Despite the fact that Ireland is the third biggest island in the European continent, many people seem to think of it as number one in terms of opportunity, authenticity, and culture. With springtime expected to emerge before long, experts are saying it's the perfect time to make plans to check out all that Ireland has to offer. With that in mind, here's what travelers should know before visiting the Emerald Isle during the spring.
The Spring Season
Fortunately, Ireland offers countless attractions year round, but between March and May is when experts say the spring season makes its mark and provides exquisite scenery. Of course, if you want to head there a bit early, we won't tell -- February is said to feature an abundance of beautiful and bright yellow daffodils in bloom. Long winter nights spent by the fire will quickly turn into casual and warm spring nights. Before long, you may even need to break out your sunscreen during a day of tourism -- The American Academy of Dermatology recommends using a sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum protection, water resistance, and an SPF of 30 or higher. If you're waiting until later this summer to reserve your trip, you'll want to bring a durable pair of sunglasses as well. General purpose cosmetic lenses must block 70% of UVB, but any shades that help you to take in the beautiful and breathtaking scenery will work like a charm.
St. Patrick's Day
March is often considered to be the best time of year to visit the Emerald Isle because it provides the most traditional experience into Ireland's authentic St. Patrick's Day celebrations. From parades to live music, dancing, and more, St. Patrick's Day is essentially an excuse for everyone -- visitors and residents alike -- to get a little bit crazy.
"St Patrick's Day is undeniably the highlight of Ireland's social calendar, bring the whole island to life in an explosion of parades, music and green, green, green at every turn! While Dublin's celebrations are perhaps the most famous, countless festivals are held across every county, bringing color, light and life to this patron saint's ancient legacy," says Ireland.com.
Other Springtime Attractions
If you're planning your visit for later in spring or summer, you'll be just in time to gaze at the peak landscaping performed by growers and those with green thumbs throughout the country. Public parks are often the best way to explore all of the scenic greenery in the Isle. If you're having trouble deciding which of the countless parks and public areas to visit to best enjoy the natural elements, consider taking a trip to Belfast Botanical Gardens or the ground of Blarney Castle in County Cork. True explorers will also enjoy a trip to Dublin's Phoenix Park, where deer frolic in the sun each day.
Still yearning for more nature? Schedule some time during your trip to visit The Burren, which is described as a unique limestone region landscape that measures several hundred square kilometers. Here, you can take in the sights and smells of the Burren, the most famous of the wildflowers in County Clare, which is famed for the Spring Gentian.
So, there you have it -- springtime in the Emerald Isle. Ready to book your trip and jump on one of the 9,728 planes in the air at any given moment, according to an estimation from Aviation data company FlightAware? Have fun, take lots of photographs, and make plenty of priceless memories!
