Celtic Voyage: the Hebrides & the Irish Sea

Located in Kent County on the edge of the English Channel, 22 miles away from the French coast and Cap Gris-Nez, Dover is the United Kingdom town nearest to France. As the main transit port between the two sides of the English Channel, it is the gateway to England. Dover is famous for its impressive white cliffs, which have inspired many a poet and playwright. Majestically facing mainland Europe, they offer the possibility of a spectacular clifftop walk. Impregnable and perched on a hill overlooking the Channel in the city’s northeast, Dover Castle dominates the city. Find its network of underground tunnels very interesting.

Located on the north coast of the Isle of Wight, across from the shores of the port cities of Portsmouth and Southampton, Cowes features an easy lifestyle, plus heritage, verdant landscapes, craggy cliffs and the crystal-clear waters of the Solent, the stretch of sea separating the island from mainland England. Many have succumbed to the charms of this pristine jewel. This includes Queen Victoria, who, captivated by this natural and authentic setting, had her summer residence built there in 1847: Osborne House, an architectural gem that is now one of the symbols of the town. A shipbuilding center and the cradle of sailing, Cowes welcomes one of the largest regattas in the world every year during Cowes Week, an event gathering some 10,000 skippers and more than a thousand boats.

Nestling in the clear waters of the Atlantic Ocean, at the south west tip of Cornwall, the Isles of Scilly form a small British island chain whose climate, landscapes and lifestyle are unlike any other and seem to have come straight from an Enid Blyton story. Here, everything resembles a tropical paradise. The long sandy beaches run alongside lush green meadows teeming with semi-exotic flowers, whilst the ruins of ancient castles loom from the tops of the hills. Veritable havens of peace that inspired the legendary Avalon of King Arthur, they are today listed as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and the rugged coastline plays host to wildlife that is as varied as it is exceptional, including the very rare Atlantic grey seal.

Considered Ireland’s most beautiful village, Kinsale captivates with its sublime natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Located at the mouth of the Bandon River in County Cork, this charming little port is home to picturesque streets lined with colorful houses, art galleries and theaters, as well as a 17th-century fort. Not far away, perched on a rocky promontory, stands the Old Head of Kinsale Lighthouse; still in operation today, it has magnificent views over the Atlantic Ocean.

In the north of Wales and in the west of the captivating Isle of Anglesey, succumb to the charms of the enchanting small port town of Holyhead. Often called the mother of Wales due to its importance in history, Holyhead is a paradise for anyone with a passion for natural landscapes and heritage. Explore the town’s many historical landmarks, among other sites. Among these is Holyhead’s 13th-century church, St Cybi’s Church, nestling right in the middle of the Roman citadel. Finally, admire one of the symbols of the town: South Stack Lighthouse, built in 1809. While passing near the lighthouse, possibly have the chance to marvel at numerous species of seabirds, including guillemots and razorbills.

The capital city of Northern Ireland is located on the very tip of Belfast Lough, in the northeast of the Emerald Isle. Along the waterfront, the building shaped like a fragmented liner is none other than the Titanic Belfast, a homage to the famous transatlantic liner, with full-scale reconstructions making for an insightful experience of the Belle Epoque. In the historical center, travel back in time upon seeing the majestic Edwardian columns of the City Hall, and the imposing neo-gothic towers of Queen’s University. The carved wooden façades of the Victorian pubs will certainly entice you in for a pint of beer or chilled cider.

Located at the northernmost tip of the lovely Isle of Mull, Tobermory has to be one of the most beautiful natural seaports on Scotland’s west coast. Founded in 1788, this ancient fishing village has been converted to a leisure port highly appreciated today for its surroundings and the quiet charm it exudes. Be won over by the row of many-storied houses on the hillside, illuminating the harbor with their vibrant colors. Although the real spectacle is outdoors, no less interesting are the Mull Museum dedicated to the local history and the exhibitions at the An Tobar Art Gallery.

Of all the islands in the Inner Hebrides, Iona is by far the most conducive to contemplation and meditation. And for good reason… it is here that St Columba landed from Ireland in 563 and undertook to establish Christianity in Scotland. Now an abbey, the island’s true spiritual center stands where the ancient monastery founded by the Irish missionary was built. Many kings of Scotland, including the legendary Macbeth, are buried in the nearby cemetery. In sunny weather, arriving on the Isle of Iona is a stunningly beautiful experience.

The village of Fairlie can be found less than an hour away from lively Glasgow. In the north of Ayrshire county, on the western Scottish coast, this charming little town faces the Isle of Arran. The originality of Kelburn Castle, built in the 12th century, stems from its façade covered in graffiti by four famous Brazilian graffiti artists. This artistic statement as well as the castle’s estate and gardens, which can be discovered during a pleasant walk, are well worth a visit.