Vacation rentals in Adare

Nestled on the banks of the River Maigue, this enchanting corner of County Limerick is known as one of Ireland’s most charming villages. The remarkable history of the area can be discovered at every turn, with visitor attractions dating back hundreds and in some cases thousands of years. Thatched 19th-century cottages line the main road, many of them converted into intimate restaurants, fashion boutiques, and shops dedicated to the making and selling of artisan crafts and gifts.

Visitors seeking late-night bars or hip music venues can head into nearby Limerick, but Adare still holds its own with a thriving local pub scene. The village is also a notable golfing destination — one golf club has the captivating ruins of Adare’s 15th-century Franciscan abbey sitting at the center of the 18-hole course.

The winter months are always the low season for visiting Ireland. Heavy rain, ice, and snow are common in January and February, and although cozy pubs and cottages provide welcoming indoor havens, the temperatures outside can be biting. Spring and summer bring warmer days, although you will still need a sturdy umbrella: Ireland is renowned for its rainfall. May to July are usually the driest months, when locals flock to parks and open spaces for picnics, outdoor games, and sunbathing. Fall is also pleasant as the country’s verdant backdrop turns from lush green to a seasonal palette of oranges and browns, and Halloween mischief abounds at the end of October. To experience Irish hospitality at its most jubilant, plan to visit during the weekend in March, when the annual rugby championship finals coincide with the traditional St. Patrick’s Day celebrations.

Desmond Castle

Dating back to the early 13th century, Desmond Castle was a strategic fortress throughout the Middle Ages before being ravaged by English Cromwellian forces in 1657. Approach from the riverside path to get the best close-ups of the remaining structures that comprise this striking manor. Guided visits are run daily by the Adare Heritage Center during the summer months.

Old Irish Ways

Brimming with nostalgia, this unexpected museum is home to a collection of evocative artefacts and memorabilia, which tell the story of more than a century of Irish countryside life. The owner has curated a selection of farming and craftsman’s tools, and recreated an old-style pub, a traditional classroom, and even a milk and butter creamery. Linger and ask questions over a restorative cup of tea and some biscuits at the end of this delightful tour.

Grange Stone Circle

Steeped in mystery and ancient lore, this circle of 113 stones has been standing for more than 4,000 years, and is the oldest and largest in Ireland. Both a ritual site and an astronomical calendar, the circle is aligned with the summer and winter solstices. Self-guided tours are available.