Ireland's climate is at the mercy of effects from the Gulf Stream and the moist air from the Atlantic Ocean. This means that the winters, despite being so far north, are rather mild, but it also means that summer temperatures are tempered and top out the thermometer at 20ºC and are not likely to go much beyond that. The weather can change swiftly all year round, so expect a mixture of sunny conditions and rain, even within the same hour. The often tempestuous skies of Ireland are part of its charm, and with a backdrop of fluorescent greens of its landscape, it does have its own unique allure. Just make sure you come prepared with boots, rain coat and an umbrella.