The Four Corners of Ireland

The Wild Atlantic Way, 1600 miles (2600 km) in length, one of the longest defined coastal routes in the world, winds its way all along the west coast from the Inishowen Peninsula down to the picturesque town of Kinsale, County Cork, in the south. From start to finish it reveals the wonders of nature, the power of the ocean and its imprint on the coast, and the stunning countryside in all its diversity. Enchanting villages along the coast can hide ancient monuments – their origins long lost to myth and legend. Around every bend a new delight awaits.

Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands offer unparalleled opportunities to get active in nature and to get off the beaten track with a network of vibrant waterways and myriad walking trails. It is a region full of intriguing hidden gems – places, people and experiences – to be uncovered at your own pace, in your own time, exploring the communities, tastes and textures as you go. Perhaps Ireland’s best kept secret, the Hidden Heartlands provide visitors with a unique, authentic, local and immersive visitor journey for those keen to get away from it all.

Inhabited since at least 4000 BC, and a population centre by the 7th century AD, Dublin was invested by Viking raiders in the middle of the 9th century, and established as a permanent base by them in the period that followed. In the early 13th century, Norman forces established their principal colony there, building Dublin Castle which became the centre of Anglo-Norman power in Ireland, and remained the principal city of the island until the late 19th century. Dublin was the main focus of the 1916 nationalist rising, which began the final armed attempt to wrest control of the island from the British crown, a task partially completed with the signing of the Anglo-Irish Treaty of 1921. That long and varied history is represented in today’s city by historic buildings, museum that hold priceless remainders of the past, and a population with a rich memory of song and story. Something new and unexpected is around every corner!

Experience Ireland’s Ancient East where vibrant history and modern life meet. Enjoy memorable food experiences, wander down the cobbled streets of medieval towns and explore the gorgeous gardens of this scenic region. Hear local legends and mythical tales of the east of Ireland on a lively walking tour or travel back in time at an ancient monastic site. Head on an epic mountain hike and after, experience the cultural riches of the incredible cities.

Northern Ireland has history at its heart. From the 50 million years old Giant’s Causeway to the pre-Christian Navan Fort at Eamhain Macha in Co. Armagh and on to Downpatrick, reputedly the burial place of St Patrick, you’ll find no lack of ancient sites here. More recent are the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge in Co Antrim which provided access to the ruins of the 13th century Dunluce Castle, or the originally contemporary Carrickfergus Caste which was rebuilt at least three times and was in use until the early 20th century, long after the rise of the Belfast shipbuilding industry, celebrated now in the city’s Titanic Quarter.

But that’s just the beginning. Northern Ireland is full of unexpected sites, places for resting and relaxing among a welcoming people. Find your type of music at the Derry Choir Festival, or the various offerings of the city’s Limelight, Ulster Hall and Empire venues – not to mention the hundreds of smaller pubs and music venues across the province.