Tourism & Hospitality | Monday 27 June, 2016 4:54 pm |

With the island of Ireland bursting with exciting events throughout the summer, Tourism Ireland is creating a unique guide for discerning UAE residents to visit some of the most iconic and picturesque locations this summer. From a journey into the mythical landscapes to festivals spanning the arts, food, historical and cultural worlds, there is something for all families and visitors to do. 

 

Road trip heaven: the Causeway Coastal Route in Northern Ireland

A car, a map and a desire to find out where the road leads is all that’s needed for a journey into the mythical landscapes, the rich culture and the most authentic experiences of Northern Ireland.  Bringing something inviting and new at every turn of the wheel, the Causeway Coastal Route runs from Belfast to Derry~Londonderry, wonderful bookends to the world-renowned attractions like the Giants Causeway, the Gobbins Cliff Path and Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge that lie on the road between. Wild coastal roads bordered by majestic cliffs, mile upon mile of golden sand, surf and solitude, and the scenery of the nine Glens of Antrim, this is one of the most heavenly road trips anywhere. Along the route you will also recognise Game of Thrones film locations. Northern Ireland is called Game of Thrones Territory for good reason and is home to iconic locations like Castle Black, Winterfell and the Haunted Forest, to name three. In the past few years, fans have been coming to Northern Ireland in droves to explore these incredible locations and take part in the experiences available there.

Shop till you drop in Dublin

Dublin is oozing with an eclectic mix of shops and markets nestled in bustling back streets. Discover flea markets, designer collectives, and pop-ups selling everything from high fashion and accessories to art, books, ornaments, memorabilia, stamps and coins. The Georges Street Arcade is a Victorian market and a much loved landmark with a unique shopping atmosphere with over 50 shops and stalls. Root out special books at The Gutter Bookshop in Temple Bar, while Tamp & Stitch has a unique line in clothes and jewellery – and great coffee too. The brilliantly named Ferocious Mingle Market has cute chalets selling trinkets, books and clothes. For a flavour of the High Street hop on the LUAS and in minutes you are in Dundrum Town Centre, a shopper’s paradise

 

One of the best ways to get to grips with the Irish and their lifestyle is to embrace one of the festivals this summer, celebrating everything from history, art and the rich Irish culture to fantastic maritime heritage. 

Sea Sessions, Bundoran – 24th – 26th June 2016
Bringing together fans of outdoor sports, this Donegal festival combines the best live music with outdoor adventure. On the beach of Ireland’s surfing capital, Bundoran, festival goers can spend the day riding the waves before catching live sets from both Irish and international artists.

 

Galway International Arts Festival, Galway, 11th – 24th July 2016
Ireland’s largest annual arts festival takes place from 11th-24th July, showcasing an international programme of theatre, dance, music, literature, comedy and visual arts. A variety of new shows will be announced in this year’s programme, including Brit-pop legends Suede headlining at the Absolut Big Top on Saturday 23rd June, the critically acclaimed theatre production ‘Our Ladies of Perpetual Succour’ at the Town Hall Theatre from 19th – 24th July, and ‘A Simple Space’, a thrilling acrobatic show by Gravity & Other Myths at the Black Box Theatre from 19th – 24th July.

Hillsborough International Oyster Festival, Lisburn - 30th August – 4th September 2016
Recognised as one of Northern Ireland’s landmark events and named as one of the top 10 food festivals in the world to visit in 2016, the Hillsborough Oyster Festival returns for its 24th year, and is a key event in the Northern Ireland calendar. This year marks the Northern Ireland Year of Food and Drink. Located in the beautiful Georgian village of Hillsborough. Highlights of the festival include World Oysters Masters Golf Day, the Pearl and Oyster Ball, Super Car Sunday and the Soapbox Derby.