As an international student interning in Ireland, you have the opportunity to explore the country's stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage on your weekends off. Whether you prefer to stay close to your internship site in Cork or venture further afield, there are plenty of day trips and weekend getaways to choose from. Here are some of the top destinations to visit during your Erasmus internship in Ireland.
Exploring Ireland's Cliffs of Moher: A Must-See Destination for Interns
As an international intern in Ireland, you'll have the opportunity to explore some of the most breathtaking natural landscapes in the world. One of the must-see destinations in Ireland is the Cliffs of Moher, which are found on the western coast of the country. In this blog post, we'll explore the history and natural beauty of the Cliffs of Moher, as well as some tips for visiting this stunning destination.
The Cliffs of Moher are a series of cliffs, stretching eight kilometres along the rocky Atlantic coast of County Clare. They rise to a height of 214 metres above sea level, making them one of the highest sea cliffs in Europe. The Cliffs of Moher are part of the Burren and Cliffs of Moher UNESCO Global Geopark, which is a unique geological area that covers 530 square kilometres.
The Cliffs of Moher have a rich history and cultural significance. They have been a popular destination for visitors to Ireland for centuries, and have been mentioned in Irish folklore, literature, and music. The cliffs were featured in the 1987 film "The Princess Bride" and the music video for Maroon 5's hit song "Runaway."
One of the best ways to experience the Cliffs of Moher is to take a walk along the cliff edge. There are several paths and trails that wind their way along the cliffs, offering stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding countryside. The most popular route is the Cliffs of Moher Coastal Walk, which starts at the visitor centre and takes about two hours to complete. Along the way, you'll see the famous O'Brien's Tower, which was built in 1835 as a viewing point for visitors.
If you're interested in learning more about the history and geology of the Cliffs of Moher, you can visit the visitor centre, which is located at the base of the cliffs. The visitor centre has interactive exhibits, audiovisual displays, and a theatre that showcases a short film about the history of the cliffs. The centre also has a gift shop and café where you can relax and enjoy some refreshments after your walk along the cliffs.
If you're planning to visit the Cliffs of Moher, there are some tips that you should keep in mind. First, be sure to dress appropriately for the weather, as the cliffs can be quite windy and chilly even in the summer months. Second, wear comfortable shoes with good traction, as the paths can be steep and rocky in some areas. Third, be aware of the safety warnings and guidelines that are posted along the cliffs, as there have been several incidents of tourists falling from the cliffs in recent years.
Exploring the Wonders of Killarney National Park: A Must-Visit Destination for CTI Interns in Ireland
Are you an international student looking for an exciting adventure while interning in Ireland? Look no further than Killarney National Park, a stunning natural wonder found in the heart of County Kerry. With its diverse range of flora and fauna, breathtaking scenery, and rich history.
Killarney National Park offers something for everyone, whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, a history buff, or a nature lover.
At Career Training Internships, we believe that our interns should have the opportunity to explore all that Ireland has to offer, and that's why we highly recommend a visit to Killarney National Park during your stay. In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at what makes this national park such a special place and share some tips for getting the most out of your visit.
→ The Beauty of Killarney National Park
Killarney National Park is a place of incredible beauty, with its rolling hills, serene lakes, and dense forests. Covering over 100 square kilometres, the park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including red deer, otters, and eagles. One of the most iconic features of the park is the Three Lakes of Killarney, which consist of Lough Leane, Muckross Lake, and Upper Lake. These lakes offer some of the most stunning views in the park, and you can take a boat tour to explore them up close.
Another must-see attraction in the park is Muckross House, a magnificent 19th-century mansion that was once the home of the Herbert family. Today, the house is open to the public, and visitors can take a tour of the elegant rooms and learn about the history of the family and the house. The gardens surrounding Muckross House are also worth exploring, with their vibrant colours and intricate design.
For those who love hiking, Killarney National Park has plenty of trails to choose from, ranging from easy strolls to challenging hikes. One of the most popular trails is the Kerry Way, a 214-kilometre trek that takes you through some of the most scenic parts of the park. If you're short on time, you can also take a shorter hike to Torc Waterfall, which is a stunning cascade surrounded by lush greenery.
Discovering the Charm of West Cork: A Guide for International Students
Are you an international student looking to gain work experience and explore a new part of the world? Look no further than West Cork, a picturesque region in the southwest of Ireland that's sure to capture your heart. At Career Training Internships, we're passionate about providing our interns with unique experiences that they'll always remember, and we believe that West Cork is the perfect place to do just that. In this guide, we'll give you an overview of what to expect when you come to West Cork and highlight some of our favourite things to do and see in the area.
→ About West Cork
West Cork is a region that encompasses the western part of County Cork, the largest county in Ireland. It's a rugged and scenic area that's known for its coastline, beaches, and countryside. Some of the most popular towns in West Cork include Clonakilty, Skibbereen, Bantry, and Kinsale. These towns are charming and quaint, with colourful buildings, lively pubs, and friendly locals.
→ Why Choose West Cork?
There are many reasons why we believe West Cork is the perfect place for international students to gain work experience and immerse themselves in a new culture. Here are just a few of them:
Beautiful Scenery: West Cork is home to some of the most stunning landscapes in Ireland, with rolling hills, rugged cliffs, and picturesque beaches. It's the perfect place to go hiking, cycling, or surfing, and you'll be amazed by the natural beauty that surrounds you.
Vibrant Culture: West Cork is known for its vibrant arts and culture scene, with plenty of festivals and events throughout the year. From the West Cork Literary Festival to the Kinsale Arts Festival, there's always something happening in this part of Ireland.
Friendly Locals: The people of West Cork are some of the friendliest and most welcoming you'll meet anywhere in the world. They're always happy to chat and share their love for their homeland with visitors.
