Derek

Now, when you think of cruising, well, maybe put that idea out of your head for the moment.

I have to say, I've been lucky enough to spend time in the Burren on many occasions over the course of my life for work.

You know what I'm talking about.

You probably imagine turquoise waters off the Bahamas or ice sheets in the Antarctic.

And it never, ever disappoints.

It's an extraordinary place, almost otherworldly at times.

We can feel it now.

But you don't have to go that far for something truly special.

Just think of the vast limestone landscape, wildflowers pushing up through the cracks, ancient tombs and traces of people stretching back thousands of years.

You'll find it right here along our own Irish coast.

So let's head there now, cruising around the Skellig's aboard the National Geographic Explorer.

And it's exactly that sense of connection between landscape...

It's Jim Wilson.

Jim, can you hear me?

You're out at sea somewhere.

people and the deep past that's at the heart of the Burren Archaeology Festival, which is coming up on the 20th and 21st of June in Ballyvaughan.

It's a weekend where you can go beyond just looking and actually engage through talks, walks, demonstrations and plenty of hands-on experience.

So to tell us more about what's in store, archaeologist Mary Dillon.

Thanks for joining us, Mary.

Now tell us about the Burren Archaeology Festival.