Ireland is a popular tourist destination in the world attracting tourists of all ages. Its highlights are not too far apart from each other, at least not as compared to the US, Canada, as well as the other bigger nations. Ireland is smaller as compared to its size but has a very rich history to boast of. Some of its castles, posh houses and neolithic constructions predate the Egyptian pyramids by a great margin. 

There are so many places to visit as well besides the likes of the seasonal travelers to visit as seniors.  How can this Emerald Isle be the top of the bill as far as visiting is concerned for elderly citizens? 

 

Book of Kells and Trinity College

It is impossible not to visit Trinity College and the Book of Kells. Fun fact: I am an alumnus of Trinity College Dublin and I love it there. 

There are years of history and the magical Book of Kells, and you can see everything. 

They rotate only one page of the Book of Kells a day, and you will take more than a year to read all the pages, which is not probable. 

The entire experience at the library is worth seeing and not only the Book of Kells. 

It is an illuminated manuscript containing the four Gospels of the New Testament and was made around the 9th century AD. This old text is a master work in medieval arts and religious piety.

Starting here is where you can book your amazing experience.

 

St. Patricks Cathedral

Hungry to explore the Irish spiritual tradition? St. Here is Patrick’s Cathedral!

This is among the most renowned landmarks in Dublin since it is the National Cathedral of people in the Church of Ireland. This is a cathedral dedicated to St Patrick, who was the patron saint of Ireland. It is constructed in the location where it is considered that St. Patrick had baptized Christian converts during the 5th century. Wonder at its gothic architecture here, take walks in quiet gardens and maybe even one of the choral evensongs to make it an unforgettable moment.

Here you can find all the information regarding this place.

 

Rock of Cashel

And in case you need to walk back in time and you desire to feel the myth and legend then the Rock of Cashel is a great choice. The Rock of Cashel also has different names, such as Rock of Cashel or Cashel of the Kings, or St. Patrick’s Rock. This ancient place is found in Tipperary County, Ireland.  It is a well-known archaeological site including a set of medieval ecclesiastical delights on a limestone hilltop.

There is a lot of myth and legend associated with this iconic landmark. And then when you are fit, just take up your walking stick and attempt to reach the summit. Sightseeing can renew the mind and heart as well by the panoramic sight of the countryside. The tales of saints and of kings vibrate also in its olden stones. This is their official site in case you wish to book online. 

Newgrange

Newgrange is an ancient sculpture in Ireland at County Meath. It is one of the most renowned prehistoric sites all over the world. An interesting fact is that the age of this monument is estimated to be even older than Stonehenge as well as the Great Pyramids of Giza! 

Newgrange was built around 5,200 years ago (3,200 B.C.). This tomb was constructed by an agricultural society that thrived in the fertile Boyne Valley. It is a form of megalithic tomb, so named by its long passageway leading to a central chamber. 

However, Newgrange is considered to be more than a passage tomb even though archaeologists described Newgrange as passage tomb. It has been given an astrological, spiritual, religious and ceremonial importance. Very nearly as in our modern cathedrals. They are prestigious and worship places where dignitaries can be buried.

The Newgrange is a huge kidney shaped mound, more than 1 acre in area with 97 kerbstones at the base of which some are highly ornamented with megalithic art.

The greatest aspect of Newgrange is that it is in relation to the winter solstice sunrise. On the shortest day of the year sun shines into the passage, central chamber and creates a stunning effect of ancient engineering and astronomic expertise.

The location was identified during the 17th century and was not entirely excavated and analyzed until the late 19th and early 20th century. Things have changed, and it now constitutes a UNESCO World Heritage Site where tourists travel to the site in large numbers to view its historical importance and architectural complexity.

This is their official site. 

 

Cliffs of Moher

You have probably thought that the Cliffs of Moher is not a part of what a senior person should attend but I do disagree, with all respect, of course. 

Tour buses will drop you at the very bottom of the cliffs and after that, you have to walk 20 minutes to the top, with most of the way being up stairs. 

Since, Cliffs of Moher constitute one of the highest tourist attractions in Ireland, they will find everything over there. 

In terms of big restaurants, cafes to sitting arrangements and senior support, you need not worry of visiting the cliffs. 

This advice I would be especially against undertaking a boat trip around the Cliffs of Moher (your tour guide will definitely insist on it were you to visit in Summer) – as the boats in the Atlantic are bumpy. 

Otherwise, you are “grand” 

Check the link here to know more!

Killarney National Park

Killarney National Park is a good location to rest and have the rest of our mind.  It lies in County Kerry in Ireland. It is famous for its beautiful landscape, wildlife, and its culture. There is an unforgettable mix of mountains, lakes, woodland and waterfalls here. 

The park is located in the southwestern corner of Ireland, close to the town of Killarney, and its area is more than 100 square kilometers (40 square miles).

The park is marked with rocky mountains, wide lakes and dense woodland. It has some of the most prominent features which include the Lakes of Killarney that are made up of Lough Leane, Muckross Lake, and the Upper Lake.

The park has a huge diversity of life that can be found all the way to the red deer, which are the only native deer found in Ireland. It is also a paradise for the bird watchers with birds like the white tailed eagle and the peregrine falcon. Plant life is also vibrant in terms of its good mix of species including rare and protected ones. A remnant of the prehistoric period called Killarney fern is one of the most renowned botanical attractions in it.

Killarney National Park has a wide range of attractions such as Muckross House and a beautiful Victorian mansion in beautiful gardens which visitors can be able to have look at and see. Visitors can also hike, cycle, and go boating and fishing in the park. Visit their site to learn more tips and information. 

Good Ideas for Seniors Travelling in Ireland

Pack sensibly: Ireland’s weather is very unpredictable. So, make sure that you bring comfy walking shoes, clothes that are suited to the weather and needed prescriptions. 

Take Your Time: Ireland has a variety of places to be enjoyed. Thus, enjoy the casual Irish way of life and take your time to enjoy the discoveries at the various destinations. 

Be in Touch: Purchase a local SIM card or even a portable WiFi device, so you can keep in touch with friends and family and use online Google maps and sources of information.

Travel Insurance: Travel with complete peace of mind as you get covered with a complete package of travel insurance on medical emergencies and trip cancellations, among other events that are unpredictable.

I have been to lots of places in the world but Ireland is one of the safest places to visit. Touring seniors in Ireland is not a problem. 

The buses are equipped with wheelchair facilities, you can literally go anywhere with a guide dog and people are so friendly compared to anywhere on the planet. 

Also, you will have senior discounts in practically every place. 

Overall, if you are planning to tour to Ireland as a senior, you may pack your luggage and get that flight ticket. 

Sláinte!