Wander through Ireland's most beautiful castles

Surrounded by wild landscapes and old stone buildings, Ireland castles are sure to charm you. Home to some 3,000 buildings in ruins, with some still retaining their original grandeur, your local agent can help you plan a visit to the country’s best castles.

Built at the turn of the 12th century, Kilkenny Castle in the southeastern part of the island is one of Ireland’s most impressive. Your guide will let you in on some fun facts, like how it was sold to the city for the modest sum of 50 Irish pounds. For breathtaking surroundings, head to Kylemore Abbey, an old castle now home to the Benedictine sisters. Situated on the shore of a lake in Connemara, and sheltered by the mountains, the scenery is sometimes enhanced by a mantle of snow or by the fall season’s bright hues.

After exploring Blarney Castle and its gardens, an unforgettable experience awaits you at the top of the medieval tower in County Cork. Your guide will show you how to lie on your back and place your head into the gap to kiss the stone that is said to bestow the gift of gab, which you too can hope to receive.