Ballinastoe Woods Hike | Everything You Need to Know
I’ve always been drawn to County Wicklow. Partly because of its reputation (known as “the Garden of Ireland”) and partly because it’s been featured in
About a month ago, I decided I needed to visit Ireland. My eagerness to fulfill this desire was unstoppable. Besides, it had been a long time since I had traveled anywhere, and I had heard so many fascinating facts about Ireland. Combining curiosity and passion, I decided to embark on a trip to Ireland. So, I set out on my journey and discovered many astonishing and extraordinary facts about marvelous travel spots, enjoying everything with my own eyes.
Today, I will share with you the experience of visiting Ireland’s top mythological sites, which will help you set the mood and get an idea for your own trip to Ireland. Ireland is a place rich with mystery and myth, offering a chance to explore enchanting locations and stories—and I’m not just talking about leprechauns and pots of gold!
From ancient Celtic kings’ seats to fairy hills, from sacred sites like the Sévered Head Ritual to the tomb of the warrior queen Medb, Ireland’s mythological sites are abundant. Each site hides stories of Celtic warriors, fairies, and magic.
First Stop: Boyne Valley (Brú na Bóinne) – Newgrange, Knowth, Dowth, Hill of Tara, and Hill of Slane, Co. Meath.
Brú na Bóinne is one of Ireland’s oldest architectural sites. It was the first place I visited in Ireland. It includes the famous Newgrange, where on the shortest day of winter, the sun’s rays enter a specific spot. This site is linked with Celtic myths and is believed to be a fairy tomb. It was an incredibly wonderful experience, and I’m sure you’ll be amazed when you visit.
North and Dowth: Like Newgrange, North and Dowth were also used as ancient tombs. However, they feature strange carvings that have attracted archaeologists’ attention. My visit here introduced me to many things, and the place had a remarkable sense of order.
Hill of Tara: The Hill of Tara was the seat of the Celtic kings of Ireland. It was both a religious and historical site.
Second Stop: Loughcrew, Oldcastle, Co. Meath.
Loughcrew is a place where ancient druids are said to have thrown stones. Though it sounds surprising, it’s true. I was amazed too, but seeing it for myself was impressive. It’s illuminated by sunlight during the spring and autumn equinoxes, showcasing its extraordinary beauty.
Third Stop: Navan Fort and King’s Stables, Armagh, Co. Armagh.
Navan Fort was once the fortress of the kings of Ulster. It’s associated with the story of Cú Chulainn, who fought against an entire army alone. Here, you can learn everything about the kings of Ulster. Some sites may not allow phone usage, but you’ll still be able to see everything firsthand.
Fourth Stop: Beaghmore Stones, Cookstown, Co. Tyrone.
Beaghmore Stones is a mysterious stone circle believed to have been created to record the movement of the sun. I had heard much about this site, and visiting it helped me understand the concept. Local belief is that this stone circle was used to measure the sun’s movement. You can visit this historical site if you wish.
Fifth Stop: Grianán of Aileach, Letterkenny, Co. Donegal.
Grianán of Aileach is an ancient stone fort built around 4000 years ago. According to local myth, it was constructed to bury the child of a god.
Sixth Stop: Carrowmore and Carrowkeel, Co. Sligo.
Carrowmore and Carrowkeel are among Ireland’s largest burial sites. According to myth, the tomb of Queen Medb is located here. This site is somewhat different from the previous ones, as it is the largest burial site in Ireland. You won’t believe it until you see it with your own eyes. It took me 5-7 hours to explore the entire area.
Seventh Stop: The Rock of Cashel, Cashel, Co. Tipperary.
The Rock of Cashel is a historic site that was the seat of the Munster kings. According to legend, it’s a rock created by the devil, now associated with Saint Patrick.
I have visited each of the sites mentioned above. If you ever travel to Ireland, make sure you visit these spots; missing them would be a significant oversight. Each sentence above is based on my personal experiences, and I hope it enhances your travel experience and leaves you with delightful memories of your time in Ireland.
In the next blog, I will discuss another wonderful aspect of traveling in Ireland.
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