Ireland

Ireland sits just off the west coast of Britain and is 134,000km2 of rugged coastline, sandy beaches, winding roads, green hills and thousands of years of history for you to explore and discover.

Home to 5.7 million people, many of them who will want to chat and share a drink with you, Ireland is a melting pot of old warm charms and new world discoveries. Whether you head north, south, east or west on the island, there is an abundance of things to do, sights to see and people to meet.

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Ever wondered why the Irish always seem to tell the best stories?
It’s the Blarney stone of course! Old folk lore says that if you kiss the blarney Stone it will give you the gift of the gab!
Trafalgar has on offer a brand new itinerary to discover Scenic Ireland. Travelling at a leisurely pace travellers will be in awe at the dramatic landscape of plunging cliffs, shimmering lakes and rugged coastlines. Learn the history of castles, forts and monasteries whilst enjoying the warm hospitality and humour the Irish are famous for.
To celebrate the new Scenic Ireland itinerary, Trafalgar in conjunction with Qantas and British Airways are offering fantastic earlybird airfares to Dublin which includes a bonus FREE hotel night from $2159 per person when you book a Trafalgar European holiday.
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Dublin in the south and Belfast in the north are the two main cities on the island.

Dublin is one of Europe’s most cosmopolitan cities, with plenty of trendy bars, shops and luxury hotels to keep you occupied. Home to literary greats such as George Bernard Shaw, James Joyce and Oscar Wilde and boasting some of the best Georgian architecture in the world, there is plenty of culture to loose yourself in if bar hopping and shopping are not your thing.

Belfast is, sadly, probably best known for its political troubles over the years. Thankfully, these seem to be in the past and Belfast is emerging as a truly great tourist stop. Not as twee as its southern counterpart, Belfast offers a warm welcome to all, with the kindness and humour of the city’s people being its greatest asset. This city launched the Titanic and boasts the finest Victorian architecture to be found in Europe.

Getting away from the city life in Ireland is easy by car, train, boat or bike. Northern Ireland has such gems as the Giant’s Causeway in County Antrim, Mourne Mountain in County Down and the Bushmill’s Distillery. Also home to the Lady of the Lake Festival and the Apple Festival, Northern Ireland has plenty to keep you entertained

With some of the best beaches on the island, Ireland’s east coast is perfect for family holidays. With horse racing, golf courses in abundance and water sports on the many lakes this area boasts, this is a holiday destination for the active.

The west coast of Ireland is probably the Ireland that most people imagine. Buffered by the Atlantic Ocean, the coastline is rugged and beautiful and places such as Galway, Limerick and Donegal offer some of the world’s most breathtaking sights.

Ireland’s south coast is a tranquil haven, great for getting away from it all and enjoying the local seafood and hospitality. Home to the famous Waterford Crystal Factory its also a great place for picking up a few bargains!

With so much to see and do, planning your trip is vital to ensure you get the holiday to remember and deserve. For more information visit Discover Ireland.

Getting there

Cathay Pacific flies from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide and Cairns to Hong Kong, connecting with flights to Ireland. To find out more, visit www.cathaypacific.com.au.

Your Romantic Ireland holiday will begin as soon as you and your partner board your Cathay Pacific flight. You’ll experience their Economy Class service, featuring an innovative shell seat to protect your space and a choice of over 100 on-demand movies screened on your personal television.

For those fortunate enough to fly Business Class you’ll enjoy both comfort and privacy, with a seat which transforms to a completely flat bed. Passengers are in full control of their own living area, with a 15” PTV screen and noise-reducing headset within easy reach.

Throughout your journey you’ll enjoy award-winning inflight service and savour the best of Western and Asian cuisine. And members can earn Qantas Frequent Flyer points or Asia Miles along the way.

Another option for travel to Ireland is V Australia which is now partnered with Etihad, so it is worth considering booking the journey to Dublin with V Australia and you will fly with Etihad on the Abu Dhabi to Dublin route.

Irish Highlights Tour

TRAVEL DEALS - Posted 22 Feb 2012 03:40pm

Immerse yourself in Ireland’s incredible history and breathtaking panoramas! Dublin’s delights include the ancient Book of Kells, St. Patrick’s and views of Christchurch Cathedral ...

Save $210