Out on the northwestern tip of Europe, Ireland offers a wide range of geography in its different counties, from the scenic east coast to the wild and wonderful coastline of the West Coast. Ireland has a rich and unique history, with lots of surprises. You may not know, for example, that St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland, was actually a British man brought to Ireland by a raiding party. Numerous Viking invasions shaped have shaped Ireland’s history, and modern Ireland was powerfully affected by the Great Famine of 1845-49, which led over two million people to emigrate to the US, the UK, Canada and Australia. Today, though, Ireland enjoys more immigration than emigration thanks to an economic boom in the 1990s.

Irish culture and its fascinating traditions are famous the world over, whether it’s the habit of eating colcannon (cabbage and mashed potatoes mixed together) on Halloween, or wearing green on St. Patrick’s Day. Two of Ireland’s most famous cultural exports, though, are traditional music and Irish dancing. You can sample both of these in small villages across the country, as well as in city centres. With such a vibrant cultural life, which takes in many summer festivals, it is no wonder Ireland is famous for being a happy, exciting place to spend a holiday.

Ireland offers a wide range of activity options to suit you, whether you are looking for a relaxing river holiday or a more action-packed watersports adventure. From horse riding to hill walking, from cycling to golf, there is always something to do wherever you choose to stay. If you are planning a more relaxing getaway, you may want to make the most of one of Ireland’s many destination spas, where you can treat yourself to a de-stressed, rejuvenating break.

Holiday Rental Homes promotes a number of properties in Ireland, all of them well priced to ensure your next vacation will not break the bank. At these properties, you can make the most of the best of local facilities while retaining the privacy and freedom of a self-catering property. So, what are you waiting for? Start browsing our property listings today, and begin planning the holiday of a lifetime.

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Northern Ireland Holiday & Travel Guide: Northern Ireland is a beautiful country, independent from the rest of Ireland... and with a lot to offer tourists. When most people imagine Northern Ireland, the mind conjures up pictures of rolling green hills, smiley local people and unmatched scenic landscapes - and they are spot on. But Northern Ireland is not just a pretty picture...It has long been a great entertainer to all types of visitor, solely due to the whole caleidoscope of activities on offer.

Although in recent years, Northern Ireland has suffered in terms of guerilla warfare, the country has really moved forward and now provides for a safe and refreshing break for all of the family. The capital city, Belfast is a great place to visit for gastronomical delights and spectacular nightlife, or perhaps Derry (also known as Londonderry) is a happy alternative for those wanting to explore it's arty existence.

Many people will have heard of the Causeway Coast, and in particular Giant's Causeway. With more and more visitors coming each year, the Causeway Coast will never disappoint those in search of stunning landscapes, rumoured to be some of the best in Europe. Here you will find breathtaking rugged coastlines, rushing waterfalls, lush green forests and mystical ruins.

The Mourne Mountains are a walker's haven - trails here lead you through woodlands, past lakes and rivers and up to some beautiful peaks. To learn more about Nothern Ireland and what is in store for you when you visit, have a look at the tourist board's website. Back to Travel Guides