Emerald Explorer was created because we believe many visitors to Ireland overlook the west of Ireland.
Tourism data consistently shows that a large proportion of international visitors arrive through Dublin before travelling west to destinations such as Clare, Kerry, Galway and Limerick.
Our mission is to help travellers discover the west of Ireland more easily, whether they arrive through Dublin or choose to fly directly into Shannon Airport.
All locations featured on Emerald Explorer are personally visited and documented.
Limerick and the Shannon region don’t get the recognition they deserve.
Too many visitors to Ireland fly into Dublin, follow the same routes, and miss what is arguably one of the best parts of the country.
This site exists to change that.
Why Emerald Explorer Exists
Limerick has a reputation that doesn’t match the reality.
And most visitors never stay long enough to realise that.
The wider Shannon region — including Clare and Kerry — is one of the most accessible, scenic, and genuinely enjoyable places to visit in Ireland.
- Compact and easy to explore
- Rich in history, culture, and landscape
- Ideal for couples, solo travellers, families, cyclists, and road trippers
But there was no dedicated platform properly showcasing it.
So Emerald Explorer was built to do exactly that.
A Better Way to Experience Ireland
Most Irish itineraries are built backwards — starting in Dublin and rushing west.
Instead of starting your trip in Dublin — dealing with traffic, the M50, and long transfer times — you can begin your journey where it actually makes sense:
- Shannon Airport
- Kerry Airport
From the moment you land, you’re already close to:
- Limerick City
- The Wild Atlantic Way
- County Clare
- County Kerry
Your holiday starts the way it should — relaxed, not rushed.
What You’ll Find Here
Emerald Explorer is focused on showcasing the best of:
- Limerick City — streets, history, food, and culture
- County Clare — coastlines, villages, and landscapes
- County Kerry — routes, scenery, and iconic destinations
- The wider Shannon region
Real Exploration, Not Generic Guides
This isn’t a recycled travel blog.
Everything on Emerald Explorer is based on real visits and real experience:
- Original photos
- Walking routes and on-the-ground insights
- Honest recommendations
If it’s featured here, it’s because it’s worth your time.
The Mission
To make the Shannon region a first-choice destination, not an afterthought.
To show that you don’t need to follow the crowds to have an incredible Irish experience.
And to prove that starting your trip in the west of Ireland just makes more sense.
Who This Is For
- First-time visitors to Ireland
- People looking to avoid the usual tourist trail
- Irish diaspora reconnecting with home
- Anyone who wants a more relaxed, authentic trip
Emerald Explorer
Start in the west. Explore it properly.