Ireland's Ancient East

Renting a car provides the flexibility to visit remote sites and explore at your own pace. For a cost-effective alternative, bus services like Bus Éireann and the national railway network Irish Rail (Iarnród Éireann) connect major towns and cities like Kilkenny, Wexford and Waterford. The DART (Dublin Area Rapid Transit) is ideal for coastal exploration along Dublin Bay, linking city attractions with seaside spots like Howth and Bray.

The existence of leprechauns is highly debated and might not even be Irish. They likely grew out of the Irish beliefs surrounding fairies and the beings of the otherworld, Tuatha Dé Danann. Many say they are derived from an ancient Irish deity, Lugh, god of the Sun and arts. Regardless, you can find out more at the National Leprechaun Museum or see if you can spot them in the Cooley Mountains (an EU-protected sanctuary for the little folk).

Greystones is a charming coastal town just 27-kilometres south of Dublin in County Wicklow. Known for its scenic beauty, the town offers a delightful mix of attractions, including Greystones Beach for seaside strolls, the vibrant Greystones Harbour Marina, and the picturesque Cliff Walk to Bray. With easy access via the DART, Greystones provides a perfect blend of relaxed coastal and city living.

Newgrange, a 5200-year-old passage tomb, is a must-visit in the region. Older than Stonehenge and the Great Pyramids, it showcases remarkable Neolithic engineering and astronomical knowledge. During the winter solstice, sunlight illuminates the inner chamber through a precisely aligned entrance, showcasing the skill and knowledge of its builders. Numerous intricate carvings reflect the artistry and spiritual beliefs of the prehistoric Irish people.