Ireland 25 Trip with Bunratty Castle and St Patrick's Day in Limerick

Ons was bevoorreg om nog ’n paar wonderlike weke in Ierland deur te bring hierdie jaar. Namate ons al hoe meer vertroud raak met die streek, neem ons reise ons weg van die gewone toeristeroetes, waar ons verborge juwele ontdek, die plaaslike kultuur meer intens beleef en opreg die warm en hartlike gees van Ierse gasvryheid ervaar.

Hierdie keer was ons gelukkig genoeg om in Shannon te wees op Sint-Patricksdag, ’n kulturele en godsdienstige feesdag wat jaarliks op 17 Maart gevier word ter ere van Sint Patrick, die beskermheilige van Ierland. Om die vieringe self mee te maak, het ons ’n unieke kykie gebied in die tradisies en gemeenskapsgees van Ierland.

Ons het ook Bunratty Castle verken, ’n pragtig gerestoureerde 15de-eeuse toringhuis in County Clare. Die kasteel is beroemd vir sy egte Middeleeuse atmosfeer en die aangrensende Volkspark wat die plattelandse lewe van die 19de eeu uitbeeld. Binne die kasteel kan jy oorspronklike meubels, tapisserieë en wapens uit die 15de en 16de eeu bewonder, terwyl gidse in historiese kostuums die geskiedenis lewendig maak met begeleide toere. Om die ervaring volledig af te rond, kan besoekers selfs in die Groot Saal ’n Middeleeuse banket bywoon, aangevul met tradisionele kos, musiek en mede.

We were fortunate to spend a few more wonderful weeks in Ireland this year. As we've grown more familiar with the region, our travels have taken us off the beaten path, uncovering hidden gems, connecting more deeply with local culture, and genuinely experiencing the warm and welcoming spirit of Irish hospitality.

This time, we were lucky enough to be in Shannon on Saint Patrick's Day, a cultural and religious holiday held on 17 March to honour Ireland's foremost patron saint. Experiencing the celebrations firsthand gave us a unique glimpse into Ireland's traditions and community spirit.

We also explored Bunratty Castle, a beautifully restored 15th-century tower house in County Clare. Famous for its authentic medieval atmosphere and adjoining Folk Park, Bunratty offers a vivid look into both medieval and 19th-century rural life. Inside the castle, you'll find original 15th and 16th-century furnishings, tapestries, and weapons, while costumed interpreters bring history to life with guided tours. To complete the experience, visitors can even attend medieval banquets in the Great Hall, which are complete with traditional food, music, and mead.