Irelands within Ireland

History has it that the Celtic tribes arrived here on the island somewhere between the years 600 – 150 B.C.  King Brian BORU ended up defeating the Norsemen who tried to invade this region in the later part of the 8th century. English invasions set foot here in the 12th century and this marked the beginning of a 7 century long struggle between the English and the Irish. In 1921, 26 southern countries got freedom from UK. This was how Ireland, of its own, was born.

This country is today well known for the Giant’s Causeway, Glendalough, The Ring of Kerry, Killarney National Park and the Cliffs of Moher. There are some off-the-beaten-path options that include uncovering some ancient ruins, or visiting prehistoric tombs or frolicking on some gorgeous, yet isolated beaches.

Here are some examples of towns of Ireland that embody Ireland within the larger country.

Carlingford in County Louth:

This is easily the prettiest town that lies in Louth, which is Ireland’s smallest county. The ancient name for Carlingford was Cuan Aighneach which could translate to ‘haven of the people with the perfect reputation’. Intriguing, isn’t it? Legend has it that the folk hero Cuchulainn single-handedly managed to defeat the armies of Ulster during the epic battle which had been waged in the hills that surround the area.

A stern looking 13 century castle sits at the edge of the town and presides and looks over the entire landscape of this town. The original medieval street patterns are still in place.

Inistioge in County Kilkenny:

You’re most likely going to experience a moment of déjàvu when you take a stroll down this village in Kilkenny. The reason behind this will be that this is one of the most photographed regions of Ireland. A nine-arched stone bridge stands at the banks of the River Nore. The surrounding region is bathed in beauty, when you go to look at the sprawling woodlands and the never ending length of the green hills that look over this river.

During the early Christian times, this region was an important monastic center. During these days, the only kinds of pilgrims who walk down the lanes of Inistioge are the ones who are looking for an idyllic rural setting and the ones who crave for some beautiful photographic shots. You could take a walk down the tree lined square of the village and then you’ll pass the remains of a yesteryear Norman Castle; and finally you could head outside of town for a walk down the peaceful Woodstock Gardens.

Kinsale in County Cork:

This fishing village is said to draw in a rather sophisticated crowd when it comes to its abundance in restaurants. This little village is quite the different world when it is compared to its neighbor Cork City. You could go there to eat, but you could also choose to watch the sailboats bobbing on the vodka clear harbor waters. You could also walk into one of the boutiques or galleries that line the old streets that have been well-kept for so many years.

Kenmare in County Kerry:

It is rather easy to fall in love with this town which dates back to the 17th century. This town which lies on the Kenmare Bay has mountains surround it. It is said to house a number of good restaurants and elegant hotels. This region makes a great base if you want to explore the Killarney National Park and the Ring of Kerry.

You could browse around the open-air market which lies in the town square and is set up from scratch every Wednesday. It is famous for the selling and trading of wares that have been locally sourced and the local craftsmen show their talent.

There is a stone circle at the back of the square, which dates back to the Bronze Age.