Best place to holiday in Ireland: judges choose the final five

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Inishbofin: “A beautiful island off the northwest coast of Co Galway with several wide sandy beaches and rich archaeology. Inishbofin has that rare mix of peace and tranquillity, a fragile environment, and a busy social and artistic scene for those who seek it out. Within minutes of disembarking from a busy ferry, people of all ages and nationalities melt into the landscape. Inishbofin’s economy relies very heavily on visitors, but there is a natural warmth.” Read the original nomination at http://iti.ms/YYAyYT

“Loop Head is still a bit of a secret. Its people are committed to a sustainable, quality form of tourism, and you feel that. Carrigaholt is the perfect hub, and all in all there is a fine mix at Loop Head. Old-fashioned bucket-and-spade fun at Kilkee, cliff walks, dolphin watching, coastal cycling, cultural heritage at the lighthouse, a genuine welcome from a tightly knit community, watersports for all, and an area which avoided the traps of the Celtic Tiger and stayed true to itself.” Read the original nomination at http://iti.ms/YYBmgl

“From the moment we arrived in the town, it was clear why it was shortlisted. The locals are very convincing on the positives associated with Killarney: a perfect mix of scenery such as lakes and mountains, and a great variety of activities for both tourists and locals: GAA matches in Fitzgerald Stadium, concerts in the INEC, climbing Carrauntoohil or canoeing in the Lakes of Killarney. “It suits all ages and offers a range of choices regardless of the weather.” Read the original nomination at http://iti.ms/181czz5

“Hugely impressed with the Glen of Aherlow. The scenery is breathtaking, and photos don’t do the landscape justice. It must be seen. The area has clearly positioned itself as a destination for walking holidays, and the locals are all working together on this initiative, from the local restaurants to the accommodation providers, right down to the shop worker who gave a lost outsider a tourist map of the area. There is a range of accommodation, from camping to self-catering to B&Bs. The restaurants offer a high standard of food at reasonable prices.” Read the original nomination at http://iti.ms/181fc3P

Mon May 20 2013 - 01:00

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