Verborgene Juwelen Großbritanniens

Reiseverlauf

Reiseverlauf abhängig von Wetter- und Eislage. Beschriebene Naturerlebnisse/Tiersichtungen sind mögliche Ereignisse auf den Expeditionen und nicht garantiert.

• Tag 1

  Portsmouth
  Mo., 19. Mai
  Ankunft 07:00
  
  Portsmouth also known as Pompey, is home to three hugely important historic ships, HMS Victory, Nelson's famous flagship at the battle of Trafalgar, HMS Warrior the first ironclad warship and the Mary Rose, Henry VIII's warship that sank in the Solent just off of Southsea Castle. These are all housed at the Historic Dockyard, home of the Royal Navy and also home to the world’s first dry dock. The Historic Dockyard is one of the top ten visitor attractions in the UK. But Portsmouth is not just about history, the city is a cosmopolitan University city, with much to offer visitors and residents alike. Portsmouth has a Premier league football team, a superb seafront area, excellent shopping and a wide range of restaurants, pubs and bars. Portsmouth UK is home to the tallest publicly accessible structure in the UK, the Spinnaker Tower built right on the edge of Portsmouth Harbour at Gunwharf Quays. Portsmouth Harbour has been used in a number of films and television programmes such as Tomorrow Never Dies (James Bond), Oscar and Lucinda, Making Waves, Silent Witness, Mr Bean and Eastenders. The local area was used extensively in the filming of Tommy, The Who's rock opera.

• Tag 2

  Sark Island, Channel Island
  Di., 20. Mai
  Ankunft 06:30
  
  The crowning glory of the Channel Islands, Sark Island is an unbeatable place to escape modern life's busyness and slip into serenity. Nestled between Guernsey and Jersey, the island is just 24 miles from France’s Normandy coast. The rhythm of life is dictated by foot, bicycle, or the gentle rumble of a traditional horse-drawn carriage. The crisp, beautiful sea is visible practically everywhere on the island. Explore sweeping trails across the emerald cliffs, finding hidden beaches, coves, and sea caves. Cars are forbidden on the island, which plunges into deep, undisturbed darkness at night, allowing the glorious strands of the Milky Way to shine brightly overhead. Sark Island has been designated as Europe’s first International Dark Sky Community. Soak up the silence and stillness of this serene land in a blissful time warp of tranquillity. It hasn’t always been smooth sailing; and Sark’s history reads like a fascinating tome. Regarded as one of the smallest semi-autonomous territories in the world, until recently, it was described as Europe's last feudal stronghold. Settled and occupied by many over the years, this two-square-mile island has seen it all. Nowadays, it is a semi-autonomous dependency of Guernsey. This colourful history has endowed Sark with a glorious independence and an idiosyncratic, quaint charm. With just 600 residents and a few content cows for company - Sark Island is a truly unique and rejuvenating place.

• Tag 3

  Tresco, Isles of Scilly
  Mi., 21. Mai
  Ankunft 07:00
  
  For many visitors Tresco is the most attractive of the Isles of Scilly. This is especially due to its Abbey Garden which is home to thousands of exotic plant species from around 80 different countries. Plant collector Augustus Smith began the gardens in the 1830s on the site of an old Benedictine Abbey by channelling the weather up and over a network of walled enclosures built around the Priory ruins. He had three terraces carved from the rocky south slope and maximised Tresco’s mild Gulf Stream climate. Even in mid-winter there still are hundreds of plants flowering here. Another surprising attraction at the Abbey Garden is the collection of figureheads from ships that wrecked among the Isles of Scilly.

• Tag 3

  St Mary's (Isles of Scilly)
  Mi., 21. Mai
  Ankunft 13:00
  
  Scattered 30 miles offshore from England’s most south-westerly point – Land’s End – the Isles of Scilly are home to rich wildlife and green land sloping to powdery white beaches. The Isles of Scilly’s biggest island harbours around 1 600 people – roughly three-quarters of the total population - and is one of five occupied islands. Isolated and serene life here hums along at its own pace in this archipelago's bubble which enjoys the UK’s mildest climate and some of its most spectacular beaches. Hugh Town is the centre of St Mary’s and you’ll be warmly welcomed by the incredibly tight-knit local community. A peaceful place watch out when the waters are suddenly parted by the competition of gig racing – the island’s sporting pride and joy - which sees teams competing in colourful rowboats. Elsewhere catch sight of Atlantic seals and seabirds like puffins and fulmars along nine miles of coastline. You can also spot the ghostly shipwrecks strewn around the island’s waters and the 140 islands and skerries that have made treacherous sailing historically. There's a dense collection of historical sites that belies the islands’ small size – from a former prime minster’s grave to star-shaped fortresses. Tresco Abbey Garden is one of the UK’s most vibrant gardens with diverse plants bathing in the warmer climate and over 300 species on display. Taste the rewards of the mild weather with a glass of wine from England’s most south-westerly vineyard.

