Unforgettable trips around the UK and Ireland
June 4, 2008
Our last column took you to wonderful cities and beaches from Spain's sultry capital, Madrid, to the Turkish port town of Bodrum. This week we decided to stay closer to home and introduce you to some great cities, towns and islands in the UK and Ireland that are truly spectacular.
We begin our trip on the sandy beaches of the British Isles in Cornwall in the extreme southwestern part of England and then to the hip capital of Wales, Cardiff. Our next stop is the fascinating Isle of Skye off the coast of Scotland. And the last trip on our circuit ends in Ireland where we visit Galway, the arty city on the west coast.
Cornwall. Its sandy beaches have been attracting visitors, especially surfers, for decades. But in recent years it’s enjoyed a revival with an influx of boutique hotels, hip bars and trendy restaurants opening up. Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy hiking its rugged cliffs while gourmands relish the fresh seafood served at its beachfront restaurants.
Insider tip: Take a trip to the Isles of Scilly, home to the Abbey Gardens. And don’t miss a trip back in time to Tintagel Castle where the legend of King Arthur was born.
Getting there: Fly direct to Cornwall with British Airways or Air Southwest.
From the remote Cornish coast we head to Cardiff in South Wales. Once an old industrial city, Cardiff has evolved into one of the most modern cities in Britain. Spend a couple of days exploring its castles and museums then head to the breathtaking parks and gardens in Swansea, the home of the famous Welsh poet Dylan Thomas.
Insider tip: Visit the medieval city of St David’s, the birthplace of the patron saint of Wales and also the smallest city in the UK.
Getting there: Fly direct to Cardiff on Flybe and bmibaby or take a connecting flight on KLM or Lufthansa.
Next we head to the broody, dramatic black rocks of the Isle of Skye as depicted in the famous artwork of JMW Turner. If you love cycling, boating, hiking or any other outdoor activities then you won’t be disappointed. Its misty coastline is comparable to the Norwegian fjords, and Cuillin Hills attracts rock climbers from all over the world to its challenging mountains.
Insider tip: Hop on a cruise boat tour to the famous Eilean Donan Castle in Loch Duich which was built in 1214 as a defense against the Vikings.
Getting there: The easiest way to get there is to take a flight to Inverness with Flybe and easyJet. From there it’s a two hour drive to the Skye bridge.
From Scotland down to Ireland, our next stop is the city Galway on the west coast. Founded by fisherman in the 13th century, Galway is one of its artiest cities with artists and performers wandering through its cobblestone streets. Each year it plays host to festivals including the October Jazz Festival, the Easter Festival of Literature and the Galway Arts Festival.
Insider tip: Visit the magnificent Aran Islands and experience traditional Gaelic culture: the locals still live in stone cottages, ride pony-drawn wagons and speak Gaelic.
Getting there: Aer Arann has regular flights from Luton to Galway Airport.
In our next column, join us as we unravel the best family holidays around the world...
© Cheapflights Ltd Seema Salaam
