Southwestern Ireland

Arriving in Rosslare, we drive south to Lady's Island Lake. Lady's Island is a pre-Christian settlement. In the 6th century, St. Abban founded a monastery there. Since the 7th century, Our Lady's Island has been a famous place of pilgrimage. You can see the remains of St. Vaughn's Church and a leaning tower. The tower dates from Norman times.

From here we start our trip and follow the river Suir to Cahir. Cahir is a picturesque town overlooking the banks of the Suir. About six kilometres north of Cahir is Knockgraffon Motte, an artificial earthen mound and part of an Anglo-Norman settlement. The Motte is a national monument, but has never been the subject of archaeological research.

On the way to Cork, we stop to walk through the peaceful Glengarra Woods. At the Galtee Mountains, you can expect sensational panoramic views. Via small roads through beautiful countryside, we drive to Cork.

To the south and west of the town of Killarney in County Kerry lies a vast rugged mountain landscape. These include the MacGillycuddy's Reeks, Ireland's highest mountain range rising to over 1,000 metres. At the foot of these mountains nestle the world-famous Lakes of Killarney. There, where the mountains extend to the lakeshore and their lower slopes are covered in forests, lies the 10,236-hectare Killarney National Park. The distinctive combination of mountains, lakes, forests and waterfalls under ever-changing skies gives the area a special scenic beauty. Coming from Kenmare, you drive the full length of the national park. At Muckross Lake, you will find Muckross House & Gardens. These are easily accessible by motorhome, car or motorbike. There are six official walking trails throughout the national park. These walks take you along beautiful fauna and flora. Although the lakes invite you to go canoeing or kayaking, you must first ask permission at the Ranger Base. Wander through the cosy streets or visit the impressive cathedral.

From Killarney we follow the coast further north. You can choose to make a diversion before Tralee to the peninsula and town of Dingle. The Slea Head Route to Dingle is passable by motor home, car or motorbike, but requires a bit of driving. The road before and after Slea Head is very narrow. However, the view is breathtaking. From Tralee, we drive further to Tarbert where we take the ferry across the estuary of the Shannon. The river flows deep inland to Limerick city. Instead of taking the ferry, you can also drive to Limerick and visit the nice city. In Limerick you can visit many art galleries and museums or dine in a variety of award-winning restaurants.

Our next stop, Spanish Point, is about 3 km west of Milltown Malbay. It is a small seaside resort with a beautiful sandy beach. The place is named after the Spaniards who were buried here after the sinking of their Armada ships in 1588. One of the ships ran aground on the reefs of Mutton Island. In the fishing village of Quilty, you can hire a pirogue and visit the site of the wreck.

The city of Galway is known as one of the nicest cities in Ireland. With its mix of unconventional hipness and traditional culture, Galway is the ideal change from the rugged nature we drove through earlier. In the summer, there are many festivals to attend. Galway has a reputation as a party city for good reason. Besides entertainment, Galway also offers the tranquillity of the Atlantic Ocean. The small suburb of Sallhill is right by the sea. You can stroll along the 2 km long promenade. Tradition has it that at the end of the promenade you should kick the wall, as this is said to bring good luck. If the weather permits, you can find a nice spot on the beach.

Sligo is the English name for the Irish town of Sligeach, meaning 'abundant in shells'. The coastal town is also part of the Wild Atlantic Way and many people stop here to discover its history and culture. Sligo's strategic location was important in prehistoric times. For example, the town's first roundabout was built around a megalithic tomb at Abbeyquarter North. Sligo Bay is an ancient natural harbour that was already known to Greek, Phoenician and Roman traders, and there's plenty to do in terms of cultural activities in Sligo. The town was an inspiration to both poet and Nobel Prize winner W.B. Yeats and his brother, artist and illustrator Jack Butler Yeats. A collection of J.B. Yeats' art is held in the Niland Gallery. Throughout the year, there are many festivals held in the city. In July every year, you can enjoy the Sligo Jazz Project. We decide not to follow the Wild Atlantic Way further north, but to drive straight to Dublin, our last stop.