• Tag 4

  Kinsale
  Do., 22. Mai
  Ankunft 07:00
  
  Vivid Kinsale offers a bright and breezy introduction to Ireland's south coast, with colour-splashed buildings, and fascinating maritime history to unravel. The town swells in size during the summer months, when visitors from across Ireland head here to cast rods into the water, swing golf clubs, and sail the gentle waves of the postcard-perfect harbour. The twin fortresses, which watch out over the harbour’s entrance, hint at the town’s significant military past, and few clashes have been more important to Irish history than the Battle of Kinsale - which saw an Irish and Spanish assault on the English, back in 1601. The Irish were ultimately defeated, scuppering their bid for independence. If you look out over the waves, you can also see the location where a German U Boat sunk the RMS Lusitania –briefly the largest passenger ship ever built - during World War I. The attack led to the deaths of more than 1,100.

• Tag 5

  Dingle
  Fr., 23. Mai
  Ankunft 07:00
  
  A hearty welcome, a bright and bold harbour, and the promise of windswept walks amid Ireland's emerald scenery await in beautiful Dingle. Sheltered within Dingle Bay, this cheerful town's buildings are splashed with colourful hues. Walk streets dotted with inviting pubs and eateries, from which fulsome laughter, Gaelic vowels, and clapping singalongs sound. No visit is complete without calling at the South Pole Inn. Legendary explorer, Tom Crean - a daring hero of Shackleton’s Endeavour shipwreck – ran the pub in his later years. It’s a million miles from the pack ice and uncharted seas he explored, but the Dingle Peninsula is no less beautiful. Sandy beaches unfurl, and the ravishing Slea Head Drive offers an exceptional winding tour. Undulating trails take you on breathtaking hikes through wild emerald landscapes - expect precipitous cliffs, peaceful shores, and verdant mountains. Leaving Dingle harbour, the uninhabited Blasket Islands are within reach at this western extremity of the European continent. The islands are a refuge for Irish red deer and bright-billed puffins, while basking sharks, minke whales and seals swim the waters. The wildlife doesn't get friendlier than Dingle's most famous resident - Fungie the bottlenose dolphin. Fungie greets boats with a playful leap and has become a local celebrity for welcoming ships back home. A statue now honours this most devoted dolphin of Dingle.

• Tag 6

  Inisheer, Aran Islands
  Sa., 24. Mai
  Ankunft 06:30
  
  The smallest of the Aran Islands, Inisheer, is a quaint and idyllic low-lying island steeped in rich Irish culture. It's a gorgeous place of rustic stone walls, green fields stretching out beneath racing skies, and expansive Atlantic views. The authentic Aran Island way of life is well preserved here, and you can eavesdrop on cheerful conversations in the Gaelic language, admire local weaving, or tap your foot to lively music performances in local drinking holes while sharing a friendly pint of the black stuff. Hike or cycle through this preserved vision of old, sepia-toned Ireland. There are plenty of stories and tall tales to discover - scour the small island for its black and white lighthouse, Bronze Age history, crumbling castle ruins, and buried churches. Or simply soak in the peace and tranquillity during quiet island rambles. You're sure to come across the rusty red hull of the Plassey ship. Over six decades have now passed since the ill-fated cargo vessel ran aground here. Fortunately, thanks to the bravery of the locals, all sailors were saved. The aged shipwreck now lies dramatically perched ashore above the waters.

