Treasure of an Emerald Island (Ireland)

It's been a rainy day... In fact, most of the days of the year are rainy or cloudy in Ireland. But who cares, when there are so many things to see and do. Grab an umbrella, rent a car and off you go, exploring an amazing Emerald Island.

I lived in Adare, Co.Limerick for just over 3 years. One of the tidiest towns in Ireland, for which they received several awards. Not much going on there, and if you drive through, don't rush, as you might just miss it. But, as small as it is, it hides some treasures, you might wish to experience.

Stretch of thatched cottages are home to arts and crafts shops, as well as small and cosy restaurants. Stone buildings, including churches and a picturesque park are the biggest attractions of this town. Two boutique hotels, The Dunraven Arms Hotel and Adare Manor, as well as a family Woodland's Hotel will make you feel at home whilst away from home, and it will let you experience the real Irish hospitality.

Just few steps away from the Adare Heritage Centre (by the way, you just have to taste their amazing banoffie pie they serve at the Heritage Centre's coffee shop), you will see the Trinitarian Priory, the only recorded Trinitarian Monastery in Ireland. It is believed that the Trinitarian monks who came to Adare may have come from Scotland. The monastery was badly damaged during the reign of King Henry VIII. Today, they call it "Holy Trinity Abbey" and is used as the local Catholic Church.

Have you ever wanted to know what it feels like to walk through the regular gardens of a castle, or to have a high tea within an ancient walls? Then Adare Manor Hotel & Golf Club is the right place for you. Take an afternoon walk up the main street of Adare (the only main street, by the way), and visit this amazing castle, and who knows, maybe you'll see a ghost of Lady Dunraven. :-).