Introduction. Creating Irish Tourism

Ireland's emergence as a tourist destination, particularly through its scenic attractions like the Giant's Causeway and the Glens of Wicklow, was shaped by evolving travel trends between 1750 and 1800. This period saw the transition from the Grand Tour to the picturesque 'pleasure tour,' with Irish tourism offering unique experiences distinct from British expectations. The study reveals that some 570 travel accounts about Ireland were published during this era, primarily by British and Anglo-Irish writers, reflecting a growing enthusiasm for sublime and picturesque landscapes. The research approach involves analyzing these travel accounts to understand the nature of the Irish tourist experience and its cultural significance.

(Ed.). (2010). Introduction. Creating Irish Tourism, xi–xvi. https://doi.org/10.7135/upo9781843318996.002