• Tag 6

  Kilronan, Aaran Islands
  Sa., 24. Mai
  Ankunft 13:00
  
  If you have ever wanted to imbibe in the Celtic legends of your past, then Kilronan is the answer to your prayers. Situated on the isle of Inishmore in the Aran Islands in County Galway, Cill Rónáin – the official Gaelic spelling – is all about history, spirituality and the kind of rejuvenation that can only be found on Irish soil.The first thing you should know about the Aran Isles is that they are exceptionally beautiful. National Geographic called them “one of the world’s top island destinations” and they are universally recognised as being the “islands of saints and scholars”. Windswept moors and craggy cliffs akin to a Victorian novel flank rolling seas that are Dantesque in their raw power. This is where nature comes home to roost (not to mention the 60,000 seabirds that call the islands their home). Inishmore (Inis Mor) is the biggest island of the archipelago, and as such has the most interesting Celtic history.Over 50 Celtic, Christian and pre-Christian sites are on Inishmore alone (with others on the other two islands that make up the rest of the archipelago). The most important of these site is perhaps the prehistoric fort of Dún Aonghasa, “the most magnificent barbaric monument extant in Europe”. Perched precariously on a 100-metre-high cliff, the fort dates back 3,000 years and is one of Ireland’s most ancient and sacred sites. Little is known of the history of Dún Aonghasa, not who Dún Aonghasa may have been, but a placing so close to the sea edge suggests ritualistic significance. 

• Tag 6

  Cliffs of Moher
  Sa., 24. Mai
  Ankunft 20:00
  
  "They go to the cliffs of Moher rising out of the mist" … these words, written by great American poet Wallace Stevens, immortalised the cliffs of Moher in the best way imaginable. Romantic, wild, mysterious and beautiful, the cliffs of Moher are to Ireland what poetry is to prose.Located at the south western edge of: County Clare, the 300-million-year-old cliffs stretch for 14 km. They are by far the country’s most visited landmark, welcoming an astonishing 1.5 million visitors annually. The vistas are exceptional, and understandably the pride of Ireland. On a good day you can see for miles: all the way to the Aran Islands, Galway Bay, the caves, O’Brien’s tower and of course the many miles of cliffs themselves. Birdwatchers will be doubly blessed, as Moher is designated as a UNESCO Geo Park and enjoys a Special Protection status. Get your binoculars at the ready as the cliffs are filled with thousands of Guillemots, Razorbills, Fulmars and Kittiwakes, as well as the largest mainland colony of Puffins.The beautiful cliffs are rich with history and legend. Two theories surround why Irish Politician Sir Cornelius O'Brien commissioned his eponymous tower in 1835. The most common belief is that so he (and others) could benefit from the stunning views the cliffs have to offer. The more salacious believe that the tower was a place away from prying eyes for O'Brien to bring his lady friends! Whatever the reason, today the viewing platform on the roof still offers one of the best coastal views there is.

• Tag 7

  Tory Island
  So., 25. Mai
  Ankunft 12:30
  
  Just three miles long, this remote island greets all visitors with unusual aplomb. A testament to the island's distinctive culture, none other than the island's king - who still holds an official designation - will welcome you ashore. Gaelic culture thrives on Tory Island, protected and celebrated through traditions of dance, music, and stories, which are often regaled over a drink or two. The lyrical folk tales dance expertly between fact and fiction; for example, you can explore the legend of Balor of the Evil Eye at the ancient Dun Bhaloir fort - said to have been the stronghold of a giant folklore warrior. It's easy to imagine colossal forces shaping this land as you gaze at the spectacular sea cliffs, where faces and figures seem to emerge from intricate crags and fissures. These time-sculpted cliffs provide a perfect sanctuary for rare bird colonies. Watch adorable puffins hop across the cliffs and flap furiously as they launch into the air. Artistic souls find solace in the wild and secluded scenery of Ireland's northernmost inhabited island, a muse to many fine painters. The sense of independence and resilience is palpable and perhaps a legacy of Tory Island's turbulent history - take the 6th-century monastery that stood as the island's centre until it was destroyed in 1595 by English raiders. A historic black and white lighthouse also watches out over the potentially treacherous outcrops, giving an intriguing nod to a history of smugglers and pirates.

