Munster Vallis, the region that includes the Comeragh, Knockmealdown, Galtee, Ballyhoura and Nagles mountain ranges in southern Ireland, is steeped in history. So much so that visiting Munster Vales is the perfect time to see and learn about the island’s history and see some of the amazing historical sites, estates, and castles around the area. We’ve put together this guide to show you some great places to visit to learn about the history and heritage of the area. Whether you are interested in learning more about the Earls, Dukes and Viscounts who once lived in these amazing residences or discovering some of the many legends associated with the area, it is best to start your journey rather than visit these wonderful sites. Cahir Castle, Tipperary Dating back to the 13th century, Cahir Castle is known to be one of the largest and best preserved castles in Ireland. The castle was built for the Butler family overlooking the River Sauer. The castle became very popular due to its use as a location for TV shows and movies, such as Excalibur and The Tudors. Visitors can learn all about the castle’s rich history through the wonderful audiovisual presentation which makes it a great place to visit whether you are a solo traveler or for family visits. Lismore Castle and Gardens, Waterford Lismore Castle Gardens are seven acres and offer great views of the surrounding countryside and Lismore Castle itself. The Lower Garden was actually established in the 19th century for the 6th Duke of Devonshire, patron of Sir Joseph Paxton. The Walled Garden was established in 1605 by Richard Boyle, 1st Earl of Cork. The walls and terraces remained mostly the same as they were at the time, although the types of vegetation changed. Today the garden includes a mixture of flowers, fruits, vegetables, and herbs. Lismore Castle is still a private residence which means there is no public access, but your park ticket will give you access to Lismore Castle Art – a contemporary art gallery. While you’re there, be sure to visit the wonderful Lismore Heritage Centre. The Heritage Center has a great VR experience of Lismore Castle, narrated by famous scientist Robert Boyle, that gives you a virtual tour of the castle so that you can see inside the rooms and halls while learning all about the history of the castle. You can also see if you can solve the puzzles to try to get out of Robert Boyle’s room to escape in an hour. You will definitely not forget your visit to Lismore Castle! Curraghmore House, Waterford Also located in Waterford is the historic Curraghmore House – formerly home to the 9th Marquis of Waterford. Spread over 2,500 acres of formal gardens, woodlands and fields making it the largest private space in Ireland. Twelve miles of famine relief boundary walls and wrought iron gates surround this stunning property. The house is open seasonally to the public and you can also book a year-round group tour. Visitors can see the main reception rooms, which are considered one of the finest neoclassical rooms in Ireland. Although you’d think it would be hard to miss, look out for Sitka Sprue, which was planted in the 1830s and is one of the tallest trees in Ireland. The tree is located next to King John’s Bridge – which was built in 1205 and happens to be the oldest bridge in Ireland! The Black Castle at Lough Gur in Limerick If its history is mixed with the legend you are interested in, then you need to visit Lough Gur in Limerick. Legend has it that Jeroyd Erla, 3rd Earl of Desmond (who was banished by the goddess Ayn to the bottom of the lake) floats again every seven years and tries to break the curse imposed on him! Known as the Black Castle, associated with the Earl of Desmond and dating from the 16th century, Norman Castle is located on the far side of the lake. Visitors to Lough Gur can learn all about its history at the Lough Gur Visitor Centre. An interactive multimedia exhibit displays the life of 6000 years of the site’s history. Interestingly, it is the only place in Ireland where you can see guides of every age since the Neolithic period. Important note: If you are reading this article anywhere other than a luxury travel blog, it is possible that this content was stolen without permission. Please note the web address above and contact A Luxury Travel Blog to report this issue to them. Thank you for your help in combating content theft. Doneraile Court, Cork In one of Ireland’s most beautiful estates, Doneraile Court dates back to the 1720s, when it was first built on Viscount Doneraile Arthur St. Leger. Interestingly, one of the most famous works of literature in the English language, Edmund Spencer’s The Faerie Queene, was written while Spenser was living in Kilcoman, and the “Gentle Mulla” river he wrote about in the poem flows through the Doneraile Estate (now Doneraile Estate) . Awbeg River). Doneraile Court is currently undergoing restoration work but is due to reopen in 2023, but for now you can still wander the gardens and eat in the tea rooms that open daily. There are over 400 acres of parkland consisting of trails, trails, and fish ponds that you can see on your visit. Also watch out for deer, squirrels, otters and herons that live on the land. We hope this guide will help you when planning your visit to Munster Vales and we look forward to seeing you soon! Triona O’Mahony is Director of Destination and Marketing at Munster Vales. Munster Vales’ main objective is to promote the geographical area as a unique brand, connecting the counties of Waterford, Tipperary, Cork, Limerick and everything in between. If you would like to be a guest blogger on luxury travel blog to raise your profile, please contact us.