Now that you know why West Cork is such a great place to visit, let's take a closer look at some of the things you can do and see in the area:
→ Visit the Clonakilty Farmers' Market
Every Friday, the town of Clonakilty hosts a farmers' market that's a must-visit for foodies. Here, you'll find everything from freshly baked bread to artisanal cheeses to locally grown produce. It's a great place to sample some of the best food that West Cork has to offer and meet some of the local farmers and producers.
→ Explore the Wild Atlantic Way
The Wild Atlantic Way is a 2,500 km driving route that stretches along the west coast of Ireland. West Cork is home to some of the most scenic parts of this route, including the rugged coastline between Kinsale and Clonakilty. Make sure to stop off at some of the viewpoints along the way to take in the stunning views.
→ Take a Trip to Skibbereen Heritage Centre
If you're interested in learning more about the history and culture of West Cork, a visit to the Skibbereen Heritage Centre is a must. This museum is dedicated to the Great Famine of the 1840s, which had a profound impact on the region. You'll learn about the lives of the people who lived through this period and gain a deeper understanding of the history of Ireland and if possible, take a trip to the beautiful Lough Hyne for some breathtaking views and walks of different levels.
Dublin, capital of the Republic of Ireland
Dublin is the capital city of Ireland, known for its rich history, lively music and pub scene, and beautiful architecture. If you're planning a trip to Dublin, there are many exciting things to do and see. In this post, we'll highlight some of the top attractions and activities in Dublin.
→ Visit the Guinness Storehouse
The Guinness Storehouse is a must-visit for any beer lover. This seven-story museum tells the story of Guinness, from its founding in 1759 to the present day. You can learn about the brewing process, see historic advertisements and packaging, and even pour your own pint of Guinness in the Gravity Bar, which offers stunning views of the city.
→ Explore Trinity College and the Book of Kells
Trinity College Dublin, founded in 1592, is Ireland's oldest and most prestigious university. The campus is beautiful and historic, with many notable buildings and landmarks. One of the highlights of a visit to Trinity College is the Book of Kells, an illuminated manuscript of the four Gospels from the ninth century. The Book of Kells is housed in the Old Library, a stunning building that also houses many other rare and valuable books.
Source: https://www.tcd.ie/
→ Take a stroll through St. Stephen's Green
St. Stephen's Green is a beautiful park found in the heart of Dublin. The park has many paths and walkways, as well as a lake, fountains, and statues. It's a great place to relax and enjoy some green space in the city. There are also many events held in the park throughout the year, including concerts and festivals.
Source: https://www.stephensgreen.com/
→ Visit the Dublin Castle
The Dublin Castle is a historic castle located in the heart of Dublin. It was originally built in the thirteenth century and has served many different purposes throughout its history. Today, it's a popular tourist attraction and hosts many events and exhibitions. You can take a guided tour of the castle, which includes the State Apartments, the Chapel Royal, and the Medieval Undercroft; a traditional cellar or storage room.
Source: https://www.dublincastle.ie/
→ Enjoy a night out in Temple Bar
Temple Bar is a lively neighbourhood in the heart of Dublin, known for its pubs, restaurants, and nightlife. There are many different types of bars and pubs in Temple Bar, from traditional Irish pubs to trendy cocktail bars. It's a great place to experience Dublin's famous music scene, with many live music venues and street performers.
Source: https://www.templebar.ie/
→ Learn about Irish history at the Kilmainham Gaol
The Kilmainham Gaol is a former prison that played an important role in Irish history. It housed many political prisoners during the struggle for Irish independence, and many of them were executed there. Today, the prison is a museum and offers guided tours that provide a fascinating look at Irish history.
Source: https://kilmainhamgaolmuseum.ie/
→ Shop at the Grafton Street
Grafton Street is one of Dublin's main shopping streets, lined with stores, boutiques, and restaurants. It's a great place to shop for souvenirs and gifts, or just to enjoy some window shopping. There are also many street performers and musicians on Grafton Street
Ring of Kerry
The Ring of Kerry is one of Ireland's most popular tourist destinations, attracting millions of visitors every year. This 179-kilometre circular route takes you on a journey through stunning landscapes, picturesque towns, and breathtaking coastlines. In this blog post, we'll explore the beauty of the Ring of Kerry and what you can expect to see along the way.
→ What is the Ring of Kerry?
The Ring of Kerry is a scenic driving route that wanders around the Iveragh Peninsula in County Kerry. The route starts and ends in the town of Killarney and takes you through some of the most picturesque towns and villages in Ireland. Along the way, you'll see stunning coastal views, rugged mountain scenery, and tranquil lakes. The Ring of Kerry can be completed in one day, but it's recommended that you take your time to explore the many attractions along the way.
→ What are the attractions on the Ring of Kerry?
The Ring of Kerry has a wealth of attractions to offer visitors.
Muckross House - This 19th-century Victorian mansion is located in Killarney National Park and is one of Ireland's most popular historic houses. The house is surrounded by beautiful gardens and is open to the public for guided tours.
Torc Waterfall - Located in Killarney National Park, Torc Waterfall is a stunning sight to behold. The waterfall is easily accessible by foot and is a popular spot for hiking and picnicking.
Derrynane House - This historic house was once the home of Daniel O'Connell, a famous Irish politician. The house is now a museum and is open to the public for guided tours.
Skellig Michael - This small island off the coast of the Iveragh Peninsula is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to an ancient monastery. The island is accessible by boat and is a popular destination for visitors to the Ring of Kerry.
→ What is the best time to visit the Ring of Kerry?
The Ring of Kerry can be visited year-round, but the best time to visit is during the summer months (June-August). During this time, the weather is warm and sunny, and the landscapes are lush and green. The winter months (December-February) can be cold and wet, but the scenery can be just as beautiful.