• Tag 8

  St. Kilda
  Mo., 26. Mai
  Ankunft 07:00
  
  Gloriously remote, St. Kilda is an archipelago 50 miles off the Isle of Harris. Although the four islands are uninhabited by humans, thousands of seas birds call these craggy cliffs home, clinging to the sheer faces as if by magic. Not only is St. Kilda home to the UK’s largest colony of Atlantic Puffin (almost 1 million), but also the world largest colony Gannets nests on Boreray island and its sea stacks. The islands also home decedents of the world’s original Soay sheep as well as having a breed of eponymously named mice. The extremely rare St. Kilda wren unsurprisingly hails from St. Kilda, so birders should visit with notebook, binoculars and camera to hand.While endemic animal species is rife on the island, St. Kilda has not been peopled since 1930 after the last inhabitants voted that human life was unsustainable. However, permanent habitation had been possible in the Medieval Ages, and a vast National Trust for Scotland project to restore the dwellings is currently being undertaken. The islands even enjoyed a status as being an ideal holiday destination in the 19th century. Today, the only humans living on the islands are passionate history, science and conservation scholars. One of the caretakers even acts as shopkeeper and postmaster for any visitors who might like to send a postcard home from St. Kilda.It should be noted that St. Kilda is the UKs only (and just one of 39 in the world) dual World Heritage status from UNESCO in recognition of its Natural Heritage and cultural significance.

• Tag 8

  Boreray Island cruising
  Mo., 26. Mai
  Ankunft 14:00
  
  As an isolated island of the remote St Kilda Group, Boreray island is one of the most far flung and weather impacted islands of the North East Atlantic. Imagine trying to live here during stormy weather. Landing requires jumping or swimming ashore; and yet the island has been lived on or visited from Neolithic times. Collecting seabirds and their eggs, and storing them for winter, may have been even more important than raising sheep. Boreray Sheep are the rarest breed of sheep in Britain. They evolved from short-tailed sheep brought from the Scottish mainland but have been isolated long enough to have evolved into a distinctive small and horned breed. Only found on Boreray Island, they remained as a wild flock when the last people left the St Kilda Islands in 1930. The Souy are a separate and different breed of sheep found on the other St Kilda Islands. Look out for the Boreray Sheep grazing on the slopes of hilly Boreray Island. Seabirds thrive on Boreray and its two attendant rocks stacks, raising new chicks each summer. Northern Gannets glide overhead as they attempt difficult landings at nest sites. Seeing gannets plunge from a great height into the sea is an exciting way to understand the effort required to feed themselves and chicks. Northern Fulmers nest on the volcanic rock cliffs and Atlantic Puffins fly in and out of burrow-strewn slopes. Boreray is part of the St Kilda World Heritage Site, a rare example of a site recognised for both its outstanding natural and cultural values.

• Tag 9

  Shiant Islands, Scotland
  Di., 27. Mai
  Ankunft 06:30
  
  Cliffs of tall hexagonal columns create a sensational landscape at the Shiant Islands, especially when viewed from the sea. The cliffs of six-sided rock columns look like the cross-section of an enormous honeycomb. The rock formations were formed when molten volcanic magma cooled very slowly underground. Millions of years of erosion has exposed the six-sided columns to the sea, and to us. The tallest of these formations is 120 metres (390 feet) high. During spring and summer, flights of seabirds near the Shiant Islands catch the eye. Many long-winged seabirds wheel and soar gracefully. Others are more shaped for underwater swimming and fly in direct lines, beating stubby wings to resemble flying potatoes. Some birds nest in burrows while others, like Black-legged Kittiwakes, nest on cliffs. Rather than build nests, guillemots lay eggs on bare rock ledges. The pointed shape of the eggs ensures they roll in a tight circle, not off the ledge to the sea below. The Shiant Islands are part of the Outer Hebrides and located between the Isles of Lewis and Skye. Historically, they have supported families of sheep grazers who could tolerate a lonely island outpost. The Shiants were known as the last place in Britain where the Black Rat occurred in substantial numbers. Originally introduced to Britain from Asia in Roman times these rodents caused problems, eating eggs and chicks of seabirds. A successful eradication program eliminated the rats in 2016, giving the seabird colonies well-earned peace.

