The Bishops Palace. But these aren’t your usual dusty old museums. The places are brought to life by passionate guides who are full of stories and impressive audio visual guides. Would you be surprised to know that there are Bonaparte’s directly related to Napoleon, living in Waterford? or of the connections with Henry VIII? These and more stories await your visit.
The straight drive from Waterford to Cork is approximately 75 minutes leaving it a comfortable drive to get back to Cork Airport.
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