Terrain, Flora and Fauna
Ireland’s terrain, flora and fauna are just fabulous. For a small island its flora is remarkably rich and diverse and the countryside is ablaze with flora at any point during the year. Forest is the natural dominant vegetation with grassland including lowland meadow and pasture. Ireland possesses almost 200,000 hectares of actively growing bogs. It’s isolation has made it notably free from plant and animal diseases. Falcons, ravens, peregrines and eagles take to the skies watched by the resident deer, badgers, foxes, rabbits, wild goats and mink. Life is also thriving around the shoreline. Among the common domestic animals, Ireland is particularly noted for its fine horses, dogs and cattle.
History
A range of important historical events have taken place in prehistoric Ireland over the centuries. An island lying on the western fringe of continental Europe, the first human settlements took place around 6000BC. Ireland has had many periods of invasion and change in its civilian populations. This rich history and heritage has helped to shape Ireland into the unique country it is today. Visitors are guaranteed to leave with a memorable story to tell and fond memories. Its many towns and cities are now vibrant and multi-cultured with a raucous, energetic and cosmopolitan vibe whilst its rural landscape retains the laidback charm and heritage of old.
Climate and weather
Ireland’s weather is never boring or predictable. Dancing in the rain, blowing in the wind, but all the time the sun is never far away. The climate can be summed up as being mild, moist and changeable with abundant rainfall and a lack of temperatures extremes. You can experience all four seasons in one day.
Food and drink
When it comes to food in Ireland, the purity of the natural produce has made the island one of the most talked about food destinations in Europe. With an emphasis on artisan cheese, exceptional beef and lamb and fresh off the boat seafood. The green pastures, deep valleys and abundant waters surrounding the island have helped create outstanding natural foods that you won’t get anywhere else. Fresh flavours, passionate producers and traditions handed down through generations. And whether you prefer the indulgence of an Irish coffee, the velvety caress of a pint of Guinness or a floral-scented Irish gin there’s no better place to enjoy a dark and creamy porter or a caramel coloured whiskey than by an open fire in a traditional Irish pub.
Walking and hiking in Ireland
Ireland is famous for the beauty of its natural landscape but there is so much more to it than green fields. The islands natural attractions range from rugged coastline to lakes, rivers and mountains. It has a mostly flat to rolling interior surrounded by rugged hills and low mountains with sea cliffs sprawling along the wild Atlantic west coast. There is a certain joy to be had in hiking regardless of weather. The trick to hiking comfortably in Irelands’ weather is to have the proper gear. Start out with a lightweight layer that can keep the inside air circulating while wicking away moisture. A fleece is an excellent insulator especially against the rain and use a waterproof jacket. Bring more rather than less, you can always take off an item when the weather changes but you can’t add more if you are under dressed.
Some helpful info for your trip
Because the island is hugged all year round by the warm influence of the Gulf Stream, Ireland is much warmer than other countries that share its latitude. The Gulf Stream also ensures that the Irish coastline remains ice-free throughout winter. Extreme winters are rare, and you're more likely to encounter a warm glow than a frosty reception, with average winter temperatures of between 5°C and 8°C. Summer temperatures are generally between 15°C to 20°C. One thing that is more than probable is rain. That’s what makes the grass so green, so don’t forget to pack your rain gear and a woolly jumper. The best way to be prepared for the Irish weather is to bring a lot of layers, waterproof shoes and a raincoat.
The Republic of Ireland is part of the EU and the currency is in Euros. International bank cards will work perfectly in ATMs and most places will have chip and pin. All major credit cards are accepted but in the countryside it’s better to carry some cash. Travelers from outside the EU are entitled to tax-free shopping.
Driving is on the left hand side of the road and country roads are narrow and winding. Some locals drive along them more quickly than you might expect. Look right when crossing the road.
Check your baggage restrictions with your airline. There can be large fees for luggage that isn’t allowed as cabin baggage. From the US and within the EU, you may visit the Republic of Ireland without a visa for up to 90 days. You will need to show a valid passport or national identity card upon arrival and it must be at least valid for the duration of your stay. Validity for six months after your arrival date is recommended.
In restaurants it is normal to tip between 10% to 12% or more if you wish. Some restaurants add a service charge to the bill themselves, especially for larger groups. Most cafes and restaurants are open from 9am to 5pm with pub grub available all day up to 9pm or 10pm. There are also evening restaurants serving food until late.
English and Irish are the two official languages in the Republic of Ireland. The vast majority is English speaking but most signage will be in English and Irish especially in regions of the west. People in Ireland are very friendly when spoken to and love to talk.
If you have any other queries contact us at [email protected] and we will be happy to help.