• Tag 9

  Dunvegan, Isle of Skye, Scotland
  Di., 27. Mai
  Ankunft 13:30
  
  Skye epitomizes Scotland's wild celtic appeal. A turbulent geological history has given this beautiful, rugged island some of Britain's most varied and dramatic scenery. Steeped in mystery, romance and adventure, the Isle of Skye is perhaps the most well-known of Scotland's many islands. Charles Edward Stuart, better known as Bonnie Prince Charlie, escaped here from the mainland disguised as a maidservant of a woman by the name of Flora MacDonald. The north of the island is dominated by a rugged volcanic plateau, the south by the Cuillins mountain range, whose peaks were sculpted by the glaciers of the Ice Age. Skye is divided by numerous sea lochs allowing continuous proximity to the sea. The limestone grasslands of the south are the home of sheep and cattle. Scattered about are ruins of crofts, small holdings used for grazing; they were abandoned as their owners fell into poverty due to lack of income. Dunvegan is situated in a sheltered sea loch, or fjord, on the northwestern coast of the island on the Waternish peninsula. The small settlement is dominated by Dunvegan Castle. The oldest inhabited castle in Scotland, it has been the seat of the chiefs of the Clan MacLeod for the past 700 years. The castle offers insights into Scotland's clan spirit with paintings and relics from the MacLeod Clan. The castle gardens were originally laid out in the 18th century and are of considerable interest with the woodland glades, shimmering pools and a multitude of rhododendrons. Loch Dunvegan is home to a seal colony; the two main varieties are the brown seal and the great gray Atlantic seal. Small local boats depart from the jetty at frequent intervals throughout the day enabling close observation of these playful sea mammals. Pier Information The ship is scheduled to anchor off Dunvegan. Guests will be taken ashore via the ship's tenders to a small jetty. The road is reached by walking up a short sloping pathway. From here it is about one mile to the tiny village of Dunvegan. Taxis may be very limited. Shopping Shopping opportunities are somewhat limited in Dunvegan itself, although there is a shop at the castle. The island's main town of Portree has a greater selection of shops. Tartans, knitwear, local crafts and whisky are the best buys. The local currency is the pound sterling. Cuisine Fish is predominant in local cooking, along with other hearty food such as thick broths and stews, roast meats, haggis and oat cakes. In Portree there is a greater variety of foods, similar to that found in other areas of Scotland. Other Sites Dunvegan CastleA short walk from the jetty this is claimed to be the oldest inhabited castle in Scotland. It is the seat of the Clan MacLeod. Its rooms feature many paintings and relics from the clan's fascinating history. The castle features beautiful gardens, a souvenir shop and a restaurant. Seal ColonyLoch Dunvegan is home to colonies of brown and great gray Atlantic seals. Three local boats carrying up to seven people run throughout the day from the jetty on 20-minute trips. The boatmen are trained to get quite close to the seals, which is great for photographs. PortreeThis is the main town of Skye, approximately a 40-minute drive across the island from Dunvegan. The small town has a very pretty harbor and plenty of shopping and dining opportunities. WalkingFor any guests who have packed their walking boots and possess the stamina, the Isle of Skye is a paradise for a bracing walk among a landscape which was carved into shape by the glaciers long ago. The scenery is wild and, in general, untamed by human beings. It is also home to such wildlife as the golden eagle and white-tailed sea eagle, which had all but deserted the island until recently.Internet ConnectionSKYEDAT, Skye Telematics Centre, Dunvegan Road, Portree Industrial Estate. E Mail info@skyedat.demon.co.uk. Tel. 01478 612983.

• Tag 10

  Inverie, Scotland
  Mi., 28. Mai
  Ankunft 06:30
  
  On the northern shore of Loch Nevis, you’ll find a charming highland village of widescreen views, beautiful scenery, and a curious claim to fame. The undulating backdrop of the Scottish Highlands sweeps you up, and a sense of remote wonder looms large here in Inverie. Isolated from the rest of the country, little Inverie’s tiny road network - which serves its approximately 100 local residents - peters out beyond the outskirts of the community-led village, so almost all visitors arrive by boat or by foot. Inverie is the largest village not connected to the main road network, and the faraway setting means it’s fair to say that nobody reaches these shores by accident. Indeed, as the only village on the beautiful Knoydart peninsula, visitors literally hike for miles to reward themselves with a prized pint at Inverie’s star attraction. The village revolves around its pub, the UK mainland’s most remote and a World Record holder. Inverie may be distant, but that only strengthens the sense of community spirit that permeates everything here. The pub binds the tightly-knit locals together with a steady stream of overflowing glasses and free-flowing stories. Enjoy a drink and a bite to eat outdoors on one of the grassy shore’s picnic benches. Here, you can toast the tranquil beauty of Inverie’s sweeping sea loch and earthy highland colours while plotting your return to this far-flung haven.

