Lisdoonvarna, IRELAND
Airing Date: Sep 8th, 2003
Every year during the Australian spring, thousands of people visit Lisdoonvarna for Europe's biggest singles festival. The festival is largely thanks to Willy Daley, the last traditional matchmaker in Ireland.
Lisdoonvarna is in the heart of one of Ireland's most romantic regions, The Burren. By day Willy runs horseback tours of The Burren region but by night he's a third generation matchmaker who relies on his instincts to pair up friends, neighbours and anybody who needs a bit of help. Willy believes a man needs just two things to be happy - a woman and a pint of Guinness.
To see everything the Burren region has to offer you'll need to free up a full day. Windswept castles, rocky hills and ancient ruins are all on display, but further exploration will reveal dozens of Dolmens, or prehistoric tombs. About 5000 years old, the Dolmens are some of Ireland's most photographed spots.
As you head along the coast to the Cliffs of Moher you'll see some spectacular scenery. The cliffs roll 200 metres down lush green hills to the Atlantic Ocean. Take care on the cliffs, as the wind actually blows the water right up over the top and can sweep you off your feet. For a steadier lookout point take your camera and head to the viewing platform for an uninterrupted panorama.
Not too far from the cliffs is Doolin, a town so small it doesn't even make it onto some maps. The tiny town has a strong musical presence, with some of Ireland's best musicians regularly dining in Doolin restaurants.
The facts:
Thai Airways International and Lufthansa fly to Dublin via Munich or Frankfurt. Return prices start from $2076 from the east coast and $1955 from the west coast.
Thai Airways International
Tel: 1300 651 960
In Lisdoonvarna, we stayed at the King Thomond Hotel. Rooms start from $86 per night.
The King Thomond Hotel
Tel: 0011 353 65 7074444