Ireland’s terrain, flora and fauna are just fabulous. For a small island its flora is remarkably rich and diverse and the countryside is ablaze with flora at any point during the year. Forest is the natural dominant vegetation with grassland including lowland meadow and pasture. Ireland possesses almost 200,000 hectares of actively growing bogs. It’s isolation has made it notably free from plant and animal diseases. Falcons, ravens, peregrines and eagles take to the skies watched by the resident deer, badgers, foxes, rabbits, wild goats and mink. Life is also thriving around the shoreline. Among the common domestic animals, Ireland is particularly noted for its fine horses, dogs and cattle.
History
A range of important historical events have taken place in prehistoric Ireland over the centuries. An island lying on the western fringe of continental Europe, the first human settlements took place around 6000BC. Ireland has had many periods of invasion and change in its civilian populations. This rich history and heritage has helped to shape Ireland into the unique country it is today. Visitors are guaranteed to leave with a memorable story to tell and fond memories. Its many towns and cities are now vibrant and multi-cultured with a raucous, energetic and cosmopolitan vibe whilst its rural landscape retains the laidback charm and heritage of old.
Climate and weather
Ireland’s weather is never boring or predictable. Dancing in the rain, blowing in the wind, but all the time the sun is never far away. The climate can be summed up as being mild, moist and changeable with abundant rainfall and a lack of temperatures extremes. You can experience all four seasons in one day.
Food and drink
When it comes to food in Ireland, the purity of the natural produce has made the island one of the most talked about food destinations in Europe. With an emphasis on artisan cheese, exceptional beef and lamb and fresh off the boat seafood. The green pastures, deep valleys and abundant waters surrounding the island have helped create outstanding natural foods that you won’t get anywhere else. Fresh flavours, passionate producers and traditions handed down through generations. And whether you prefer the indulgence of an Irish coffee, the velvety caress of a pint of Guinness or a floral-scented Irish gin there’s no better place to enjoy a dark and creamy porter or a caramel coloured whiskey than by an open fire in a traditional Irish pub.
Walking and hiking in Ireland
Ireland is famous for the beauty of its natural landscape but there is so much more to it than green fields. The islands natural attractions range from rugged coastline to lakes, rivers and mountains. It has a mostly flat to rolling interior surrounded by rugged hills and low mountains with sea cliffs sprawling along the wild Atlantic west coast. There is a certain joy to be had in hiking regardless of weather. The trick to hiking comfortably in Irelands’ weather is to have the proper gear. Start out with a lightweight layer that can keep the inside air circulating while wicking away moisture. A fleece is an excellent insulator especially against the rain and use a waterproof jacket. Bring more rather than less, you can always take off an item when the weather changes but you can’t add more if you are under dressed.
Some helpful info for your trip
Because the island is hugged all year round by the warm influence of the Gulf Stream, Ireland is much warmer than other countries that share its latitude. The Gulf Stream also ensures that the Irish coastline remains ice-free throughout winter. Extreme winters are rare, and you're more likely to encounter a warm glow than a frosty reception, with average winter temperatures of between 5°C and 8°C. Summer temperatures are generally between 15°C to 20°C. One thing that is more than probable is rain. That’s what makes the grass so green, so don’t forget to pack your rain gear and a woolly jumper. The best way to be prepared for the Irish weather is to bring a lot of layers, waterproof shoes and a raincoat.
The Republic of Ireland is part of the EU and the currency is in Euros. International bank cards will work perfectly in ATMs and most places will have chip and pin. All major credit cards are accepted but in the countryside it’s better to carry some cash. Travelers from outside the EU are entitled to tax-free shopping.
Driving is on the left hand side of the road and country roads are narrow and winding. Some locals drive along them more quickly than you might expect. Look right when crossing the road.
Check your baggage restrictions with your airline. There can be large fees for luggage that isn’t allowed as cabin baggage. From the US and within the EU, you may visit the Republic of Ireland without a visa for up to 90 days. You will need to show a valid passport or national identity card upon arrival and it must be at least valid for the duration of your stay. Validity for six months after your arrival date is recommended.
In restaurants it is normal to tip between 10% to 12% or more if you wish. Some restaurants add a service charge to the bill themselves, especially for larger groups. Most cafes and restaurants are open from 9am to 5pm with pub grub available all day up to 9pm or 10pm. There are also evening restaurants serving food until late.
English and Irish are the two official languages in the Republic of Ireland. The vast majority is English speaking but most signage will be in English and Irish especially in regions of the west. People in Ireland are very friendly when spoken to and love to talk.
If you have any other queries contact us at [email protected] and we will be happy to help.
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