We finally made it to Ireland after planning the trip in 2020, only to be denied by the pandemic. My wife, my parents, and I traveled to Dublin and then journeyed south along the eastern side of the country. Our itinerary included stops at Kilkenny, Midleton, Kinsale, Waterford, Enniscorthy, and Powerscourt. Pictured here are the iconic Molly Malone statue in Dublin, and scenic views from Waterford and Powerscourt Waterfall.
In Dublin, we stayed at The Belvedere Hotel, which offered a comfortable and convenient base for exploring the vibrant city. The bustling streets, historic landmarks, and lively atmosphere of Dublin provided a wonderful start to our trip. One of our favorite spots was the Molly Malone statue, a tribute to the famous fishmonger of Dublin folklore, whose story has become an integral part of the city’s cultural fabric.
Our next stop was Kilkenny, where we stayed at the luxurious Mt. Juliet Estate. This historic estate, with its beautiful gardens and elegant interiors, provided a serene retreat. Kilkenny itself charmed us with its medieval architecture, lively pubs, and the impressive Kilkenny Castle. Wandering through the castle’s grand rooms and strolling along the River Nore were definite highlights.
Continuing our journey, we visited Midleton, known for the Jameson Distillery, where we enjoyed a tour and whiskey tasting. The rich history of Irish whiskey-making and the craftsmanship behind each bottle were fascinating to learn about.
In Kinsale, a picturesque harbor town, we experienced some of the best seafood and enjoyed the quaint, colorful streets. The town’s maritime history and culinary delights made it a memorable stop.
Waterford, famous for its crystal, was another highlight. We took a tour of the Waterford Crystal factory, witnessing the intricate process of crystal making. The city’s Viking history and the beautiful views along the waterfront added to its charm.
In Enniscorthy, we explored the historic Enniscorthy Castle and learned about its role in Irish history, particularly during the 1798 Rebellion. The town’s rich past and friendly locals made our visit enjoyable.
Our final destination was Powerscourt, where we stayed at the Powerscourt Hotel. Nestled in the Wicklow Mountains, the hotel offered breathtaking views and a perfect blend of luxury and nature. We visited Powerscourt Waterfall, Ireland’s highest waterfall, and were awed by the natural beauty and tranquility of the area. The gardens at Powerscourt Estate, with their meticulously landscaped grounds and stunning vistas, were a perfect way to end our journey.
From city locations to outstanding nature views, our combination of lodgings provided the ideal base for our visit. Each stop along our route offered unique experiences, blending Ireland’s rich history, culture, and natural beauty. After the long wait, our trip to Ireland exceeded all our expectations and left us with cherished memories.