• Tag 11

  Iona
  Do., 29. Mai
  Ankunft 06:30
  
  If tiny islands that resonate with peace and tranquillity are your idea of travel heaven, then welcome to Iona. Almost 200 miles east of Edinburgh, set in Scotland’s Inner Hebrides, this magical island has a spiritual reputation that precedes it. And luckily, more than lives up to.The island is miniscule. Just three miles long and only one and a half miles wide, this is not a place that hums with urban attractions. 120 people call Iona home (this number rises significantly if the gull, tern and Kittiwake population is added), although residential numbers do go up (to a whopping 175) in summer. The beautiful coastline is lapped by the gulf stream and gives the island a warm climate with sandy beaches that look more Mediterranean than Scottish! Add to that a green field landscape that is just beautiful, and you’ll find that Iona is a place that stays with you long after you leave.Iona’s main attraction is of course its abbey. Built in 563 by Saint Columbia and his monks, the abbey is the reason why Iona is called the cradle of Christianity. Not only is the abbey (today an ecumenical church) one of the best – if not the best – example of ecclesiastical architecture dating from the Middle Ages, but it also serves as an important site of spiritual pilgrimage. St. Martin’s Cross, a 9th century Celtic cross that stands outside the abbey, is considered as the finest example of Celtic crosses in the British Isles. Rèilig Odhrain, or the cemetery, allegedly contains the remains of many Scottish kings.

• Tag 11

  Lunga
  Do., 29. Mai
  Ankunft 16:30
  
  The stunning Isle of Lunga is the largest island in the Treshnish archipelago. With volcanic origin the isle was populated until the 19th Century and remains of black houses can be seen around this magnificent coastal jewel. Abundant plant life and exotic birdlife are now the main inhabitants of the area. Fortunate visitors view the magnificent array of birds especially the great puffins that breed on the islands plateau. One can sit within just a few feet away without disturbing the avian ambassador’s peace. The 81 hectare island is home to many rare and endangered plants such as primroses and orchids. Views over the landscape and across the ocean can be seen from the 300 foot high cliffs.

• Tag 12

  Belfast
  Fr., 30. Mai
  Ankunft 08:00
  
  Reborn as a cool modern city Belfast has successfully left its troubles behind emerging as a hotbed of culture and architecture where the comfort of a cosy pub is never far away. A walk across the Lagan Weir Footbridge brings you to Belfast’s fascinating Titanic District – an area of the city devoted to its rich ship-building heritage. The state-of-the-art Titanic Museum brings the story of the doomed vessel to life and is the largest museum dedicated to the infamously ‘unsinkable’ ship. There’s just enough time to give the 10-metre long Salmon of Knowledge sculpture a quick peck for luck before continuing to explore. A stark barbed wire and graffitied sheet metal barrier marks an abrupt scar through the city’s residential areas. The Peace Line was constructed during the height of the Troubles when Belfast was plagued by sectarian divisions between Protestants and Catholics. Nowadays you can jump in a black taxi tour to see the colourful murals and living history of the walls which stand as a stark reminder of the fragility of peace. After exploring the city’s historic divisions a reminder of Belfast’s uniting creativity can be found at the Metropolitan Arts Centre – a seven-storey tall building which invites light to gloriously cascade inside. The Cathedral Quarter is a cobbled blend of flower-adorned pubs restaurants and theatres and venues where music spills out onto the streets at night and many a pint is cheerily shared.

• Tag 13

  Dublin
  Sa., 31. Mai
  Ankunft 07:00
  
  Atmospheric cobbled streets with buskers scraping fiddles and characterful pubs inviting passersby inside is Dublin in a snapshot. Horse-drawn carriages plod along cobbled centuries-old streets blending with an easy-going cosmopolitan outlook. Known for its fun-filled gathering of pubs any excuse works to enjoy a celebratory toast and chat among good company. Home to perhaps the world's most famous beer - slurp perfect pourings of thick dark Guinness - cranked out for the city's thirsty punters. Learn more of the humble pint's journey at the Guinness Storehouse. Dublin has come along way since the Vikings established a trading port here back in the 9th Century. In the time since the city became the British Empire's defacto second city and the Georgian imprint still adds oodles of historic character. Learn of 1916's Easter Uprising when the Irish rebelled and established their independence here as you visit the infamous haunting Kilmainham Gaol. The uprising's leaders were tried and executed in these dark confines. Dublin's St. Patrick's Cathedral has immense history below its steep spire which dates back to 1191. There's rich literary heritage to leaf through too and the city's streets were rendered vividly in James Joyce's classic Ullyses. The Museum of Literature celebrates the full scope of Dublin's lyrical talents. Trinity College also has a prestigious roll-call of alumni - visit to see the Book of Kells a beautifully illustrated bible of the medieval era.