Discover 5,000 years of history in Ireland's Ancient East. This guide takes you through iconic sites like Newgrange, the Hill of Tara, and Drombeg Stone Circle. Here's what you'll learn:
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3-Day Itinerary: A step-by-step route covering must-see prehistoric landmarks.
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Key Sites: Explore Newgrange, Loughcrew Cairns, Carrowmore, and more.
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Travel Tips: Best times to visit, packing essentials, and driving advice.
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Preservation Rules: How to respect and protect these ancient monuments.
Ready to plan your trip? Start by renting a car, packing weatherproof gear, and downloading offline maps. Dive into Ireland’s rich prehistoric past with this guide.
Trip Planning Basics
When to Go
From May to September, you'll get up to 16 hours of daylight, mild temperatures (60–70°F), and better rural road conditions. For fewer crowds, consider traveling in May or September.
Transportation Options
For this prehistoric road trip, having a rental car is a must:
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You can rent cars at Dublin Airport from major providers.
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Opt for a smaller vehicle to handle Ireland's narrow country roads.
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Most rentals come with GPS, but it's smart to download offline maps too.
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Keep in mind, driving in Ireland is on the left side of the road.
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Prehistoric sites usually have parking, but it can fill up during busy seasons.
Required Equipment
Bring these essentials to make the most of your visits:
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Weather Gear
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Waterproof jacket and pants
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Sturdy, water-resistant hiking boots
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Layered clothing for temperatures ranging from 45°F to 70°F (7–21°C)
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Site Visit Tools
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A flashlight for exploring darker interiors
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Binoculars for taking in the stunning landscapes
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A camera with a wide-angle lens
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A small backpack for day trips
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Navigation Tools
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A physical map of Ireland's Ancient East
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Portable phone charger
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Printed site guides, as some areas may have limited cell service
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Now that you're prepared, it's time to dive into the prehistoric landmarks along your route.
Must-See Prehistoric Sites
Newgrange and Brú na Bóinne
Brú na Bóinne in the Boyne Valley is home to Ireland's renowned Neolithic landmarks. Built around 3200 BC, Newgrange is older than both Stonehenge and the Egyptian pyramids. The massive mound spans about 279 feet in diameter and rises approximately 43 feet tall. Every year, on December 21, sunlight streams into its inner chamber through a carefully aligned opening.
Highlights include:
- Carved kerbstones, especially the striking entrance stone with its triple spiral design.
After exploring Newgrange, head to the Hill of Tara to uncover more of Ireland's ancient heritage.
Hill of Tara
The Hill of Tara served as the seat of Ireland's High Kings. This historic site features a mix of earthworks and ceremonial landmarks set against a backdrop of sweeping countryside views. Key attractions include:
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The Mound of the Hostages, a passage tomb with ancient significance
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The Stone of Destiny (Lia Fáil), a legendary coronation stone
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The Royal Enclosure, an Iron Age hillfort with impressive earthworks
Next, venture to Loughcrew Cairns for more Neolithic wonders.
Loughcrew Cairns
Loughcrew Cairns is a collection of passage tombs scattered across several hilltops. Known for their detailed Neolithic carvings, these tombs are best explored with a flashlight to fully appreciate the artwork. Plan to spend about two hours wandering the site.
Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery
In County Sligo, Carrowmore boasts one of Ireland's largest gatherings of megalithic tombs, with over 60 monuments from the Neolithic era. The site features a mix of tomb styles, including passage tombs, boulder circles, and dolmens. A visitor center provides context and background on the site's archaeological importance.
Drombeg Stone Circle
Drombeg Stone Circle, also called the Druid's Altar, is a remarkably preserved Bronze Age site in County Cork. The circle consists of 17 standing stones arranged in a near-perfect circle, measuring about 31 feet in diameter. Located a short walk from the parking area, the site offers a glimpse into Ireland's ancient past. Be cautious of slippery paths if visiting after rain.
Ancient Ireland Explored
3-Day Route Plan
Take a 3-day trip through Ireland's Ancient East, packed with prehistoric landmarks and scenic drives. Each day offers a chance to dive deeper into Ireland's ancient past, with carefully planned stops along the way.
Day 1: Dublin to Brú na Bóinne
Kick things off in Dublin and head to Brú na Bóinne, known for its prehistoric monuments. Join a guided tour of Newgrange and explore the passage tombs at Knowth. Wrap up the day by staying overnight in the area.
Day 2: Hill of Tara and Loughcrew
Start your day at the Hill of Tara, an ancient royal site steeped in history. Afterward, visit Loughcrew, where a guided tour will take you through this historic treasure. Be ready for some light hiking - parts of Loughcrew include moderate inclines. Spend the night in a nearby town.
Day 3: Carrowmore and Drombeg
On the final day, visit Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery to discover another prehistoric gem. Then, head to Drombeg Stone Circle to admire its ancient design. As you return to Dublin, take time to enjoy the scenic views along the way.
This route balances exploration and history, giving you the freedom to experience Ireland's ancient sites at a comfortable pace.
Site Visit Guidelines
When visiting prehistoric sites, it's important to follow rules that help protect these ancient landmarks.
Site Protection Rules
Help preserve Ireland's ancient monuments by respecting posted guidelines. Avoid actions that could harm these fragile structures. Here's how you can help:
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Don’t touch or climb on the monuments to prevent wear or damage.
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Stick to designated paths and viewing areas to minimize impact on the surroundings.
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Take all trash with you, including food wrappers and bottles.
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Follow visitor capacity limits to avoid overcrowding.
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Honor weather-related closures for safety and preservation.
These practices help safeguard Ireland's heritage for future generations.
Photo Rules
Before taking photos, check the specific rules for each site. Some may have restrictions to protect the area.
Tour Options
Guided tours can enhance your experience, offering deeper historical context and ensuring respectful visits. Many sites offer both group and private tours. Be sure to check availability and booking details ahead of time, as schedules often depend on the season and weather.
Conclusion
Main Points Review
Ireland's Ancient East offers a journey through 5,000 years of history, featuring landmarks like Newgrange, the Hill of Tara, Loughcrew Cairns, Carrowmore, and Drombeg Stone Circle. Following site guidelines and opting for guided tours can enhance your visit while helping preserve these historical sites.
To make the most of your trip, plan ahead by checking seasonal hours, weather conditions, and tour availability. Proper preparation ensures a smoother experience across your 3-day itinerary.
Plan Your Trip with Irish Getaways
Start organizing your prehistoric adventure with the tools and resources available at Irish Getaways. Our detailed county guides for Dublin, Meath, and Cork highlight the regions where these ancient landmarks are located. Plus, we offer expertly crafted routes that not only connect these historical sites but also showcase Ireland's stunning scenery.
Here’s what you’ll find on our platform:
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Seasonal visiting hours and updates
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Detailed driving directions and parking tips
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Photography do’s and don’ts
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Recommendations for local accommodations
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Packing checklists for site visits
These resources are designed to make your trip planning seamless and enjoyable. Visit Irish Getaways for the latest guides and information to kickstart your journey through Ireland's ancient wonders.
